Identifying Female ADD Symptoms
Women with ADD are usually depressed. This can lead to a misdiagnosis. Women who suffer from ADD are also more likely to get frustrated when waiting, whether waiting in line for customer service or on hold.
ADD symptoms can change with hormonal changes in females during puberty, the menstrual cycle, as well as menopausal or perimenopausal changes. They can be concealed or exacerbated by estrogen, and are less noticeable in younger girls.
1. Inattentiveness
Women with inattentive ADD frequently have trouble focusing on tasks, and are easily distracted by internal or external stimuli. Inattentive ADD can also cause issues with time management, and an inability of following 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, but both conditions can coexist.
As opposed to children with hyperactive ADD adults who suffer from the non-hyperactive form of ADD tend to be more difficult for teachers and parents to identify, as their symptoms are more subtle. They may struggle to finish homework or schoolwork, and may not attend important classes, as well as being not able to concentrate in meetings at work. These adults may also have a difficult time finding an employment or maintaining their current one.
Inattentional ADD is more prevalent for women and girls, as compared to the hyperactive ADD which is more common in men and boys. The girls and women with it may be misdiagnosed as having depression or anxiety when they reach puberty, or if they experience mood swings that are associated with PMS or perimenopause. This is because doctors look for the more overt behavioral characteristics of ADD in boys and don't recognize them in girls and women, particularly during these periods.
Women who are inattentive ADD may become frustrated with their lack of concentration. This can result in anger and frustration. They may also be more prone to internalizing their anger and may behave in ways that may harm their relationships. If someone interrupts her while she is working on a project, for example, she may storm out of the room. Her inability to stay focused on a task might even cause her to make careless mistakes later regretted.
3. Mood Swings
Ups and downs are a natural part of life. If your mood swings are severe, it can affect your daily activities. You might feel as if you're riding an emotional rollercoaster. Extremely frequent and extreme mood swings may be a sign of a mental health problem.
adhd symptoms occur when you suddenly shift from feeling cheerful or happy to feeling angry or sad within a short period of time. These changes can be triggered by a variety of causes, including diet and blood sugar fluctuations, sleep disturbances and stress. Certain medications and substances may also trigger mood changes.
Most people have occasional mood changes, but if you have frequent and extreme mood swings, it could be time to speak with your doctor. Depending on the cause of your symptoms, you can manage them with a variety treatments, such as medication, therapy or lifestyle modifications.
Women can experience mood swings up to two weeks prior to their period, as part of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). These symptoms include fatigue and changes in appetite. They can also trigger anxiety, bloating, depression, and other discomforts. Keep a journal to track your mood changes. This will make you feel more confident in making an appointment with your doctor and can provide some validation for the way you're feeling.
Making changes to your diet and getting more rest can reduce the frequency of mood swings. If you're taking a medication that causes these symptoms, changing your dosage or experimenting with a different medication might help alleviate the symptoms. The mood swings could be a sign of a variety of medical and psychological disorders, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and bipolar disorder and depression.
4. Impulsivity
Impulsivity is a tendency to act quickly without considering the consequences. While some impulsive behavior is normal, a consistent pattern of problems with impulse control may be a sign of ADD or a different condition. Someone who is impulsive might have difficulty saving money, or spending more than they can afford, or reveal personal information to others without considering the consequences. They may also have trouble with activities which require careful planning, like driving or working in law enforcement.
A certain amount of impulsivity is natural in teenagers and children, but it's not uncommon for adults to struggle with this condition too. If you're having issues with your work or relationships because of your impulsive behavior, it's essential to seek medical attention.
There are many causes of the impulsive behavior, such as the brain structure, genetics, chemical imbalances, as well as environmental factors. A history of emotional or physical trauma can also contribute to an impulsive behavior, just as a family member with a mental disorder. Certain medications can also increase a person's impulsiveness including antidepressants as well as stimulant drugs.
It is crucial to differentiate between impulsive behavior and compulsive behavior, which is routine and ritualistic. Compulsive behavior, like checking the oven frequently are compulsive. On the other hand, impulsive behaviors, such as purchasing something on impulse, are impulse-driven. Impulsiveness is a common female ADD characteristic that is prevalent particularly for girls experiencing PMS or puberty, and during menopause, when estrogen levels start to decrease. Women can also show signs of ADD by appearing distant in conversations or having difficulty completing chores like washing. In certain cases, women's impulsiveness or inattention could lead to them being misdiagnosed as having bipolar disorder or depression. This condition may be treated with the proper medication.
5. Anxiety
It's perfectly normal to feel anxious and nervous at times, such as when you are preparing for an exam or public speaking event. If these feelings are extreme and constant, and affect your daily activities, and last for longer than is reasonable it's possible you have an anxiety disorder. There are also physical symptoms, like heartbeats that are pounding or the sensation that you're choking or having a heart attack.
Women who suffer from ADD are particularly susceptible to the emotional turmoil and downs that are associated with anxiety. They can be easily frustrated and are extremely sensitive to minor irritations. They can be extremely angry over a small error or being held for a long time. They may flee and avoid the issue or even abandon the project altogether.
Anxiety is a natural response to threat or danger, and it's designed to prepare your body and mind to defend yourself. When anxiety becomes a problem it can leave people debilitated.
There are many treatments for anxiety disorders, including medication and therapy. The kind of therapy you receive is contingent on the root cause. However both behavioral and cognitive approaches can help control your worries and emotions.
Sleep well and eat a balanced diet to ease anxiety. Avoid caffeine and other stimulants that can trigger mood swings. Exercise, specifically vigorous aerobic exercise, releases brain chemicals that decrease stress. Join a support network or call or visit friends. Being with others can help reduce isolation and reduce anxiety. A therapist can show you methods to relax through guided imagery or gradual exposure to uncomfortable scenarios.