ADHD in Women and Girls
According to the charity ADHD UK, ADHD is still not recognized in women and girls. This is a huge cost to both the individual and the economy.
The symptoms of females are more difficult to recognize because they appear differently than those of men. It can also be exacerbated by hormonal changes like menstrual cycle, pregnancy or menopause.
Symptoms
Women with ADHD might have difficulty telling their doctors that they're experiencing symptoms. They may be embarrassed by seeking help and worry that their health care provider won't take them seriously. Women may find it difficult to find healthcare providers who are aware of their condition and how it impacts them as an adult.
The most frequently reported symptoms of ADHD in adults are difficulties paying attention or staying focused, forgetfulness, easily distracted and an impulsive nature. Women are more likely to have the inattentive type of ADHD than men. Inattentive symptoms include difficulties with planning, organisation and forgetfulness, or having missed appointments, not being able to complete tasks, getting distracted easily and not being able to remember what you said in a conversation.
Women can also have trouble controlling their emotions and impulses. They can be susceptible to anger outbursts, become overly emotional and have problems with social interactions. They may struggle with handwriting or with math and spelling skills. They may also have trouble maintaining consistent exercise habits or making healthy choices for their diet.
It is also more difficult to identify ADHD symptoms in women than for men due to gender-based stereotypes about gender and behavior. Women with hyperactive or impulse-driven ADHD symptoms might be more difficult to be diagnosed, especially at school where they are often mistakenly identified as having anxiety or depression.
Many women with ADHD also experience a worsening of ADHD symptoms during menopausal and perimenopause. As women begin to enter menopause and produce less estrogen. This can cause symptoms to worsen. Women should pay attention to their symptoms and discuss these with their doctor.
Women can also benefit from discussing their concerns with colleagues and teachers to discover what accommodations they could make to improve their performance in the workplace or at school. While many people suffering from ADHD aren't comfortable telling their boss or professor, some do so with ease and find that their workplaces and schools are more than willing to make reasonable accommodations.
Diagnosis
If you suspect you may have ADHD it is important to see your GP. Your doctor may refer you to a specialist or determine if you have ADHD using the criteria set forth by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This could include looking at your symptoms over time, your medical history and any issues they may have caused.
Women can be more difficult to diagnose than males because many healthcare professionals don't recognize the way ADHD presents in females. This can cause delays in diagnosis and treatment. The symptoms of ADHD can get worse depending on the hormonal changes in the body of a woman during different stages of her life. This includes during menstrual cycle, pregnancy, perimenopausal (the menopausal transition) and the menopausal phase itself.
The signs of ADHD can also affect relationships, work and school. Adults may struggle to maintain relationships or jobs, and may be at risk of substance abuse, depression anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. It could also cause problems with managing finances, making crucial decisions, and balancing a variety of priorities.
If you have difficulty concentrating or paying attention in work, talk to your employer. There may be solutions, such as offering more breaks or allowing you to work at home on occasion. You can also inquire about support services like Access to Work which can provide both practical and financial assistance.
It's also worth remembering that ADHD is a neurological condition, so your symptoms aren't due to being unmotivated or having low self-esteem. You can still achieve your goals and succeed. It's going to require some more planning and effort.
If you're a woman with ADHD you can find more information on the NHS website. You can also contact private companies that provide ADHD assessments. There is a possibility of an amount, but you will be evaluated by a professional. They can provide advice and guidance about claiming benefits, finding solutions to workplace issues. They can also tell you if you are eligible for the Enhanced Disabled Living Allowance or Access to Work if you are employed. This can help pay for things like specialized equipment and adaptations in the workplace.
Treatment
Girls and women with ADHD may be prescribed medications to manage their symptoms. The medications used are stimulants and non-stimulants, though it is crucial to discuss potential side effects with your GP prior to beginning treatment. Regular GP visits are advised to track your child's progress and make sure the medication is effective.
Adults suffering from ADHD frequently exhibit signs of carelessness, poor organisation, impulsive behavior, and difficulty staying on task or recollecting information. The symptoms can change over time and are often affected by life events, such as hormone changes, pregnancy and menopausal.
For many people suffering from ADHD, behavioural therapy may be a very effective treatment. By changing how you behave and think, you can reduce your symptoms as well as boost your self-esteem. Girls and women suffering from ADHD can benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a type of therapy that helps you change negative patterns of thinking and behaviour.
CBT can be conducted in a group setting or one-on-one with a therapist. Some people find that eating a healthy, balanced diet and exercising regularly are beneficial. It is essential to talk with your doctor before making any changes to your diet or taking supplements.
Girls and women with ADHD should seek out support from family or friends as well as colleagues. They can also join a support group in order to meet other women who have the same disorder and share experiences.
Women with ADHD are also able to benefit from a combination of treatment options, such as treatment with medication and behavioural therapy. Utilizing tools for organisation such as planners are helpful in managing their day-to-day lives and ensuring they are aware of deadlines. Getting enough physical activity can boost mood and focus and eating a balanced and healthy diet is essential for overall health and well-being.
In the modern world women and girls with ADHD are being put under a lot of stress and pressure. This can be due to the pressures of modern-day society like being a good partner or parent, managing a household and being productive at work. This makes it more difficult to cope with ADHD and increase the risk that mental health issues like anxiety or depression, could develop.
Support
Girls and women who suffer from ADHD feel unappreciated. They might exhibit emotional symptoms such as irritability and mood swings, and low self-esteem. The symptoms of the condition can also get worse when there are hormonal changes, such as during pregnancy or menstruation. In addition, many people suffering from ADHD suffer from co-existing mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression. These conditions can impact the way their symptoms appear and make it harder to manage.
The good news is that there is plenty of help available to women and girls with ADHD. There are a variety of online resources, support groups and charities. The website ADHD UK has a specific page for women and girls with important information, events and support groups. There are adhd symptoms women as an online forum where people can ask questions.
If an employee is experiencing significant difficulties with their ADHD, they can contact their GP to discuss an assessment. The doctor can refer them to the most appropriate service that could be a mental health clinic or a neurodevelopmental specialist. It is important to note that some individuals have difficulty being assessed because of a lack of clinical awareness or lengthy waiting times. This might be because their challenges are thought to be caused by another issue, like a mental health problem or addiction, rather than ADHD.
It's also worth noting that if a person's ADHD has a significant impact on their work or work, it may be considered as a disability under the Equality Act 2010. This means they have a legal right to reasonable adjustments from their employer. This could include the possibility of a flexible work schedule, or additional training and assistance at work.
Optima Health can help businesses develop an internal culture that promotes wellbeing and helps their employees. We offer a range of occupational health and wellbeing interventions such as e-learning, mindfulness workshops and coaching programs. Contact us today to find out more about our services for your business.