Signs of ADD in Adult Women
Women suffering from ADD may be frustrated by their inability to plan and organize especially when they move through their lives. They tend to daydream or act impulsively. Even minor issues frustrate them to the point where they get angry and frustrated.
It can be challenging to identify and treat adult ADHD because many women do not show all the typical symptoms. There are however some indications of ADD in women who are older that you should be looking for.
1. Trouble focusing
Women who are unable to concentrate might lose their spot frequently in the book or forget appointments. They might also be prone to changing the topic of conversation frequently, or procrastinate. The problem is that these issues can often be overlooked as normal due to the stress of life and ageing parents, a demanding job and other factors. But they could be symptoms of a disorder that is commonly known as attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Adults suffering from ADHD have difficulty staying focused or remembering important details. This can lead to problems at work, school and at home. It also causes anxiety, which is prevalent among women with ADHD. Women who have difficulty concentrating can easily become distracted by daydreaming, or losing themselves in their thoughts. They could be stuck on a subject for hours, even days. This is usually an area they find interesting or satisfying.
Many women suffering from ADD are also prone to be impulsive and they can't control themselves. They tend to behave or speak without thinking, which can lead to problems. They're more likely to interrupt other people during conversations and blurt out things they later regret, and they tend to be more prone to sexual risk-taking (such as sex that is more casual and risky behaviours with alcohol or drugs, or even unplanned pregnancy) than other women.
It is crucial for women to be aware that these issues aren't a normal part of aging or a result of menopausal changes, as they can cause anxiety and depression, bad relationships and low self-esteem. Finding a diagnosis and a treatment, which usually includes medication and therapy, can make a difference at home and at work.
2. Uncontrollable mood swings
While fluctuations in mood are normal aspects of life, they can be extremely disruptive. Mood changes can be difficult to manage and may affect your relationships, work performance and ability to get through everyday tasks. Mood fluctuations can also be an indication of a mental illness, like borderline personality disorder or Bipolar disorder. They may also be a result of certain medications, such as mood stabilizers and antidepressants. Other causes of mood swings include nutritional issues (like malnutrition, caffeine, or blood sugar peaks), lack of high-quality sleep, stress and other environmental factors such as weather.
Women may experience mood shifts due to premenstrual disorder or premenstrual dysfunction (PMDD) and hormonal changes during puberty. Hormonal changes can make ADD symptoms worse during these periods.
Speak to your doctor for advice if you experience mood swings that are frequent, fast, or affect your routine. Mood disorders are treatable, but you'll need to work with a doctor who can assist you in determining a treatment strategy.
Women are more likely to suffer from anxiety or depression when they are diagnosed with ADD. This can intensify mood swings. In some cases, these moods can lead to suicidal thoughts or behaviors. Early recognition of these symptoms can help you receive the treatment and help you need.
3. Irritability
Irritability can be a major problem in both your relationships and at work. If you are insecure with your partner or easily annoyed by coworkers you may be experiencing anger. Irritation may also make you angry and annoyed over small things. If you take steps to lessen your irritability, you'll be able to improve your mood as well as your overall health.
Studies have shown that irritability can be linked to depression and other mood disorders. It can also contribute to the development of anxiety and depression symptoms. The Buss-Durkee Hostility Inventory, a trait measure of hostility, includes an Irritability scale. There are a variety of other measures of Irritability, including the Irritability, Anger, and Hostility scale as well as the Anger, Irritability, and Assault Questionnaire.
If you're experiencing symptoms of irritable, talk with your doctor. They can help you identify the underlying cause and provide treatment options.
A doctor may order urine or blood tests to check your hormone levels and to rule out diabetes or any other medical conditions that could be contributing to your irritability. They can also refer to an expert in mental health for therapy, or prescribe medication to manage your mood.
A viral or bacterial infection can make some people more upset. add and adhd in women appear more irritable when they have an illness. This usually passes quickly when they improve. Irritability may also be present in women due to the normal physiology of menstrual cycle or as a result of a medical condition, such as pregnancy, illness or injury.
The irritability scale developed by Stringaris and Goodman contains five items to assess the main symptom domains that cause anger (annoyance tension, anger, hostile behaviour and sensitivity). The Self-Rating Scale and Observer Rating Scale provide evidence of internal consistency and high test-retest accuracy and interrater reliability.
4. You are easily distracted
Women with ADD struggle to complete everyday tasks. They may miss appointments or other obligations, be unprepared for important occasions, and have trouble following instructions. They can also get lost in their thoughts, or daydream in a way that is distracting and boring tasks. They may find themselves constantly checking social media or web-based news feeds or lose track of time while working on a chore or project.
Women can be troubled by impulsivity. This may manifest as acting or talking without thinking. It can also lead financial problems as well as a messy house and relationship issues. They might engage in relationships and projects in full force but regret their decision later on or feel overwhelmed by the many responsibilities.
These symptoms are especially evident during menstrual cycle which is when estrogen levels decrease and progesterone levels increase. This can worsen ADHD symptoms for women already experiencing hormone fluctuation. It's important that women recognize and address their ADHD symptoms to enjoy the life they desire. A diagnosis of ADD/ADHD could assist them in overcoming their issues.
5. Impulsivity
Everyone makes impulsive choices, whether it's getting a dramatic haircut or yelling at your partner. But when impulsive behavior becomes a routine or a persistent issue is a sign that you need to seek assistance.
Insufficient control of your impulses can undermine relationships financial and self-esteem. It's harder to manage in adulthood, as life is already hectic and complicated. Deadlines at work aren't met bills aren't paid, and unintentional remarks can cause a rift with friends. In addition, impulsive behavior can have dangers and negative consequences, like driving while drowsy or taking illegal drugs.
For counselors, Skinner says, the first step is to determine whether the issue of impulse control is an actual presenting problem or a sign of something else, such as anxiety or use of substances. Skinner encourages her clients to discuss their feelings and the ways they deal with them, and to think about the places, times and why they're impulsive.
She reminds her clients, as well, that impulsive behavior are often tied to specific emotions like anger or frustration. "If your impulses get you in trouble -- and they do for many people--then it's time to make a move towards changing your feelings," she adds.
Compulsive spending and spending such as binge-watching reality TV or shopping, are also typical signs of an impulsive nature. It's important to note that compulsive and impulsive are not the same thing however. While impulsive behavior is usually linked to feelings like anger and frustration, compulsive behavior is linked to a feeling of obsession or addiction. It's important to differentiate between the two, as they have different treatment options and are treated differently by mental health professionals. For instance, a person might be diagnosed with a compulsive disorder, but still require treatment for their ADHD.