Identifying Female ADD Symptoms
Women with ADD are usually depressed. This could lead to a misdiagnosis of bipolar disorder. Women who suffer from ADD are also more likely to be annoyed when waiting, whether it is waiting in line for customer service or while standing on hold.
ADD symptoms in females may vary with hormone fluctuations during puberty, menstrual cycles and in perimenopause and menopause. They can also be covered by estrogen and may be less apparent in younger girls.
1. Inattentiveness
Women who suffer from inattentive ADD are often troubled by their inability to stay focused on tasks and are easily distracted by external or internal stimuli. Inattentive ADD can also cause problems with time management, and the inability to follow through on instructions. Women who suffer from ADD are also more likely to develop depression than those who do not suffer from the disorder, but the two can coexist.
In contrast to children with hyperactive ADD, adults with the non-hyperactive subtype of ADD tend to be more difficult for parents and teachers to diagnose, because their symptoms are more subtle. They may not be able to finish their schoolwork or homework and could not attend important classes in class. They may also not be attentive when they attend meetings at work. Adults with disabilities may also have a difficult time finding an employment or maintaining their current one.
Inattentive ADD affects more girls and women than boys. A lot of times, these girls and women are misdiagnosed with depression or anxiety when they enter puberty or experience mood swings that are associated with PMS and perimenopause. This is because doctors look for the more obvious behavior traits of ADD in boys and don't recognize them in girls and women, particularly during these periods.
Women who are inattentional ADD are more likely to be dissatisfied with their lack of concentration, which could result in anger or frustration. They may also be more likely to internalize their anger, and express it in ways which could harm their relationships. If someone interrupts her when she is working on a project, for example she might scream out of the room. The inability to focus could cause her to make mistakes that she regrets later.
3. Mood Swings
Ups and downs are an inevitable part of life. If your mood swings are severe and affecting your daily activities. It could feel like you're riding an emotional rollercoaster. The frequent and extreme mood swings could be an indication of an underlying mental health issue that requires treatment.
Mood swings occur when you suddenly shift from feeling upbeat or happy to sad or angry in a short period of time. These changes can be triggered by a variety of causes that include diet, blood sugar fluctuations, sleep disturbances and stress. Mood changes can also be a side effect of certain medications and substances.
Many people experience occasional mood swings, but if you have frequent and extreme mood swings, it may be time to speak with your doctor. Based on the reason various treatments can help you manage your symptoms, such as psychotherapy, medication, or other lifestyle therapies.
Women can experience mood swings between 1 and 2 weeks prior to their period, as part of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). These symptoms include fatigue as well as changes in appetite. They can also cause constipation, depression, and other discomforts. Keep a detailed journal to keep track of your mood fluctuations. This will help you feel more comfortable opening concerns to your doctor, and it could also provide some confirmation of how you are feeling.
Making changes to your diet, obtaining more sleep and exercising, as well as using relaxation techniques can all aid in reducing mood swings. If you're taking a medication that is causing these symptoms, adjusting your dose or trying another drug may help ease your symptoms. Mood swings can be a sign of many psychological and medical conditions, such as attention deficit hyperactivity (ADHD) as well as depression and bipolar disorder.
4. Impulsivity
The term "impulsivity" refers to the tendency to make quick decisions without taking into account the consequences. An ongoing pattern of issues with impulse control could be an indication of ADD or other disorders. Someone who is impulsive could struggle to save money, or spending more than they could afford, or disclose personal information to others without thinking about the consequences. They may also struggle when it comes to activities that require careful planning, like driving or working in law enforcement.
An impulsive streak is common in children and teens however it's not unusual for adults to struggle with this symptom too. It is essential to seek medical attention if you are experiencing difficulties with your job or relationships because of an impulsive behavior.
There are many causes of the impulsive behavior, such as the brain structure, genetics, chemical imbalances, as well as environmental conditions. 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 can also increase a person's impulsiveness, such as antidepressants and stimulant drugs.
It's also important to differentiate the impulsive behavior from compulsive ones that are routine and ritualistic. For example, checking whether the oven is off repeatedly is a compulsive habit, whereas buying something at the whim of a is an impulsive behavior. Impulsiveness is a typical female ADD symptom, particularly during puberty, PMS, and during menopausal changes when estrogen levels decrease. Women can also show symptoms of ADD by appearing distant in conversations or having trouble completing chores like washing. In certain instances, a woman's impulsiveness and inattention could lead to being misdiagnosed as having bipolar disorder or depression, which may be treated with the correct medication.
5. Anxiety
It's perfectly normal to be nervous and worried at times, such as when you are preparing for an exam or public speaking event. But if these feelings are frequently and severe, interfere with your daily routine and last longer than what's reasonable, you may be suffering from an anxiety disorder. You may also experience physical symptoms, like an accelerating heartbeat or feeling like you're in a choke or suffering from an attack of the heart.
Women with ADD can be particularly vulnerable to the emotional fluctuations that accompany anxiety. They are often easily annoyed and are extremely sensitive to minor irritations. For example, a small mistake or being placed on hold for long periods of time can cause these women to become extremely angry. They might flee or avoid a problem, or even stop the work.
Anxiety is a natural reaction to threat or danger, and it's designed to prepare your body and mind to defend yourself. When anxiety takes over it can cause people to become weak and weakened.
Treatment options for anxiety disorders include medication and therapy. adhd in adult women symptoms of therapy you receive is contingent on the underlying cause. However, both cognitive and behavioral approaches can help control your emotions and worries.
To ease anxiety, eat healthy and get enough rest. Avoid caffeine and other stimulants, which can exacerbate mood swings. Exercise, particularly aerobic exercise done at a rapid pace, releases brain chemicals that reduce stress. Join a support group, or reach out to friends in person or on the phone. Being around others can help reduce anxiety and help to alleviate loneliness. A therapist can guide you through methods to relax yourself, such as guided imagery or gradual exposure to uncomfortable situations.