The Hidden Secrets Of ADHD In Women UK
ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD in girls and women is still not properly diagnosed, according to charity, ADHD UK. This is a huge cost to both individuals and the economy.
These symptoms are more difficult to identify for females due to the fact that they appear differently to men. This can be exacerbated also by hormonal changes like menstrual cycle, pregnancy or menopause.
Signs and symptoms
Women with ADHD may have a difficult in telling their medical professionals that they have symptoms of the condition. They may feel embarrassed about seeking help and worry that their health care provider will not be able to take them seriously. Some women also have trouble finding treatment providers who understand the condition and how it affects women as they age.
The most common symptoms of ADHD in adults are difficulties paying attention or remaining focused, forgetfulness, easily distracted and impulsivity. Women are more likely to suffer from the inattention type of ADHD. Inattention symptoms include issues with planning, organisation forgetfulness, being late for appointments, not finishing tasks, being distracted easily and not being able to remember what you said during an interaction.
Women can also have trouble controlling their emotions and impulses. They can be more prone to anger-related outbursts, become overly emotional and have issues with social interactions. They may have poor handwriting or struggle with math and spelling skills. They may also have trouble 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 because of gender-based stereotypes about sex and behaviour. Women with hyperactive or impulsive ADHD symptoms might have more trouble being recognised as having the disorder, particularly at schools, where they frequently get misdiagnosed for depression or anxiety.
Many women suffering from ADHD are also experiencing worsening ADHD symptoms during menopausal and perimenopausal periods. As women begin to enter menopausal stage and produce less estrogen. This can worsen symptoms. This is why it is crucial for women to monitor their symptoms and discuss the symptoms with their doctor or a specialist.
It can also be helpful for women to discuss their issues with colleagues or teachers to learn what accommodations they might be able to request to improve their performance at work or in school. Many people with ADHD don't feel comfortable telling their boss or professor however some have had success in doing so and finding that their workplaces and schools are happy to accommodate reasonable requests.
Diagnosis
It is essential to see your GP in the event that you suspect you might have ADHD. Your doctor can refer you to an expert, or diagnose you using the criteria established by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). add in women test may include a review of the symptoms you are experiencing, your history as well as any problems they might have caused.
Women can be more difficult to diagnose than men because many health professionals aren't aware of the way ADHD presents in females. This can cause delays in obtaining diagnosed and receiving treatment. In addition, the signs of ADHD can worsen at various times throughout the woman's life, based on the hormonal changes. This includes menstruation, pregnancy (the period before menopausal) as well as perimenopausal and menopause.
The signs of ADHD can also affect relationships, work and school. As adults, this could result in having difficulty maintaining a job or in a relationship, and being at risk of misuse depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. It can also create difficulties with managing finances as well as making decisions and having to manage multiple 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 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. The symptoms you experience are not due to insecurity or lack of self-esteem. You can still succeed and reach your goals. It may just require a little more planning and effort.
You can learn more about ADHD in women on the NHS website. You can also contact private organizations that provide ADHD assessments. You may be charged for a fee, however you will be analyzed by a qualified professional. They can provide advice and guidance about claiming benefits, finding solutions to workplace issues. They can also advise you if you are eligible for the Enhanced Disabled Living Allowance or Access to Work if you are employed. This can offer money to assist with things like specialised equipment or adaptations in the workplace.
Treatment
Girls and women with ADHD may be prescribed medication to manage their symptoms. The medications used can be stimulants or non-stimulants. It is important to discuss any adverse effects with your GP prior to starting treatment. Regular GP check-ups are also advised to track your child's progress and make sure the medication is working well.
Some of the most common symptoms of ADHD in adults are carelessness, difficulty finishing tasks, impulsive behaviors, poor organisational skills and difficulties keeping track of things. Symptoms can change as time passes and are frequently influenced by life events, like hormonal changes, pregnancy, and menopausal.
For many people suffering from ADHD, behavioural therapy can be a successful treatment. Changing the way you think and behave can help reduce 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 behavior.
CBT can be done in a group setting or one-on-one with an therapist. Some people are able to benefit from eating a healthy eating plan, exercising regularly are beneficial. It is important to consult your doctor before making any changes to your diet or taking supplements.
Girls and women with ADHD need to seek help from family, friends, and colleagues. They can also join an online support group to connect with other women with similar conditions and share experiences.
Women suffering from ADHD may also benefit from a combination of treatment options, such as medication and behavioural therapy. Organising their life and tracking deadlines with the help of 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.
Many women and girls with ADHD experience a high level of stress and pressure in our modern society. This can be due to the pressures of modern society like being a good partner or parent, managing a household and performing well at work. This can make it more difficult to deal with ADHD and increase the chance that other mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety, will develop.
Support
Girls and women with ADHD often feel misunderstood by people around them. They may be afflicted by emotional issues like irritability as well as mood swings and lack of self-esteem. The symptoms of the condition can also get worse when there are hormonal changes, for example during menstrual cycles or pregnancy. Additionally, many individuals with ADHD have co-existing mental health issues like anxiety and depression. These conditions can impact the way symptoms are perceived and make it harder to manage.
The good news is that there's plenty of support available for girls and women with ADHD. This includes a range of online resources, support groups, and charities. The website ADHD UK has a specific page for girls and women with useful information, events and support groups. These include peer support meetings and a forum where people can ask questions.
If an employee is experiencing significant difficulties with their ADHD or other ADHD-related issues, they should speak to their GP to discuss an assessment. The doctor will be able to send them to the appropriate service which could be a mental health clinic or a specialized neurodevelopmental service. It is important to note that some individuals are unable to be assessed due to a lack of clinical awareness or long waiting times. It could be that their difficulties are attributed to another issue, such as a mental illness or addiction, and not ADHD.
It's also important to note that if someone's ADHD significantly impacts their work or work, it may be considered as a disability under the Equality Act 2010. They have a right to reasonable accommodations from their employer. This could be an able-bodied working schedule, or additional training and assistance at work.
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