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 become frustrated while waiting, whether in line for customer service or while standing on hold.
ADD symptoms in females can fluctuate with hormonal fluctuations during menstrual cycles, puberty and in perimenopause and menopause. They can be concealed or exacerbated by estrogen and are less apparent in younger girls.
1. Inattentiveness
Women with inattention ADD are often plagued by their inability to stay focused on their tasks and are easily distracted by external or internal stimuli. Inattentional ADD can also cause issues with time management and an inability of following the directions given to them. Women with ADD have a higher risk of developing depression than women who do not suffer from the disorder. However, the two disorders can coexist.
As opposed to children with hyperactive ADD adults who suffer from the non-hyperactive subtype 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 miss important class lectures, 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.
Attention-deficit ADD is more prevalent in women and girls than boys. These girls and women can be misdiagnosed as having anxiety or depression when they reach puberty or when they experience mood swings linked with PMS or perimenopausal. Doctors are more likely to look for more explicit behaviors that are indicative of ADD in males and not be able to recognize the symptoms in females or girls, especially during this time.
Women who are inattentional ADD are more likely to become frustrated with their lack of concentration, which could lead to anger or frustration. These women may also be more likely to internalize their anger, and express it in ways that could hurt their relationships. For example, if someone interrupts her while she is trying to complete an assignment, she could quit and leave the room. The inability to focus could result in her making mistakes she regrets later.
3. Mood Swings
Life is full of changes and ups. If your mood swings are intense, it can affect your daily activities. You may feel like you're on an emotional rollercoaster. Extremely frequent and extreme mood swings can be a sign of a mental health condition.
Mood swings occur when you suddenly shift from feeling cheerful or happy to sad or angry in a short period of time. These mood swings can be caused by a variety of factors like blood sugar peaks and valleys, sleep disturbances, stress and weather conditions. Certain medications and substances can also cause mood changes.
If you are experiencing frequent and extreme mood swings you should consult your doctor. According to the reason, a variety of treatments can aid in managing your symptoms, including psychotherapy, medication, or other lifestyle treatments.
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is a common mood swing that can be experienced by women between 1 and two weeks prior to their period. These symptoms include fatigue and changes in appetite. They can also cause constipation, depression and other discomforts. If you notice that your mood fluctuations are more severe during this time, keep a detailed log to see if it is possible to trace them back to the source. This will make you feel more confident in bringing them up to your doctor. It will also give you some confirmation of how you're feeling.
Making changes to your diet and getting more sleep can reduce the frequency of mood swings. If you're taking a medication that causes these symptoms, altering your dosage or trying a different one might help alleviate your symptoms. Mood swings are an indication of a variety of medical and psychological disorders, such as attention deficit hyperactivity (ADHD), bipolar disorder and depression.
4. Impulsivity
The tendency to make rash decisions and act without thinking about the consequences. A persistent pattern of problems with impulse control may be a sign that you have ADD or other conditions. An individual who is impulsive could struggle to save money, spending more than they can afford, or reveal personal information to other people without considering the consequences. They may also have trouble with activities that require planning like driving or working in law enforcement.
It's common for teenagers and children to be impulsive, however it's not uncommon for adults as well. It is essential to seek medical attention if you are struggling with your work or relationships due to the impulsiveness of your actions.
There are a variety of causes for impulsive behavior, including genetics, brain structure and chemical imbalances, as well environmental conditions. A background of trauma or emotional distress can trigger the impulsive behavior, as could a family member with mental disorders. Certain medications can increase the impulsiveness of a person like antidepressants and stimulant drugs.
It's also important to distinguish the impulsive behavior from compulsive ones that are repetitive and ritualistic. Compulsive behaviors, such as checking the oven repeatedly are compulsive. On adults with adhd symptoms , impulse-driven behaviors, like buying something on impulse, are impulsive. Impulsiveness is a common female ADD sign, especially during puberty, PMS, and during menopausal periods when estrogen levels decrease. A lack of interest in conversations or unable to finish chores like washing laundry are also indications of ADD in women. In some cases the woman's impulsiveness or inattention may result in her being misdiagnosed with bipolar disorder or depression which may be treated with the appropriate medication.
5. Anxiety
It's perfectly normal to feel anxious and nervous at times, such as when you're preparing for an exam or speaking engagement. If the feelings are severe and frequent, and affect your daily activities, and last for longer than you think is appropriate it could be a sign of an anxiety disorder. You might also experience physical symptoms such as an intense pulse or the feeling of choking or a heart attack.
Women who suffer from ADD are particularly susceptible to the emotional fluctuations that come with anxiety. They can be easily frustrated and are overly sensitive to minor irritations. They can be extremely upset over a tiny mistake or being in a queue for a long period of time. They may flee or avoid the issue, or abandon the task altogether.
Anxiety is a natural reaction to threat or danger that is designed to prepare the body and mind to fight. However, when it becomes overwhelming the body, people can become weak and incapable of functioning normally.
There are many treatment options for anxiety disorders, including therapy and medication. The type of therapy you receive depends on the underlying cause. However, both cognitive and behavioral methods can help you manage your anxiety and worry.
Get enough rest and eat healthy to decrease anxiety. Avoid stimulants and caffeine that can trigger mood swings. Exercise, especially aerobic exercise at a brisk pace, helps release brain chemicals which reduce stress. Join a support group, or connect with friends in person or via the phone. Being with others can reduce anxiety and help to alleviate loneliness. A therapist can help you learn methods to relax through guided imagery or gradual exposure to uncomfortable scenarios.