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 diagnosed for girls and women. This results in a significant cost to both individuals and the economy.
The symptoms can be difficult to identify in females because they present differently to men. adhd in women uk can also be worsened by hormonal changes, such as the menstrual cycle or pregnancy.
Symptoms
Women who suffer from ADHD may have a difficult time telling their healthcare providers that they are suffering from the condition. They may feel embarrassed about asking for help, and may be worried that their healthcare provider will not take it seriously. Some women also have trouble finding a doctor who understands the condition and how it affects them as an adult woman.
Adults suffering from ADHD are often identified with impulsivity, forgetfulness and a difficult time staying focused. Women are more prone to the inattentive form of ADHD. Inattentive symptoms include difficulties with planning, organisation, forgetfulness or having missed appointments, not being able to complete tasks, being distracted easily and not being able to remember what you said during an interaction.
Women can also find it hard to control their emotions and impulses, making them more likely to shout in anger, become overly emotional, and have issues with social relationships. They might have poor handwriting or struggle with math and spelling skills. They may also have difficulty to maintain consistent exercise habits or make healthy food choices.
It's also harder to spot ADHD symptoms in women than it is for men due to gender-based stereotypes regarding sex and behaviour. Women who are hyperactive or have impulse-driven ADHD symptoms might have a difficult time getting diagnosed, particularly at school where they are often misdiagnosed as having depression or anxiety.
Many women who suffer from ADHD also experience worsening ADHD symptoms during menopause and perimenopause. As women enter menopause they produce less estrogen. This can cause symptoms to worsen. Therefore, it is essential for women to monitor their symptoms and discuss these with their doctor or specialist.
Women can also benefit from discussing their concerns with colleagues and teachers to determine what accommodations they could request to improve their performance at work or at school. While many people suffering from ADHD aren't comfortable telling their professor or boss about their issues, some do so with success and find their workplaces and schools are more than willing to provide reasonable accommodations.
Diagnosis
If you suspect you may have ADHD, it's important to consult your GP. Your doctor can refer you to a specialist, or determine if you have ADHD using the criteria established by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This may include examining your symptoms over time, your medical history and any problems they've caused.
Women can be more difficult to diagnose than males because many healthcare professionals don't recognize the manner in which ADHD manifests in females. This can lead to delays in obtaining diagnosed and receiving treatment. The symptoms of ADHD can get worse depending on the hormonal changes occurring in the body of a woman during different stages of her life. These include menstrual cycle, pregnancy, perimenopausal (the run-up to menopause) and the menopausal phase itself.
ADHD symptoms can also impact school, work, and relationships. Adults may struggle to maintain relationships or jobs and be at risk for depression, substance abuse, anxiety, and low self-esteem. It can also lead to problems with managing finances, making critical decisions and balancing many priorities.
If you have difficulty concentrating or focusing at work, speak to your employer. You may be able receive help by taking longer breaks or working from home at times. You can also inquire about support services such as Access to Work which can provide both practical and financial assistance.
It's also important to keep in mind that ADHD is a neurological disorder Your symptoms aren't caused by being lazy or having 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 assessments. They may charge fees however, you'll be evaluated by a certified professional. They also provide advice and assistance in claiming benefits, seeking solutions to workplace issues. If you're working in a workplace, they can help you determine whether you're eligible for the Enhanced Disability Living Allowance and Access to Work. This could help you pay for things like specialized equipment and adaptations at the workplace.
Treatment
Girls and women who suffer from ADHD may be prescribed medication to manage their symptoms. Medications used include stimulants and non-stimulants, but it is essential to discuss potential side effects with your GP prior to beginning treatment. Regular GP check-ups are also advised to track your child's progress and make sure the medication is working properly.
Adults who suffer from ADHD often show signs of carelessness, ineffective organisation as well as impulsive behavior. They also have difficulties staying focused or recalling things. The symptoms may change over time and are often affected by life events like menopausal or pregnancy-related hormonal changes.
For many people with ADHD, behavioural therapy may be a very effective treatment. Changing the behavior and thoughts you make can improve your symptoms and boost confidence in yourself. Girls and women suffering from ADHD can 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 carried out in a group setting or one-on-one with the help of a therapy. Other therapies that many find beneficial are following an wholesome diet, attempting to stay away from caffeine-rich or sugary food items, and doing plenty of exercise. It is essential to talk with your doctor before making any changes to your diet or taking supplements.
It is important for women and girls with ADHD to seek out support from their family members, colleagues and friends. They can also join support groups to meet women with similar conditions and share experiences.
Women suffering from ADHD may also benefit from a combination treatment method, such as medication and behavioral therapy. Using organisation tools such as planners are beneficial in managing their day-to-day lives and ensuring they are aware of deadlines. A balanced diet and physical exercise are essential for health and well-being.
In modern society, many women and girls with ADHD are under a lot of pressure and stress. This can be due to the expectations of being a loving parent or partner, running household duties and performing well at work. This can add to the challenges of coping with ADHD and increase the likelihood of mental health issues being developed, including depression or anxiety.
Support
Girls and women with ADHD are often misunderstood. They may exhibit emotions such as anger and mood fluctuations, as well as low self-esteem. The symptoms of the condition may also worsen when there are hormonal changes, for example menstrual or pregnancy. Additionally, many individuals suffering from ADHD have co-existing mental health problems like anxiety and depression. These can impact the way that their symptoms manifest and can make it more difficult to manage.
The good news is that there is plenty of support available for girls and women with ADHD. adhd in adult women treatment includes a variety of online resources, support groups and charities. ADHD UK's website includes a section dedicated to women and girls, which includes useful information and events. There are peer support groups and an area for people to 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 GP can recommend the employee to a service that's the most appropriate, for instance a mental health service in the community or a neurodevelopmental specialist service. However, it's important to remember that due to the lack of awareness of the clinical needs and lengthy waiting times, some individuals are unable to be referred for an assessment. This could be because their problems are thought to be caused by a different issue, such as mental health issues or an addiction, instead of ADHD.
It's also worth noting that if an individual's ADHD affects their work in a significant way, it can be considered a disability under the Equality Act 2010. They have the right to reasonable accommodations from their employer. This could mean an adjustable schedule or additional support and training at work.
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