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ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD in girls and women is not yet diagnosed according to the charity ADHD UK. This is a huge cost for both individuals and the economy.
The symptoms of females are more difficult to recognize due to the fact that they look different from those of men. This is exacerbated by hormonal changes like menstrual cycle or pregnancy, as well as menopausal.
Symptoms
Women suffering from ADHD may have difficulty telling their doctors that they're experiencing symptoms. They may feel shy to seek help, and are afraid that their doctor won't consider it seriously. undiagnosed adhd in women may find it difficult to find healthcare providers who are aware of their condition and how it impacts their lives as an adult.
The most frequent symptoms of ADHD in adults are difficulty paying attention or staying focused, forgetfulness, being easily distracted and an impulsive nature. Women are more likely to suffer from the inattention-deficit form of ADHD. Inattention symptoms include issues with organisation, planning and forgetfulness, or missing appointments, not completing tasks, becoming easily distracted and not being able to remember what you said during an interaction.
Women also have a tendency to have trouble controlling their emotions and impulses, making them prone to lash out in anger, become excessively emotional, and have issues with social relationships. 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 choices for their diet.
It's also more difficult to recognize ADHD symptoms in women than it is in men due to gender-based stereotypes regarding sexuality and behavior. Women who are hyperactive or have impulse-driven ADHD symptoms might have a difficult time getting identified, especially at school where they're often mistakenly identified as having depression or anxiety.
Many women suffering from ADHD also experience a worsening of ADHD symptoms during menopause and perimenopausal. As women begin to enter menopausal they produce less estrogen. This can exacerbate symptoms. Women should pay attention to their symptoms and discuss them with their doctor.
Women can also benefit from discussing their symptoms with their co-workers and teachers to discover what accommodations they can make to improve their performance at work or at school. Many people who suffer from ADHD do not feel comfortable speaking to their professor or boss however, some have found success in doing this and discovering that their workplaces and school are more than willing to provide reasonable accommodations.
Diagnosis
If you suspect you may 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 medical history and any problems they've caused.
Women are often more difficult to diagnose than men, as many healthcare professionals don't recognise the ways ADHD manifests in females. This can result in delays in getting a diagnosis and treatment. The symptoms of ADHD may worsen depending on the hormonal changes occurring in the body of a woman at various stages of her life. These include menstrual cycle, pregnancy, perimenopausal (the period leading up to menopausal) and menopausal symptoms itself.
ADHD symptoms can also impact work, school, and relationships. In adulthood, this can result in having difficulty maintaining a job or in a relationship, as well as being at risk of substance abuse, depression, anxiety and low self-esteem. It can also lead to difficulties in managing finances, making crucial decisions, and balancing a variety of priorities.
If you are having trouble concentrating or paying attention at work, speak with your employer. There are solutions, such as giving you more breaks or the option of working from home on occasion. You can also ask about support services like Access to Work, which can offer practical and financial support.
It's important to remember that ADHD is a neurological condition, so your symptoms aren't a result of being unmotivated or having low self-esteem. You can still reach your goals and be successful. It's just going to 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 organizations that offer ADHD assessments. They might charge an amount, but you'll be assessed by a certified professional. They also provide advice and guidance on claiming benefits, finding treatment and coping with workplace issues. undiagnosed adhd in women can also tell you if you are eligible for the Enhanced Disability Living Allowance or Access to Work if you are employed. This can help pay for things like specialised equipment and adaptations at the workplace.
Treatment
Girls and women with ADHD are prescribed medication to treat their symptoms. The drugs used could be stimulants or non-stimulants. It is essential to discuss any side effects with your GP prior to starting treatment. Regular GP visits are recommended to check the development of your child or yourself and make sure that the medication is working.
Adults suffering from ADHD frequently exhibit signs of carelessness, poor organisation as well as impulsive behavior. They also have difficulties staying focused or recalling things. The symptoms can change over time, and are frequently influenced by life events like menopausal, pregnancy, and hormone changes.
Behavioral therapy is a successful treatment for a lot of people suffering from ADHD. By changing the way you behave and think, you can reduce your symptoms and improve your self-esteem. Girls and women with ADHD can benefit from cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) which is a form of therapy that helps change negative patterns of thinking and behavior.
CBT can be conducted in one-to-one sessions with a therapist or in groups. Other therapies that many find helpful are eating a balanced diet, trying to stay clear of caffeine or sugar-rich foods and getting plenty of exercise. It is important to consult your physician before making any changes to your diet or taking any supplements.
It is essential for women and girls with ADHD to receive assistance from their families, colleagues and friends. They can also join a support group in order to meet other women with the same disorder and share experiences.
Women suffering from ADHD may also benefit from a multi-faceted treatment approach, like behavioral therapy and medication. Utilizing tools for organisation such as planners can be helpful in managing their day-to-day lives and ensuring they are aware of deadlines. A balanced diet and regular physical exercise are vital to health and wellbeing.
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 life, such as being a good partner or parent, managing a household and doing well at work. This can increase the challenges of coping with ADHD and increase the risk of other mental health issues that are developing, like depression or anxiety.
Support
Girls and women who suffer from ADHD often feel that they are misunderstood by other people. They might exhibit emotional symptoms like irritability and mood fluctuations, as well as a lack in self-esteem. The symptoms of the condition can also become worse when there are hormonal changes, like during pregnancy or menstruation. In addition, many people suffering from ADHD have co-existing mental health problems, such as anxiety and depression. These conditions can affect the way in which the symptoms manifest and may make it more difficult to manage.
The good news is that there is plenty of support available to girls and women with ADHD. There are many online resources, support groups and charitable organizations. ADHD UK's website has an entire page devoted to girls and women with useful information and events. This includes peer support groups and a forum where people can ask questions.
If an employee is experiencing severe difficulties with their ADHD and has a significant problem with their ADHD, they should contact their GP to discuss an assessment. The doctor will be able to refer them to the most appropriate service, which could be a community mental health service or a specialist neurodevelopmental service. It is important to be aware that due to a lack of awareness of the clinical needs and lengthy waiting times, some people have difficulty getting referred for an assessment. It could be that their difficulties may be due to another issue, like a mental illness or addiction, 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. They have a right to reasonable accommodations from their employer. This could mean the possibility of a flexible work schedule, additional training or support at work.
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