Signs of ADD in Adult Women
Women suffering from ADD might be frustrated with their inability to plan and organize, especially as they go about their lives. They are usually daydreamers or act impulsively. Even minor inconveniences can frustrate them to the point that they get angry and frustrated.
Finding a reliable diagnosis and treatment for adults with ADHD is a challenge because a lot of women do not exhibit all of the typical symptoms. There are however some indicators of ADD in adult women to look out for.
1. Problems with Focusing
Women who struggle to focus may find that they frequently lose their place in a book, frequently forget appointments, frequently change the subject in conversations, or are prone to procrastination. These tendencies are often interpreted as normal behaviors due to stress, aging parents, or an overloaded schedule at work. However, click here could be signs of a more common disorder known as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
The main sign of ADHD for adults is having trouble being on task or remembering things. This can cause problems at work, school, and at home. It also increases anxiety, which is already common among women suffering from ADHD. Women who struggle to concentrate are easily distracted by daydreaming, or absorbed in their thoughts. They may become stuck on a topic for hours, even days. This is typically something they find interesting or enjoyable.
Additionally, a lot of women with ADD are extremely indecisive and have difficulty controlling their behavior, frequently leading to trouble when they are acting or speaking without thinking first. They are more likely to interrupt other people during conversations and to blurt out things they later regret, and they are more likely to be more prone to sexual risk-taking (such as more casual sex or risky behavior when using alcohol or drugs, or unplanned pregnancy) in comparison to other women.
Women should be aware of these issues aren't only an inevitable part of aging or a menopausal side effect. They can result in anxiety, depression, poor relationships, and low self-esteem. Getting a diagnosis and treatment, which typically includes therapy and medication can help improve life at home and at work.
2. Uncontrollable mood swings
While fluctuations in mood are a normal part of life, occasionally they can become extreme and disruptive. The fluctuation in mood are difficult to manage and may affect your relationships, performance at work and your ability to accomplish daily tasks. These mood swings could be a sign of mental illness, like Bipolar disorder or borderline personality disorder. Mood swings may also be caused by certain medications such as mood stabilizers or antidepressants. Other causes of mood changes are nutritional issues (such as malnutrition or blood sugar spikes) stress, as well as environmental factors, such as the weather.
In women, mood changes could be a sign of premenstrual syndrome, also known as premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) along with hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy and menopause. Changes in hormones can make ADD symptoms worse during these times.
If you're experiencing mood swings that are frequent and rapid or are affecting your daily routine, speak to your doctor about it. Mood disorders are treatable, but you'll need to work with a doctor who can help you develop a treatment strategy.
Women are more likely than men to have an anxiety or depression that is co-existing as a result of ADD which can cause their mood swings more intense. These mood swings can lead to suicidal behavior or thoughts. The early recognition of these symptoms can help you receive the treatment and help you require.
3. Irritability
Irritability is a significant problem in both your relationships and at work. If you find yourself being unfriendly with your partner or annoyed by coworkers you may be experiencing irritability. Irritation may also make you angry and frustrated over minor things. If you take steps to lessen your irritability, you can boost your mood as well as your overall health.
Studies have proven that irritability is related to depression and other mood disorders. It can also contribute to the development of anxiety and depression symptoms. The Buss-Durkee Hostility Inventory (BDHI) is a trait-based measure of hostility, also includes an Irritability subscale. Other measures of irritability are available, including the Irritability, Anger and Hostility Scale and the Anger, Irritability and Assault Questionnaire.
If you're prone to feeling stressed, speak to your doctor. They can help you identify the underlying cause and provide solutions.
A doctor may request blood or urine tests to check your hormone levels and to rule out diabetes or any other health conditions that may be contributing to your irritability. They can also recommend you to a mental health professional for therapy or prescribe medication that will help you manage your mood.
A viral or bacterial illness can make people more sensitive. Children with a cold are usually more sensitive but it usually goes away when they heal. Irritability in women can be due to the normal physiology associated with menstrual cycle or a medical condition such as pregnancy, illness or injury.
The irritability scale developed by Stringaris and Goodman includes five items that assess the most important symptom domains of irritation (annoyance tension, anger, hostile behaviour and sensitivity). The Self-Rating Scale (SRS) and Observer Rating Scale (ORS) show good test-retest and inter-rater reliability.
4. It is easy to be distracted
Women with ADD typically have difficulty managing their daily activities and tasks. They may forget appointments or other obligations, become in a state of forgetfulness about important occasions, and have trouble following instructions. They may also lose themselves in their thoughts, or ponder in a way that is distracting and boring tasks. They might compulsively check social media or web-based news feeds or lose track of time while working on chores or projects.
Women may be prone to the urge to act. This can manifest in the form of speaking or acting without thinking, and can lead financial problems, a messy home, and even relationship issues. They might be impulsive and engage in relationships full-force and then regret their choices later on, or feel too thin with a myriad of tasks and goals.
These symptoms are most prominent during menstruation when hormone levels decrease and progesterone increases. This can worsen ADHD symptoms for women already experiencing hormonal fluctuation. This is why it's important for women to identify and deal with their ADHD symptoms so that they can live the life they deserve. A diagnosis of ADD/ADHD could aid them in overcoming their difficulties.
5. Impulsivity
Every person makes impulsive decisions, whether it's getting a drastic haircut or snapping at your spouse. When click here becomes a problem or a habit, it could be time to seek help.
A lack of control over your impulses can destroy relationships financial and self-esteem. It's particularly difficult to control in adulthood, when life is already hectic and complex. The bills aren't paid deadlines are missed at work and impulsive remarks alienate friends. Worse yet, impulsive behaviors can lead to dangerous and harmful consequences, such as driving drunk or using illegal drugs.
Skinner states that for counselors, the first thing to do is determine if impulse control is a real issue or is a symptom of a different issue like anxiety or addiction to substances. Skinner advises clients to talk about their feelings and the ways they cope with them, and also to think about where, when and why they're an impulsive.
She reminds her clients that impulsive behavior is usually tied to certain emotions, such as anger and frustration. "If your impulsive behavior puts you in trouble - and it is the case for many - then it's time to change those feelings," she says.
Another common indication of impulsivity is spending too much and compulsive behavior, such as watching reality shows or shopping. It is important to understand that compulsiveness and impulsiveness are not the exact same thing. While impulsive behavior is often linked to emotions, such as anger or frustration, compulsive behavior are typically linked to an addiction or obsession. It's important to differentiate between the two, as they have different treatments and are treated differently by mental health professionals. A client may be diagnosed as having compulsive disorders, yet require treatment for ADHD.