Identifying Female ADD Symptoms
Women with ADD are often depressed. This could lead to a misdiagnosis. Women with ADD are also more likely to be frustrated by waiting, for example, when standing in line or on hold to get customer service.
ADD symptoms in females may change with the fluctuation of hormones during menstrual cycles, puberty, and during menopausal and perimenopausal cycles. They can be concealed or exacerbated by estrogen, and are less noticeable in younger girls.
1. Inattentiveness
Women suffering from inattention ADD frequently have trouble focus on tasks, and are easily distracted by external or internal stimuli. Inattention ADD symptoms can also be characterized by difficulties with time management and the inability to follow through on instructions. Women who suffer from ADD are more at risk of developing depression than those who are not affected by the disorder. However the two disorders may 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 less obvious. They might not be able complete their homework or schoolwork, and they might miss important lectures in class. They may also not be attentive to meetings at work. Adults may also be struggling to find work or keep a current job.
Inattentional ADD is more common in women and girls as compared to the hyperactive ADD seen more often in men and boys. Often, these girls and women are misdiagnosed with depression or anxiety when they reach puberty or suffer mood swings that are associated with PMS and perimenopause. Doctors usually look for more explicit behavioral characteristics of ADD in males, but do not be able to recognize the symptoms in females or girls particularly during this time.
Women with inattentive ADD might be frustrated with their lack of focus. This can cause anger and frustration. They may also be more prone to internalizing their anger and can behave in ways that could damage their relationships. For example, if someone interrupts her while trying to complete a task, she might get angry and leave the room. Her inability stay focused could result in her making careless errors that she regrets later.
3. Mood Swings
Ups and downs are a natural part of life. If your mood swings are extreme and affecting your daily activities. You may feel like you are on an emotional rollercoaster. The frequent and extreme mood swings could be an indication of an underlying mental health condition that requires treatment.
Mood swings occur when you suddenly go from feeling cheerful, upbeat or optimistic to feeling down or angry in a short time. These mood swings can be caused by a variety of factors, including diet, blood sugar peaks and valleys sleep disturbances, stress, and weather conditions. Changes in mood can also be a consequence of certain medications and substances.
If you experience frequent and extreme mood swings then it's time to talk to your doctor. Depending on the cause various treatments can assist you in managing your symptoms, including psychotherapy, medication or other lifestyle treatments.
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a typical mood swing that occurs in women between 1 and 2 weeks before their period. These symptoms include fatigue and changes in appetite. They can also cause anxiety, bloating, depression, and other discomforts. Keep a detailed diary to track your mood changes. This will make you feel more confident about taking them to your doctor. It will also help you understand your current state of mind.
Making changes to your diet and getting more rest can help decrease mood swings. If you're taking medications that cause these symptoms, adjusting your dose or trying another medication could ease your symptoms. Mood swings are a sign of many mental and medical disorders, such as attention deficit hyperactivity (ADHD), depression and bipolar disorder.
4. Impulsivity
The term "impulsivity" refers to the tendency to make rash decisions and act without considering the consequences. A persistent pattern of problems with impulse control may be an indication that you suffer from 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 other people without considering the consequences. They may also struggle doing things that require planning such as driving or working in law enforcement.
An impulsive streak is normal in teens and children However, it's not uncommon for adults to struggle with this condition too. It is essential to seek medical attention if struggling with your work or relationships due to an impulsive behavior.
There are many reasons for impulsive behavior, including the brain structure, genetics, chemical imbalances, and environmental factors. A history of emotional distress or trauma may contribute to impulsive behavior, as can having a family member that suffers from a mental health issue. Certain medications can also contribute to the person's impulsiveness, such as antidepressants and stimulant drugs.
It is also crucial to distinguish impulsive behavior from compulsive behaviors, which are repetitive and ritualistic. For instance, checking whether the oven is off repeatedly is a compulsive behavior, whereas buying something on a whim is an impulsive action. Impulsiveness is a female ADD symptom that is common particularly in girls who are experiencing puberty or PMS, and during menopause when estrogen levels begin to decrease. Appearing aloof during conversations or unable to finish tasks like laundry are also symptoms of ADD in women. In certain cases women's inattention or impulsiveness could lead to them being incorrectly diagnosed with depression or bipolar disorder. This disorder can be treated by the right medication.
5. Anxiety
It's normal to feel anxious and worried at times, like when you're preparing for an exam or speaking engagement. If these feelings are extreme and persistent, and they disrupt your daily routine, and last for longer than you think is appropriate it could be a sign of an anxiety disorder. You may also feel physical symptoms like a pounding heart or the feeling of choking, or even a heart attack.
Women with ADD are especially susceptible to the emotional ups and downs that are associated with anxiety. They are often easily annoyed and are extremely sensitive to minor irritations. For instance, a minor mistake or being placed on hold for long periods of time could make these women extremely angry. They could flee or avoid a problem, or even quit the job.
Anxiety is a natural reaction to threat or danger, a response designed to prepare the body and mind for battle. However, when it gets too much, people can become debilitated and in a state of disfunction.
Treatment options for anxiety disorders include medication and therapy. The kind of therapy you receive is contingent on the cause. However, both cognitive and behavioral methods can help you manage your emotions and worries.
To reduce your anxiety, eat a balanced diet and get enough sleep. Avoid signs of adult add and caffeine that can cause mood fluctuations. signs of adult add , particularly aerobic exercise at a fast pace, triggers brain chemicals that reduce stress. Join an online support group or connect with friends in person or on the phone. Being with other people can reduce anxiety and ease loneliness. A therapist can teach you techniques to calm yourself by using guided imagery or gradual exposure to stressful situations.