ADHD in Women and Girls
According to the charity ADHD UK, ADHD is still not being diagnosed for girls and women. This results in a significant cost for both individuals and the economy.
Symptoms can be more difficult to identify in females since they manifest differently than males. This can be further aggravated by hormonal changes such as menstrual cycles or pregnancy, as well as menopausal.
Signs and symptoms
Women suffering from ADHD may have a difficult time telling their health care providers that they suffer from symptoms of the condition. They may be uncomfortable asking for help, and they fear that their doctor won't be able to take the condition seriously. Some women also have trouble finding a doctor who understands the condition and how it affects women as they age.
The most frequently reported symptoms of ADHD for adults include difficulty paying attention or remaining focused, forgetfulness, being easily distracted and impulsivity. adult add women are more prone to the inattention type of ADHD. Inattention-related symptoms include problems in planning, organisation forgetfulness, having missed appointments, not being able to complete tasks, being distracted easily, and not remembering what you said during an interaction.
Women also have a tendency to find it hard to control their emotions and impulses, making them more likely to shout in anger, become wildly emotional, and have issues with social interactions. They may have difficulty with math or spelling. They might also have difficulty to maintain consistent exercise habits or make healthy choices for their diet.
Due to gender-based stereotypes regarding gender and behavior, it's more difficult for women to identify ADHD symptoms. Women who exhibit hyperactivity or impulse-driven ADHD symptoms might be more difficult to be identified, especially at school where they are often misdiagnosed as suffering from depression or anxiety.
Many women with ADHD are also experiencing worsening ADHD symptoms during menopausal periods and perimenopausal. As women enter menopausal stage and produce less estrogen. This can cause symptoms to worsen. Women should be aware of their symptoms and discuss them with their doctor.
Women can also benefit by discussing their concerns with co-workers and teachers to find out what accommodations they can ask for to boost their performance in the workplace or at school. Many people who suffer from ADHD don't feel comfortable telling their boss or professor however, some have found success in doing so and discovering that their employers and school are more than happy to offer reasonable accommodation.
Diagnosis
It is important to visit your GP when you suspect that you 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 may include a review of the symptoms you are experiencing, your history, and any problems that they might have caused.
Women can be more difficult to diagnose than men, as many health professionals aren't aware of the way ADHD manifests in females. This can cause delays in obtaining diagnosed and receiving treatment. Additionally, the symptoms of ADHD can become worse at different times in women's lives, based on the hormonal changes. These include during menstrual cycle, pregnancy, perimenopausal (the period leading up to menopausal), and the menopause itself.
Symptoms of ADHD can also impact relationships at work, school and social. Adults might have trouble maintaining a job or relationship and may be at risk of substance abuse, depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. It can also lead to difficulties in managing finances, making critical decisions, and balancing a variety of priorities.
If you have difficulty concentrating or paying attention at work, talk to your employer. You might be able to receive help by taking longer breaks or working from home for a few hours. You may also inquire about support services like Access to Work which can provide both financial and practical assistance.
It is important to be aware that ADHD is a neurologic disorder. Your symptoms aren't the result of laziness or low self-esteem. You can still succeed and meet your goals. It's just going to take a bit more planning and effort.
You can learn more about ADHD in women on the NHS website. You can also contact a private organisation that offers ADHD tests. There is a possibility of a fee however you will be analyzed by a trained professional. They will also provide advice and guidance on claiming benefits, locating treatment and coping with workplace issues. They can also tell you whether you're eligible for the Enhanced Disabled Living Allowance or Access to Work if employed. This can provide money to assist with things like specialised equipment or adaptations in the workplace.
Treatment
Girls and women with ADHD are able to receive medications to treat their symptoms. The medications used are stimulants and non-stimulants, though it is crucial to discuss potential adverse effects with your GP prior to starting treatment. Regular GP check-ups are also recommended to monitor your or your child's progress and make sure the medication is working properly.
Adults with ADHD frequently exhibit signs of carelessness, poor organisation, impulsive behavior, and difficulty in staying focused or recollecting information. The symptoms can change as time passes and are frequently caused by life events like hormonal changes, pregnancy, and menopausal.
For many people suffering from ADHD, behavioural therapy can be a successful treatment. By changing how you behave and think, you can reduce your symptoms and boost your self-esteem. Girls and women who suffer from ADHD are able to benefit from cognitive therapy for behavioural problems (CBT) which is a type of therapy for talking that helps you change negative patterns of thought and behavior.
CBT can be done in a group setting or one-on-one with a therapy. Some people are able to benefit from eating a healthy, balanced diet and exercising regularly are also helpful. It is essential to talk with your doctor before making any changes in your diet or taking any supplements.
Girls and women with ADHD should seek support from family and friends, as well as colleagues. They can also join an online support group to connect with other women who have the same condition and share experiences.
Women suffering from ADHD might also benefit from a multi-faceted treatment strategy, such as behavioral therapy and medication. Making use of tools for organization, such as planners can be helpful in managing their day-to-day lives and ensuring they are aware of deadlines. Getting enough physical activity can help improve the mood and focus, while eating a balanced and healthy diet is essential for overall health and wellbeing.
Many girls and women with ADHD suffer from a high degree of stress and pressure in modern society. These are often due to the pressures of modern-day society, such as being a good parent or partner, managing a household and doing well at work. This makes it more difficult to cope with ADHD and increase the chance that other mental health issues like anxiety or depression, will develop.
Support
Girls and women with ADHD often feel that they are misunderstood by other people. They may display emotional symptoms such as irritability and mood fluctuations, as well as low self-esteem. Symptoms of the condition can also worsen during periods of hormonal change, such as during menstruation or pregnancy. Many people suffering from ADHD also have other mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. These conditions can affect the way in which the symptoms manifest and may make it more difficult to manage.
There is a lot of help available for women and girls who have ADHD. This includes a range of online resources, support groups, and charities. The website ADHD UK has a specific page for women and girls that provides useful information, events and support groups. There are peer support meetings and an area for people to ask questions.
If an employee has significant ADHD issues it is recommended that they contact their GP to get an assessment. The GP can refer the employee to a treatment that is the most appropriate, like an in-home mental service or a neurodevelopment specialist service. It's important to remember that some individuals find it difficult to be referred to an assessment because of a lack of clinical awareness or lengthy waiting times. This might be because their problems are thought to be caused by another issue, such as mental health issues or an addiction, not ADHD.
Also, it's worth noting that ADHD could be regarded as 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 the possibility of a flexible work schedule or additional training and assistance 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 occupational health and wellness interventions, such as coaching programs, e-learning modules and mindfulness classes. Contact us today to find out more about our services for your business.