ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD in girls and women is not yet diagnosed, according to charity, ADHD UK. This results in a significant cost to both the individual and the economy.
Symptoms can be more difficult to recognize in females because they present differently from males. This can be exacerbated also by hormonal changes, such as the menstrual period or pregnancy, as well as menopausal.
Symptoms
Women with ADHD may have difficulty telling their doctors that they're experiencing symptoms. They may be shy to seek help, and are afraid that their doctor won't be able to take it seriously. Women who suffer from breast cancer may have trouble finding treatment providers who understand their condition and how it affects them as they grow older.
The most frequently reported symptoms of ADHD in adults are difficulties paying attention or remaining focused, forgetfulness, being easily distracted, and the tendency to be impulsive. Women are more likely to suffer from the inattentive form of ADHD than men. Inattention symptoms may include issues with planning and organisation, being forgetful or missing appointments, not completing tasks, being easily distracted, or not remembering what was said during conversations.
Women can also have trouble controlling their emotions and impulses. They can be prone to anger outbursts, be emotionally overly emotional and have issues with social interactions. They may struggle with handwriting or with spelling and math. They might be unable to maintain a consistent routine of exercise or make healthy choices for their diet.
such a good point 's also more difficult to recognize ADHD symptoms in women than for men due to gender-based stereotypes regarding sex and behaviour. Women who exhibit hyperactivity or impulsive ADHD-related symptoms could have a harder time being recognized as having the disorder, particularly in schools, where they frequently are misdiagnosed as having depression or anxiety.
Additionally, many women with ADHD have worsening symptoms in menopausal or perimenopausal periods. As women begin to enter menopause they produce less estrogen. This can cause symptoms to worsen. It is therefore particularly important for women to monitor their symptoms and discuss these with their doctor or specialist.
Women can also benefit by discussing their symptoms with their co-workers and teachers to determine what accommodations they can request to improve their performance at work or at school. Many people who suffer from ADHD don't feel comfortable telling their boss or professor, but some have found success in doing so and discovering that their employers and school are more than happy to accommodate reasonable requests.
Diagnosis
It is important to visit your GP in the event that you suspect you may have ADHD. Your doctor can refer you to an expert or provide you with an diagnosis based on criteria set by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This may include examining your symptoms over time, your medical history and any problems they've caused.
Women are more difficult to diagnose than men, as many health professionals aren't aware of the ways ADHD manifests in females. This can cause delays in diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, the symptoms of ADHD can worsen at different times during a woman's life, depending on hormonal changes. This includes during menstrual cycle, pregnancy, perimenopausal (the period leading up to menopausal), and the menopause itself.
The signs of ADHD can also impact relationships as well as school and work. In adulthood, this can be a problem maintaining a job or in a relationship, as well as being at risk of substance misuse depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. It can also lead to difficulties in managing finances, making decisions and managing multiple priorities.
If you are having trouble concentrating or paying attention at work, talk to your employer. You may be able receive help by taking longer breaks or working from home at times. You can also inquire about support services like Access to Work, which can provide practical and financial support.
It is important to remember that ADHD is a neurologic disorder. The symptoms you experience are not due to insecurity or lack of self-esteem. You can still meet your goals and be successful. It may just require a little more planning and effort.
If you're a woman suffering from ADHD You can find more information on the NHS website. You can also contact private companies which offer ADHD assessments. They might charge fees however, you'll be evaluated by a qualified professional. They can offer advice and guidance about the benefits you're entitled to, how to access solutions and dealing with workplace issues. If you're employed, they can advise on whether you're eligible for Enhanced Disability Living Allowance and Access to Work. This could provide funds to assist with things like specific equipment or adaptations for the workplace.
Treatment
Girls and women with ADHD might be prescribed medication to manage their symptoms. The drugs used include stimulants as well as non-stimulants, but it is essential to discuss the possible side effects with your GP before starting treatment. Regular GP visits are advised to track your child's progress and make sure the medication is effective.
The most frequent symptoms of ADHD in adults is inattention, difficulties finishing tasks, impulsive behavior, poor organisational skills and difficulty keeping track of things. The symptoms can change over time and are often influenced by life events like menopausal, pregnancy, and hormone changes.
Behavioral therapy is a powerful treatment for many people with ADHD. By changing how you behave and think, you can improve your symptoms and boost your self-esteem. Girls and women suffering from ADHD can benefit from cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) it is a kind of therapy that helps change negative patterns of thinking and behavior.
CBT can be conducted in one-to-one sessions with a therapist, or in a group. Some people discover that eating a balanced well-balanced diet and exercising regularly can be beneficial. It is crucial to speak with your physician prior to making any changes to your diet or taking supplements.
It is important for girls and women with ADHD to receive support from their family, colleagues and friends. They can also join a support group to meet other women with similar conditions and share experiences.
Women with ADHD could also benefit from a mix treatment method, such as behavioral therapy and medication. Making use of tools for organization, such as planners are beneficial in managing their day-to-day lives and ensuring they are aware of deadlines. Being active enough can boost mood and focus and eating a balanced and healthy diet is vital to overall health and well-being.
Many women and girls with ADHD have a lot of stress and pressure in our modern society. These are often due to the pressures of modern society including being a good partner or parent, managing a household and being productive at work. This can add to the challenges of coping with ADHD and may increase the risk of mental health issues developing, such as anxiety or depression.
Support
Girls and women who suffer from ADHD feel misunderstood. They may exhibit emotions such as anger and mood swings, and a lack in self-esteem. The symptoms of ADHD may also get worse during times of hormonal changes like menstrual cycles or pregnancy. Additionally, many people with ADHD have co-existing mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety. These conditions can alter the way their symptoms appear and make it harder to manage.
There is plenty of help for girls and women who have ADHD. There are many online resources, support groups and charities. ADHD UK's website includes a page dedicated to women and girls, which includes useful information and events. This includes peer support groups and a forum where users can ask questions.
If an employee is experiencing significant ADHD difficulties it is recommended that they contact their GP to have an assessment. The GP can refer them to the appropriate service that could be a mental health facility or a specialized neurodevelopmental service. It is important to keep in mind that some people find it difficult to be referred to an assessment due to a lack of clinical awareness or lengthy waiting times. It could be that their issues may be due to another issue, such as mental illness or addiction, and not ADHD.
Also, it's important to know that ADHD could be regarded as to be a "disability" under the Equality Act 2010 if it has a significant impact on a person's employment. This means they have the legal right to make reasonable adjustments from their employer. This could be the ability to work from home or support and training at work.
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