Five Things You Don't Know About ADHD In Women UK
ADHD in Women and Girls ADHD in girls and women is still under-diagnosed according to the charity ADHD UK. adhd symptoms in women test is a huge cost to both individuals and the economy. Females' symptoms are more difficult to recognize because they look different than those of males. This is also worsened by hormonal changes, such as the menstrual cycle or pregnancy. Symptoms Women with ADHD may have difficulty telling their doctors that they are experiencing symptoms. They might be uncomfortable asking for assistance, and they are worried that their doctor won't consider the condition seriously. Some women have difficulty finding treatment providers that understand the condition and how it affects them as a woman of adulthood. The most frequent symptoms of ADHD for adults include difficulty paying attention or remaining focused, forgetfulness, easily distracted and the tendency to be impulsive. Women are more susceptible to the inattentive form of ADHD. Inattention symptoms may include issues with planning and organisation as well as being forgetful or unable to remember appointments, not finishing tasks, being easily distracted or not remembering what was said in conversations. Women may also have trouble controlling their emotions and impulses, making them more likely to shout in anger, become overly emotional, and have issues with social interactions. They might have trouble writing or struggling with math and spelling skills. They may also have trouble adhering to a consistent exercise routine or making healthy food choices. It's also harder to spot ADHD symptoms in women than for men due to gender-based stereotypes about gender and behavior. Women who are hyperactive or impulsive ADHD symptoms might have a harder time being recognized as having the disorder, particularly in school, where they often are misdiagnosed as having anxiety or depression. Many women suffering from ADHD also experience a worsening of ADHD symptoms during menopausal periods and perimenopausal periods. This is because as women begin to enter menopausal changes, their bodies naturally produce less estrogen, which can worsen the symptoms. Women should be aware of their symptoms and discuss these with their doctor. It is also beneficial for women to talk about their problems with coworkers or teachers to find out 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 this and finding that their workplaces and schools are happy to accommodate reasonable requests. Diagnosis It's important that you see your GP if you suspect you might have ADHD. Your doctor may refer you to an expert, or determine if you have ADHD using the criteria set forth by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This includes a look at your symptoms, your history as well as any problems they may have caused. Women are more difficult to diagnose than males, as many healthcare professionals don't recognize the way ADHD manifests in females. This can cause delays in diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, the symptoms of ADHD can worsen at different times during a woman's life, depending on the hormonal changes. These include pregnancy, menstruation, perimenopause (the run-up to menopause) and the menopausal phase itself. The signs of ADHD can also affect relationships, work and school. Adults may struggle to maintain relationships or jobs and be at risk for substance abuse, depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. It can also lead to difficulties in managing finances, making important decisions and balancing many priorities. Talk to your employer if you are struggling to concentrate or focusing on work. There are solutions, such as providing you with more breaks or the option of working from home on occasion. You can also inquire about support services like Access to Work, which can provide practical and financial support. It's also important to keep in mind that ADHD is a neurological issue Your symptoms aren't caused by being unmotivated or having low self-esteem. You can still be successful and reach your goals. It may just require some more planning and effort. Find out more about ADHD in women on the NHS website. You can also contact an organization that is private and offers ADHD assessments. You may be charged for a fee, but you will be assessed by a qualified professional. They can also offer assistance and advice on how to claim benefits, seeking treatment and coping with 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 provide money to help with things such as special equipment or modifications in the workplace. Treatment Women and girls with ADHD might be prescribed medication to manage their symptoms. The medications used can be stimulants or non-stimulants. It is essential to discuss any adverse effects with your GP prior to implementing treatment. Regular GP visits are recommended to monitor the development of your child or yourself and ensure that the medication is effective. Adults suffering from ADHD often show signs of carelessness, poor organization as well as impulsive behavior. They also have difficulties staying focused or recollecting information. The symptoms can change over time and are often influenced by life events such as menopausal or pregnancy-related hormone changes. For many people with ADHD, behavioural therapy can be a very effective treatment. The way you think and behave can improve 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 carried out in a group setting or one-on-one with a Therapist. Other treatments that some people consider beneficial include eating a balanced diet, trying to stay clear of caffeine or sugar-rich foods and getting plenty of exercise. It is crucial to speak with your physician before making any changes to your diet or taking any supplements. It is crucial for girls and women suffering from ADHD to receive support from their family, colleagues and friends. They can also join a support group to meet other women who have the same condition and share experiences. Women suffering from ADHD are also able to benefit from a mix of treatment options, such as treatment with medication and behavioural therapy. Using organisation tools like planners can be helpful in managing their day-today lives and keeping track of deadlines. Being active enough can boost the mood and focus and eating a balanced and healthy diet is vital for overall health and wellbeing. Many women and girls with ADHD suffer from a high degree of stress and pressure in modern society. This can be due to the pressures of modern-day society like being a good parent or partner, managing a household and being productive at work. This can make it more difficult to cope with ADHD and increase the risk that other mental health conditions, such as anxiety or depression, will develop. Support Girls and women who suffer from ADHD feel not understood. They may experience emotional symptoms such as irritability, mood swings and a low self-esteem. The symptoms of ADHD can also get worse when there are hormonal changes, such as menstrual or pregnancy. In addition, many people with ADHD have co-existing mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety. These can impact the way in which the symptoms manifest and may make it more difficult to manage. There is a lot of support for girls and women who suffer from ADHD. This includes a variety of online resources, support groups, and charities. ADHD UK's website includes a page dedicated to girls and women, which includes useful information and events. These include peer support meetings and a forum where people can ask questions. If an employee is suffering from significant difficulties with their ADHD or other ADHD-related issues, they should speak to their GP to discuss an assessment. The GP will be able to refer them to the most appropriate service that could be a local mental health clinic or a neurodevelopmental specialist. It is important to keep in mind that some people have difficulty being admitted to an assessment because of a lack of clinical awareness or lengthy waiting periods. This might be because their challenges are thought to be caused by another issue, like a mental health problem or addiction, not ADHD. It's also worth noting that ADHD can be considered to be a “disability” under the Equality Act 2010 if it significantly impacts a person's work. They are entitled to reasonable accommodations from their employer. This could be a flexible working schedule or additional training and assistance at work. Optima Health can help businesses establish an internal culture that promotes wellbeing and encourages their employees. We offer a wide range of occupational health and wellbeing interventions, including e-learning modules mindfulness workshops and coaching programs. Contact us today to find out more about our assistance for your business.