Identifying Female ADD Symptoms
Women who suffer from ADD often experience depression. This can lead to misdiagnosis of bipolar disorder. Women with ADD also are more likely to be unhappy when waiting, such as while waiting in line or on hold for customer service.
ADD symptoms in females may change with the fluctuation of hormones during menstrual cycles, puberty, and during menopausal and perimenopausal cycles. They can be masked or exacerbated by estrogen and are less noticeable in younger girls.
1. Inattentiveness
Women with inattention ADD are often plagued by their inability to stay focused on their work and are easily distracted by external or internal stimuli. Inattentional ADD can also cause problems with time management, and the inability to follow the directions given to them. Women with ADD are also more likely to be depressed than those without the disorder, though the two conditions can coexist.
Teachers and parents may be unable to recognize adults suffering from non-hyperactive ADD than children with hyperactive ADD because their symptoms are more subtle. They may not be able complete their schoolwork or homework, and they might miss important lectures in classes. They might also not be attentive when they attend meetings at work. These adults may also struggle to find work or maintain their current position.
Inattentive ADD is more common for women and girls, as compared to the hyperactive ADD that is more prevalent in males and boys. In many cases, women and girls are misdiagnosed with depression or anxiety as they reach puberty or suffer mood swings that are associated with PMS and perimenopause. Doctors are more likely to look for more explicit behavioral characteristics of ADD in males, and do not recognize these in girls or females particularly during this time.
Women with inattention ADD can be frustrated by their lack of concentration. This can result in anger and frustration. These women can also be more likely to feel anger and can behave in ways that may harm their relationships. For symptoms of add in adults , if someone interrupts her while she is trying to finish the task, she may storm off and leave the room. Inability to stay focused may result in her making mistakes that she regrets later.
3. Mood Swings
Ups and downs are a natural part of life. However, if your mood swings are extreme, they may interfere with your daily activities and cause you to feel like you're riding an emotional rollercoaster. Extremely frequent and extreme mood swings can be an indication of a mental health issue.
Mood swings occur when you suddenly switch from feeling upbeat or happy to feeling angry or sad within just a few minutes. These changes could be caused by a variety of causes, including diet and blood sugar fluctuations, sleep disturbances, and stress. Certain medications and substances may cause mood changes.
Many people experience occasional mood fluctuations, but if you have frequent and extreme mood swings, it could be time to speak with your doctor. Based on the reason various treatments can aid in managing your symptoms, including psychotherapy, medication or other treatments for lifestyle.
Women can experience mood swings 1 to 2 weeks before their periods as part of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). These symptoms can include fatigue and changes in appetite. They can also cause depression, bloating, and other discomforts. Keep a journal to track your mood changes. This will make you feel more comfortable bringing up your concerns with your doctor. It can also provide some validation of how you feel.
Changing your diet and getting more sleep can reduce the frequency of mood swings. If you're taking a medication that causes these symptoms, adjusting your dose or trying a different drug may ease your symptoms. The fluctuation in mood can be the result of a variety of medical and psychological disorders like attention deficit hyperactivity (ADHD), bipolar disorder and depression.
4. Impulsivity
Impulsivity is a tendency to act rapidly and without thinking about the consequences. While some impulsive behaviors are normal, a persistent pattern of issues with impulse control could be a sign of ADD or another condition. Someone who is impulsive may be unable to save money, spend more money than they can afford, or reveal personal information to others without thinking about the consequences. They may also have trouble when it comes to activities that require careful planning, such as driving or working in law enforcement.
An impulsive streak is normal in teens and children, but it's not uncommon for adults to struggle with this condition too. If you're having issues in your relationships or at work due to impulsive behavior, it's important that you seek medical assistance.
There are many reasons for impulsive behavior, including the brain structure, genetics, chemical imbalances, as well environmental conditions. A history of emotional distress or trauma can trigger an impulsive behaviour, as could having a family member who suffers from a mental health disorder. Certain medications can also contribute to the person's impulsiveness like antidepressants and stimulant drugs.
It is important to differentiate between impulsive behavior and compulsive behavior, which is repetitive and ritualistic. For example, checking whether the oven is turned off frequently is a compulsive behavior, while buying something on a whim is an impulsive act. Impulsiveness is a common female ADD symptoms, particularly during puberty, PMS, and during menopause when estrogen levels drop. Women may also exhibit symptoms of ADD by appearing distant during conversations or having difficulty completing tasks like washing. In some instances, women's impulsiveness or inattention could lead to them being incorrectly diagnosed with depression or bipolar disorder. This disorder can be treated with the proper medication.
5. Anxiety
It's normal to feel anxious and nervous at times, for example when you're preparing to take an exam or speaking engagement. If the feelings are severe and constant, and interfere with your daily activities, and last for longer than you'd expect, you could have an anxiety disorder. You might also experience physical symptoms such as a pounding pulse or the feeling of choking or having a heart attack.
Women suffering from ADD are particularly susceptible to the emotional turmoil and downs that are associated with anxiety. They can be easily frustrated and can be extremely sensitive to minor irritations. For example, a small mistake or being placed on hold for long periods of time could make these women very angry. They may flee, avoid the problem or even drop the task completely.
Anxiety is a natural reaction to threat or danger, a response 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 variety of treatments for anxiety disorders, which include therapy and medication. The type of therapy depends on the root cause, however both behavioral and cognitive approaches can aid you in reducing your worries and emotions.
To lessen anxiety, eat well and get enough rest. Avoid caffeine and other stimulants which can cause mood swings. Exercise, especially intense aerobic exercise, triggers brain chemicals that cut stress. Join a support group, or connect with friends in person or over the phone. Being with other people can reduce anxiety and ease loneliness. A therapist can teach you techniques to calm down through guided imagery or gradual exposure to uncomfortable scenarios.