Signs of ADD in Adult Women
Women suffering from ADD might be frustrated with their inability to plan and organize especially when they move through life. These women tend to daydream or make impulsive decisions. Even minor inconveniences frustrate them to the point where they are angry and irritable.
Making a correct diagnosis and treatment for adult ADHD is challenging because many women don't exhibit all the typical symptoms. However, there are a few indications of ADD in adult women that you should look for.
1. Difficulty Focusing
Women who struggle to focus might find that they often lose their place in a book, frequently 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 the demands of a hectic schedule at work. They could be signs of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorders (ADHD) which is a well-known disorder.
Adults who suffer from ADHD struggle to stay focused or remembering important things. This can lead to problems at work, school and at home. It also increases anxiety, which is prevalent among women with ADHD. Women who struggle to concentrate can easily become distracted by daydreaming, or absorbed in their thoughts. They may even get stuck on something for hours, days or even longer--often something they find interesting or rewarding, and find it difficult to get rid of it.
Many women who suffer from ADD also have a tendency to be impulsive, and they're unable to manage themselves. They tend to act or speak without thinking, which can lead to issues. They are more likely to interrupt other women during conversations, to blurt things out that they regret, and to take more sexual risks than other women.
Women should be aware of these issues aren't just 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 often includes therapy and medication can improve your life at home and at work.
2. Uncontrollable mood swings
While fluctuations in mood are a normal aspect of life, they can be extreme and disruptive. Mood swings can be difficult to control and may affect your relationships, work performance and your ability to finish everyday tasks. Mood fluctuations can also be a sign of a mental illness, such as Bipolar disorder or borderline personality disorder. They may also be a side effect of certain medications, including antidepressants and mood stabilizers. Other reasons for mood swings are nutritional issues (like malnutrition, caffeine, or blood sugar spikes), lack of high-quality sleep, stress, and environmental factors such as weather.
Women can suffer from mood fluctuations due to premenstrual disorder, also known as premenstrual dysfunction (PMDD) and hormonal changes during puberty. Changes in hormones can cause ADD symptoms worse during these periods.
Speak to your doctor if you experience mood swings that are frequent, fast, or affect your daily routine. You can treat mood disorders, but you will require a consultation with a specialist.
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 lead to suicidal thoughts or behavior. Early recognition of these symptoms can help you receive the treatment and support you need.
3. Irritability
Irritability is a condition that can affect both your personal life as well as your job. You may experience irritability if you are short with your partner, or easily annoyed by your colleagues. Irritation may also make you angry and annoyed over small things. If you take steps to lessen your irritability, you can improve your mood as as your overall health.
Studies have shown that irritability is related to depression and other mood disorders. It can also cause anxiety and depressive symptoms. The Buss-Durkee Hostility Inventory, a trait measure of hostility, includes an Irritability Scale. Several other measures of irritability exist, including the Irritability, Anger and Hostility Scale, as well as the Anger, Irritability and Assault Questionnaire.
If you're prone to feeling stressed, speak to your doctor. They can help you identify the root cause and provide you with treatment options.
A doctor may order blood or urine tests to assess your hormone levels and check for diabetes or other conditions that could be causing your irritability. They can also recommend you to a mental health professional for therapy or prescribe medication to manage your mood.
A bacterial or viral infection can make some people more sensitive. Young children often appear more upset when they are suffering from an illness, and this usually passes quickly as they get better. Irritability may also be present in women due to the normal physiology of menstrual cycle or because of an illness, such as pregnancy or illness.
The irritability test developed by Stringaris & Goodman contains 5 items that test the core symptom domains (annoyance aggression tension 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 suffering from ADD typically have difficulty managing their day-to-day tasks and activities. They may miss important dates, forget appointments, or have trouble following directions. They might also get caught up in their thoughts or think often during boring and uninteresting tasks. They may be compelled to check online news or social media feeds, or lose track of the time when working on a project or task.
Women may be prone to an impulsive nature. This may manifest in the form of speaking or acting without thinking, and can lead financial problems, a messy home, and even relationship issues. They may engage in relationships and projects with full force, only to regret their decision later on or be overwhelmed by their numerous responsibilities.
These symptoms are most prominent during menstrual cycle, when estrogen decreases and progesterone levels rise. This can worsen ADHD symptoms for women already experiencing hormone fluctuations. It's important that women recognize and tackle their ADHD symptoms in order to enjoy the life they desire. A diagnosis of ADHD or ADD can aid them in overcoming these issues.
5. Impulsivity
Everyone makes impulsive choices whether it's deciding to get a dramatic hairstyle or slapping a lover. When an impulsive behaviour becomes a problem or habit, it might be time to seek assistance.
Poor impulse control can sabotage relationships as well as self-esteem, finances and relationships. It's especially difficult to manage in adulthood when life is already chaotic and complex. Deadlines at work are missed bills aren't paid, and unintentional remarks can cause a rift with friends. Even worse, impulsive behaviours can lead to hazardous and dangerous consequences, such as driving drowsy or taking illegal drugs.
Skinner says that for counselors the first thing to do is determine whether impulse control is a real problem or is a sign of a larger issue, such as anxiety or addiction to substances. Skinner encourages clients to talk about their emotions and how they are managing them. They should also think about when, where and why they tend to be an impulsive.
She reminds her clients, as well, that impulsive behavior are often correlated with certain emotions such as anger or frustration. "If your impulses lead you in trouble, which they do for many people, then it's time to take action toward changing those feelings," she adds.
Another indication of impulsivity is spending too much and compulsive behavior, such as watching reality shows or shopping. adhd in young women is important to understand that impulsiveness and compulsiveness aren't the same thing. While impulsive behaviors are typically tied to emotions like anger or frustration, compulsive behavior is connected to a sense of obsession or addiction. It's important to differentiate between the two since they are treated differently and require different treatments. For instance, a patient might be diagnosed with a compulsive disorder, but still need to seek treatment for their ADHD.