The Most Inspirational Sources Of ADHD In Women UK
ADHD in Women and Girls According to the charity ADHD UK, ADHD is still not diagnosed in women and girls. This is a huge cost to both individuals and the economy. These symptoms are more difficult to identify in females since they manifest differently than men. It can also be caused by hormonal changes such as the menstrual cycle, pregnancy or menopause. Signs and symptoms Women suffering from ADHD may have difficulty telling their doctors that they are experiencing symptoms. They may be uncomfortable asking for assistance, and they are worried that their doctor won't take the issue seriously. Some women have difficulty finding healthcare providers who are aware of their condition and how it impacts them as an adult. Adults with ADHD are often characterized by impulsivity, forgetfulness and a lack of focus. Women are more likely to be affected by the inattentive form of ADHD than men. Inattentive symptoms can include problems with planning and organisation, being forgetful or missing appointments, not completing tasks, being easily distracted, or not remembering what was said during conversations. Women may also struggle to control their emotions and impulses, making them prone to lash out in anger, become wildly emotional, and struggle with social interactions. They may have poor handwriting or struggle with spelling and math. They may also have difficulty keeping up with their exercise routines or making healthy food choices. Because of gender-based stereotypes about gender and behavior, it's difficult for women to recognize ADHD symptoms. Women who are hyperactive or impulsive ADHD-related symptoms could have more trouble being recognised as having the disorder, especially in schools, where they frequently are misdiagnosed as having depression or anxiety. Many women who suffer from ADHD are also experiencing worsening ADHD symptoms during menopausal periods and perimenopausal. As women begin to enter menopausal stage and produce less estrogen. This can worsen symptoms. It is therefore particularly important for women to be aware of their symptoms and discuss them with their doctor or a specialist. It can also be beneficial for women to talk about their problems with coworkers or teachers to learn what accommodations they might be able to request to enhance their performance at work or in school. Many people suffering from ADHD don't feel comfortable telling their professor or boss however, some have found success in doing so and finding that their workplaces and school are more than willing to provide reasonable accommodations. Diagnosis If you think you have ADHD is a must to see your GP. 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 includes looking at your symptoms over time, your medical history and any issues they may have caused. Many healthcare professionals fail to recognise how ADHD manifests in women. This can result in delays in receiving diagnosed and receiving treatment. In addition, the symptoms of ADHD can become worse at different times in a woman's life, depending on the hormonal changes. This includes menstruation, pregnancy (the menopausal cycle) as well as perimenopausal and menopausal. The signs of ADHD can also affect relationships as well as school and work. Adults might have trouble maintaining a job or relationship and be at risk for depression, substance abuse anxiety, depression and low self-esteem. It can also lead to difficulties with managing finances, making decisions and having to manage multiple priorities. If you're having difficulty focusing or paying attention at work, speak to your employer. You may be able receive help by taking longer breaks or working from home on occasion. You can also inquire about support services such as Access to Work which can provide both practical and financial assistance. It's also worth remembering that ADHD is a neurological issue and your symptoms aren't due to being lazy or having low self-esteem. You can still succeed and meet your goals. It might just take some more effort and planning. You can find out more about ADHD in women on the NHS website. You can also contact private organizations that provide ADHD assessments. You may be charged a fee but you will be evaluated by a qualified professional. They also provide advice and assistance in claiming benefits, finding solutions to workplace issues. They can also help you determine whether you're eligible to receive the Enhanced Disabled Living Allowance or Access to Work if you are employed. This could provide funds to help with things like specific equipment or adaptations for the workplace. Treatment Women and girls with ADHD are able to receive medications to treat their symptoms. Medications used include stimulants and non-stimulants, though it is important to discuss any potential side effects with your GP prior to starting treatment. Regular visits to the GP are recommended to monitor the development of your child or yourself and ensure that the medication is effective. Adults who suffer from ADHD often show signs of carelessness, ineffective organisation, impulsive behavior, and difficulty in staying focused or recollecting information. The symptoms can change with time and are usually caused by life events such as hormonal changes, pregnancy, and menopausal. For many people suffering from ADHD, behavioural therapy may be an effective treatment. By changing the way you behave and think, you can lessen your symptoms and boost your self-esteem. Women and girls with ADHD can benefit from cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) which is a form of therapy that assists in changing negative patterns of behavior and thinking. CBT can be done in a group setting or one-on-one with the help of a Therapist. Some people discover that eating a balanced eating plan, exercising regularly are beneficial. It is essential to talk with your doctor before making any changes in your diet or taking any supplements. It is crucial for girls and women suffering from ADHD to get support from their family, colleagues and friends. They can join support groups to meet women who suffer from the same condition and exchange experiences. Women with ADHD can also benefit from a combination of treatment options including therapy and medication. The process of organizing their schedules and keeping track of deadlines using planners is a great way to manage your day-to-day life. A balanced diet and regular physical activity are important for well-being and health. In the modern world, many women and girls with ADHD are in a constant state of stress and pressure. These can be related to the expectations of being a responsible parent or partner, running a household and doing well at work. This can add to the difficulties of dealing with ADHD and increase the chance of other mental health conditions being developed, including anxiety or depression. inattentive add in women and women with ADHD feel unappreciated. They may exhibit emotions such as anger and mood swings, and a lack in self-esteem. The symptoms of ADHD may also worsen when there are hormonal changes, like during pregnancy or menstruation. In addition, many people suffering from ADHD have co-existing mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. These conditions can affect the way that the symptoms manifest and may make it more difficult to manage. There is plenty of support for girls and women who have ADHD. There are numerous online support groups, resources, and charitable organizations. ADHD UK's website has a page dedicated to women and girls, which includes useful information and events. There are peer support meetings as well as a forum for people to ask questions. If an employee is experiencing significant ADHD difficulties, they should contact their GP to get an assessment. The GP will be able to direct them to the most appropriate service which could be a local mental health clinic or a specialized neurodevelopmental service. It is important to note that some people have difficulty being admitted to an assessment due to a lack of clinical awareness or lengthy waiting times. This could be due to the fact that their issues are believed to be caused by another issue, like mental health issues or addiction, rather than ADHD. It's also important to note that if an individual's ADHD affects their work in a significant way, it can be considered a disability under the Equality Act 2010. This means that they have a legal right to reasonable adjustments from their employer. This could include the possibility of a flexible work schedule, additional training or assistance at work. At Optima Health, we can help businesses to create an environment of wellbeing and assistance for their employees. We provide a range of occupational health and wellness interventions, including eLearning modules, coaching programmes and mindfulness training workshops. Contact us today to learn more about our assistance for your business.