ADHD in Women and Girls
According to the charity ADHD UK, ADHD is still not diagnosed for girls and women. This is at a huge cost to the individual and the economy.
The symptoms of females are more difficult to recognize because they look different than the men's. This is also exacerbated by hormonal changes like menstrual cycles, pregnancy or menopause.
Symptoms
Women with ADHD can have a hard time telling their healthcare providers that they suffer from symptoms of the condition. They may be uncomfortable asking for assistance, and they are worried that their doctor won't take it seriously. Some women have difficulty finding a doctor who understands the condition and how it affects them as a woman of adulthood.
Adults suffering from ADHD are typically identified with impulsivity, forgetfulness and a lack of focus. Women are more likely to be affected by the inattentive type of ADHD than men. Inattention-related symptoms include issues with planning and organisation and forgetfulness, or even missing appointments, not finishing tasks, becoming easily distracted, or not remembering what was said during conversations.
signs of adhd in women have a tendency to have trouble controlling their emotions and impulses, which makes them prone to lash out in anger, become excessively emotional, and have issues with social relationships. They may have trouble writing or struggling with math and spelling skills. They may be unable to keep up with their exercise routine or make healthy food choices.
It's also more difficult to recognize ADHD symptoms for women than in men because of gender-based stereotypes regarding sex and behaviour. Women who exhibit hyperactivity or impulse-driven ADHD symptoms may have a difficult time getting diagnosed, especially at school, where they are often mistakenly diagnosed as having depression or anxiety.
Additionally that, many women suffering from ADHD suffer from worsening symptoms during menopausal or perimenopausal periods. As women transition into menopausal and produce less estrogen. This can worsen symptoms. It is therefore particularly important for women to keep track of their symptoms and talk about the symptoms with their doctor or specialist.
It can also be helpful for women to talk about their issues with colleagues or teachers to discover what accommodations they might be able to request to improve their performance at work or in school. Many people suffering from ADHD don't feel comfortable telling their boss or professor however some have had success in doing so and finding that their workplaces and schools are happy to accommodate reasonable requests.
Diagnosis
It's important that you see your GP if you suspect you have ADHD. Your doctor can refer you to a specialist or give you an diagnosis based on criteria set by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This may include a review of your symptoms, your medical history, and any problems that they may have caused.
Women are often more difficult to diagnose than males as a lot of health professionals aren't aware of the way ADHD presents in females. This can lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment. The symptoms of ADHD may get worse based on the hormonal changes occurring in the body of a woman at various stages of her life. This includes during menstrual cycles, pregnancy, perimenopausal (the run-up to menopause), and the menopause itself.
Symptoms of ADHD can also impact relationships, work and school. Adults may struggle to maintain relationships or jobs, and are at risk of substance abuse, depression, anxiety and low self-esteem. It can also cause challenges with managing finances, making decisions and balancing multiple priorities.
Speak to your employer if having difficulty focusing or focusing at work. There may be ways to help, such as giving you more breaks or allowing you to work at home on occasion. You can also inquire about support services such as Access to Work, which can provide practical and financial assistance.
It's also important to keep in mind that ADHD is a neurological issue and your symptoms aren't caused by being insecure or lacking self-esteem. You are still able to succeed and reach your goals. It may just require some more planning and effort.
You can find out more about ADHD in women on the NHS website. You can also reach out to a private organisation that offers ADHD tests. They might charge a fee however, you'll be evaluated by a trained professional. They also provide advice and guidance on claiming benefits, seeking treatment and coping with workplace issues. If you're working, they can advise on whether you're eligible for the Enhanced Disability Living Allowance or Access to Work. This could provide funds to help with things such as specific equipment or adaptations for the workplace.
Treatment
Girls and women with ADHD might be prescribed medication to manage their symptoms. Medications used include stimulants and non-stimulants, though it is crucial to discuss the potential adverse effects with your GP prior to starting treatment. Regular visits to your GP are recommended to check the progress of your child or yourself and ensure that the medication is working.
Adults with ADHD often show signs of carelessness, poor organization as well as impulsive behavior. They also have difficulty in staying focused or recalling things. The symptoms can alter as time passes and are frequently influenced by life events, like hormonal changes, pregnancy, and menopausal.
For many people with ADHD, behavioural therapy can be a very effective treatment. By changing how you behave and think, you can reduce your symptoms and improve your self-esteem. Women and girls who have ADHD can benefit from cognitive therapy for behavioural problems (CBT), which is a form of therapy through which to change the negative patterns of thinking and behaviour.
CBT can be conducted in a group or one-on-one with a therapy. Other therapies that many find helpful are eating an wholesome diet, attempting to stay clear of caffeine or sugar-rich foods, and putting in plenty of exercise. However, it is essential to consult a doctor before making any changes to your diet or taking supplements.
It is crucial for girls and women with ADHD to seek out support from their family, colleagues and friends. They can also join support groups to connect with other women with the same problem and share experiences.
Women suffering from ADHD might also benefit from a multi-faceted treatment strategy, such as medication and behavioral therapy. The process of organizing their life and tracking deadlines with the help of planners is an effective way to manage your day-to-day routine. Engaging in regular physical activity can help improve mood and focus while eating a balanced diet is vital for overall health and wellbeing.
In the modern world women and girls with ADHD are in a constant state of pressure and stress. These can be related to the expectations of being a responsible spouse or parent, running household duties and performing well at work. This can increase the difficulties of dealing with ADHD and increase the risk of other mental health issues developing, such as depression or anxiety.
Support
Girls and women with ADHD often feel that they are misunderstood by other people. They may exhibit emotional symptoms like irritability and mood swings, as well as low self-esteem. Symptoms of the condition can also become worse during times of hormonal change such as menstrual cycle or pregnancy. Many people suffering from ADHD also suffer from mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. These conditions can affect the way the symptoms manifest and may make it more difficult to manage.
There is plenty of help for women and girls who suffer from ADHD. There are numerous online resources, support groups, and charities. ADHD UK's website includes a section dedicated to girls and women with useful information and events. This includes peer support meetings and a forum where users can ask questions.
If an employee is experiencing severe difficulties with their ADHD or other ADHD-related issues, they should speak to their GP to discuss an assessment. The GP may recommend the employee to a service that's most appropriate, such as a mental health service in the community or a neurodevelopmental specialist service. It is important to note that some individuals find it difficult to be admitted to an assessment because of a lack of clinical awareness or lengthy waiting periods. This might be because their problems are thought to be due to another issue, such as mental health issues or an addiction, instead of ADHD.
It's also worth noting that if someone's ADHD significantly impacts their work or work, it may be considered as a disability under the Equality Act 2010. They have the right to reasonable accommodations from their employer. This could be a flexible schedule or additional support and training at work.
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