Identifying Female ADD Symptoms
Women who suffer from ADD often experience depression. This can lead to a mistaken diagnosis. Women who suffer from ADD are also more likely to get frustrated when waiting, whether waiting in line to get customer service or waiting on hold.
ADD symptoms can change with hormonal fluctuations in females during puberty, the menstrual cycle, and menopausal or perimenopausal changes. They can be concealed or exacerbated by estrogen, and are less apparent in younger girls.
1. Inattentiveness
Women who suffer from inattention ADD are often troubled by their inability to stay focused on their work and are easily distracted by internal or external stimuli. Inattentive ADD symptoms also include trouble with time management and an inability to follow instructions. Women who suffer from ADD are more at risk of developing depression than those who are not affected by the disorder. However both disorders can coexist.
In contrast to children with hyperactive ADD adults with the non-hyperactive subtype of ADD tend to be more difficult for teachers and parents to recognize, since their symptoms are more subtle. They might not be able complete their homework or schoolwork and may be absent from important lectures in classes. They also may not be attentive when they attend meetings at work. Adults with disabilities may also have a difficult time finding jobs or keeping their current one.
Inattentive ADD is more common for women and girls, in contrast to the hyperactive ADD which is more common in men and boys. These girls and women are often misdiagnosed with anxiety or depression when they reach puberty, or when they experience mood swings associated with PMS or perimenopause. This is because doctors search for the more overt behavioral traits of ADD in boys but fail to recognize them in girls and women, particularly during these phases.
Women who are inattentive ADD might be annoyed by their inability to focus. This can result in anger and frustration. They are also more likely to dwell on their frustration and may act out in ways that can harm their relationships. For instance, if someone interferes with her while she is trying to finish the task, she may quit and quit the room. The inability to focus on a task could cause her to make careless mistakes that she later regrets.
3. Mood Swings
Ups and downs are a natural part of life. If your mood swings are severe, it can affect your daily activities. You might feel as if you're riding an emotional rollercoaster. Frequent and severe mood changes can indicate an underlying mental health issue that requires treatment.
Mood swings are the time when you suddenly shift from feeling cheerful, upbeat or optimistic to feeling sad or angry within an hour. These changes could be caused by a myriad of factors, including diet and blood sugar fluctuations, sleep disturbances and stress. Certain drugs and substances can cause mood changes.
If you experience frequent and intense mood changes, it's time to consult your physician. Based on the root of your symptoms, you may be able to manage them with a variety treatments, such as therapies, medication or lifestyle changes.
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is a typical mood swing that occurs in women 1 to two weeks prior to their period. These symptoms can include fatigue and changes in appetite. They can also cause constipation, depression, and other discomforts. If you notice that your mood changes are more intense during this period you should keep a detailed journal to determine if you are able to identify the cause. This will make you feel more comfortable bringing questions to your doctor, and it can also provide some validation of how you're feeling.
Change your diet, getting more sleep, exercising and using relaxation techniques can all help to reduce mood swings. If you're taking a medication that triggers these symptoms, changing your dosage or experimenting with a different medication might help alleviate the symptoms. The mood swings could be a symptom of a range of medical and psychological disorders, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and depression and bipolar disorder.
4. Impulsivity
The tendency to act quickly without considering the consequences. An ongoing pattern of problems with impulse control may be an indication of ADD or other disorders. For instance, someone who is impulsive may have difficulty saving money, spending more than they are able to, or disclose personal information without considering the consequences. They may also struggle in activities that require planning, like driving or working in the field of law enforcement.
It's common for children and teens to be impulsive. However, it's not unusual for adults too. iampsychiatry is important to seek medical attention if you're struggling with your work or relationships due to an impulsive behavior.
Numerous factors can cause an impulsive behaviour. This includes genetics, brain structure as well as chemical imbalances and environmental conditions. A history of emotional or physical trauma can be a contributing factor to impulsive behaviors, as can a family member with a mental disorder. Certain medications can increase a person's impulsiveness, such as antidepressants and stimulant drugs.
It is crucial to differentiate between from compulsive and impulsive behaviors, which is routine and ritualistic. Compulsive behavior, like checking the oven repeatedly are compulsive. On the other hand, impulsive behaviors, such as buying something on impulse, are an impulsive. Impulsiveness is a typical female ADD symptom, particularly in girls who are puberty, PMS and through menopausal changes when estrogen levels decrease. A lack of interest in conversations or unable to finish chores like washing laundry are also symptoms of ADD in women. In some instances women's impulsiveness and inattention can lead them to be incorrectly diagnosed with depression or bipolar disorder. This disorder can be treated by the right medication.
5. Anxiety
It's perfectly normal to be nervous and worried at times, for example when you're preparing to take an exam or public speaking engagement. If your feelings are intense and constant, and interfere with your daily activities, and last for longer than you think is appropriate it could be a sign of an anxiety disorder. You may also feel physical symptoms such as a pounding heart or the sensation of choking or having a heart attack.
Women suffering from ADD can be particularly vulnerable to the emotional turbulences that come with anxiety. They can easily become frustrated and are extremely sensitive to minor irritations. They can be extremely angry over a small error or being held for a long period of time. They may flee and avoid the issue or abandon the task altogether.
Anxiety is a natural reaction to danger or threat, a response designed to prepare the body and mind to fight. However, when it becomes overwhelming, people can become debilitated and incapable of functioning normally.
Treatment options for anxiety disorders include medication and therapy. The type of therapy you choose depends on the cause, but both behavioral and cognitive approaches can assist you in controlling your anxiety and feelings.
Eat healthy and sleep enough to decrease anxiety. Avoid caffeine and other stimulants, that can trigger mood swings. Exercise, particularly aerobic exercise done at a rapid pace, helps release brain chemicals that decrease stress. Join a support group, or connect with friends in person or via the phone. Being around other people can alleviate isolation and reduce anxiety. A therapist can help you learn strategies to relax by using guided imagery or gradual exposure to uncomfortable scenarios.