Signs of ADD in Adult Women
Women suffering from ADD might be frustrated by their inability to plan and organize, especially as they move through life. They are usually daydreamers or act impulsively. Even minor inconveniences can frustrate them to the point that they are angry and irritable.
It can be difficult to identify and treat adult ADHD because many women do not exhibit all of the typical symptoms. There are signs of ADD that adult women should be aware of.
1. Difficulty Focusing
Women who struggle to focus might notice that they frequently lose their place in a book, easily forget appointments, often change topics during conversations or are prone to procrastination. These habits are often mistaken as normal behaviour due to stress, aging parents or a busy work schedule. But they could be symptoms of a common disorder called attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
The main indication of ADHD in adults is difficulty staying on task or remembering things. This can lead to problems at work, school, and at home. It also increases anxiety, which is already common among women with ADHD. Women who struggle to concentrate are also likely to be easily distracted by daydreaming or getting lost in their thoughts and not paying attention to what they're doing. They might even be stuck on something for days, hours or longer--often a topic they find fascinating or satisfying, and are unable to let go of it.
Many women suffering from ADD also tend to be impulsive and they aren't able to control themselves. They often act or speak without thinking which can cause problems. They are more likely to interrupt women during conversations, to blurt things out that they regret, and to take more sexual risk than other women.
It is crucial for women to be aware that these issues aren't just a normal part of aging or a side effect of menopause as they can lead to anxiety and depression, bad relationships and low self-esteem. Finding a diagnosis and a treatment, which typically includes therapy and medication can make a difference at home and at work.
2. Uncontrollable Mood Swings
While fluctuations in mood are a normal part of life, sometimes they can be extremely disruptive. Mood changes can be difficult to manage and can affect your relationships, work performance and ability to get through everyday tasks. Mood fluctuations can also be an indication of a mental illness, such as Bipolar disorder or borderline personality disorder. They may also be a side effect of certain drugs, including antidepressants and mood stabilizers. Other reasons for mood swings are nutritional issues (like malnourishment, caffeine or blood sugar spikes) as well as a lack of quality sleep, stress and other environmental factors like weather.
Women can have mood shifts due to premenstrual disorder, also known as premenstrual dysfunction (PMDD) and hormonal changes during puberty. In fact, ADD symptoms often worsen during these times due to hormonal changes.
If you're experiencing mood fluctuations that are frequent and rapid or impact your routine, talk to your doctor about it. The mood disorders can be treated, however, you'll need to consult with a specialist who will assist you in determining an appropriate treatment strategy.
Women are more likely to suffer from anxiety or depression when they are diagnosed with ADD. This can increase mood swings. These moods can sometimes result in suicidal behaviour or thoughts. The early recognition of these signs can help you get the treatment and help you require.
3. Irritability
Irritability is a problem that can affect your personal life and job. You might suffer from irritation if you're irritable with your partner, or easily annoyed by your colleagues. The stress of being angry can cause you to feel annoyed over small things and cause you to become angry. Taking steps to reduce the irritability you feel can improve your mood and overall health.
Studies have shown that irritability may be related to depression and other mood disorders. It can also cause depression and anxiety. 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 as well as the Anger, Irritability and Assault Questionnaire.
If you're feeling uneasy, consult your doctor. They can help you identify the root cause and offer treatment options.
A doctor can conduct blood or urine tests to assess your hormone levels and to exclude diabetes or other health conditions that may be contributing to your irritability. They can also refer you to a mental health professional for therapy or prescribe medication to control your mood.
Certain people might experience periods of being more irritable than usual due to an infection caused by a virus or bacteria. Young children often appear more irritable when they have an illness. This usually passes quickly as they recover. Women who are prone to irritability could be due to the normal physiology associated with menstruation or a medical issue such as illness, pregnancy or injury.
The irritability test developed by Stringaris and Goodman includes five items that measure the most important symptom domains (annoyance aggression tension hostile behaviour and sensitivity). The Self-Rating Scale (SRS) and Observer Rating Scale (ORS) have demonstrated good test-retest and inter-rater reliability.
4. You can easily get distracted
Women with ADD typically have difficulty managing their daily tasks and activities. They may miss appointments or other obligations, be forgetful of important events, and have difficulty following directions. adhd in adult women could also become lost in their thoughts, or even daydream often, even when they are doing boring, uninteresting activities. They may find themselves constantly checking social media or news feeds or lose track of time while working on chores or projects.
Women may struggle with an impulsive nature, which manifests itself as acting or speaking without thinking and can cause financial problems, a chaotic home, and trouble in relationships. They may take on projects and relationships at the fullest and regret their decisions later or feel too thin by the many responsibilities and goals.
These symptoms are more prominent during menstruation when hormone levels decrease and progesterone increases. This can exacerbate ADHD symptoms in women who are already experiencing hormonal fluctuation. It's important that women 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
Everyone makes impulsive choices whether it's deciding to get a dramatic hairstyle or snapping at a partner. When impulsive behavior becomes a problem or a habit, it may be time to seek out help.
Poor impulse control can sabotage relationships, finances and self-esteem. It's even more difficult to manage in adulthood, as life is already hectic and complicated. Deadlines at work are not met bills aren't paid, and unintentional remarks can cause a rift with friends. In addition an impulsive attitude can lead to negative and dangerous consequences, such as driving while drunk or taking illegal drugs.
Skinner says that for counselors the first thing they need to do is determine if impulse control is a problem or is a symptom of a larger issue, such as anxiety or substance abuse. She encourages clients to talk about their emotions and how they are coping with them--and to think about the time, place, and why they are likely to be an impulsive.
She reminds her clients, too, that impulsive behaviors are often linked to certain emotions such as anger or frustration. "If your impulses can get you into trouble--and they do for many people, then it's time to make a move to change your attitude," she adds.
Compulsive and overspending behavior such as watching reality TV in a frenzied manner or shopping, are typical indicators of impulsivity. It is important to remember that impulsive and compulsive are not the same thing, though. While impulsive behaviors are often associated with emotions, such as anger or frustration, compulsive behaviors tend to be a result of an addiction or an obsession. It's important to differentiate between the two, as they have different treatment options and are treated differently by mental health professionals. A patient could be diagnosed as having compulsive disorders but require treatment for ADHD.