ADHD in Women and Girls
According to the charity ADHD UK, ADHD is still not recognized in women and girls. This is at a huge cost to the individual and the economy.
These symptoms are more difficult to recognize for females due to the fact that they appear differently from males. It can also be exacerbated by hormonal changes like menstrual cycles and pregnancy, as well as menopausal.
Signs and symptoms
Women with ADHD may have difficulty telling their doctors that they are experiencing symptoms. They may feel embarrassed asking for help, and may be worried that their healthcare provider will not be able to take them seriously. Some women have difficulty finding a doctor who understands the condition and how it affects women as they age.
Adults with ADHD are typically characterized by impulsivity, forgetfulness, and difficulty staying focused. Women are more susceptible to the inattention type of ADHD. Inattentive symptoms can include problems with planning and organisation, being forgetful or missing appointments, not completing tasks, getting distracted easily or not remembering what was said during conversations.
Women can also have trouble controlling their emotions and impulses. They may be prone to anger outbursts, become overly emotional and have issues with social interactions. They may have trouble writing or struggling with spelling and math. They might also have difficulty to maintain consistent exercise habits or make healthy food choices.
Because of gender-based stereotypes about sexuality and behavior, it's difficult for women to identify ADHD symptoms. Women who exhibit hyperactivity or impulse-driven ADHD symptoms might have a difficult time getting identified, especially at school, where they are often mistakenly identified as having depression or anxiety.
In addition that, many women suffering from ADHD have worsening symptoms in menopausal and perimenopausal cycles. This is due to the fact that as women enter menopausal symptoms their bodies naturally produce less estrogen, which can cause an increase in the symptoms. Therefore, it is essential for women to keep track of their symptoms and talk about the symptoms with their doctor or a specialist.
Women can also benefit from discussing their symptoms with their co-workers and teachers to find out what accommodations they can ask for to boost their performance in the workplace or at school. While many people suffering from ADHD aren't comfortable speaking to their professor or boss about their issues however, some do it with success and find their schools and workplaces are more than willing to provide reasonable accommodations.
Diagnosis
It is important to visit your GP in the event that you suspect you may have ADHD. Your doctor may refer you to a specialist, or diagnose you based on the criteria set forth by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This could include a look at your symptoms, your history, and any problems that they may have caused.
Many healthcare professionals don't recognise how ADHD manifests in women. This can result in delays in getting an assessment 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. These include during menstrual cycle, pregnancy, perimenopausal (the run-up to menopause), and the menopause itself.
The signs of ADHD can also impact relationships at work, school and social. Adults might have trouble maintaining relationships or jobs, and be at risk for depression, substance abuse, anxiety, and low self-esteem. It could also cause difficulties with managing finances, making critical decisions and balancing many priorities.
If you have difficulty concentrating or paying attention at work, speak with your employer. There may be solutions, such as offering more breaks or the option of working from home on occasion. You can also ask about support services such as Access to Work, which can provide practical and financial assistance.
It's important to remember that ADHD is a neurological disorder, so your symptoms aren't a result of being lazy or having low self-esteem. You can still reach your goals and be successful. It might just take a little more effort and planning.
If you're a woman suffering from ADHD, you will find more information on the NHS website. You can also contact private companies that offer ADHD assessments. There is a possibility of for a fee, however you will be analyzed by a qualified professional. They also provide advice and guidance on claiming benefits, seeking treatment and coping with workplace issues. They can also help you determine whether you're eligible to receive the Enhanced Disability Living Allowance or Access to Work if you are employed. This can offer money to help with things such as special equipment or modifications in the workplace.
Treatment
Girls and women with ADHD may be prescribed medications to manage their symptoms. The medications prescribed can be stimulants or non-stimulants. It is crucial to discuss any potential side effects with your GP prior to starting treatment. Regular GP check-ups are also advised to track your child's progress and make sure the medication is working well.
Some of the most prevalent symptoms of ADHD for adults include carelessness, difficulty finishing tasks, impulsive behaviors, poor organisational skills and difficulties staying on task or remembering things. Symptoms can change as time passes and are frequently influenced by life events, such as hormone changes, pregnancy, and menopausal.
For many people with ADHD, behavioural therapy can be a successful treatment. By changing the way you behave and think, you can lessen your symptoms as well as increase your self-esteem. Women and girls who have ADHD can benefit from cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) which is a form of therapy for talking that helps you to alter negative patterns of thought and behavior.
CBT can be carried out in a group or one-on-one with an therapist. Some people are able to benefit from eating a healthy, balanced diet and exercising regularly can be beneficial. It is crucial to seek medical advice before making any changes to your diet or taking supplements.
It is crucial for girls and women with ADHD to get support from their family members, colleagues and friends. They can also join a support group to meet other women with similar conditions and share their experiences.
Women with ADHD may also benefit from a mix of treatment options, such as medication and behavioural therapy. Using simply click the following webpage as planners are helpful in managing their day-to-day lives and keeping track of deadlines. Getting enough physical activity can boost the mood and focus while eating a balanced diet is essential to overall health and well-being.
In modern society women and girls with ADHD are being put under a lot of pressure and stress. These can be attributed to the pressures of modern-day society, such as being a good parent or partner, managing a household and performing well at work. This can add to the difficulties of dealing with ADHD and may increase the risk of other mental health issues that are developing, like anxiety or depression.
Support
Girls and women who suffer from ADHD often feel that they are misunderstood by other people. They may experience emotional symptoms like irritability, mood swings and a lack of self-esteem. The symptoms of the condition may also worsen when there are hormonal changes, such as menstrual or pregnancy. Many people with ADHD also have other mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression. These conditions can affect the way their symptoms manifest and can be more difficult to manage.
The good news is that there is plenty of support available to girls and women with ADHD. There are numerous online support groups, resources, and charitable organizations. The website ADHD UK has a specific page for women and girls that provides useful information, events and support groups. This includes peer support meetings and a forum where people can ask questions.
If an employee is experiencing significant ADHD difficulties and is experiencing significant difficulties with ADHD, they should consult their GP for an assessment. The doctor can refer the patient to a service that is the most appropriate, like a mental health service in the community or a neurodevelopmental specialist service. It is important to note that some individuals have difficulty being assessed because of a lack of clinical awareness or lengthy waiting times. It could be that their difficulties are attributed to another issue, like a addiction or mental illness, and not ADHD.
It's also worth noting that if a person's ADHD has a significant impact on their work and performance, it could be deemed a disability under the Equality Act 2010. This means that they have the legal right to make reasonable adjustments from their employer. This could include the possibility of a flexible work schedule, additional training or assistance at work.
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