Why Do So Many People Want To Know About 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 at a huge cost to individuals and the economy. The symptoms can be difficult to recognize in females because they present differently to men. This can be further aggravated by hormonal changes, such as menstrual cycles, pregnancy or menopause. Signs and symptoms Women suffering from ADHD can have a hard in telling their medical professionals that they are suffering from the condition. They may feel shy to seek help, and are afraid that their doctor won't consider the issue seriously. Women who suffer from breast cancer may have trouble finding treatment providers who understand their condition and how it impacts them as an adult. Adults suffering from ADHD are typically identified with impulsivity, forgetfulness and a lack of focus. Women are more susceptible to the inattentive form of ADHD. Inattentive symptoms include difficulties in planning, organisation forgetfulness, being late for appointments, not finishing tasks, getting distracted easily and forgetting what you said in a conversation. Women may also have trouble controlling their emotions and impulses, making them prone to lash out in anger, become excessively emotional, and struggle with social interactions. They may struggle 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 regarding sexuality and behavior, it's harder for women to recognize ADHD symptoms. Women who exhibit hyperactivity or impulse-driven ADHD symptoms may have a difficult time getting diagnosed, particularly at school where they're often mistakenly diagnosed as suffering from depression or anxiety. Many women with ADHD also experience worsening ADHD symptoms during menopausal periods and perimenopausal. This is because as women begin to enter menopausal symptoms, their bodies naturally produce less estrogen, which can cause an increase in the symptoms. Women should be aware of their symptoms and discuss them with their doctor. It is also beneficial for women to discuss their symptoms with co-workers or teachers to learn what accommodations they might be able to ask for to improve their performance at work or in school. Many people who suffer from ADHD don't feel comfortable telling their boss or professor however, some have found success in doing so and discovering that their workplaces and school are more than willing to provide reasonable accommodations. Diagnosis If you suspect you may have ADHD is a must to see your GP. Your doctor can refer you to a specialist, 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. Many healthcare professionals don't recognize the ways in which ADHD manifests in women. This can result in delays in the diagnosis and treatment. The symptoms of ADHD may worsen depending on the hormonal changes in the body of a woman during different stages of her life. These include during pregnancy, menstruation, perimenopause (the run-up to menopause) and the menopausal phase itself. ADHD symptoms can also impact school, work, and relationships. Adults might have trouble maintaining relationships or jobs and are at risk of depression, substance abuse anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. It can also lead to difficulties in managing finances making decisions, and balancing multiple priorities. If you have difficulty concentrating or focusing at work, speak with your employer. There are ways to help, such as offering more breaks or allowing you to work at home occasionally. You can also inquire about support services such as Access to Work, which can provide practical and financial support. Also, keep in mind that ADHD is a neurologic disorder. Your symptoms aren't due to laziness or low self-esteem. You are still able to succeed and meet your goals. It's just going to take some extra effort and planning. If you're a woman with ADHD You can find more information on the NHS website. You can also contact private organizations which offer ADHD assessments. You could be charged for a fee, but you will be evaluated by a trained professional. They can provide assistance and advice on the benefits you're entitled to, how to access solutions to workplace issues. If you're working and have a disability, they can tell you whether you're eligible for the Enhanced Disability Living Allowance as well as Access to Work. This can help pay for things like special equipment and adaptations in the workplace. Treatment Girls and women who suffer from ADHD are able to receive medication to treat their symptoms. Medications used include stimulants and non-stimulants, though it is important to discuss potential adverse effects with your GP prior to starting treatment. Regular check-ups with your GP are advised to track your child's progress and ensure that the medication is working properly. Adults who suffer from ADHD frequently exhibit signs of carelessness, poor organization, impulsive behavior, and difficulty in staying focused or recollecting information. The symptoms can alter over time and are often affected by life events, like hormonal changes, pregnancy and menopausal. For many people suffering from ADHD, behavioural therapy may be a very effective treatment. Changing adhd in older women think and behave can reduce the symptoms and boost your self-esteem. Women and girls who have ADHD can benefit from cognitive therapy for behavioural problems (CBT) which is a form of talking therapy that helps to change the negative patterns of thought and behaviour. CBT can be carried out in one-on-one sessions with a therapist or in groups. Some people find that eating a healthy, balanced diet and exercising regularly are beneficial. It is crucial to seek medical advice before making any changes to your diet or taking supplements. Girls and women who suffer from ADHD should seek out support from family, friends, and colleagues. They can join support groups to meet women with the same condition and exchange experiences. Women suffering from ADHD are also able to benefit from a combination of treatment options like medication and behavioural therapy. Utilizing tools for organisation like planners can be beneficial in managing their day-to-day lives and ensuring they are aware of deadlines. Being active enough can boost concentration and mood and eating a balanced diet is essential for overall health and well-being. In our modern world, many women and girls with ADHD are being put under a lot of stress and pressure. These are often related to the pressures of being a responsible parent or partner, managing household duties and performing well at work. This can add to the challenges of coping with ADHD and may increase the risk of other mental health conditions that are developing, like depression or anxiety. Support Girls and women with ADHD are often not understood. They may exhibit emotional symptoms like irritability and mood swings, as well as a lack in self-esteem. The symptoms of the disorder may also get worse during times of hormonal change, such as during menstruation or pregnancy. Additionally, many people with ADHD have co-existing mental health issues like anxiety and depression. These conditions can impact the way their symptoms appear and make it harder to manage. There is plenty of help for women and girls who suffer from ADHD. There are a variety of online resources, support groups, and charitable organizations. The website ADHD UK has a specific page for girls and women that provides helpful information, events, and support groups. These include peer support meetings and a forum where users can ask questions. If an employee is experiencing significant difficulties with their ADHD, they can contact their GP to discuss an assessment. The doctor will be able to send them to the appropriate service that could be a community mental health facility or a specialist neurodevelopmental service. It's important to remember that some people have difficulty being admitted to an assessment due to a lack clinical awareness or lengthy waiting periods. This might be because their problems are thought to be due to another issue, like mental health issues or addiction, instead of ADHD. Also, it's worth noting that ADHD could be regarded as an “disability” under the Equality Act 2010 if it affects a person's job. They are entitled to reasonable accommodations from their employer. This could be a flexible schedule or additional support and training at work. Optima Health can help businesses create an internal culture that promotes wellbeing and supports their employees. We offer a variety of occupational health and wellness interventions, such as eLearning modules, coaching programmes, and mindfulness workshops. If you'd like to know more about how we can assist your company, contact us now.