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ADHD in Women and Girls
According to the charity ADHD UK, ADHD is still not diagnosed in women and girls. This results in a significant cost for both individuals and the economy.
The symptoms of females are more difficult to spot because they look different than those of men. It can also be exacerbated by hormonal changes like menstrual cycle and pregnancy, as well as menopausal.
Signs and symptoms
Women suffering from ADHD may have a difficult to tell their healthcare providers that they are suffering from the condition. They may be uncomfortable asking for help, and they fear that their doctor won't consider the condition seriously. Women also face difficulties finding treatment providers that understand the condition and how it affects women as they age.
Adults who suffer from ADHD are typically identified with impulsivity, forgetfulness and a difficult time staying focused. Women are more likely to suffer from the inattentive type of ADHD than men. Inattentive symptoms include difficulties in 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 during a conversation.
Women may also have difficulties controlling their emotions and impulses. They can be more prone to anger-related outbursts, become overly emotional and have problems with social interactions. They may struggle with handwriting or with spelling and math. They might also have difficulty to maintain a consistent routine of exercise or make healthy choices for their diet.
It's also more difficult to recognize ADHD symptoms in women than it is for men due to gender-based stereotypes about gender and behavior. Women with hyperactive or impulsive ADHD symptoms might have a harder time being recognized as having the disorder, particularly at schools, where they frequently are misdiagnosed as having depression or anxiety.
Many women suffering from ADHD also experience worsening ADHD symptoms during menopausal periods and perimenopause. This is because as women start to go through menopausal symptoms, their bodies naturally produce less estrogen, which can cause an increase in the symptoms. It is therefore particularly important for women to be aware of their symptoms and discuss them with their doctor or a specialist.
Women also benefit from discussing their issues with their colleagues and teachers to determine what accommodations they could request to improve their performance at work or at school. Many people suffering from ADHD aren't comfortable talking about it with their professor or boss however, some have found the right solution and are finding that their workplaces and school are more than happy to accommodate reasonable requests.
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 give you an assessment based on the guidelines set by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This could include looking at your symptoms over time, your past medical history and any issues they may have caused.
add symptoms in adult women do not recognise how ADHD manifests in women. This can cause delays in getting diagnosed and receiving treatment. Additionally, the symptoms of ADHD can worsen at different times in women's lives, based on the hormonal changes. These include during menstrual cycles, pregnancy, perimenopausal (the period leading up to menopausal) and menopausal symptoms itself.
The signs of ADHD can also impact relationships as well as school and work. In adulthood, this can result in having difficulty maintaining a job or in a relationship, as well as being at risk of substance abuse as well as anxiety, depression and low self-esteem. It can also cause challenges with managing finances, making decisions and managing multiple priorities.
Talk to your employer if you're having trouble concentrating or focusing on work. There may be solutions, such as offering more breaks or the option of working from home occasionally. You might also want to inquire about support services such as Access to Work which can provide both practical and financial assistance.
Also, be aware that ADHD is a neurologic condition. Your symptoms aren't the result of laziness or low self-esteem. You can still achieve your goals and be successful. It may just require some extra effort and planning.
If you're a woman with ADHD you can find more information on the NHS website. You can also reach out to a private organization that provides ADHD tests. There is a possibility of a fee however you will be analyzed by a qualified professional. They can offer advice and assistance in the benefits you're entitled to, how to access treatments and dealing with 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 could provide funds to help with things like specialised equipment or adaptations in the workplace.
Treatment
Women and girls with ADHD might be prescribed medications to manage their symptoms. The medications used can be stimulants or non-stimulants. It is important to discuss any potential side effects with your GP prior to starting treatment. Regular visits to your GP are recommended to track the growth of your child's or yourself and make sure that the medication is working.
Some of the most prevalent symptoms of ADHD for adults include inattention, difficulties finishing tasks, impulsive behaviour, poor organisational skills and difficulties keeping track of things. The symptoms can alter over time and are often influenced by life events, such as hormone changes, pregnancy and menopause.
For many people with ADHD, behavioural therapy may be an effective treatment. By changing how you behave and think, you can improve your symptoms as well as increase your self-esteem. Girls and women who suffer from ADHD can benefit from cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) which is a type of therapy for talking that helps you to alter negative patterns of thinking and behavior.
CBT can be conducted in a group or individually with a Therapist. Some people find that eating a healthy eating plan, exercising regularly can be beneficial. It is crucial to consult your doctor before making any changes to your diet or taking supplements.
Women and girls with ADHD should seek support from family and friends, as well as colleagues. They can also join a support group to meet other women who have the same disorder and share experiences.
Women with ADHD can also benefit from a mix of treatment options like therapy and medication. Using organisation tools such as planners can be beneficial in managing their day-to-day lives and ensuring they are aware of deadlines. Being active enough can help improve the mood and focus, while eating a balanced and healthy diet is vital for overall health and well-being.
In modern society women and girls with ADHD are being put under a lot of stress and pressure. These are often related to the expectations of being a loving parent or partner, managing household chores and performing well at work. This can make it more difficult to manage ADHD and increase the risk that other mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression, will develop.
Support
Women and girls with ADHD often feel misunderstood by others. They may display emotional symptoms such as irritability and mood swings, as well as an inability to feel confident about themselves. The symptoms of the condition may also worsen when there are hormonal changes, for example menstrual or pregnancy. Many people with ADHD also suffer from other mental health issues like anxiety and depression. These can impact the way in which their symptoms manifest and can make it more difficult to manage.
There is a lot of help available for women and girls who have ADHD. There are numerous online resources, support groups, and charities. ADHD UK's website includes an entire page devoted to women and girls, which includes useful information and events. There are peer support meetings 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 GP may refer the patient to a treatment that is the most appropriate, like a mental health service in the community or a neurodevelopmental specialist service. However, it is important to be aware that due to a lack of clinical awareness and long waiting times, some people have difficulty getting admitted for an assessment. It could be that their difficulties are attributed to another issue, such as addiction or mental illness, and not ADHD.
It's also important to note that if an individual's ADHD has a significant impact on their work and performance, it could be deemed as a disability under the Equality Act 2010. This means that they have the legal right to make reasonable adjustments from their employer. This could be an adjustable schedule or additional support and training at work.
At Optima Health, we can assist businesses in creating an internal culture of wellness and support for their employees. We offer a range of wellbeing and occupational health interventions, including e-learning modules coaching programmes and mindfulness workshops. If you'd like to learn more about how we can support your company, contact us today.
