ADHD In Women UK's History History Of ADHD In Women UK
ADHD in Women and Girls
According to the charity ADHD UK, ADHD is still not being diagnosed in girls and women. This is a huge cost to both individuals and the economy.
Symptoms can be more difficult to recognise for females due to the fact that they appear differently from men. It can also be caused by hormonal changes such as menstrual cycle, pregnancy or menopause.
Symptoms
Women who suffer from ADHD can have a hard time telling their medical professionals that they have symptoms of the condition. They may be shy to seek help, and they fear that their doctor won't consider the condition seriously. Some women have difficulty finding a doctor who understands the condition and how it affects them as an adult woman.
Adults with ADHD are often marked by impulsivity, apathy and a difficult time staying focused. Women are more likely to suffer from the inattentive form of ADHD. Inattention symptoms may include issues with planning and organisation and forgetfulness, or even missing appointments, not finishing tasks, becoming easily distracted or forgetting the words spoken during conversations.
Women can also have trouble controlling their emotions and impulses. They may be prone to anger outbursts and emotional meltdowns and have problems with social interactions. They may have difficulty with spelling or math. They may also find it difficult to maintain consistent exercise habits or make healthy food choices.
Due to gender-based stereotypes of sex and behavior, it's harder for women to recognize ADHD symptoms. Women with hyperactive or impulse-driven ADHD symptoms might have a harder time being diagnosed, especially at school where they are often misdiagnosed as suffering from depression or anxiety.
Many women who suffer from ADHD are also experiencing worsening ADHD symptoms during menopausal periods and perimenopause. This is because when women start to go through menopausal changes their bodies naturally produce less estrogen, which can exacerbate the symptoms. Women should pay attention to their symptoms and discuss these with their doctor.
It is also beneficial for women to talk about their symptoms with co-workers or teachers to learn what accommodations they may be able to ask for to improve their performance at work or at school. Many people with ADHD do not feel comfortable speaking to their professor or boss however, some have found the right solution and are discovering that their employers and school are more than happy to offer reasonable accommodation.
Diagnosis
If you think you have ADHD, it's important to consult your GP. Your doctor can refer you to an expert, or diagnose you using the criteria established by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This may include examining your symptoms over time, your history and any issues they may have caused.
Women can be more difficult to diagnose than males, as many healthcare professionals don't recognise the way ADHD manifests in females. This can lead to delays in getting a diagnosis and treatment. In addition, the symptoms of ADHD tend to worsen at various times throughout a woman's life, depending on hormonal changes. This includes during menstrual cycles, pregnancy, perimenopausal (the period leading up to menopausal), and the menopause itself.
ADHD symptoms can also impact the work environment, school and relationships. Adults may have difficulty maintaining relationships or jobs and are at risk of depression, substance abuse, anxiety and low self-esteem. It could also cause difficulties in managing finances, making crucial decisions, and balancing a variety of priorities.
Talk to your employer if you are having trouble concentrating or focusing at work. You may be able to get help by taking more breaks or working from home at times. You may also inquire about support services such as Access to Work which can offer both financial and practical assistance.
It is important to remember that ADHD is a neurologic disorder. The symptoms you experience are not due to laziness or low self-esteem. You can still succeed and meet your goals. It may just require some extra effort and planning.
Find out more about ADHD in women on the NHS website. You can also reach out to an organization that is private and offers ADHD assessments. They may charge an amount however, you'll be evaluated by a trained professional. They can offer assistance and advice on the benefits you're entitled to, how to access solutions to workplace issues. If you're working and have a disability, they can tell you whether you're eligible for the Enhanced Disability Living Allowance and Access to Work. This can offer money to help with things such as special equipment or modifications in the workplace.
Treatment
Girls and women who suffer from ADHD are prescribed medication to manage their symptoms. The medications used are stimulants and non-stimulants, though it is essential to discuss possible side effects with your GP prior to starting treatment. Regular visits to your GP are recommended to track the progress of your child or yourself and ensure that the medication is effective.
Some of the most common symptoms of ADHD in adults is inattention, difficulty completing tasks, impulsive behavior poor organizational skills and difficulty keeping track of things. The symptoms can alter with time and are usually affected by life events, such as hormonal changes, pregnancy, and menopausal.
For many people suffering from ADHD, behavioural therapy may be a successful treatment. By changing the way you behave and think, you can improve your symptoms and improve your self-esteem. Women and girls with ADHD can benefit from cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) which is a form of therapy that assists in changing negative patterns of thinking and behavior.
weblink can be carried out in a group setting or one-on-one with the help of a Therapist. Other therapies that many consider beneficial include eating a balanced diet, trying to stay clear of caffeine or sugar-rich foods, and putting in plenty of exercise. It is crucial to seek medical advice before making any changes to your diet or taking supplements.
Women and girls with ADHD need to seek help from family or friends as well as colleagues. They can also join support groups to connect with other women with similar conditions and share experiences.
Women with ADHD might also benefit from a combination treatment method, such as treatment with medication and behavioral therapy. Organising their daily life and tracking deadlines using planners is a great method to manage your daily life. Being active enough can boost concentration and mood and eating a balanced diet is essential to overall health and well-being.
Many women and girls with ADHD suffer from a high degree of stress and pressure in modern society. These are often related to the pressures of being a loving spouse or parent, running household duties and performing well at work. This can add to the challenges of coping with ADHD and may increase the risk of mental health issues that are developing, like depression or anxiety.
add symptoms in adult women and women with ADHD often feel misunderstood by others. They may be afflicted by emotional issues such as irritability, mood swings, and a lack of self-esteem. The symptoms of ADHD can also become worse during times of hormonal change such as menstrual cycle or pregnancy. Additionally, many individuals 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 be more difficult to manage.
The good news is that there's plenty of support available to women and girls with ADHD. There are many online resources, support groups, and charitable organizations. The website ADHD UK has a specific page for women and girls that provides important information, events and support groups. This includes peer support groups and a forum where users can ask questions.
If a person is suffering from significant ADHD difficulties it is recommended that they contact their GP for an assessment. The GP will be able to send them to the most appropriate service that could be a community mental health service or a specialized neurodevelopmental service. It is important to keep in mind that some individuals find it difficult to be referred to an assessment because of a lack of clinical awareness or long waiting periods. It could be that their difficulties are attributed to another issue, such as mental illness or addiction, and not ADHD.
It's also important to note that if an individual's ADHD affects their work in a significant way or work, it may be considered as a disability under the Equality Act 2010. This means they have a legal right to reasonable adjustments from their employer. This could mean a flexible working schedule or additional training and assistance at work.
At Optima Health, we can help businesses to create an environment of wellbeing and support for their employees. We provide a range of wellness and occupational health interventions, including coaching programs, e-learning modules and mindfulness training workshops. If you'd like to find out more about how we can assist your business, get in touch today.