Identifying Female ADD Symptoms
Women who suffer from ADD often experience depression. This can lead to misdiagnosis. Women with ADD also are more likely to be frustrated by waiting, for example, when standing in line or waiting for customer service.
ADD symptoms in females can fluctuate with hormonal fluctuations during menstrual cycles, puberty and in perimenopause and menopause. They may also be concealed by estrogen, and could be less noticeable in younger girls.
1. Inattentiveness
Women who have inattention ADD are often troubled by their difficulty staying focused on their tasks and are easily distracted by external or internal stimuli. Inattention ADD symptoms can also be characterized by difficulties with time management and an inability to follow through on instructions. Women with ADD have a higher risk of developing depression than women without the disorder. However both disorders 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 identify, as their symptoms are less obvious. They may not be able to finish their homework or schoolwork, and they might miss important lectures in class. They might also not pay attention during meetings at work. These adults could be unable to find a job or keeping a current one.
Inattentional ADD is more prevalent in women and girls in contrast to the hyperactive ADD that is more prevalent in boys and men. The girls and women with it may be misdiagnosed as having anxiety or depression when they reach puberty, or when they experience mood swings that are associated with PMS or perimenopause. This is because doctors search for the more overt behavioral traits of ADD in boys, but don't identify them in girls and women, especially during these times.
Women who have inattention ADD are more likely to be frustrated by their inability to focus, which can result in anger or frustration. They are also more likely to feel anger and may behave in ways that could damage their relationships. If someone interrupts her when she is working for instance she could scream out of the room. Inability to remain focused on a task could result in her making careless mistakes that she regrets later.
3. Mood Swings
Life is full of fluctuations and ups. But if your mood shifts are severe, they could affect your daily routine and make you feel like you're on an emotional roller coaster. The frequent and extreme mood swings can indicate an underlying mental health condition that requires treatment.
Mood swings occur when you suddenly switch from feeling happy, upbeat or optimistic to feeling down or angry in just a few minutes. These mood swings can be caused by a variety of causes, including blood sugar peaks and valleys sleep disturbances, stress, and weather conditions. The mood changes could also be a consequence of certain medications and substances.
If you experience frequent and intense mood changes, it's time to consult your doctor. Depending on the reason for your symptoms, you can manage them with a variety treatments, such as medication, therapy or lifestyle modifications.
Women often experience mood shifts between 1 and 2 weeks prior to their period, as part of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). These symptoms include fatigue as well as changes in appetite. They can also cause anxiety, bloating, depression and other discomforts. If you notice that your mood swings are more intense during this time keep a detailed record to determine if you are able to trace them back to the source. This will make you feel more confident about taking them to your doctor and can help you understand your current state of mind.
Changing your diet and getting more rest can help decrease mood swings. If you're taking medication that is causing these symptoms, adjusting your dose or trying another drug may help ease your symptoms. Mood shifts can be a sign of a range 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 and without considering the consequences. While some of the impulsive behavior is normal, a persistent pattern of issues with impulse control can be an indication of ADD or another condition. An individual who is impulsive could struggle to save money, spending more than they can afford, or divulge personal information to others without considering the consequences. They may also struggle doing things that require planning such as driving or working in law enforcement.
It's not uncommon for teenagers and children to be impulsive. However, it's not unusual for adults too. It's important to seek medical attention if you are struggling with your work or relationships due to your impulsive actions.
There are many causes of impulsive behavior, including genetics, brain structure and chemical imbalances, as well environmental conditions. An emotional stress history or trauma can trigger the impulsive behavior, and so can having a family member who suffers from a mental illness. Certain medications, such as stimulant drugs and antidepressants, can also boost the impulsiveness of a person.
It's important to distinguish the difference between compulsive and impulsive behavior, which is routine and ritualistic. Compulsive behavior, like checking the oven frequently, are compulsive, while impulse-driven behaviors, like buying something on impulse are impulsive. Impulsiveness is a typical female ADD symptom, particularly during the period of puberty, PMS and menopause when estrogen levels drop. A lack of interest in conversations or unable to finish chores like washing laundry are also symptoms of ADD in women. In some cases, a woman's impulsiveness and inattention can lead to being misdiagnosed with bipolar disorder or depression, which can 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 public speaking event. If the feelings are severe and constant, and disrupt your daily routine, and last for longer than you'd expect it's possible you have an anxiety disorder. You may also experience physical symptoms, such as an intense pulse or the sensation of choking or having a heart attack.
Women suffering from ADD are more susceptible to the emotional ups-and-downs that come with anxiety. They are often easily annoyed and become extremely sensitive to minor irritations. These women can become very angry at a minor mistake or being on hold for a long period of time. They could flee or avoid the issue, or abandon the task completely.
Anxiety is a natural reaction to danger or threat, and it's designed to prepare your body and mind to defend yourself. When anxiety is a major factor, it can make people debilitated.
Treatment options for anxiety disorders include therapy and medication. The kind of therapy you receive is contingent on the cause. However, both cognitive and behavioral strategies can help you control your worries and emotions.
To lessen anxiety, eat well and sleep enough. Avoid caffeine and other stimulants which can cause mood swings. Exercise, especially aerobic exercise at a brisk pace, helps release brain chemicals which reduce stress. Join Home Page , or reach out to friends in person or via the phone. Being with others can alleviate isolation and reduce anxiety. A therapist can help you learn methods to relax through guided imagery or gradual exposure to uncomfortable situations.