Abstract:
Background: The diagnostics and treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in women remain insufficient. Fluctuations of reproductive hormones during the premenstrual period, postpartum period, and (peri)menopause are neglected, even though they impact ADHD symptoms and associated mood disorders. Therefore, we created a female-specific treatment group for women with ADHD and premenstrual worsening of ADHD and/or mood symptoms. Methods: We describe the group programme and underlying rationale, offering a qualitative analysis of the participants\' evaluation. Results: The seven bi-weekly sessions foreground the menstrual cycle and address several ADHD-specific topics in relation to this cyclical pattern. Concurrently, women track their menstrual cycle and (fluctuating) ADHD and mood symptoms with an adjusted premenstrual calendar. In total, 18 women (25-47 years) participated in three consecutive groups. We analysed the evaluation of the last group. Participants experienced the group as a safe and welcoming space. Recognition was valued by all. The topics discussed were deemed valuable, and the structure suited them well. Completing the premenstrual calendar augmented the awareness and recognition of individual cyclical symptoms. A lifespan approach increased self-understanding. Participants took their menstrual cycle more seriously, prioritising self-acceptance and self-care. Conclusions: Exploring a cyclical approach in a group setting seems to be a positive addition to treatment for female ADHD.
摘要:
背景:女性注意力缺陷/多动障碍(ADHD)的诊断和治疗仍然不足。经前期生殖激素的波动,产后期间,(围)更年期被忽视,即使它们影响ADHD症状和相关的情绪障碍。因此,我们为患有ADHD和经前期ADHD恶化和/或情绪症状的女性创建了一个女性特异性治疗组.方法:我们描述了小组计划和基本原理,对参与者的评估进行定性分析。结果:七个两周一次的会议预示了月经周期,并解决了与这种周期性模式有关的几个ADHD特定主题。同时,女性通过调整后的经前日历跟踪月经周期和(波动)ADHD和情绪症状。总的来说,18名妇女(25-47岁)连续参加了三个小组。我们分析了最后一组的评价。参与者体验了小组作为一个安全和欢迎的空间。认可得到了所有人的重视。讨论的主题被认为是有价值的,结构很适合他们。完成经前日历增强了对个体周期性症状的认识和认识。寿命方法增加了自我理解。参与者更认真地对待月经周期,优先考虑自我接纳和自我照顾。结论:在小组环境中探索周期性方法似乎是女性ADHD治疗的积极补充。