Identifying Female ADD Symptoms
Women suffering from ADD are frequently depressed. This can lead to misdiagnosis of bipolar disorder. Women who suffer from ADD also are more likely to be annoyed by waiting, for example, when standing in line or on hold for customer service.
ADD symptoms in females can change with the fluctuation of hormones during menstrual cycles, puberty and in perimenopause and menopause. They can be masked or worsened by estrogen and are less apparent in younger girls.
1. Inattentiveness
Women suffering from inattention ADD typically have difficulty staying focused on their tasks and are easily distracted by internal or external stimuli. Inattentional ADD can also cause issues with time management, and an inability of following through on instructions. Women with ADD are more at risk of developing depression than women who do not suffer from the disorder. However, the two disorders can coexist.
Unlike children with hyperactive ADD adults who suffer from the non-hyperactive type of ADD tend to be more difficult for parents and teachers to recognize, since their symptoms are less obvious. They may have trouble finishing homework or schoolwork and could miss important class lectures as well as being not able to concentrate in meetings at work. Adults who struggle may also struggle to find a job or maintain their current position.
Inattentive ADD affects more females and girls than males. Women and girls can be misdiagnosed as having anxiety or depression when they reach puberty, or if they experience mood swings linked with PMS or perimenopausal. This is because doctors look for the more obvious behavioral characteristics of ADD in boys, but don't detect them in girls or women, particularly during these periods.
Women who have inattention ADD are more likely to be frustrated due to their lack of focus, which can result in anger or frustration. They may also be more likely to internalize their anger, and express it in ways which could harm their relationships. For example, if someone interrupts her while trying to complete the task, she may storm off and quit the room. The inability to focus could cause her to make mistakes she regrets later.
3. Mood Swings
Ups and downs are a natural part of life. If your mood fluctuations are severe, they could interfere with your daily activities and make you feel like you're riding an emotional roller coaster. Extremely frequent and intense mood fluctuations can indicate an underlying mental health problem that requires treatment.
Mood swings occur when you suddenly switch from feeling cheerful or happy to angry or sad in a short period of time. These changes can be triggered by a variety of causes, including blood sugar peaks and valleys sleep disturbances, stress or weather conditions. The mood changes could also be a result of certain medications and other substances.
If you experience frequent and extreme mood swings you should consult your physician. Depending on the cause of your symptoms, you may be able to manage them using a variety of treatments, including medication, therapy or lifestyle changes.
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is a frequent mood swing that is common in women who are between 1 and 2 weeks prior to their period. These symptoms can include fatigue, changes in appetite, depression, bloating and other aches. If you notice that your mood swings are more intense during this time keep a detailed record to see if you can track them to their source. This will make you feel more comfortable bringing questions to your doctor, and it can also provide some validation of how you're feeling.
Making changes to your diet, getting more sleep, exercising and using relaxation techniques can all help to reduce mood swings. If you are taking medication that is causing these symptoms, adjusting your dosage or trying a different medication may reduce the symptoms. The mood swings could be a symptom of a range of psychological and medical disorders, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as well as depression and bipolar disorder.
4. Impulsivity
Impulsivity is the tendency to make rash decisions without taking into account the consequences. While some impulsive behavior is normal, a pattern of problems with impulse control can be an indication of ADD or a different condition. For example, a person who is impulsive could have difficulty saving money, spend more than they are able to or reveal personal information without thinking about the implications. They may also have issues with activities requiring careful planning, such as driving or working in the law enforcement field.
It's normal for teens and children to be impulsive. However, it's not unusual for adults, too. If you're having problems in your relationships or at work due to your impulsive behavior it's crucial to seek medical attention.
There are a variety of causes for the impulsive behavior, such as the brain structure, genetics, chemical imbalances, and environmental conditions. A history of emotional or physical trauma can be a contributing factor to an impulsive behavior, just as the presence of a family member suffering from mental disorders. Certain medications can also increase the impulsiveness of a person, such as antidepressants and stimulant drugs.
It is important to differentiate between from compulsive and impulsive behaviors that is a repetitive and ritualistic. Compulsive behaviors, for example, checking the oven over and over again are compulsive. On the other hand, impulsive behaviors, such as purchasing something on impulse, are impulsive. Impulsiveness is a common female ADD symptom, particularly during puberty, PMS and through menopausal changes when estrogen levels decrease. Women can also show signs of ADD by appearing distant in conversations or unable to complete tasks like washing. In some cases women's impulsiveness and inattention can cause them to be incorrectly diagnosed with bipolar disorder or depression. This condition may be treated by the right medication.
5. Anxiety
It's normal to feel anxious or worried from time to occasion, like when you're getting ready for a public speaking opportunity or test. However, if these feelings are frequent and extreme, interfere with your daily routine and last longer than what's reasonable, you may have an anxiety disorder. signs of adult add might also experience physical symptoms, such as an accelerating heartbeat or feeling like you're choking or having an attack on your heart.
Women suffering from ADD are particularly susceptible to the emotional turbulences associated with anxiety. They can get easily frustrated and irritable to minor annoyances. These women can become extremely upset over a tiny mistake or being in a queue for a long period of time. They may storm off to avoid a situation or even abandon the task.
Anxiety is a natural reaction to threat or danger and is a reaction designed to prepare the body and mind to fight. However, when it gets too much, people can become debilitated and incapable of functioning normally.
There are many treatment options for anxiety disorders, which include therapy and medication. The type of therapy you will receive is dependent on the cause. However both behavioral and cognitive approaches can help control your anxiety and worry.
To lessen anxiety, eat well and sleep enough. Avoid stimulants and caffeine that can trigger mood fluctuations. Exercise, particularly brisk aerobic exercise, triggers brain chemicals that cut stress. Join an online support group or connect with friends in person or on the phone. Being with others can reduce loneliness and decrease anxiety. A therapist can help you learn strategies to relax by using guided imagery or gradual exposure to uncomfortable scenarios.