7 Secrets About ADHD In Women UK That Nobody Can Tell You
ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD in women and girls is still not properly diagnosed according to the charity ADHD UK. This is a huge cost for both individuals and the economy.
The symptoms of females are more difficult to identify because they appear differently than those of men. This can also be caused by hormonal changes such as menstrual cycle or pregnancy.
Symptoms
Women suffering from ADHD might have difficulty telling their doctors that they are experiencing symptoms. They may feel embarrassed about asking for help and fear that their health care provider won't take them seriously. Women may find it difficult to find health professionals who understand their condition and how it impacts them as an adult.
The most frequently reported symptoms of ADHD in adults are difficulties paying attention or remaining focused, forgetfulness, easily distracted, and an impulsive nature. Women are more susceptible to the inattention type of ADHD. Inattention-related symptoms include problems in planning, organisation, forgetfulness or missing appointments, not completing tasks, being distracted easily and forgetting what you said during the course of a conversation.
Women may also have difficulty controlling their emotions and impulses. They are prone to anger outbursts and emotional meltdowns and have issues with social interactions. They may have difficulty with math or spelling. They may be unable to maintain consistent exercise habits or make healthy food choices.
Due to gender-based stereotypes of sex and behavior, it's more difficult for women to identify ADHD symptoms. Women who are hyperactive or impulsive ADHD-linked symptoms may have a harder time being recognized as having the disorder, especially in school, where they can are misdiagnosed as having anxiety or depression.
Many women who suffer from adhd in women signs also experience a worsening of ADHD symptoms during menopausal and perimenopausal periods. As women enter menopause they produce less estrogen. This can worsen symptoms. Women should be aware of their symptoms and discuss these with their doctor.
Women also benefit from discussing their concerns with co-workers and teachers to determine what accommodations they could ask for to boost their performance at work or at school. Many people suffering from ADHD do not feel comfortable speaking to their boss or professor however some have had success in doing so and discovering that their employers and schools are happy to offer reasonable accommodation.
Diagnosis
It is important to visit your GP if you suspect you may have ADHD. Your doctor may refer you to an expert, or diagnose you based on the criteria established by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This includes a look at your symptoms, your history, and any problems that could have been caused by them.
Many healthcare professionals don't recognize the ways in which ADHD manifests in women. This can cause delays in receiving diagnosed and receiving treatment. In addition, the signs and symptoms of adhd in women of ADHD tend to worsen at various times throughout the woman's life, based on hormonal changes. These include during pregnancy, menstruation, perimenopause (the run-up to menopause) and menopausal symptoms itself.
The symptoms of ADHD can also impact relationships at work, school and social. As adults, this could be a problem maintaining a job or in a relationship, and being at risk of abuse as well as anxiety, depression and low self-esteem. It could also cause difficulties with managing finances, making crucial decisions and balancing multiple priorities.
If you are having trouble concentrating or paying attention at work, speak to your employer. You may be able receive help by taking longer breaks or working from home on occasion. You can also inquire about support services, such as Access to Work which can offer both financial and practical assistance.
It's also important to keep in mind that ADHD is a neurological issue Your symptoms aren't a result of being insecure or lacking self-esteem. You are still able to succeed and meet your goals. It's just going to take a bit more planning and effort.
If you're a woman who suffers from ADHD you can find more information on the NHS website. You can also contact private organisations which offer adhd in women over 50 (clashofcryptos.Trade) assessments. They might charge a fee, but you'll be assessed by a qualified professional. They can also offer advice and guidance on claiming benefits, locating treatment and coping with workplace issues. If you're employed in a workplace, they can help you determine whether you're eligible for the Enhanced Disability Living Allowance and Access to Work. This can offer money to assist with things like specialised equipment or adaptations in the workplace.
Treatment
Women and girls with ADHD are prescribed medication to treat their symptoms. The drugs used include stimulants as well as non-stimulants. However, it is important to discuss potential adverse effects with your GP before starting treatment. Regular check-ups with your GP are advised to track your child's progress, and to ensure the medication is working well.
Adults suffering from ADHD frequently exhibit signs of carelessness, ineffective organisation as well as impulsive behavior. They also have difficulty in staying focused or remembering things. The symptoms may change over time and are often affected by life events like menopausal, pregnancy, and hormonal changes.
For many people suffering from ADHD, behavioural therapy can be an effective treatment. Changes in the behavior and thoughts you make can reduce the symptoms and boost confidence in yourself. Girls and women with ADHD are able to benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which is a form of therapy that assists in changing negative patterns of thinking and behavior.
CBT can be conducted in one-on-one sessions with a therapist, or in a group. Other therapies that many find beneficial are following an wholesome diet, attempting to stay clear of caffeine or sugar-rich foods and getting plenty of exercise. It is essential to talk with your doctor before making any changes to your diet or taking any supplements.
Women and girls with ADHD need to seek help from family or friends as well as colleagues. They can join support groups to meet women with the same problem and share experiences.
Women suffering from adhd and depression in women might also benefit from a multi-faceted treatment strategy, such as behavioral therapy and medication. Organising their daily schedules and keeping track of deadlines with the help of planners is an effective way to manage your daily life. A balanced diet and regular physical activity are important for health and well-being.
Many girls and women with ADHD suffer from a high degree of stress and pressure in modern society. These can be related to the expectations of being a caring spouse or parent, running household chores and performing well at work. This makes it more difficult to cope with ADHD and increase the chance that mental health issues like anxiety or depression, will develop.
Support
Women and girls with ADHD feel misunderstood. They might exhibit emotional symptoms such as irritability and mood swings, and low self-esteem. The symptoms of the disorder may also get worse during times of hormonal change, such as during menstruation or pregnancy. Many people with ADHD also suffer from other mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety. These can impact the way in which their symptoms manifest and can make it more difficult to manage.
The good news is that there's plenty of support available for girls and women with ADHD. There are many online resources, support groups and charities. ADHD UK's website has a section dedicated to women and girls with useful information and events. These include peer support meetings and a forum where people can ask questions.
If an employee has significant ADHD difficulties it is recommended that they contact their GP to get an assessment. The doctor can refer the employee to a treatment that is the most appropriate, like an in-home mental service or a neurodevelopmental specialist service. However, it is important to remember that due to the absence of awareness about clinical issues and long waiting times, some individuals are unable to be admitted for an assessment. This could be due to the fact that their issues are believed to be due to another issue, like a mental health problem or an addiction, instead of ADHD.
It's also worth noting that if an individual's ADHD affects their work in a significant way and performance, it could be deemed as a disability under the Equality Act 2010. This means they have a legal right to reasonable adjustments from their employer. This could mean an able-bodied working schedule, additional training or assistance at work.
At Optima Health, we can help businesses to create an internal culture of wellness and support for their employees. We provide a range of wellness and occupational health interventions, including eLearning modules, coaching programmes and mindfulness training workshops. If you'd like to find out more about how we can assist your business, get in touch today.