Identifying adult female adhd symptoms with ADD are frequently depressed. This can lead to incorrect diagnosis. Women who suffer from ADD also are more likely to be frustrated by waiting for long periods of time, such as 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 during menopausal and perimenopausal cycles. They can be concealed or exacerbated by estrogen and are less noticeable in younger girls.
1. Inattentiveness
Women suffering from inattentive ADD typically have difficulty focus on tasks, and are easily distracted by external or internal stimuli. Inattention ADD symptoms also include trouble with managing time and a failure to follow instructions. Women who suffer from ADD are also more likely to develop depression than those who do not suffer from the disorder, but both conditions can coexist.
Parents and teachers might find it more difficult to identify adults with non-hyperactive ADD than children with hyperactive ADD because their symptoms tend to be less obvious. They may struggle to finish homework or schoolwork, and may be absent from important lectures as well as being unable to pay attention in meetings at work. Adults may also be struggling to find a job or maintain their current position.
Attention-deficit ADD affects more females and girls than males. A lot of times, these women and girls are misdiagnosed with depression or anxiety as they reach puberty or suffer the mood swings that accompany PMS and perimenopausal. Doctors tend to look for more overt behaviors that are indicative of ADD in males, and do not be able to recognize them in females or girls especially during this period.
Women with inattention ADD may become frustrated with their lack of focus. This can result in anger and frustration. These women may also be more likely to feel frustration, and act out in ways that could hurt their relationships. For instance, if someone interrupts her while trying to finish an assignment, she could get angry and quit the room. Inability to stay focused may cause her to make careless errors that she regrets later.
3. Mood Swings
Ups and downs are a normal part of life. If your mood swings are extreme and affecting your daily activities. You might feel as if you're on an emotional rollercoaster. The frequent and extreme mood swings could be an indication of an underlying mental health issue that requires treatment.
Mood swings occur when you suddenly change from feeling happy or upbeat to feeling angry or sad within just a few minutes. These changes could be caused by a variety of factors that include diet, blood sugar fluctuations, sleep disturbances, and stress. Changes in mood can also be a result of certain medications and substances.
Many people experience occasional mood swings However, if you experience frequent and extreme mood swings, it could be time to consult your doctor. Based on the root of your symptoms, you may be able to treat them with a variety of treatments, such as therapies, medication or lifestyle modifications.
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a typical mood swing that is common in women 1 to 2 weeks prior to their period. These symptoms include fatigue as well as changes in appetite. They can also cause depression, bloating, and other discomforts. Keep a detailed journal to track your mood changes. This will make you feel more confident about taking them to your doctor and can provide some validation for the way you're feeling.
Making changes to your diet and getting more rest can help reduce mood swings. If you are taking medications that cause these symptoms, changing your dose or trying another drug may help ease your symptoms. The fluctuation in mood can be an indication of a variety of mental and medical disorders including attention deficit hyperactivity (ADHD), bipolar disorder and depression.
4. Impulsivity
Impulsivity is the tendency to make quick decisions and act without thinking about the consequences. A pattern of constant issues with impulse control could be a sign that you have ADD or other issues. For example, a person who is impulsive could have difficulty saving money, spending more than they are able to or reveal personal information without considering the impact. They may also struggle with activities requiring careful planning, such as driving or working in the law enforcement field.
It's not uncommon for teenagers and children to be impulsive, but it is not uncommon for adults, too. It is important to seek medical attention if you're struggling with your work or relationships due to the impulsiveness of your actions.
There are many causes of the impulsive behavior, such as genetics, brain structure and chemical imbalances, as well as environmental factors. An emotional stress history or trauma can contribute to an impulsive behaviour, as could having a family member that suffers from a mental illness. Certain medications, like stimulant drugs and antidepressants, can also increase someone's impulsiveness.
It is crucial to differentiate between impulsive behavior and compulsive behavior, which is repetitive and ritualistic. Compulsive behaviors, for example, checking the oven over and over again are compulsive. On the other hand, the more impulsive actions, like buying something on impulse, are an impulsive. The tendency to be impulsive is a common female ADD symptom, particularly in girls during the period of puberty, PMS and menopausal changes when estrogen levels decrease. Women may also exhibit symptoms of ADD by appearing distant during conversations or having trouble completing tasks like washing. In certain cases women's inattention or impulsiveness can lead them to be misdiagnosed as having bipolar disorder or depression. This condition can be treated by the right medication.
5. Anxiety
It's normal to feel nervous or worried from time moment, for instance, when you're prepping for a public speaking opportunity or test. But if these feelings are frequent and extreme, interfere with your daily routine and last longer than what's reasonable, you may be suffering from an anxiety disorder. You might also experience physical symptoms, such as an accelerating heartbeat or feeling like you're in a choke or suffering from an attack of the heart.
Women with ADD are especially susceptible to the emotional ups and downs that are associated with anxiety. They are often easily annoyed and are extremely sensitive to minor irritations. These women can become extremely angry over a small mistake or being in a queue for a long period of time. They might storm off, avoid the problem or even drop the task altogether.
Anxiety is a natural reaction to threat or danger, a response designed to prepare the body and mind to fight. However, when it becomes overwhelming the body, people can become weak and unable to function normally.
There are many treatments for anxiety disorders, including medication and therapy. The kind of therapy you will receive is dependent on the root cause. However, both cognitive and behavioral methods can help you manage your emotions and worries.
To lessen anxiety, eat healthy and sleep enough. Avoid stimulants and caffeine that can cause mood fluctuations. Exercise, especially aerobic exercise at a brisk pace, helps release brain chemicals that decrease stress. Join a support group or contact friends in person or on the phone. Being around others can help ease feelings of loneliness and ease anxiety. A therapist can help you learn methods to relax, such as guided images or gradual exposure to situations that are uncomfortable.