Identifying Female ADD Symptoms
Women suffering from ADD are frequently depressed. This can lead to incorrect diagnosis. Women with ADD are also more likely to be frustrated while waiting, whether in line for customer service or waiting on hold.
ADD symptoms in females may change with the fluctuation of hormones during menstrual cycles, puberty, and during menopausal and perimenopausal cycles. They may be disguised or worsened by estrogen and are less noticeable in younger girls.
1. Inattentiveness
Women who suffer from inattention ADD frequently have trouble focusing on tasks, and are easily distracted by external or internal stimuli. Inattentive ADD symptoms can also be characterized by difficulties with managing time and a failure to follow instructions. Women with ADD are more at risk of developing depression than those who do not suffer from the disorder. However the two disorders may coexist.
Unlike children with hyperactive ADD adults who suffer from the non-hyperactive type of ADD tend to be more difficult for teachers and parents to diagnose, because their symptoms are less obvious. They may have difficulty finishing homework or schoolwork and might not attend important classes and are unable to pay attention in meetings at work. Adults who struggle may also struggle to find work or keep their current job.
Inattentional ADD is more common in women and girls in contrast to the hyperactive ADD which is more common in boys and men. Often, these girls and women are misdiagnosed with anxiety or depression as they enter puberty or experience the mood swings that accompany PMS and perimenopausal. This is because doctors search for the more overt behavioral traits of ADD in boys, but don't identify them in girls and women, especially during these times.
Women with inattentive ADD may become frustrated by their lack of concentration. This can cause anger and frustration. They may also be more likely to internalize their anger, and express it in ways that could hurt their relationships. If someone interrupts her when she is completing a task, for example, she may storm out of the room. Inability to remain focused on a task could cause her to make careless mistakes that she regrets later.
3. Mood Swings
Life is full of ups and downs. If your mood swings are extreme and affecting your daily activities. i thought about this might feel as if you are on an emotional rollercoaster. The frequent and extreme mood swings can be a sign of an underlying mental health issue that requires treatment.
Mood swings occur when you suddenly switch from feeling upbeat, happy or optimistic to feeling down or angry within a short time. These mood swings can be caused by a variety of causes like blood sugar peaks and valleys sleep disturbances, stress and weather conditions. Certain medications and substances can also cause mood changes.
If you experience frequent and intense mood changes then it's time to talk to your physician. Based on the root of your symptoms, you can manage them with a variety treatments, including treatment, medication, or lifestyle modifications.
Women often experience mood shifts between 1 and 2 weeks prior to their period, as part of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). These symptoms can include fatigue, changes in appetite as well as depression, bloating, and other aches. Keep a journal to keep track of the changes in your mood. This will make you feel more confident in bringing questions to your doctor, and it can also provide some validation of how you're feeling.
Change your diet, getting more sleep and exercising, as well as practicing relaxation techniques can all help to reduce mood swings. If you're taking a medication that triggers these symptoms, changing your dosage or experimenting with a different medication could help ease your symptoms. Mood swings can be an indication of a variety of medical and psychological disorders, such as attention deficit hyperactivity (ADHD) as well as bipolar disorder and depression.
4. Impulsivity
The term "impulsivity" refers to the tendency to make hasty decisions and act without thinking about the consequences. A pattern of constant issues with impulse control could be an indication of ADD or other issues. For instance, a person who is impulsive might have difficulty saving money, spend more than they are able to, or disclose personal information without thinking about the impact. They may also struggle with activities requiring careful planning, such as driving or working in the law enforcement field.
An impulsive streak is natural in teens and children, but it's not uncommon for adults to struggle with this issue too. If you're having problems in your relationships or at work due to your impulsive behavior it's essential to seek medical attention.
There are a variety of causes for the impulsive behavior, such as the brain structure, genetics, chemical imbalances, as well environmental factors. adhd symptoms women of emotional trauma or distress can trigger an impulsive behavior, just as a family member with mental illness. Certain medications, like antidepressants and stimulant drugs, can also cause an increase in impulsiveness.
It's also important to differentiate impulsive behavior from compulsive behaviors that are repetitive and ritualistic. Compulsive behaviors, for example, checking the oven over and over again, are compulsive, while impulsive behaviors, such as buying something on impulse are an impulsive. Impulsiveness is a female ADD symptom that is common particularly for girls going through puberty or PMS, and during menopause, when estrogen levels start to drop. Being withdrawn during conversations or unable to finish tasks like laundry are also symptoms of ADD in women. In some instances the woman's impulsiveness or inattention could lead to being misdiagnosed with bipolar disorder or depression, which can be treated with the appropriate medication.
5. Anxiety
It's normal to feel nervous and worried at times, for example 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 is reasonable, you could have an anxiety disorder. You may also experience physical symptoms, such as a pounding heartbeat or feeling like you're choking or having a heart attack.
Women with ADD are especially susceptible to the emotional ups and downs associated with anxiety. They can get easily frustrated and irritable to minor irritations. For instance, a minor mistake or being placed on hold for long periods of time can make these women very angry. They could flee or avoid the issue, or abandon the task altogether.
Anxiety is a natural response to danger or threat, and it's designed to prepare your body and mind to fight. But when it takes over individuals can be afflicted and incapable of functioning normally.
There are a myriad of treatment options for anxiety disorders, which include medication and therapy. The type of therapy you receive depends on the cause. However, both cognitive and behavioral strategies can help you control your worries and emotions.
To ease anxiety, eat a balanced diet and get enough rest. Avoid caffeine and other stimulants, which can cause mood swings. Exercise, especially intense aerobic exercise, releases brain chemicals that decrease stress. Join a support network or make a call or visit friends. Being around others can help ease feelings of loneliness and ease anxiety. A therapist can help you learn methods to relax, such as guided images or gradual exposure to uncomfortable scenarios.