Identifying Female ADD Symptoms
Women who suffer from ADD often suffer from depression. This can lead to mistaken diagnosis. Women who suffer from ADD also are more likely to be unhappy when waiting, such as while standing in line or waiting to get customer service.
ADD symptoms in females may vary with hormone fluctuations during menstrual cycles, puberty, as well as during menopausal perimenopausal transitions and men. They can be concealed or worsened by estrogen and are less noticeable in younger girls.
1. Inattentiveness
Women who have inattention ADD are often troubled by their inability to stay focused on tasks and are easily distracted by external or internal stimuli. Inattentive ADD can also cause issues with time management and a lack of ability to follow the instructions. Women who suffer from ADD are also more likely to develop depression than those who don't have the disorder, but 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 recognize, since their symptoms are less obvious. They may have trouble finishing homework or schoolwork and might not attend important classes and are unable to pay attention in meetings at work. Adults with disabilities may also have a difficult time finding a job or keeping a current one.
Inattentional ADD is more prevalent in women and girls as compared to the hyperactive ADD that is more prevalent in men and boys. In many cases, women and girls are not diagnosed with depression or anxiety as they go through puberty or experience the mood swings that accompany PMS and perimenopausal. Doctors tend to look for more obvious behavior-related signs of ADD in males and not recognize the symptoms in females or girls, especially during this time.
Women with inattentive ADD are more likely to be dissatisfied with their lack of concentration, which could result in anger or frustration. They may also be more likely to dwell on their anger and behave in ways that could hurt their relationships. For example, if someone interrupts her while she is trying to finish a task, she might storm off and quit the room. Her inability stay focused could result in her making mistakes that she regrets later.
3. Mood Swings
Life is full of ups and downs. If your mood swings are severe and affecting your daily routine. You may feel like you're riding an emotional rollercoaster. The frequent and extreme mood swings can be a sign of an underlying mental health issue that requires treatment.
Mood swings happen when you suddenly go from feeling cheerful, upbeat or optimistic to feeling sad or angry within a short time. These mood swings can be caused by a variety of factors 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 swings However, if you experience frequent and extreme mood swings, it may be time to talk to your doctor. Depending on the reason for your symptoms, you can treat them with a variety of treatments, including medication, therapy or lifestyle adjustments.
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a frequent mood swing that occurs in women between 1 and 2 weeks before their period. These symptoms include fatigue and changes in appetite. adult adhd symptoms can also trigger constipation, depression and other discomforts. If you notice that your mood changes are more intense during this period keep a detailed record to see if it is possible to track them to their source. This will help you feel more confident in taking them to your doctor. It will also give you some confirmation of your current state of mind.
Changing your diet and getting more rest can help reduce mood swings. If you're taking medication that causes these symptoms, adjusting your dose or trying a different drug may ease the symptoms. Mood shifts can be a sign of a range of medical and psychological disorders, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), bipolar disorder and depression.
4. Impulsivity
The tendency to act rapidly and without considering the consequences. While some impulsive behavior is normal, a persistent pattern of issues with impulse control can be a sign of ADD or another condition. For instance, a person who is impulsive might have trouble saving money, spending more than they can afford to or reveal personal information without considering the implications. They might also have difficulty in activities that require planning, like driving or working in the field of law enforcement.
It's not uncommon for teenagers and children to be impulsive, but it's not uncommon for adults as well. If you're experiencing problems with your work or relationships due to your impulsive behavior it's important that you seek medical attention.
There are a variety of causes for the impulsive behavior, such as the brain structure, genetics, chemical imbalances, as well as environmental conditions. A background of emotional trauma or distress can trigger the impulsive behavior, as could an individual in the family with mental disorders. Certain medications can also contribute to the impulsiveness of a person, such as antidepressants and stimulant drugs.
It's also important to differentiate between impulsive and compulsive behaviors that are repetitive and ritualistic. Compulsive behaviors, such as checking the oven frequently, are compulsive, while impulsive behaviors, such as buying something on impulse, are an impulsive. The tendency to be impulsive is a common female ADD sign, especially in girls during puberty, PMS, and during menopausal periods when estrogen levels decrease. Being withdrawn during conversations or unable to finish chores like washing laundry are also indications of ADD in women. In some instances the woman's impulsiveness or inattention could lead to being misdiagnosed as having bipolar disorder or depression which may be treated with the correct medication.
5. Anxiety
It's perfectly normal to be anxious and worried at times, like when you're preparing for an exam or public speaking engagement. However, if these feelings are frequent and intense, cause problems with your daily activities and last longer than reasonable, you may have an anxiety disorder. You may also feel physical symptoms, such as a pounding heart or the feeling of choking or having a heart attack.
Women with ADD are especially susceptible to the emotional ups and downs that are associated with anxiety. They are often easily annoyed and become extremely sensitive to minor annoyances. These women can become very angry at a minor mistake or being in a queue for a long period of time. They could flee, avoid a problem or even stop the work.
Anxiety is a natural reaction to threat or danger that is designed to prepare the body and mind for battle. However, when it becomes overwhelming individuals can be afflicted and unable to function normally.
There are a myriad of treatments for anxiety disorders, including therapy and medication. The type of therapy you receive depends on the root cause. However both behavioral and cognitive methods can help you manage your worries and emotions.
To lessen anxiety, eat healthy and get enough sleep. Avoid caffeine and other stimulants, that can trigger mood swings. Exercise, particularly aerobic exercise done at a rapid pace, releases brain chemicals that reduce stress. Join a support group or reach out to friends in person or on the phone. Being around others can help decrease anxiety and reduce loneliness. A therapist can show you techniques to calm down, such as guided images or gradual exposure to uncomfortable scenarios.