Signs of ADD in Adult Women
Women suffering from ADD can be frustrated by their inability to plan and organize, particularly when they are in the midst of life. They tend to daydream or are impulsive. Minor inconveniences can make them unhappy.
It can be difficult to diagnose and treat adult ADHD because many women do not show all of the typical symptoms. However, there are a few signs of ADD in women who are older that you should be looking for.
1. Problems with Focusing
Women who have trouble staying focused might find that they often lose their place in a book, are prone to forget appointments, frequently change topics during conversations or are prone to procrastination. These tendencies are often interpreted for normal behavior due to stress, aging parents, or an overloaded schedule at work. They could be signs of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorders (ADHD) which is a well-known disorder.
The primary characteristic of ADHD in adults is difficulty keeping track of things. This symptom can cause problems at work, home and at school, and aggravates the anxiety that's present in women with ADHD. Women who struggle to concentrate can easily become distracted by daydreaming, or losing themselves in their thoughts. They may even get stuck on something for hours, days or longer--often a topic they find fascinating or satisfying, and are unable to let go of it.
Additionally, a lot of women with ADD are highly indecisive and have difficulty controlling their behavior, often leading to trouble when they act or speaking without thinking before. They're more likely to interrupt others during conversations and to talk about things that they later regret, and they tend to have higher rates of sexual risk-taking (such as sex that is more casual, risky behaviors with alcohol or drugs, or even unplanned pregnancies) than other women.
Women need to be aware that these issues are not just as a result of aging or a menopausal side effect. They can result in anxiety, depression, poor relationships and low self-esteem. A diagnosis and treatment can enhance your life at work and at home. This usually includes medication and counseling.
2. Uncontrollable Mood Swings
While fluctuations in mood are a normal aspect of life, sometimes they can be extreme and disruptive. The fluctuation in mood can be difficult to control and can impact your relationships, work performance and ability to complete everyday tasks. These mood swings could be a sign of mental illness, such as Bipolar disorder or borderline personality disorder. Mood swings can also be caused by certain medications like mood stabilizers or antidepressants. Other reasons for mood swings are nutritional issues (like malnutrition, caffeine or blood sugar peaks) as well as a lack of quality sleep, stress and environmental factors such as weather.
Women can experience mood shifts due to premenstrual disorders or premenstrual dysfunction (PMDD), and hormone changes during puberty. Hormonal changes can make ADD symptoms worse during these times.
If you're experiencing mood swings that are frequently, rapid or impact your daily routine, speak to your doctor about it. add and adhd in women iampsychiatry of mood are treatable but you'll have to work with a specialist who can help you develop a treatment plan.
Women are more likely to experience anxiety or depression when they are diagnosed with ADD. This can intensify mood swings. In some cases mood swings can trigger suicidal thoughts or behaviors. Being aware of these symptoms can help you receive the treatment and support you require.
3. Irritability
Irritability is a significant problem in both your relationships and at work. If you are insecure with your partner or frustrated by your colleagues you may be suffering from anger. Irritation may also make you angry and annoyed over small things. Making steps to manage your irritability can improve your mood and overall health.
Studies have shown that irritability can be linked to depression and other mood disorders. It is also a contributing factor to anxiety and depressive symptoms. The Buss-Durkee Hostility Inventory (BDHI), a trait measure of hostility, includes an Irritability subscale. Other measures of irritability are also available, including the Irritability, Anger and Hostility Scale, as well as the Anger, Irritability and Assault Questionnaire.
Speak to your doctor in case you are feeling irritable. They can help identify the root cause of your problem and provide solutions.
A doctor may order blood or urine tests to evaluate your hormone levels and check for diabetes or any other condition that may be contributing to your irritation. They can also refer to a mental healthcare professional for therapy, or prescribe medication to help control your mood.
Some people may go through an episode of being more angry than usual due to an infection that is bacterial or viral. Young children are often more upset when they are suffering from an illness. This usually passes quickly as they get better. Irritability may also be present in women due to the normal physiology of the menstrual cycle, or due to an illness, like pregnancy or illness.
The irritability scale devised by Stringaris and Goodman includes five items that assess core symptom domains of irritability (annoyance, anger, tension and sensitivity).). The Self-Rating Scale and Observer Rating Scale show evidence of internal consistency and good test-retest reliability as well as interrater reliability.
4. easily distracted
Women suffering from ADD often have difficulty managing their daily tasks and activities. They may miss appointments or other obligations, become forgetful of important occasions, and have trouble following instructions. They could also become lost in their thoughts or think often, even when they are doing boring, uninteresting tasks. They may find themselves constantly checking social media or online news feeds or lose track of time while working on a chore or project.
Women may be prone to impulsivity. This may manifest as acting or talking without thinking. It can also cause financial issues as well as a messy house and issues with relationships. They might take on projects and relationships with full force but regret their decision later or feel overwhelmed by the many tasks.
These symptoms are more prominent during menstrual periods, when estrogen levels decrease and progesterone increases. This can exacerbate ADHD symptoms for women who are already experiencing hormone fluctuations. This is why it's crucial for women to recognize and tackle their ADHD symptoms to live the life they want to. A diagnosis of ADHD or ADD could aid them in overcoming their difficulties.
5. Impulsivity
Every person makes impulsive decisions whether it's getting that dramatic haircut or yelling at your partner. If impulsive behavior becomes a problem or a habit, it may be time to seek help.
A lack of control over your impulses can destroy relationships, finances and self-esteem. It's harder to manage in adulthood, as life is already hectic and complicated. Deadlines at work are not met and bills aren't being paid. Additionally, unintentional remarks can cause a rift with friends. Even worse an impulsive attitude can lead to negative and dangerous consequences like driving drunk or taking illegal drugs.
For counselors, Skinner says, the first step is to determine whether the issue of impulse control is an actual presenting issue or a symptom of something else, such as anxiety or substance use. Skinner encourages clients to talk about their feelings and how they're dealing with them, and to think about when, where and why they may be an impulsive.
She reminds her clients, as well, that impulsive behavior are often linked to certain emotions such as anger or frustration. "If your impulsive behavior is causing you into trouble - and it happens to many people It's time to change your attitude," she says.
Another common sign of impulsivity is overspending and compulsive behaviors such as watching reality shows or shopping. It is important to understand that impulsiveness and compulsiveness are not the same thing. While impulsive behaviors are typically tied to emotions like anger or frustration, compulsive behavior is tied to a sense of addiction or obsession. It's important to differentiate between the two because 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.