Quiz: How Much Do You Know About ADHD In Women UK?

ADHD in Women and Girls

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

The symptoms of females are more difficult to recognize due to the fact that they look different from those of men. This is also caused by hormonal changes such as the menstrual cycle or pregnancy.

Symptoms

Women suffering from ADHD may have a difficult in telling their healthcare providers that they have symptoms of the condition. They may feel embarrassed about seeking help and worry that their healthcare provider will not take it seriously. Women may find it difficult to find treatment providers who understand their condition and how it impacts their lives as an adult.

The most frequently reported symptoms of ADHD for adults include difficulty paying attention or staying focused, forgetfulness, being easily distracted, and the tendency to be impulsive. Women are more prone to the inattentive form of ADHD. Inattention symptoms may include issues with organisation and planning, being forgetful or missing appointments, not finishing tasks, being easily distracted, or not remembering what was said during conversations.

Women may also have difficulty controlling their emotions and impulses. They can be prone to anger outbursts, be emotionally overly emotional and have issues with social interactions. They may have difficulty with math or spelling. They might also have difficulty to maintain a consistent routine of exercise or make healthy food choices.

Due to gender-based stereotypes of sex and behavior, it's harder for women to recognize ADHD symptoms.  Highly recommended Site  who are hyperactive or impulsive ADHD-related symptoms could have more trouble being recognised as having the disorder, especially in school, where they often are misdiagnosed as having anxiety or depression.

In addition to that, many women with ADHD have worsening symptoms in menopausal or perimenopausal periods. This is because as women begin to enter menopause their bodies naturally produce less estrogen, which can exacerbate the symptoms. It is therefore particularly important for women to be aware of their symptoms and talk about these with their doctor or specialist.

It can also be beneficial for women to discuss their issues with colleagues or teachers to discover what accommodations they may be able to ask for to enhance their performance at work or in school. While many people with ADHD aren't comfortable talking about it with their boss or professor they have ADHD, some do it with success and find their workplaces and schools are more than willing to offer reasonable accommodations.

Diagnosis

It's important that you see your GP if you suspect you may have ADHD. Your doctor may refer you to a specialist or diagnose you using the criteria set forth by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This may include examining your symptoms over time, your past medical history and any issues they may have caused.

Women are more difficult to diagnose than males because many health professionals aren't aware of the manner in which ADHD manifests in females. This can lead to delays in obtaining an assessment and treatment. Additionally, the symptoms of ADHD tend to worsen at various times throughout the woman's life, based on hormonal changes. These include menstrual cycles, pregnancy, perimenopausal (the menopausal transition), and the menopause itself.

ADHD symptoms can also affect school, work, and relationships. As adults, this could result in having difficulty keeping a job or being in a relationship, and being at risk of substance misuse depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. It can also cause problems with managing finances, making crucial decisions and balancing multiple priorities.

If you are having trouble concentrating or paying attention at work, speak to your employer. There may be ways to help, such as offering more breaks or permitting you to work from home on occasion. You can also ask about support services such as Access to Work, which can offer practical and financial support.

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 meet your goals. It may just take a bit more planning and effort.

If you're a woman with ADHD, you will find more information on the NHS website. You can also contact an organization that is private and offers ADHD assessments. They might charge fees however, you'll be evaluated by a certified professional. They can provide assistance and advice on claiming benefits, finding treatments and dealing with workplace issues. They can also advise you if you are eligible for the Enhanced Disabled Living Allowance or Access to Work if you're employed. This can assist in paying for things like specialised equipment and adaptations at the workplace.

Treatment

Women and girls with ADHD are often prescribed medication to help manage their symptoms. Medications used include stimulants and non-stimulants, but it is crucial to discuss the potential side effects with your GP prior to beginning treatment. Regular GP check-ups are also advised to track your child's progress, and to ensure the medication is working properly.

Adults with ADHD frequently exhibit signs of carelessness, poor organization, impulsive behavior, and difficulties staying focused or recalling things. Symptoms can change with time and are usually influenced by life events, such as hormonal changes, pregnancy and menopausal.

For many people with ADHD, behavioural therapy can be a successful treatment. By changing the way you act and think, you can lessen your symptoms as well as increase your self-esteem. Girls and women with ADHD are able to benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) it is a kind of therapy that assists in changing negative patterns of behavior and thinking.

CBT can be carried out in a group or individually with the help of a therapist. Other therapies that many find helpful are eating a healthy diet, trying to stay clear of caffeine or sugar-rich foods, and putting in plenty of exercise. It is crucial to speak with your physician prior to making any changes to your diet or taking any 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 who suffer from the same problem and share experiences.

Women suffering from ADHD are also able to benefit from a mixture of treatment methods like treatment with medication and behavioural therapy. Organising their schedules and keeping track of deadlines with the help of planners is an effective way to manage your day-to-day life. Getting enough physical activity can boost mood and focus, while eating a balanced diet is vital for overall health and well-being.

In the modern world, many women and girls with ADHD are in a constant state of stress and pressure. These are often due to the pressures of modern-day society including being a good parent or partner as well as managing a household and doing well at work. This can add to the challenges of coping with ADHD and may increase the likelihood of other mental health issues being developed, including anxiety or depression.

Support

Girls and women with ADHD feel misunderstood. They may be afflicted by emotional issues like anger, 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 mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. These conditions can affect the way the symptoms manifest and may be more difficult to manage.

The good news is that there's plenty of support available for girls and women suffering from ADHD. There are a variety of online support groups, resources, and charitable organizations. ADHD UK's website includes a section dedicated to girls and women with useful information and events. There are peer support groups and an online forum where people can ask questions.

If an employee is experiencing significant difficulties with their ADHD, they can contact their GP to discuss an assessment. The GP may refer the patient to a service that's most appropriate, such as a mental health service in the community or a neurodevelopmental specialist. However, it is important to remember that due to the absence of awareness about clinical issues and long waiting times, some individuals have difficulty getting referred for an assessment. This could be because their problems are thought to be due to another issue, like a mental health problem or an addiction, rather than ADHD.

It's also worth noting that ADHD can be considered a "disability" under the Equality Act 2010 if it has a significant impact on a person's employment. This means they have a legal right to reasonable adjustments from their employer. This could include a flexible working schedule, additional training or assistance at work.

At Optima Health, we can help businesses to create an internal culture of wellness and support for their employees. We provide a range of occupational health and wellness interventions, including coaching programs, eLearning modules and mindfulness classes. Contact us today to find out more about our services for your business.