Identifying Female ADD Symptoms
Women with ADD often experience depression. This can lead to a misdiagnosis. Women with ADD also are more likely to be annoyed by waiting, such as while waiting in line or on hold for customer service.
ADD symptoms can change in response to hormonal fluctuations in females during puberty, the menstrual cycle, as well as perimenopause or menopause. They can be concealed or worsened by estrogen and are less noticeable in younger girls.
1. Inattentiveness
Women suffering from inattention ADD often have difficulty focus on tasks, and are easily distracted by external or internal stimuli. Inattentional ADD can also cause problems with time management, and a lack of ability to follow the instructions. Women with ADD are more at risk of developing depression than those without the disorder. However both disorders can coexist.
Teachers and parents may find it more difficult to recognize adults suffering from non-hyperactive ADD than children with hyperactive ADD because their symptoms tend to be less obvious. They may not be able to finish their homework or schoolwork, and they might not attend important classes in classes. They also may not pay attention when they attend meetings at work. Adults may also be struggling to find a job or keep a current job.
Inattentional ADD is more common in women and girls as compared to the hyperactive ADD seen more often in boys and men. The girls and women with it can be misdiagnosed as having depression or anxiety when they reach puberty or if they experience mood swings linked with PMS or perimenopause. This is because doctors look for the more overt behavioral characteristics of ADD in boys and don't recognize them in girls and women, especially during these phases.
Women who are inattentive ADD can be annoyed by their inability to focus. This can cause anger and frustration. adult signs of adhd may also be more likely to dwell on their frustration, and act out in ways that could hurt their relationships. For example, if someone interrupts her while trying to complete a task, she might quit and quit the room. Inability to stay focused may even lead her to make mistakes she regrets later.
3. Mood Swings
Ups and downs are an inevitable part of life. If your mood swings are severe, it can affect your daily activities. It could feel like you're riding an emotional rollercoaster. The frequent and severe mood swings could be an indication of a mental health condition.
Mood swings occur when you suddenly shift from feeling happy or upbeat to angry or sad in just a few minutes. These mood swings can be caused by many different things, including diet, blood sugar peaks and valleys sleep disturbances, stress or weather conditions. Mood changes can also be a side effect of certain medications and other substances.
If you are experiencing frequent and intense mood changes you should consult your physician. Based on the root of your symptoms, you may be able to treat them with a variety of treatments, including treatment, medication, or lifestyle changes.
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a common mood swing that is common in women between 1 and 2 weeks before their period. These symptoms can include fatigue, changes in appetite, depression, bloating and other discomforts. If you notice that your mood changes are more severe during this time keep a detailed record to see if it is possible to trace them back to the source. This will help you feel more confident about taking them to your doctor and can give you some confirmation of your current state of mind.
Making changes to your diet and getting more rest can reduce the frequency of mood swings. If you're taking medication that causes these symptoms, altering your dosage or trying a different drug may ease the symptoms. The mood swings could be a sign of a variety of medical and psychological disorders, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as well as bipolar disorder and depression.
4. Impulsivity
The tendency to act quickly without thinking about the consequences. An ongoing pattern of impulse control problems can be a sign that you have ADD or other disorders. Someone who is impulsive could be unable to save money, spending more than they can afford, or divulge personal information to others without considering the consequences. They may also struggle with activities that require careful planning, such as driving or working in law enforcement.
An impulsive streak is normal in teenagers and children However, it's not uncommon for adults to suffer from this condition too. If you're having issues with your job or relationships due to your impulsive behavior it's crucial to seek medical assistance.
There are many causes of impulsive behavior, including genetics, brain structure and chemical imbalances, and environmental factors. A history of emotional trauma or distress can be a contributing factor to an impulsive behavior, just as a family member with mental illness. Certain medications, such as antidepressants and stimulant drugs can also boost the impulsiveness of a person.
It is also crucial to distinguish impulsive behavior from compulsive behaviors that are routine and ritualistic. For instance, checking if the oven is turned off frequently is a compulsive behavior, whereas buying something at the whim of a is an impulsive behavior. Impulsiveness is a common female ADD characteristic that is prevalent especially in girls who are experiencing puberty or PMS as well as during menopausal cycles, when estrogen levels start to decrease. Appearing aloof during conversations or struggling to finish tasks like laundry are signs of ADD in women. In some instances women's inattention or impulsiveness can lead them to be mistakenly diagnosed as having bipolar disorder or depression. This condition can be treated by the right medication.
5. Anxiety
It's normal to be anxious or worried from time occasion, like when you're prepping for a public speaking opportunity or test. However, if these feelings are frequent and intense, cause problems with your daily activities and last longer than what's reasonable, you may be suffering from an anxiety disorder. There are also physical symptoms, like an accelerating heartbeat or feeling like you're in a choke or suffering from a heart attack.
Women with ADD are more prone to the emotional swings and downs that come with anxiety. They are often easily annoyed and can be extremely sensitive to minor irritations. They can get extremely angry over a small mistake or being on hold for a long period of time. They may flee or avoid the issue, or even drop the task completely.
Anxiety is a natural response to danger or threat that is designed to prepare the body and mind to fight. However, when it gets too much, people can become debilitated and incapable of functioning normally.
Treatment options for anxiety disorders include therapy and medication. The kind of therapy you receive is contingent on the underlying cause. However, both cognitive and behavioral approaches can help control your emotions and worries.
Sleep well and eat a balanced diet to reduce anxiety. Avoid caffeine and other stimulants which can exacerbate mood swings. Exercise, particularly intense aerobic exercise, helps release brain chemicals that cut stress. Join a support group or call or visit friends. Being around others can help reduce anxiety and ease loneliness. A therapist can show you techniques to calm down by using guided imagery or gradual exposure to uncomfortable situations.