Identifying Female ADD Symptoms
Women suffering from ADD frequently experience depression. This can lead to a misdiagnosis. Women with ADD are also more likely to be frustrated while waiting, whether it is in line for customer service or on hold.
ADD symptoms can change in response to hormonal fluctuations in females during puberty, the menstrual cycle, and menopausal perimenopausal cycles. They may be disguised or exacerbated by estrogen and are less apparent in younger girls.
1. Inattentiveness
Women who suffer from inattention ADD typically have difficulty staying focused on their tasks and are easily distracted by internal or external stimuli. Inattentive ADD can also cause issues with time management, as well as an inability of following the directions given to them. Women with ADD are also more likely to suffer from depression than those without the disorder, but the two can coexist.
Unlike children with hyperactive ADD adults who suffer from the non-hyperactive form of ADD tend to be more difficult for parents and teachers to identify, as their symptoms are less obvious. They may have difficulty finishing homework or schoolwork and might miss important class lectures, as well as being unable to pay attention in meetings at work. Adults with disabilities may also have difficulty finding an employment or maintaining their current one.
Inattentional ADD is more prevalent in girls and women, in contrast to the hyperactive ADD that is more prevalent in men and boys. Women and girls can be misdiagnosed as having anxiety or depression when they reach puberty, or if they experience mood swings linked with PMS or perimenopausal. Doctors are more likely to look for more explicit behavioral characteristics of ADD in males, but do not be able to recognize these in girls or females, especially during this time.
symptoms of adhd who are inattentive ADD might be annoyed by their inability to concentration. This can cause anger and frustration. These women can 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 finish the task, she may storm off and quit the room. Inability to stay focused may even lead her to make mistakes she regrets later.
3. Mood Swings
Life is full of fluctuations and ups. But if your mood shifts are severe, they could disrupt your daily activities and cause you to feel like you're riding an emotional roller coaster. Frequent and severe mood changes could be an indication of an underlying mental health condition that requires treatment.
Mood swings happen when you suddenly switch from feeling upbeat, happy or positive to feeling depressed or angry in a short time. These mood swings can be caused by many different things, including blood sugar peaks and valleys sleep disturbances, stress or weather conditions. Certain drugs and substances can cause mood changes.
The majority of people experience occasional mood swings however if you experience frequent and extreme mood swings, it could be time to speak with your doctor. Based on the reason there are a variety of treatments that can assist you in managing your symptoms, including psychotherapy, medication, or other treatments for lifestyle.
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a frequent mood swing that occurs in women who are between 1 and 2 weeks before their period. These symptoms include fatigue as well as changes in appetite. They can also trigger constipation, depression and other discomforts. Keep a journal to keep track of your mood fluctuations. This will make you feel more confident in taking them to your doctor and provide some validation for the way you're feeling.
Altering your diet and getting more rest can help decrease mood swings. If you're taking medication that causes these symptoms, changing your dosage or experimenting with a different medication could help ease your symptoms. Mood shifts can be a symptom of a range of psychological and medical disorders, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as well as depression and bipolar disorder.
4. Impulsivity
The term "impulsivity" refers to the tendency to make hasty decisions without taking into account the consequences. An ongoing pattern of issues with impulse control could be an indication of ADD or other issues. An individual who is impulsive may have difficulty saving money, spend more money than they could afford, or disclose personal information to others without considering the consequences. They may also struggle with activities requiring careful planning, like driving or working in the field of law enforcement.
It's not uncommon for teens and children to be impulsive, but it's not uncommon for adults, too. It is essential to seek medical attention if experiencing difficulties with your job or relationships due to your impulsive actions.
There are many reasons for impulsive behavior, including the brain structure, genetics, chemical imbalances, as well environmental conditions. A history of trauma or emotional distress can trigger the impulsive behavior, as could the presence of a family member suffering from mental illness. Certain medications, including antidepressants and stimulant drugs can also cause an increase in impulsiveness.
It is also crucial to distinguish impulsive behavior from compulsive behaviors that are repetitive and ritualistic. Compulsive behaviors, for example, checking the oven repeatedly, are compulsive, while impulse-driven behaviors, like buying something on impulse are impulsive. Impulsiveness is a common female ADD sign that is quite common, especially for girls going through puberty or PMS, and during menopause as estrogen levels begin to decrease. Women can also show signs of ADD by appearing distant during conversations or having trouble completing tasks such as laundry. In certain cases women's impulsiveness and inattention can lead them to be misdiagnosed as having bipolar disorder or depression. This condition can be treated by the right medication.
5. Anxiety
It's normal to feel anxious or worried from time time, such as when you're prepping for a public speaking opportunity or test. However, if these feelings are frequent and intense, cause problems with daily activities and last longer than what's reasonable, you may have an anxiety disorder. You may also experience physical symptoms, such as a pounding heart or the sensation of choking or a heart attack.
Women with ADD are more susceptible to the emotional ups-and-downs that come with anxiety. They are often easily annoyed and can be extremely sensitive to minor irritations. These women can become extremely upset over a tiny error or being held for a long period of time. They may storm off to avoid a situation or even quit the job.
Anxiety is the natural response to threat or danger, and it's designed to prepare your body and your mind to fight. However, when it gets too much individuals can be afflicted and unable to function normally.
Treatment options for anxiety disorders include medication and therapy. The type of therapy you choose depends on the cause, but both behavioral and cognitive approaches can help you learn to control your worries and emotions.
To ease anxiety, eat well and sleep enough. Avoid stimulants and caffeine that can trigger mood fluctuations. Exercise, specifically brisk aerobic exercise, triggers brain chemicals that decrease stress. Join a support group or make a call or visit friends. Being with others can reduce anxiety and help to alleviate loneliness. A therapist can show you strategies to relax through guided imagery or gradual exposure to uncomfortable situations.