Identifying Female ADD Symptoms
Women suffering from ADD are frequently depressed. This can lead to incorrect diagnosis. adult adhd symptoms women who suffer from ADD are also more likely to become annoyed when waiting, whether it is waiting in line to get customer service or on hold.
ADD symptoms in females can vary with hormone fluctuations during menstrual cycles, puberty as well as during menopausal perimenopausal transitions and men. They can be concealed or exacerbated by estrogen, and are less apparent in younger girls.
1. Inattentiveness
Women with inattention ADD are often troubled by their inability to stay focused on their work and are easily distracted by external or internal stimuli. Inattentional ADD can also cause problems with time management, and an inability of following the directions given to them. Women who suffer from ADD have a higher chance of developing depression than those who do not suffer from the disorder. However, the two disorders can coexist.
Teachers and parents may be unable to identify adults with non-hyperactive ADD than children with hyperactive ADD because their symptoms are subtler. They might not be able to finish their schoolwork or homework, and they might miss important lectures in classes. They might also not pay attention during meetings at work. These adults may also have a difficult time finding a job or keeping a current one.
Inattention ADD is more prevalent in girls and women than boys. A lot of times, these girls and women are misdiagnosed with depression or anxiety as they enter puberty or experience the mood swings that accompany PMS and perimenopausal. Doctors are more likely to look for more obvious behavioral characteristics of ADD in males, and do not recognize these in girls or females particularly during this time.
Women with inattentive ADD are more likely to become frustrated by their inability to focus, which can result in anger or frustration. These women are also more likely to dwell on their anger and behave in ways which could harm their relationships. For instance, if a person interrupts her while trying to finish the task, she may get angry and quit the room. The inability to focus on a particular task may cause her to make impulsive mistakes that she later regrets.
3. Mood Swings
Life is full of fluctuations and ups. But if your mood shifts are extreme, they may disrupt your daily activities and cause you to feel like you're riding an emotional rollercoaster. Frequent and severe mood swings could be a sign of a mental health condition.
Mood swings occur when you suddenly shift from feeling happy or upbeat to angry or sad in a short period of time. These changes can be caused by a myriad of factors that include diet, blood sugar fluctuations, sleep disturbances and stress. Certain drugs and substances can cause mood changes.
If you are experiencing frequent and intense mood changes, it's time to consult your physician. Depending on the cause, a variety of treatments can aid in managing your symptoms, such as psychotherapy, medication, or other treatments for lifestyle.
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a common mood swing that occurs in women between 1 and 2 weeks before their period. These symptoms can include fatigue, changes in appetite depression, bloating, and other discomforts. Keep a detailed diary to keep track of the changes in your mood. This will make you feel more confident in bringing concerns to your doctor, and it can also provide some validation of how you feel.
Making changes to your diet and getting more sleep can reduce the frequency of mood swings. If you're taking a medication that causes these symptoms, altering your dosage or trying a different one might help alleviate the symptoms. Mood swings can be an indication of a variety of mental and medical disorders, such as attention deficit hyperactivity (ADHD) as well as depression and bipolar disorder.
4. Impulsivity
The term "impulsivity" refers to the tendency to make hasty decisions and act without thinking about the consequences. While some impulsive behaviors are normal, a pattern of problems with impulse control may be an indication of ADD or another condition. A person who is impulsive may be unable to save money, spend more money than they can afford, or reveal personal information to others without thinking about the consequences. They may also struggle in activities that require planning, like driving or working in the law enforcement field.
It's normal for teens and children to be impulsive, however it's not unusual for adults as well. If you're experiencing problems in your relationships or at work because of your impulsive behavior, it's important that you seek medical assistance.
There are many reasons for an impulsive behaviour, including the brain structure, genetics, chemical imbalances, as well environmental conditions. A history of emotional distress or trauma can trigger the impulsive behavior, and so can having a family member that suffers from a mental illness. Certain medications, such as 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 repetitive and ritualistic. For example, checking whether the oven is off repeatedly is a habitual behavior and buying something at the whim of a is an impulsive action. The tendency to be impulsive is a common female ADD sign, especially in girls during puberty, PMS and through menopausal changes when estrogen levels decrease. Women can also show symptoms of ADD by appearing distant during conversations or unable to complete tasks such as laundry. In certain instances, a woman's impulsiveness and inattention can lead to her being misdiagnosed with depression or bipolar disorder, which can be treated with the correct medication.
5. Anxiety
It's normal to feel anxious or worried from time occasion, like when you're getting ready for a public speaking engagement or test. But if these feelings are frequently and severe, interfere with daily activities and last longer than reasonable, you may be suffering from an anxiety disorder. There are also physical symptoms, like an accelerating heartbeat or feeling like you're choking or having an attack on your heart.
Women with ADD are particularly susceptible to the emotional ups-and-downs associated with anxiety. They can be easily frustrated and can be extremely sensitive to minor irritations. They can get very angry at a minor error or being held for a long time. They could flee or avoid a problem, or even quit the job.
Anxiety is a natural response to threat or danger and is designed to prepare your body and mind to defend yourself. When anxiety is a major factor, it can make people feel weak.
Treatment options for anxiety disorders include therapy and medication. The type of therapy you choose depends on the cause, but both cognitive and behavioral approaches can assist you in controlling your anxiety and feelings.
Get enough rest and eat healthy to ease anxiety. Avoid stimulants and caffeine that can cause mood swings. Exercise, particularly aerobic exercise at a brisk pace, helps release brain chemicals which reduce stress. Join a support group or contact friends in person or over the phone. Being with others can alleviate loneliness and decrease anxiety. A therapist can guide you through methods to relax yourself through guided imagery or gradual exposure to stressful situations.