20 Reasons Why ADHD In Women UK Will Never Be Forgotten
ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD in girls and women is still not properly diagnosed, according to charity, ADHD UK. This is a huge cost to both individuals and the economy.
The symptoms of females are more difficult to spot because they appear differently than those of males. This can be further aggravated by hormonal changes like menstrual cycles or pregnancy, as well as menopausal.
Signs and symptoms
Women with ADHD might have difficulty telling their doctors that they're experiencing symptoms. They may feel embarrassed seeking help and worry that their doctor will not take it seriously. Some women have difficulty finding treatment providers that understand the condition and how it affects women as they age.
The most frequent symptoms of ADHD for adults include difficulty paying attention or staying focused, forgetfulness, being easily distracted and the tendency to be impulsive. adhd in women are more likely to suffer from the inattentive type of ADHD than men. Inattention symptoms may include issues with planning and organisation and forgetfulness, or even missing appointments, not completing tasks, getting distracted easily, or not remembering the words spoken during conversations.
Women may also struggle to control their emotions and impulses, making them more prone to explode in anger, become excessively emotional, and have issues with social interactions. They may struggle with spelling or math. They might be unable to keep up with their exercise routine or make healthy choices for their diet.
Due to gender-based stereotypes regarding sexuality and behavior, it's difficult for women to identify ADHD symptoms. Women with hyperactive or impulse-driven ADHD symptoms may have a difficult time getting diagnosed, particularly at school where they're often misdiagnosed as having depression or anxiety.
Many women with ADHD are also experiencing worsening ADHD symptoms during menopause and perimenopausal periods. As women begin to enter menopausal stage, they produce less estrogen. adhd in women can worsen symptoms. Women should pay attention to their symptoms and discuss the symptoms with their physician.
It is also beneficial for women to talk about their problems with coworkers or teachers to learn what accommodations they might be able to ask for to enhance 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 had the right solution and are discovering that their employers and schools are happy to offer reasonable accommodation.
Diagnosis
If you think you might have ADHD it is important to visit your GP. Your doctor may refer you to a specialist or give you an diagnosis based on guidelines set by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This includes a look at your symptoms, your medical history as well as any problems they might have caused.
Many healthcare professionals fail to recognize the ways in which ADHD manifests in women. This can lead to delays in the diagnosis and treatment. The symptoms of ADHD can get worse depending on the hormonal changes in a woman's body at different stages of her life. These include pregnancy, menstruation, perimenopause (the menopausal transition) and menopausal symptoms itself.
ADHD symptoms can affect school, work, and relationships. In adulthood, this can be a problem keeping a job, or being in a relationship, as well as being at risk of misuse as well as anxiety, depression and low self-esteem. It can also cause challenges in managing finances as well as making decisions and having to manage multiple priorities.
Talk to your employer if struggling to concentrate or focusing at work. You may be able receive help by taking longer breaks or working from home on occasion. You might also want to inquire about support services, such as Access to Work which can provide both financial and practical assistance.
It is important to keep in mind that ADHD is a neurologic condition. The symptoms you experience are not due to lack of motivation or self-esteem. You can still reach your goals and succeed. It may just require a little more effort and planning.
If you're a woman suffering from ADHD, you can learn more about it on the NHS website. You can also contact private organizations that offer ADHD assessments. They may charge a fee however, you'll be inspected by a certified professional. They can provide assistance and advice on 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 Disability Living Allowance or Access to Work if employed. This can help pay for things like special equipment and adaptations at the workplace.
Treatment
Girls and women who suffer from ADHD can be prescribed medication to manage their symptoms. The medications used are stimulants and non-stimulants. However, it is important to discuss the potential side effects with your GP before starting treatment. Regular GP visits are recommended to monitor your or your child's progress and ensure that the medication is effective.
The most frequent symptoms of ADHD for adults include inattention, difficulties finishing tasks, impulsive behaviors poor organisational skills, and difficulties staying focused or remembering things. Symptoms can change with time and are usually affected by life events, such as hormone changes, pregnancy and menopause.
For many people suffering from ADHD, behavioural therapy may be a very effective treatment. By changing the way you act and think, you can improve your symptoms and increase your self-esteem. Girls and women with ADHD are able to benefit from cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) it is a kind of therapy that helps you change negative patterns of thinking and behaviour.
CBT can be carried out in one-on-one sessions, with a therapist, or in groups. Other therapies that many consider beneficial include eating an wholesome diet, attempting to stay clear of caffeine or sugar-rich foods, and putting in plenty of exercise. But it is important to consult a doctor before making any changes to your diet or taking supplements.
Women and girls with ADHD should seek support from family, friends, and colleagues. They can also join a support group in order to meet other women who have the same disorder and share experiences.
Women suffering from ADHD might also benefit from a combination treatment approach, like treatment with medication and behavioral therapy. Using organisation tools such as planners are helpful in managing their day-to-day lives and ensuring they are aware of deadlines. Getting enough physical activity can boost concentration and mood, while eating a balanced diet is vital for overall health and wellbeing.
Many girls and women with ADHD have a lot of stress and pressure in our modern society. These can be related to the pressures of being a caring parent or partner, managing a household and doing well at work. This could make it harder to cope with ADHD and increase the risk that other mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression, could develop.
Support
Women and girls with ADHD feel unappreciated. They may exhibit emotional symptoms such as irritability and mood fluctuations, as well as a lack in self-esteem. The symptoms of the condition may also worsen when there are hormonal changes, for example during menstrual cycles or pregnancy. Additionally, many individuals with ADHD have co-existing mental health issues like anxiety and depression. These conditions can affect the way that their symptoms manifest and can make it more difficult to manage.
There is plenty of help available for girls and women who suffer from ADHD. There are a variety of online resources, support groups, and charities. The website ADHD UK has a specific page for girls and women with useful information, events and support groups. This includes peer support groups and a forum where people can ask questions.
If an employee has significant ADHD problems it is recommended that they contact their GP to have an assessment. The doctor will be able to send them to the most appropriate service, which could be a community mental health facility or a specialized neurodevelopmental service. It is important to note that due to the lack of awareness of the clinical needs and lengthy waiting times, some individuals have difficulty getting admitted for an assessment. This could be because their problems are thought to be due to another issue, such as a mental health problem or an addiction, instead of ADHD.
It's also important to know that ADHD could be regarded as a "disability" under the Equality Act 2010 if it significantly impacts a person's work. They have a right to reasonable accommodations from their employer. This could mean the ability to work from home or support and training at work.
Optima Health can help businesses establish an internal culture that promotes wellness and supports their employees. We offer a range of occupational health and wellness interventions such as e-learning, mindfulness workshops and coaching programs. Contact us today to learn more about our assistance for your business.