ADHD in Women and Girls
According to the charity ADHD UK, ADHD is still not being diagnosed in girls and women. This is a huge cost to both individuals and the economy.
Symptoms can be more difficult to recognise in females because they present differently than men. This can be exacerbated also by hormonal changes, such as menstrual cycle, pregnancy or menopause.
Signs and symptoms
Women suffering from ADHD can have a hard time telling their healthcare providers that they have symptoms of the condition. They might be shy to seek help, and they fear that their doctor won't take it seriously. Women may find it difficult to find health professionals who understand their condition and how it impacts them as they grow older.
The most frequent symptoms of ADHD in adults are difficulties paying attention or staying focused, forgetfulness, easily distracted and an impulsive nature. Women are more prone to the inattention-deficit form of ADHD. Inattention-related symptoms include issues with planning and organisation, being forgetful or missing appointments, not completing tasks, getting distracted easily or not remembering the words spoken during conversations.
Women can also have trouble controlling their emotions and impulses. They are susceptible to anger outbursts, be emotionally overly emotional and have issues with social interactions. They might have trouble writing or struggling with spelling and math. They may also have difficulty to keep up with their exercise routine or make healthy food choices.
It is also more difficult to identify ADHD symptoms for women than in men due to gender-based stereotypes regarding gender and behavior. Women who exhibit hyperactivity or impulse-driven ADHD symptoms might have a difficult time getting identified, especially at school, where they are often mistakenly diagnosed as having anxiety or depression.
Many women who suffer from ADHD are also experiencing worsening ADHD symptoms during menopausal and perimenopausal. This is because as women begin to enter menopausal changes, their bodies naturally produce less estrogen, which can worsen the symptoms. Women should be aware of their symptoms and discuss the symptoms with their physician.
It can also be beneficial for women to discuss their issues with colleagues or teachers to learn what accommodations they may be able to ask for to enhance their performance at work or at school. While many people with ADHD aren't comfortable telling their professor or boss however, some do it with success and find their workplaces and schools are more than willing to offer reasonable accommodations.
Diagnosis
It's important that you see your GP when you suspect that you may have ADHD. Your doctor may refer you to an expert, or diagnose you based on the criteria set forth by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This could include looking at your symptoms over time, your history and any issues they may have caused.
Women can be more difficult to diagnose than males, as many healthcare professionals don't recognise the manner in which ADHD manifests in females. This can cause delays in getting a diagnosis and treatment. The symptoms of ADHD may get worse based on the hormonal changes occurring in a woman's body at different stages of her life. This includes during menstrual cycles, pregnancy, perimenopausal (the run-up to menopause) and menopausal symptoms itself.
The symptoms of ADHD can also affect relationships, work and school. Adults may have difficulty maintaining a job or relationship and may be at risk of substance abuse, depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. It can also cause challenges with managing finances making decisions, and managing multiple priorities.
Contact your employer if having trouble concentrating or focusing on work. There are solutions, such as providing you with more breaks or allowing you to work at home occasionally. You may 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, so your symptoms aren't a result of being insecure or lacking self-esteem. You can still meet your goals and succeed. It may just require some more effort and planning.
You can learn more about ADHD in women on the NHS website. You can also contact private organizations which offer ADHD assessments. You could be charged an amount, but you will be evaluated by a qualified professional. They can provide advice and guidance about the benefits you're entitled to, how to access solutions to workplace issues. If you're working, they can advise on whether you're eligible for the Enhanced Disability Living Allowance as well as Access to Work. This can provide money to help with things like special equipment or modifications in the workplace.
Treatment
Women and girls with ADHD can be prescribed medications to treat their symptoms. The drugs used could be stimulants or non-stimulants. It is essential to discuss any adverse effects with your GP prior to beginning treatment. Regular check-ups with your GP are recommended to monitor your or your child's progress and make sure the medication is effective.
Some of the most prevalent symptoms of ADHD in adults is inattention, difficulties finishing tasks, impulsive behavior, poor organisational skills and trouble keeping track of things. The symptoms can change over time and are often influenced by life events, like hormonal changes, pregnancy, and menopausal.
For many people with ADHD, behavioural therapy can be a very effective treatment. Changing the behavior and thoughts you make can reduce the symptoms and boost your self-esteem. Girls and women with ADHD are able to benefit from cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), which is a kind of therapy through which you to alter negative patterns of thinking and behaviour.
CBT can be conducted in one-to-one sessions with a therapist or in a group. Some people discover that eating a balanced eating plan, exercising regularly can be beneficial. But it is important to consult a doctor before making any changes to your diet or taking supplements.
It is important for women and girls with ADHD to receive assistance from their families, colleagues and friends. They can join support groups to connect with other women who suffer from the same problem and share experiences.
Women suffering from ADHD are also able to benefit from a mixture of treatment methods, such as medication and behavioural therapy. Using organisation tools like planners can be helpful in managing their day-to-day lives and ensuring they are aware of deadlines. Being active enough can improve mood and focus, while eating a balanced diet is essential for overall health and well-being.
Many women and girls with ADHD suffer from a high degree of stress and pressure in our modern society. These are often due to the pressures of modern-day society, such as being a good parent or partner as well as managing a household and performing well at work. This makes it more difficult to deal with ADHD and increase the chance that other mental health conditions, such as anxiety or depression, could develop.
Support
Girls and women who suffer from ADHD often feel misunderstood by people around them. They may experience emotional symptoms like irritability, mood swings and a low self-esteem. The symptoms of the condition may also worsen when there are hormonal changes, like menstrual or pregnancy. Additionally, many individuals suffering from ADHD suffer from co-existing mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. These conditions can impact the way symptoms are perceived and make it more difficult to manage.
The good news is that there is plenty of support available to women and girls with ADHD. There are adhd test for women , resources, and charitable organizations. ADHD UK's website features a page dedicated to girls and women and includes helpful information and events. There are peer support meetings and an area for people to ask questions.
If an employee is experiencing significant ADHD problems, they should contact their GP for an assessment. The doctor can refer the patient to a treatment that is most appropriate, such as a mental health service in the community or a neurodevelopmental specialist. It is important to keep in mind that some people are unable to be assessed due to a lack of clinical awareness or long waiting periods. This could be because their challenges are thought to be caused by another issue, such as a mental health problem or an addiction, rather than ADHD.
It's also worth noting that if someone's ADHD significantly impacts their work or work, it may be considered as a disability under the Equality Act 2010. They have the right to reasonable accommodations from their employer. This could mean an adjustable schedule or additional support and training at work.
At Optima Health, we can assist businesses in creating an environment of wellbeing and support for their employees. We offer a range of occupational health and wellness interventions, including e-learning modules mindfulness workshops and coaching programs. If you'd like to know more about how we can support your company, contact us now.