A Productive Rant About Female ADD Symptoms
Identifying Female ADD Symptoms
Women suffering from ADD frequently experience depression. This can lead to incorrect diagnosis. Women with ADD are also more likely to be unhappy when waiting, such as while standing in line or on hold for customer service.
ADD symptoms in females may change with the fluctuation of hormones during puberty, menstrual cycles and in perimenopause and menopause. They can be masked or exacerbated by estrogen and are less noticeable in younger girls.
1. Inattentiveness
Women who suffer from inattention ADD frequently have trouble staying focused on their tasks and are easily distracted by internal or external stimuli. Inattention ADD symptoms can also be characterized by difficulties with time management and the inability to follow through on instructions. Women who suffer from ADD have a higher chance of developing depression than those who do not suffer from the disorder. However the two disorders may coexist.
Unlike children with hyperactive ADD adults with the non-hyperactive subtype of ADD tend to be more difficult for parents and teachers to recognize, since 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. Adults with disabilities may be unable to find a job or keeping a current one.
Inattentional ADD is more prevalent in girls and women, as opposed to the hyperactive ADD that is more prevalent in males and boys. The girls and women with it are often misdiagnosed with anxiety or depression when they reach puberty, or if they experience mood swings associated with PMS or perimenopausal. This is because doctors look for the more overt behavioral characteristics of ADD in boys and don't recognize them in girls and women, especially during these times.
Women who have inattention ADD are more likely to be dissatisfied by their inability to concentration, which could lead to anger or frustration. These women can also be more likely to feel anger and may behave in ways that can harm their relationships. If someone interrupts her when she is working on a project for instance she might scream out of the room. symptoms of add in adults to stay focused on a task could result in her making careless mistakes that she later regrets.
3. Mood Swings
Life is full of ups and downs. If your mood swings are extreme, it can affect your daily routine. It could feel like you're on an emotional rollercoaster. Frequent and severe mood swings can be an indication of a mental health problem.
Mood swings are when you suddenly go from feeling cheerful, upbeat or positive to feeling depressed or angry in an hour. These changes can be triggered by a variety of factors like diet, blood sugar peaks and valleys, sleep disturbances, stress, and weather conditions. Certain medications and substances may also cause mood changes.
Many people experience occasional mood changes however if you experience frequent and extreme mood swings, it may be time to speak with your doctor. Depending on the reason for your symptoms, you may be able to treat them with a variety of treatments, such as therapies, medication or lifestyle adjustments.
Women often experience mood shifts between 1 and 2 weeks prior to 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. If you notice that your mood swings are more intense during this time, keep a detailed log to determine if you are able to trace them back to the source. This will help you feel more comfortable opening questions to your doctor, and it can also provide some validation of how you are feeling.
Altering your diet and getting more rest can reduce the frequency of mood swings. If you're taking medication that causes these symptoms, changing your dosage or trying a different medication may reduce the symptoms. Mood shifts can be a sign of a variety of medical and psychological disorders, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression and bipolar disorder.
4. Impulsivity
The term "impulsivity" refers to the tendency to make quick decisions and act without thinking about the consequences. A pattern of constant issues with impulse control could be an indication of ADD or other conditions. A person who is impulsive could struggle to save money, or spending more than they could afford, or disclose personal information to other people without considering the consequences. They might also have difficulty in activities that require planning, like driving or working in the field of law enforcement.
An impulsive streak is normal in children and teens However, it's not uncommon for adults to suffer from this symptom too. It is important to seek medical attention if you are having trouble with your work or relationships due to your impulsive actions.
There are a variety of causes for impulsive behavior, including the brain structure, genetics, chemical imbalances, as well environmental factors. A history of emotional distress or trauma can trigger an impulsive behaviour, as could having a family member who suffers from a mental health issue. Certain medications, like antidepressants and stimulant drugs, can also boost the impulsiveness of a person.
It's also important to distinguish the impulsive behavior from compulsive ones, which are repetitive and ritualistic. Compulsive behavior, like checking the oven repeatedly, are compulsive, while impulse-driven behaviors, like purchasing something on impulse, are impulse-driven. The tendency to be impulsive is a common female ADD symptoms, particularly in girls during puberty, PMS, and during menopausal periods when estrogen levels decrease. Being withdrawn during conversations or having trouble finishing chores like washing laundry are also symptoms of ADD in women. In some cases, a woman's impulsiveness and inattention may result in her being misdiagnosed with bipolar disorder or depression which can be treated with the right medication.
5. Anxiety
It's perfectly normal to feel nervous and worried at times, for example when you're preparing for an exam or speaking engagement. But if these feelings are frequently and severe, interfere with your daily routine and last longer than normal, you could be suffering from an anxiety disorder. You may also feel physical symptoms such as a pounding heart or the sensation of choking, or even a heart attack.
Women with ADD are more prone to the emotional turmoil and downs associated with anxiety. They can get easily frustrated and irritable to minor annoyances. For instance, a tiny mistake or being placed on hold for long periods of time can cause these women to become extremely angry. They could flee, avoid a problem or even abandon the task.
Anxiety is a natural response to danger or threat and is a reaction designed to prepare the body and mind for battle. When anxiety becomes a problem it can leave people weak and weakened.
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 cognitive and behavioral methods can help you manage your anxiety and worry.
Get enough rest and eat healthy to reduce anxiety. Avoid stimulants and caffeine that can trigger mood swings. Exercise, specifically intense aerobic exercise, triggers brain chemicals that cut stress. Join a support group or contact friends in person or over the phone. Being in the company of other people can reduce loneliness and ease anxiety. A therapist can show you ways to relax by using guided imagery or gradual exposure to stressful situations.