15 Things You've Never Known About 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 is a huge cost to the individual and the economy.
Symptoms can be more difficult to recognise in females since they manifest differently than males. This is exacerbated by hormonal changes like menstrual cycles or pregnancy, as well as menopausal.
Signs and symptoms
Women suffering from ADHD may have difficulty telling their doctors that they are experiencing symptoms. They might be uncomfortable asking for help, and they fear that their doctor won't consider the condition seriously. Women who suffer from breast cancer may have trouble finding health professionals who understand their condition and how it impacts them as they grow older.
The most frequent symptoms of ADHD in adults are difficulties paying attention or remaining focused, forgetfulness, being easily distracted, and an impulsive nature. Women are more likely to have the inattentive form of ADHD than men. Inattentive symptoms include difficulties in planning, organisation, forgetfulness or having missed appointments, not being able to complete tasks, becoming easily distracted and not being able to remember what you said during the course of a conversation.
Women may also have difficulty controlling their emotions and impulses. They are more prone to anger-related outbursts, be emotionally overly emotional and have problems with social interactions. They may have poor handwriting or struggle with spelling and math. They might be unable to maintain consistent exercise habits or make healthy choices for their diet.
It's also more difficult to recognize ADHD symptoms in women than in men due to gender-based stereotypes regarding gender and behavior. Women with hyperactive or impulsive ADHD symptoms might have a harder time being recognized as having the disorder, especially in school, where they can get misdiagnosed for anxiety or depression.
Many women with ADHD also experience worsening ADHD symptoms during menopause and perimenopausal. As women transition into menopausal, they produce less estrogen. This can worsen symptoms. It is therefore particularly important for women to be aware of their symptoms and discuss the symptoms 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 may be able to request to improve their performance at work or at school. While many people with ADHD aren't comfortable telling their professor or boss however, some do it with success and find that their workplaces and schools are more than willing to offer reasonable accommodations.
Diagnosis
If you think you have ADHD it is important to visit your GP. Your doctor can refer to an expert, or diagnose you based on the criteria set forth by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This includes looking at your symptoms over time, your history and any problems they've caused.
Women are more difficult to diagnose than men because many healthcare professionals don't recognize the manner in which ADHD presents in females. This can cause delays in diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, the symptoms of ADHD can become worse at different times in women's lives, based on the hormonal changes. These include pregnancy, menstruation (the period before menopausal), perimenopause, and menopause.
ADHD symptoms can also impact work, school, and relationships. Adults might have trouble maintaining relationships or jobs, and may be at risk of substance abuse, depression anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. It can also lead to problems with managing finances, making critical decisions, and balancing a variety of priorities.
Talk to your employer if having trouble concentrating or paying close attention at work. You may be able receive help by taking longer breaks or working from home on occasion. You may also inquire about support services like Access to Work which can offer both financial and practical assistance.
You should also keep in mind that ADHD is a neurologic condition. Your symptoms aren't the result of lack of motivation or self-esteem. You are still able to succeed and meet your goals. It's just going to take some more effort and planning.
If you're a woman who suffers from ADHD, you will find more information on the NHS website. You can also reach out to a private organisation that offers ADHD tests. There is a possibility of for a fee, but you will be evaluated by a trained professional. They can also offer assistance and advice on how to claim benefits, locating treatment and coping with workplace issues. They can also advise you whether you're eligible to receive the Enhanced Disability Living Allowance or Access to Work if you're employed. This could help you pay for things like special equipment and adaptations in the workplace.
Treatment
Women and girls with ADHD are prescribed medication to treat their symptoms. The drugs used include stimulants as well as non-stimulants, but it is important to discuss potential side effects with your GP prior to beginning treatment. Regular GP visits are recommended to monitor the development of your child or yourself and make sure that the medication is effective.
Adults with ADHD frequently exhibit signs of carelessness, poor organisation, impulsive behavior, and difficulties staying focused or recollecting information. The symptoms may change over time and are often influenced by life events like menopausal, pregnancy, and hormonal changes.
Behavioral therapy is a successful treatment for a lot of people suffering from ADHD. The way you think and behave can help reduce your symptoms and boost your self-esteem. Girls and women suffering from ADHD can benefit from cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) which is a form of therapy that assists in changing negative patterns of thinking and behaviour.
CBT can be conducted in one-on-one sessions, with a therapist, or in a group. Other therapies that many consider beneficial include eating a healthy diet, trying to stay away from caffeine-rich or sugary food items, and doing plenty of exercise. It is essential to talk with your physician prior to making any changes to your diet or taking any supplements.
It is essential for women and girls with ADHD to get support from their family members, friends and colleagues. They can also join an online support group to connect with other women with similar conditions and share experiences.
Women with ADHD can also benefit from a mix of treatment methods like therapy and medication. Organising their life and tracking deadlines with the help of planners is a great method to manage your day-to-day routine. Being active enough can boost the mood and focus, while eating a balanced diet is vital to overall health and well-being.
Many girls and women with ADHD have a lot of stress and pressure in modern society. These can be attributed to the pressures of modern society including being a good partner or parent, managing a household and performing well at work. This can increase the challenges of coping with ADHD and may increase the likelihood of other mental health issues that are developing, like anxiety or depression.
Support
Women and girls with ADHD feel unappreciated. They may experience emotional symptoms like irritability, mood swings, and a feeling of not being confident in themselves. Symptoms of the condition may also get worse during times of hormonal change like menstrual cycles or pregnancy. Additionally, many individuals with ADHD have co-existing mental health issues like depression and anxiety. These can impact the way that their symptoms present and be more difficult to manage.
The good news is that there's plenty of support available to women and girls with ADHD. There are numerous online resources, support groups, and charitable organizations. ADHD UK's website includes an entire page devoted to girls and women and includes helpful information and events. These include peer support meetings and a forum where people can ask questions.
If a person is suffering from significant ADHD issues and is experiencing significant difficulties with ADHD, they should consult their GP for an assessment. The doctor can refer the patient to a treatment that is the most appropriate, for instance a community mental service or a neurodevelopment specialist service. It is important to keep in mind that some individuals find it difficult to be referred to an assessment due to a lack clinical awareness or long waiting times. It could be that their difficulties may be due to another issue, like a addiction or mental illness, and not ADHD.
It's also important to know that ADHD could be regarded as to be a "disability" under the Equality Act 2010 if it significantly impacts a person's work. adhd in adults women are entitled to reasonable accommodations from their employer. adhd in adults women could include the possibility of a flexible work schedule, or additional training and support at work.
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