Identifying Female ADD Symptoms
Women with ADD are frequently depressed. This can lead to misdiagnosis of bipolar disorder. Women who suffer from ADD are also more likely to be frustrated by waiting for long periods of time, such as when standing in line or on hold for customer service.
ADD symptoms in females may change with the fluctuation of hormones during puberty, menstrual cycles and in perimenopause and menopause. They can also be masked by estrogen and be less noticeable in younger girls.
1. Inattentiveness
Women who suffer from inattention ADD often have difficulty staying focused on their tasks and are easily distracted by external or internal stimuli. Inattention ADD symptoms can also be characterized by difficulties with managing time and a failure to follow instructions. Women who suffer from ADD are also more likely to develop depression than those without the disorder, though both conditions can coexist.
In contrast to children with hyperactive ADD adults who suffer from the non-hyperactive type of ADD tend to be more difficult for teachers and parents to identify, as their symptoms are more subtle. They may have difficulty finishing homework or schoolwork, and may be absent from important lectures as well as being not able to concentrate in meetings at work. These adults may also struggle to find work or keep their current job.
Inattentive ADD is more prevalent in women and girls as opposed to the hyperactive ADD which is more common in boys and men. These girls and women can be misdiagnosed as having depression or anxiety when they reach puberty, or when they experience mood swings that are associated with PMS or perimenopause. Doctors usually look for more overt behavioral characteristics of ADD in males and not be able to recognize these in girls or females especially during this period.
Women who are inattentive ADD can be frustrated by their lack of focus. This can result in anger and frustration. They are also more likely to feel anger and may behave in ways that can harm their relationships. If someone interrupts her as she is working on a project, for example, she may storm out of the room. The inability to focus on a task could result in her making careless mistakes later regretted.
3. Mood Swings
Ups and downs are an inevitable part of life. But if your mood shifts are extreme, they may interfere with your daily activities and make you feel like you're on an emotional roller coaster. adult adhd signs and severe mood swings may be an indication of a mental health condition.
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 many different things like blood sugar peaks and valleys sleep disturbances, stress and weather conditions. The mood changes could also be a consequence of certain medications and substances.
If you experience frequent and severe mood changes, it's time to consult your doctor. Based on the root of your symptoms, you can manage them with a variety treatments, such as therapies, medication or lifestyle changes.
Women often experience mood shifts up to two weeks prior to their period as a result of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). These symptoms include fatigue, fluctuations in appetite as well as depression, bloating, and other aches. If you notice that your mood fluctuations are more intense during this time, keep a detailed log to see if it is possible to track them to their source. This will make you feel more comfortable bringing concerns to your doctor. It can also provide some validation of how you're feeling.
Change your diet, getting more rest, exercising and practicing relaxation techniques can all aid in reducing mood swings. If you're taking a medication that causes these symptoms, changing the dosage or experimenting with a different medication could reduce the symptoms. Mood swings are the result of a variety of medical and psychological disorders like attention deficit hyperactivity (ADHD) as well as bipolar disorder, and depression.
4. Impulsivity
Impulsivity is a tendency to act quickly without considering the consequences. An ongoing pattern of problems with impulse control may be a sign that you have ADD or other issues. A person who is impulsive might be unable to save money, spending more than they could afford, or disclose personal information to other people without considering the consequences. They might also have difficulty with activities requiring careful planning, like driving or working in the field of law enforcement.
It's normal for teens and children to be impulsive. However, it is not uncommon for adults as well. If you're having issues in your relationships or at work due to your impulsive behavior it's important that you seek medical attention.
Many factors can trigger an impulsive behaviour. This includes genetics, brain structure, chemical imbalances and 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 health issue. Certain medications can also increase a person's impulsiveness including antidepressants as well as stimulant drugs.
It is important to differentiate between impulsive behavior and compulsive behavior that is a repetitive and ritualistic. Compulsive behaviors, for example, checking the oven frequently are compulsive. On the other hand, impulse-driven behaviors, like buying something on impulse are impulsive. The tendency to be impulsive is a common female ADD symptom, particularly in girls who are puberty, PMS, and during menopause when estrogen levels drop. Women can also show signs of ADD by appearing disengaged during conversations or having trouble completing chores like washing. In some instances women's impulsiveness and inattention can lead to being misdiagnosed with depression or bipolar disorder, which can be treated with the right medication.
5. Anxiety
It's perfectly normal to be nervous and worried at times, for example when you're preparing for an exam or public speaking event. If these feelings are extreme and frequent, and disrupt your daily routine and last longer than you think is appropriate it's possible you have an anxiety disorder. You may also experience physical symptoms, such as a pounding heartbeat or the sensation that you're choking or having a heart attack.
Women suffering from ADD can be particularly vulnerable to the emotional turbulences that accompany anxiety. They are often easily annoyed and irritable to minor irritations. They can be extremely upset over a tiny mistake or being in a queue for a long time. They may flee, avoid the problem or abandon the task completely.
Anxiety is the natural response to threats or dangers, and it's designed to prepare your body and mind to fight. However, when it becomes overwhelming the body, people can become weak and in a state of disfunction.
There are a variety of treatments for anxiety disorders, including therapy and medication. The type of therapy depends on the root cause, however both cognitive and behavioral methods can assist you in controlling your worries and emotions.
Get enough rest and eat healthy to decrease anxiety. Avoid stimulants and caffeine which can trigger mood swings. Exercise, specifically intense aerobic exercise, triggers brain chemicals that decrease stress. Join a support network or make contact with friends. Being around others can help reduce anxiety and help to alleviate loneliness. A therapist can help you learn methods to relax through guided imagery or gradual exposure to situations that are uncomfortable.