5 Lessons You Can Learn From ADHD In Women UK
ADHD in Women and Girls
According to the charity ADHD UK, ADHD is still not recognized for girls and women. This results in a significant cost for both individuals and the economy.
Females' symptoms are more difficult to recognize because they appear differently than those of males. This can be further aggravated by hormonal changes like menstrual cycle and pregnancy or menopausal.
Signs and symptoms
Women suffering from ADHD can have a hard time telling their health care providers that they suffer from symptoms of the condition. They may feel embarrassed about asking for help, and may be worried that their doctor will not take it seriously. Some women have difficulty finding health professionals who understand their condition and how it affects their lives as an adult.
Adults with ADHD are often marked by impulsivity, apathy and a lack of focus. Women are more likely to suffer from the inattentive form of ADHD. Inattention-related symptoms include issues with organisation and planning and forgetfulness, or even missing appointments, not finishing tasks, getting distracted easily, or not remembering what was said during conversations.
Women can also have trouble controlling their emotions and impulses. They may be prone to anger outbursts and emotional meltdowns and have issues with social interactions. They might have trouble writing or struggling with math and spelling skills. They may also have difficulty adhering to a consistent exercise routine or making healthy choices for their diet.
It is also more difficult to identify ADHD symptoms in women than it is in men due to gender-based stereotypes regarding gender and behavior. Women who are hyperactive or have impulse-driven ADHD symptoms may have a difficult time getting diagnosed, especially at school where they're often mistakenly diagnosed as having depression or anxiety.
Many women with ADHD also experience a worsening of ADHD symptoms during menopausal periods and perimenopausal. As women begin to enter menopause, they produce less estrogen. This can cause symptoms to worsen. Therefore, it is essential for women to be aware of their symptoms and talk about them with their doctor or specialist.
Women can also benefit by discussing their symptoms with their colleagues and teachers to discover what accommodations they can request to improve their performance in the workplace or at school. Many people who suffer from 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 visit your GP. 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 could include a look at your symptoms, your medical history as well as any problems they may have caused.
Women are more difficult to diagnose than males, as many health professionals aren't aware of the manner in which ADHD presents in females. This can cause delays in getting an assessment and treatment. The symptoms of ADHD may worsen depending on the hormonal changes occurring in the body of a woman during different stages of her life. This includes menstruation, pregnancy (the menopausal cycle) menopausal, perimenopausal, and menopause.
The symptoms of ADHD can also affect relationships at work, school and social. Adults might have trouble maintaining relationships or jobs, and are at risk of depression, substance abuse anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. It can also create difficulties in managing finances as well as making decisions and balancing multiple priorities.
Speak to your employer if you are having trouble concentrating or focusing at work. There may be ways to help, such as offering more breaks or the option of working from home on occasion. You can also inquire about support services such as Access to Work, which can offer practical and financial support.
Also, keep in mind that ADHD is a neurological condition. Your symptoms are not due to laziness or low self-esteem. You can still succeed and reach your goals. It may just require some more effort and planning.
Find out more about ADHD in women on the NHS website. You can also contact a private organization that provides ADHD assessments. They might charge fees however, you'll be evaluated by a trained professional. They can also offer advice and guidance on claiming benefits, seeking solutions and dealing with workplace issues. They can also advise you whether you're eligible for the Enhanced Disability Living Allowance or Access to Work if employed. This can offer money to assist with things like specialised equipment or adaptations in the workplace.
Treatment
Girls and women with ADHD are able to receive medication to treat their symptoms. Medications used include stimulants and non-stimulants. However, it is crucial to discuss any potential adverse effects with your GP before starting treatment. Regular GP check-ups are also advised to track your child's progress and ensure that the medication is working well.
Adults with ADHD frequently exhibit signs of carelessness, poor organisation as well as impulsive behavior. They also have difficulty in staying focused or recalling things. The symptoms can change over time and are often affected by life events such as pregnancy, menopause, and hormone changes.
Behavioral therapy is an effective treatment for a lot of people suffering from ADHD. Changing adult female adhd symptoms think and behave can improve your symptoms and boost self-esteem. Girls and women with ADHD are able to benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which is a form of therapy that helps you change negative patterns of thinking and behaviour.
CBT can be done in a group or individually with the help of a therapy. Some people are able to benefit from eating a healthy, balanced diet and exercising regularly can be beneficial. It is crucial to speak with your physician before making any changes to your diet or taking supplements.
Girls and women who suffer from ADHD need to seek help 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 with ADHD might also benefit from a combination treatment strategy, such as treatment with medication and behavioral therapy. Utilizing tools for organisation such as planners can be beneficial in managing their day-to-day lives and keeping track of deadlines. Engaging in regular physical activity can improve the mood and focus while eating a balanced and healthy diet is essential to overall health and well-being.
Many girls and women with ADHD suffer from a high degree of stress and pressure in today's society. This can be due to the pressures of modern life including being a good parent or partner, managing a household and doing well at work. This can increase the challenges of coping with ADHD and may increase the chance of other mental health issues that are developing, like depression or anxiety.
Support
Women and girls with ADHD feel misunderstood. They may experience emotional symptoms like anger, mood swings and a feeling of not being confident in themselves. The symptoms of ADHD may also get worse during times of hormonal changes like menstrual cycles or pregnancy. Many people who suffer from ADHD also suffer from mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety. These conditions can affect the way their symptoms manifest and can be more difficult to manage.
The good news is that there is plenty of help available to girls and women with ADHD. There are many online support groups, resources, and charities. ADHD UK's website features an entire page devoted to girls and women, which includes useful information and events. There are peer support meetings and an area for people to ask questions.
If a person is suffering from significant ADHD difficulties and is experiencing significant difficulties with ADHD, they should consult their GP to get an assessment. The doctor will be able to direct them to the most appropriate service, which could be a mental health facility or a specialized neurodevelopmental service. It is important to remember that due to the lack of awareness about clinical issues and long waiting times, some individuals are unable to be referred for an assessment. It may be that their problems are due to a different issue, such as addiction or mental illness and not ADHD.
It's also important to note that if an individual's ADHD has a significant impact on their work and performance, it could be deemed as a disability under the Equality Act 2010. This means that they have a legal right to reasonable adjustments from their employer. This could include a flexible schedule or additional support and training at work.
At Optima Health, we can assist businesses in creating an environment of wellbeing and assistance for their employees. We offer a variety of occupational health and wellness interventions, including eLearning modules, coaching programmes, and mindfulness workshops. Contact adhd in women test to find out more about our assistance for your business.