10 Places That You Can Find ADHD In Women UK
ADHD in Women and Girls
According to the charity ADHD UK, ADHD is still not recognized in girls and women. This is a huge cost to both individuals and the economy.
The symptoms of females are more difficult to identify because they look different than those of men. This can also be exacerbated by hormonal changes like menstrual cycles and pregnancy, as well as menopausal.
Signs and symptoms
Women who suffer from ADHD might have a difficult in telling their medical professionals that they suffer from symptoms of the condition. They may be embarrassed by seeking help and worry that their doctor will not be able to take them seriously. Women may find it difficult to find healthcare providers who are aware of their condition and how it affects their lives as an adult.
Adults suffering from ADHD are often identified with impulsivity, forgetfulness and a difficult time staying focused. Women are more susceptible to the inattention-deficit form of ADHD. Inattentive symptoms can include problems with planning and organisation as well as being forgetful or unable to remember appointments, not completing tasks, being easily distracted, or not remembering the words spoken during conversations.
Women may also struggle to control their emotions and impulses, making them prone to lash out in anger, become excessively emotional, and have trouble with social relationships. They may have difficulty with math or spelling. They may also have difficulty keeping up with their exercise routines or making healthy food choices.
Because of gender-based stereotypes about gender 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, especially at school, where they are often mistakenly diagnosed as having depression or anxiety.
Additionally that, many women suffering from ADHD have worsening symptoms in menopausal or perimenopausal periods. This is because when women enter menopausal symptoms, their bodies naturally produce less estrogen, which can exacerbate the symptoms. Women should be aware of their symptoms and discuss these with their doctor.
It can also be beneficial for women to talk about their problems with coworkers or teachers to find out what accommodations they may be able to ask for to improve their performance at work or in school. While many people suffering from ADHD aren't comfortable speaking to their professor or boss, some do so with success and find their schools and workplaces are more than willing to provide reasonable accommodations.
Diagnosis
If you think you might have ADHD, it's important to see your GP. Your doctor can refer you to a specialist or give you an diagnosis based on guidelines set by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This includes a look at the symptoms you are experiencing, your history, and any problems that they may have caused.
Many healthcare professionals don't recognise how ADHD manifests in women. This can cause delays in diagnosis and treatment. The symptoms of ADHD may get worse based on the hormonal changes occurring in the body of a woman during different stages of her life. This includes during pregnancy, menstruation, perimenopause (the menopausal transition), and the menopause itself.
The symptoms of ADHD can also affect relationships as well as school and work. In adulthood, this may be a problem maintaining a job or in a relationship, as well as being at risk of abuse as well as anxiety, depression and low self-esteem. It can also lead to difficulties with managing finances making decisions, and balancing multiple priorities.
Speak to your employer if having difficulty focusing or paying close attention at work. There are ways to help, such as offering more breaks or permitting you to work from home on occasion. You can also ask about support services such as Access to Work, which can provide practical and financial support.
It is important to keep in mind that ADHD is a neurological condition. Your symptoms aren't caused by lack of motivation or self-esteem. You are still able to succeed and meet your goals. It might just take some more effort and planning.
If you're a woman with ADHD You can find more information on the NHS website. You can also contact private organisations that provide ADHD assessments. You could be charged 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. If you're employed and have a disability, they can tell you whether you're eligible for the Enhanced Disability Living Allowance or Access to Work. This could provide funds to assist with things like special equipment or modifications in the workplace.
Treatment
Girls and women who suffer from ADHD can be prescribed medication to manage their symptoms. The medications used can be stimulants or non-stimulants. It is essential to discuss any potential side effects with your GP prior to beginning treatment. Regular GP visits are recommended to monitor your or your child's progress, and to ensure the medication is working properly.
Adults suffering from ADHD often show signs of carelessness, ineffective organisation, impulsive behavior, and difficulty in staying focused or recollecting information. Symptoms can change over time and are often affected by life events, such as hormone changes, pregnancy and menopausal.
For many people suffering from ADHD, behavioural therapy can be an effective treatment. Changing the behavior and thoughts you make can help reduce your symptoms and boost confidence in yourself. Girls and women with ADHD can benefit from cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), which is a form of therapy through which you to alter negative patterns of thinking and behavior.
CBT can be conducted in a group or one-on-one with an therapist. Some people find that eating a healthy well-balanced diet and exercising regularly can be beneficial. It is crucial to speak with your physician prior to making any changes in your diet or taking supplements.
It is crucial for women and girls with ADHD to receive support from their family members, friends and colleagues. They can join support groups in order to meet women who have the same condition and exchange experiences.
iampsychiatry.uk with ADHD may also benefit from a mix treatment method, such as treatment with medication and behavioral therapy. Organising their daily life and tracking deadlines with the help of planners is an effective way to manage your day-to-day life. Engaging in regular physical activity can boost the mood and focus, while eating a balanced and healthy diet is vital for overall health and wellbeing.
Many women and girls with ADHD experience a high level of stress and pressure in our modern society. These are often related to the pressures of being a caring spouse or parent, running a household and doing well at work. This can increase the challenges of coping with ADHD and may increase the likelihood of other mental health issues developing, such as anxiety or depression.
Support
Girls and women who suffer from ADHD feel misunderstood. They may exhibit emotional symptoms like irritability and mood swings, as well as a lack in self-esteem. The symptoms of ADHD can also get worse when there are hormonal changes, such as menstrual or pregnancy. Additionally, many individuals suffering from ADHD suffer from co-existing mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety. These conditions can impact the way that symptoms manifest and make it harder to manage.
The good news is that there is plenty of support available to girls and women suffering from ADHD. There are numerous online support groups, resources, and charitable organizations. ADHD UK's website features a section dedicated to girls and women with useful information and events. There are peer support groups and an online forum where people can ask questions.
If a person is suffering from significant ADHD issues it is recommended that they contact their GP to have an assessment. The GP may recommend the employee to a service that's most appropriate, such as a mental health service in the community or a neurodevelopmental specialist. It is important to remember that due to the lack of awareness of the clinical needs and lengthy waiting times, some individuals have difficulty getting admitted for an assessment. This could be because their issues are believed to be caused by another issue, such as a mental health problem or an addiction, rather than ADHD.
It's also important to know that ADHD can be considered to be a "disability" under the Equality Act 2010 if it affects a person's job. They have a right to reasonable accommodations from their employer. This could include an able-bodied working schedule or additional training and support at work.
At Optima Health, we can assist businesses in creating an internal culture of wellness and assistance for their employees. We provide a variety of occupational health and wellbeing interventions, including e-learning modules coaching programmes and mindfulness workshops. Contact us today to find out more about our assistance for your business.