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ADHD in Women and Girls

ADHD in girls and women is still not properly diagnosed, according to charity, ADHD UK. This results in a significant cost to both individuals and the economy.

Females' symptoms are more difficult to spot because they appear differently than the men's. It can also be exacerbated by hormonal changes like the menstrual cycle and pregnancy, as well as menopausal.

Symptoms

Women suffering from ADHD might have difficulty telling their doctors that they are experiencing symptoms. They may feel embarrassed seeking help and worry that their healthcare provider won't take them seriously. Some women have difficulty finding health professionals who understand their condition and how it impacts them as an adult.

Adults suffering from ADHD are typically identified with impulsivity, forgetfulness, and difficulty staying focused. Women are more likely to have the inattentive form of ADHD than men. Inattention symptoms may include issues with organisation and planning, being forgetful or missing appointments, not completing tasks, getting distracted easily or forgetting the words spoken during conversations.

Women can also have trouble controlling their emotions and impulses. They may be prone to anger outbursts, be emotionally overly emotional and have problems with social interactions. They might have poor handwriting or struggle with math and spelling skills. They may also have difficulty to keep up with their exercise routine or make healthy choices for their diet.

Because of gender-based stereotypes about gender and behavior, it's difficult for women to recognize ADHD symptoms. Women who are hyperactive or impulsive ADHD-related symptoms could be more difficult to identify as having the disorder, particularly in school, where they often get misdiagnosed for anxiety or depression.

Many women suffering from ADHD also experience worsening ADHD symptoms during menopausal and perimenopausal. As women begin to enter menopausal, they produce less estrogen. This can worsen symptoms. Therefore, it is essential for women to keep track of their symptoms and discuss the symptoms with their doctor or specialist.

It can also be beneficial for women to discuss their issues with colleagues or teachers to find out what accommodations they might be able to request to enhance their performance at work or at school. Many people suffering from ADHD don't feel comfortable telling their professor or boss however some have had success in doing this and finding that their workplaces and school are more than happy to offer reasonable accommodation.

Diagnosis

If you think you might have ADHD it is important to see your GP. Your doctor can refer to a specialist, or diagnose you based on the criteria set forth by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This may include examining your symptoms over time, your history and any problems they've caused.

Many healthcare professionals fail to know how ADHD manifests in women. This can result in delays in receiving a diagnosis and treatment. The symptoms of ADHD may get worse based on the hormonal changes in a woman's body at different stages of her life. These include pregnancy, menstruation, perimenopause (the period leading up to menopausal), and the menopause itself.

ADHD symptoms can affect the work environment, school and relationships. In adulthood, this can be a problem maintaining a job or in a relationship, and being at risk of misuse, depression, anxiety and low self-esteem. adhd in young women can also lead to difficulties with managing finances, making important decisions and balancing multiple priorities.

If you are having trouble concentrating or paying attention at work, speak to your employer. There are ways to help, such as giving you more breaks or allowing you to work at home on occasion. You can also ask about support services like Access to Work, which can provide financial and practical assistance.

It's also important to keep in mind that ADHD is a neurological disorder and your symptoms aren't a result of being insecure or lacking self-esteem. You are still able to succeed and achieve your goals. It may just require a little more planning and effort.

If you're a woman who suffers from ADHD you can learn more about it on the NHS website. You can also contact private companies that provide ADHD assessments. You may be charged an amount, but you will be assessed by a trained professional. They can also offer advice and assistance in claiming benefits, locating solutions to workplace issues. If you're working in a workplace, they can help you determine whether you're eligible for Enhanced Disability Living Allowance as well as Access to Work. This can offer money to assist with things like special equipment or modifications in the workplace.

Treatment

Women and girls with ADHD may be prescribed medications to manage their symptoms. The drugs used could be stimulants or non-stimulants. It is essential to discuss any side effects with your GP prior to beginning treatment. Regular visits to the GP are recommended to monitor the growth of your child's or yourself and ensure that the medication is working.

The most frequent symptoms of ADHD in adults are inattention, difficulty completing tasks, impulsive behaviour poor organizational skills and trouble staying focused or remembering things. The symptoms can change over time, and are often influenced by life events such as pregnancy, menopause, and hormone changes.





For many people suffering from ADHD, behavioural therapy may be a successful treatment. By changing the way you behave and think, you can lessen your symptoms as well as improve your self-esteem. Girls and women suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a type of therapy that helps you change negative patterns of behavior and thinking.

CBT can be conducted in one-to-one sessions with a therapist, or in a group. Some people find that eating a healthy well-balanced diet and exercising regularly are also helpful. It is important to consult your physician prior to making any changes in your diet or taking supplements.

It is crucial for women and girls with ADHD to seek out support from their family, colleagues and friends. They can join support groups to meet other women who suffer from the same problem and share experiences.

Women suffering from ADHD could also benefit from a mix treatment method, such as behavioral therapy and medication. Organising their lives and keeping track deadlines with the help of planners is an effective way to manage your day-to-day routine. Engaging in regular physical activity can improve concentration and mood, while eating a balanced diet is essential for overall health and wellbeing.

Many girls and women who suffer from ADHD have a lot of stress and pressure in modern society. These are often due to the pressures of modern life, such as being a good parent or partner, managing a household and being productive at work. This makes it more difficult to manage ADHD and increase the risk that other mental health conditions like depression or anxiety, will develop.

Support

Girls and women who suffer from ADHD feel misunderstood. They may exhibit emotions such as anger and mood swings, as well as a lack in self-esteem. Symptoms of the condition can also worsen during periods of hormonal change such as menstrual cycle or pregnancy. Additionally, many individuals with ADHD have co-existing mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety. These conditions can affect the way that their symptoms present and make it more difficult to manage.

There is a lot of help available for women and girls who have ADHD. There are numerous online support groups, resources, and charitable organizations. ADHD UK's website includes a page dedicated to women and girls, which includes useful information and events. There are peer support groups and a forum for people to 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 which could be a mental health service or a neurodevelopmental specialist. It's important to remember that some people have difficulty being referred to an assessment due to a lack clinical awareness or lengthy waiting periods. This could be because their problems are thought to be caused by another issue, like a mental health problem or addiction, rather than ADHD.

Also, it's worth noting that ADHD can be considered a "disability" under the Equality Act 2010 if it has a significant impact on a person's employment. This means they have an legal right to request reasonable adjustments from their employer. This could mean an adjustable schedule or additional support and training at work.

At Optima Health, we can help businesses to create an internal culture of wellness and assistance for their employees. We provide a variety of wellness and occupational health interventions, such as eLearning modules, coaching programmes, and mindfulness workshops. Contact us today to learn more about our support for your business.