Everything You Need To Learn About ADHD In Women UK

ADHD in Women and Girls

According to the charity ADHD UK, ADHD is still not recognized in women and girls. This is a huge cost to both the individual and the economy.

Symptoms can be more difficult to recognize for females due to the fact that they appear differently from men. This can be further aggravated by hormonal changes such as the menstrual period, pregnancy or menopause.

Signs and symptoms

Women with ADHD may have difficulty telling their doctors that they're experiencing symptoms. They may feel embarrassed asking for help and fear that their doctor will not take it seriously. Women who suffer from breast cancer may have trouble finding healthcare providers who are aware of their condition and how it impacts them as they grow older.

Adults who suffer from ADHD are often identified with impulsivity, forgetfulness and a lack of focus. Women are more likely to have the inattentive form of ADHD than men. Inattention symptoms include issues with planning, organisation forgetfulness, having missed appointments, not being able to complete tasks, getting distracted easily and forgetting what you said during the course of a conversation.

Women may also have difficulties controlling their emotions and impulses. They are more prone to anger-related outbursts, become overly emotional and have problems with social relationships. They may have difficulty with math or spelling. They may also have difficulty to maintain a consistent routine of exercise or make healthy choices for their diet.


Due to gender-based stereotypes regarding sexuality and behavior, it's harder for women to identify ADHD symptoms. Women who are hyperactive or have impulse-driven ADHD symptoms might have a difficult time getting identified, especially at school where they are often mistakenly identified as suffering from depression or anxiety.

Many women with ADHD also experience worsening ADHD symptoms during menopausal and perimenopausal. As women enter menopausal stage and produce less estrogen. This can exacerbate symptoms. Women should pay attention to their symptoms and discuss them with their doctor.

It is also beneficial for women to discuss their symptoms with co-workers or teachers to learn what accommodations they might be able to ask for to enhance 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 schools are willing to provide reasonable accommodations.

Diagnosis

It is essential to see your GP in the event that you suspect you have ADHD. Your doctor may refer you to a specialist or give you a diagnosis based on the guidelines set by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This may include examining your symptoms over time, your past medical history and any problems they've caused.

Women are often more difficult to diagnose than men as a lot of health professionals aren't aware of the way ADHD manifests in females. This can cause delays in the diagnosis and treatment. The symptoms of ADHD can get worse depending on the hormonal changes that occur in a woman's body at different stages of her life. These include menstrual cycles, pregnancy, perimenopausal (the menopausal transition), and the menopause itself.

ADHD symptoms can also impact work, school, and relationships. Adults may struggle to maintain a job or relationship and be at risk for substance abuse, depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. It could also cause problems with managing finances, making critical decisions and balancing multiple priorities.

If you have difficulty concentrating or paying attention at work, talk to your employer. You may be able to receive help by taking longer breaks or working from home for a few hours. You may also inquire about support services, such as Access to Work which can offer both financial and practical assistance.

Also, keep in mind that ADHD is a neurologic condition. Your symptoms aren't due to laziness or low self-esteem. You can still achieve your goals and be successful. It may just require a little more effort and planning.

Find out more about ADHD in women on the NHS website. You can also contact an organization that is private and offers ADHD tests. There is a possibility of a fee but you will be assessed by a qualified professional. They can offer advice and guidance about the benefits you're entitled to, how to access treatments and dealing with workplace issues. If you're employed in a workplace, they can help you determine whether you're eligible for Enhanced Disability Living Allowance or Access to Work. This can assist in paying for things like special equipment and adaptations at the workplace.

Treatment

Girls and women with ADHD are prescribed medication to manage their symptoms. Medications used include stimulants and non-stimulants, though it is essential to discuss the possible side effects with your GP prior to beginning treatment. Regular GP visits are recommended to keep track of your child's progress, and to ensure the medication is effective.

Some of the most prevalent symptoms of ADHD in adults are inattention, difficulty completing tasks, impulsive behavior poor organizational skills and difficulty keeping track of things. The symptoms can alter over time and are often influenced by life events, like hormonal changes, pregnancy and menopausal.

Behavioral therapy is an effective treatment for a lot of people suffering from ADHD. By changing how you behave and think, you can lessen your symptoms as well as increase your self-esteem. Women and girls with ADHD can benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) it is a kind of therapy that assists in changing negative patterns of thinking and behaviour.

CBT can be conducted in one-on-one sessions, with a therapist, or in groups. Other methods that some find beneficial are following a balanced diet, trying to avoid sugary or caffeine-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.

It is important for women and girls with ADHD to receive support from their family, friends and colleagues. They can also join an online support group to connect with other women who have similar conditions and share their experiences.

Women with ADHD may also benefit from a multi-faceted treatment approach, like treatment with medication and behavioral therapy. Utilizing tools for organisation such as planners are beneficial in managing their day-to-day lives and ensuring they are aware of deadlines. Engaging in regular physical activity can boost concentration and mood and eating a balanced diet is vital to overall health and well-being.

In modern society, many women and girls with ADHD are being put under a lot of pressure and stress. These can be related to the expectations of being a loving spouse or parent, running household chores and performing well at work. This can add to the challenges of coping with ADHD and may increase the risk of mental health issues developing, such as anxiety or depression.

Support

Women and girls with ADHD are often not understood. They may be afflicted by emotional issues such as irritability, mood swings and a low self-esteem. Symptoms of the condition can also become worse during times of hormonal changes like menstrual cycles or pregnancy. Many people with ADHD also suffer from other mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression. These conditions can affect the way that their symptoms present and be more difficult to manage.

There is plenty of support for girls and women who have ADHD. This includes a range of online resources, support groups, and charities. ADHD UK's website features a section dedicated to girls and women and includes helpful information and events. There are peer support meetings as well as an online forum where people can ask questions.

If an employee has significant ADHD problems and is experiencing significant difficulties with ADHD, they should consult their GP for an assessment. The doctor can direct them to the most appropriate service, which could be a mental health service or a specialized neurodevelopmental service. However, it's important to be aware that due to the lack of awareness about clinical issues and long waiting times, some individuals are unable to be assessed. Iam Psychiatry might be because their problems are thought to be due to another issue, like a mental health problem or an addiction, instead of ADHD.

It's also important to know that ADHD could be regarded as to be a "disability" under the Equality Act 2010 if it has a significant impact on a person's employment. They are entitled 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 develop an internal culture that promotes wellbeing and supports their employees. We provide a range of wellness and occupational health interventions, such as coaching programs, eLearning modules, and mindfulness workshops. Contact us today to learn more about our support for your business.

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Pub: 09 Oct 2024 18:28 UTC
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