Identifying Female ADD Symptoms
Women suffering from ADD are usually depressed. This can lead to misdiagnosis of bipolar disorder. Women who suffer from ADD also are more likely to be frustrated by waiting for long periods of time, such as when waiting in line or on hold for customer service.
ADD symptoms can change with hormonal fluctuations in females during puberty, the menstrual cycle, as well as perimenopause or menopause. They can be concealed or exacerbated by estrogen and are less apparent in younger girls.
1. Inattentiveness
Women who have inattention ADD are often plagued by their difficulty in staying focused on their tasks and are easily distracted by internal or external stimuli. Inattention ADD symptoms can also be characterized by difficulties with managing time and a failure to follow through on instructions. Women who suffer from ADD are also more likely to suffer from depression than those who do not suffer from the disorder, though the two can coexist.
Unlike children with hyperactive ADD adults with the non-hyperactive form 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 miss important class lectures, as well as being unable to pay attention in meetings at work. Adults with disabilities may also have difficulty finding jobs or keeping their current one.
Inattention ADD is more prevalent in females and girls than males. These girls and women can be misdiagnosed as having depression or anxiety once they reach puberty, or if they experience mood swings associated with PMS or perimenopause. This is because doctors look for the more obvious behavioral characteristics of ADD in boys, but don't detect them in girls or women, especially during these times.
Women with inattentive ADD are more likely to become frustrated by their inability to focus, which can result in anger or frustration. They may also be more prone to internalizing their anger and can behave in ways that may harm their relationships. For inattentive adhd symptoms , if someone interrupts her while trying to finish an assignment, she could get angry and quit the room. Inability to stay focused may result in her making mistakes she regrets later.
3. Mood Swings
Life is full of fluctuations and ups. If your mood swings are intense they could affect your daily routine. It could feel like you are on an emotional rollercoaster. Frequent and severe mood swings can be a sign of a mental health problem.
Mood swings occur when you suddenly go from feeling happy, upbeat or optimistic to feeling sad or angry within a short time. These changes can be triggered by a variety of causes such as blood sugar peaks and valleys, sleep disturbances, stress and weather conditions. Certain drugs and substances can also cause mood changes.
Most people have occasional mood fluctuations However, if you experience frequent and severe mood swings, it might be time to speak with your doctor. Depending on the reason for your symptoms, you may be able to manage them with a variety options, including treatment, medication, or lifestyle modifications.
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a typical mood swing that is common in women between 1 and 2 weeks prior to their period. These symptoms can include fatigue and changes in appetite. They can also trigger constipation, depression and other discomforts. Keep a detailed diary to track your mood changes. This will make you feel more confident taking them to your doctor and provide some validation for the way you're feeling.
Altering your diet and getting more rest can help reduce mood swings. If you're taking medication that triggers these symptoms, adjusting your dose or trying a different drug might help alleviate your symptoms. The mood swings could be a sign of a range of medical and psychological disorders, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression and bipolar disorder.
4. Impulsivity
It is the tendency to act quickly and without thinking about the consequences. A persistent pattern of problems with impulse control may be a sign that you have ADD or other issues. An individual who is impulsive might struggle to save money, spending more than they could afford, or disclose personal information to others without considering the consequences. They may also struggle when it comes to activities which require careful planning, such as driving or working in law enforcement.
An impulsive streak is natural in children and teens, but it's not uncommon for adults to suffer from this issue too. It is essential to seek medical attention if having trouble with your work or relationships due to your impulsive actions.
There are many causes of the impulsive behavior, such as the brain structure, genetics, chemical imbalances, as well environmental conditions. A history of emotional distress or trauma can trigger impulsive behavior, as can having a family member that suffers from a mental health disorder. Certain medications can increase the impulsiveness of a person like antidepressants and stimulant drugs.
It's also important to differentiate the impulsive behavior from compulsive ones that are routine and ritualistic. For instance, checking whether the oven is on or off is a compulsive behavior and buying something at the whim of a is an impulsive act. Impulsiveness is a common female ADD symptom, particularly in girls who are the period of puberty, PMS and menopause when estrogen levels drop. A lack of interest in conversations or unable to finish tasks like laundry are also indications of ADD in women. In certain cases, women's impulsiveness or inattention can cause them to be mistakenly diagnosed as having depression or bipolar disorder. This disorder can be treated with the appropriate medication.
5. Anxiety
It's normal to feel nervous or anxious from time to occasion, like when you're preparing for a public speaking event or test. If these feelings become frequent and intense, cause problems with daily activities and last longer than what's reasonable, you may have an anxiety disorder. You might also experience physical symptoms, such as a pounding heartbeat or the feeling that you're choked or having a heart attack.
Women suffering from ADD are particularly susceptible to the emotional ups-and-downs that come with anxiety. They are often easily annoyed and can be extremely sensitive to minor irritations. For instance, a tiny error or being put on hold for long periods of time can make these women very angry. They may flee, avoid the problem or even abandon the project altogether.
Anxiety is the natural response to threat or danger and is designed to prepare your body and mind to fight. However, when it becomes overwhelming individuals can be afflicted and incapable of functioning normally.
Treatment options for anxiety disorders include therapy and medication. The type of therapy depends on the root cause, however both cognitive and behavioral methods can assist you in controlling your anxiety and feelings.
To reduce your anxiety, eat a balanced diet and sleep enough. Avoid caffeine and stimulants that can cause mood swings. Exercise, especially intense aerobic exercise, triggers brain chemicals that cut stress. Join a support group or contact friends in person or on the phone. Being around others can help reduce anxiety and help to alleviate loneliness. A therapist can teach you methods to relax, such as guided images or gradual exposure to uncomfortable scenarios.