Identifying Female ADD Symptoms
Women who suffer from ADD frequently experience depression. This could lead to a incorrect diagnosis. Women with ADD are also more likely to be frustrated when waiting, whether in line for customer service or on hold.
ADD symptoms can change in response to hormonal changes in females during puberty, the menstrual cycle and menopausal perimenopausal cycles. They can also be covered by estrogen and may be less obvious in younger girls.
1. Inattentiveness
Women who suffer from inattentive ADD are often plagued by their difficulty staying focused on their tasks and are easily distracted by internal or external stimuli. Inattentive ADD symptoms also include trouble with managing time and a failure to follow instructions. Women who suffer from ADD are more at risk of developing depression than women who are not affected by the disorder. However both disorders can coexist.
As opposed to children with hyperactive ADD adults who suffer from the non-hyperactive form of ADD tend to be more difficult for teachers and parents to recognize, since their symptoms are more subtle. They may struggle to finish homework or schoolwork, and may miss important class lectures as well as being incapable of paying attention to meetings at work. Adults with disabilities may also have a difficult time finding jobs or keeping their current one.
Inattention ADD is more prevalent in girls and women than boys. Often, these women and girls are misdiagnosed with depression or anxiety as they reach puberty or suffer mood swings that are associated with PMS and perimenopause. This is because doctors look for the more overt behavioral traits of ADD in boys but fail to identify them in girls and women, especially during these times.
Women with inattention ADD might be annoyed by their inability to focus. This can cause anger and frustration. They are also more likely to feel anger and may behave in ways that may harm their relationships. If someone interrupts her while she is working, for example, she may storm out of the room. Her inability stay focused could result in her making mistakes that she regrets later.
3. Mood Swings
Ups and downs are a normal part of life. If your mood swings are severe they could affect your daily activities. It could feel like you're on an emotional rollercoaster. Frequent and severe mood changes could be an indication of an underlying mental health issue that requires treatment.
Mood swings happen the time when you suddenly shift from feeling cheerful, upbeat or positive to feeling depressed or angry in just a few minutes. These mood swings can be caused by a variety of causes such as diet, blood sugar peaks and valleys sleep disturbances, stress and weather conditions. The mood changes could also be a consequence of certain medications and substances.
If you are experiencing frequent and intense mood changes, it's time to consult your doctor. Depending on the reason for your symptoms, you can manage them using a variety of options, including treatment, medication, or lifestyle adjustments.
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is a typical mood swing that is common in women who are between 1 and two weeks prior to their period. These symptoms include fatigue, changes in appetite, depression, bloating and other discomforts. If you notice that your mood swings are more intense during this time, keep a detailed log to see if it is possible to identify the cause. This will help you feel more confident in bringing concerns to your doctor, and it will also give you a sense of validation of how you're feeling.
Changing your diet, getting more rest and exercising as well as doing relaxation exercises can all help to reduce mood swings. If you're taking a medication that triggers these symptoms, changing your dosage or trying a different drug might help alleviate your symptoms. The fluctuation in mood can be a sign of many medical and psychological disorders, such as attention deficit hyperactivity (ADHD) as well as depression and bipolar disorder.
4. Impulsivity
The tendency to make quick decisions without taking into account the consequences. While some impulsive behavior is normal, a consistent pattern of issues with impulse control may be an indication of ADD or a different condition. For instance, someone who is impulsive might struggle to save money, spend more than they can afford to or reveal personal information without thinking about the consequences. They might also have difficulty in activities that require planning, like driving or working in the field of law enforcement.
It's normal for children and teens to be impulsive, but it's not uncommon for adults, too. If you're having issues with your work or relationships because of your impulsive behavior, it's essential to seek medical assistance.
There are many causes of impulsive behavior, including the brain structure, genetics, chemical imbalances, and environmental factors. An emotional stress history or trauma can contribute to an impulsive behaviour, as could having a family member who suffers from a mental illness. Certain medications, like antidepressants and stimulant drugs can also boost the impulsiveness of a person.
It is also crucial to distinguish the impulsive behavior from compulsive ones that are routine and ritualistic. Compulsive behaviors, for example, checking the oven over and over again are compulsive, whereas impulsive behaviors, such as buying something on impulse are impulse-driven. Impulsiveness is a common female ADD sign that is quite common especially in girls who are experiencing PMS or puberty and also during menopausal, when estrogen levels start to decline. Appearing aloof during conversations or having trouble finishing tasks like laundry are indications of ADD in women. In some instances women's impulsiveness and inattention can lead them to be incorrectly diagnosed with bipolar disorder or depression. This condition can be treated with the appropriate medication.
5. Anxiety
It's perfectly normal to feel nervous and worried at times, such as when you're preparing to take an exam or public speaking event. If these feelings become frequent and intense, cause problems with your daily activities and last longer than is normal, you could be suffering from an anxiety disorder. You might also experience physical symptoms such as an intense pulse or the feeling of choking, or even a heart attack.
Women with ADD are more prone to the emotional turmoil and downs that are associated with anxiety. They can easily become frustrated and are extremely sensitive to minor irritations. For instance, a tiny error or being put on hold for long periods of time could make these women very angry. They might flee, avoid a problem or even quit the job.
Anxiety is the natural response to threats or dangers, and it's designed to prepare your body and your mind to fight. When signs of adhd in adults becomes a problem, it can make people feel weak.
Treatment options for anxiety disorders include therapy and medication. The type of therapy you receive is contingent on the cause. However both behavioral and cognitive approaches can help control your emotions and worries.
To ease anxiety, eat well and get enough rest. Avoid caffeine and other stimulants, that can trigger mood swings. Exercise, particularly brisk aerobic exercise, releases brain chemicals that cut stress. Join a support group or reach out to friends in person or on the phone. Being with other people can alleviate loneliness and ease anxiety. A therapist can teach you strategies to relax by using guided imagery or gradual exposure to situations that are uncomfortable.