ADHD Symptoms in Women
Many women experience ADHD symptoms like inattention and impulsivity, forgetfulness and inattention. They might also show mood swings, irritability or hypersensitivity to criticism.
Some of these symptoms can be aggravated by hormonal changes, particularly during puberty and pregnancy or menstrual cycles. These changes can result in women being misdiagnosed or receiving inadequate treatment.
Impatience
Women who have ADD frequently have difficulty managing their emotions and are frequently frustrated. They are more likely to experience mood swings that make it hard for them to get along with other people, which could be the cause of a misdiagnosis or inability to receive treatment. They are also more likely to be suffering from depression that is co-occurring with ADD and this could make it even harder to receive the right treatment.
A lack of patience is a common symptom of ADD in women, especially the hyperactive/impulsive type of ADHD. The signs of ADD can manifest in many ways, such as failing to complete tasks in time, not remembering deadlines and appointments, loosing things and having trouble getting started on new projects or finishing them. Women who have this type of personality can act out in a hurry and without thinking. This can lead to financial difficulties or problems with relationships, particularly when they are rushing into things. They may interrupt conversations and blurt out things that they later regret.
Forgetting to do simple chores like doing laundry or grocery shopping can be a sign of ADD in women, as can a lack of math skills and writing difficulties. These women are unable to focus on tasks such as reading or taking tests. Getting lost in thought or imagining things are also typical symptoms for women with ADD.
Women suffering from ADD have a hard time waiting in lines or in the dentist's office. They may become annoyed and angry when minor annoyances occur, or they can get discouraged and stop trying. They tend to be frustrated and believe that they should have achieved more by now.
It is important to identify the signs early because ADD in women may not be as well known as the disorder seen in males. Educating yourself about the symptoms of adult ADHD and finding a qualified professional is the best way to ensure that you receive an accurate diagnosis and the appropriate care.
Impulsivity
A person with ADD is usually impulsive and inclined to speak or act without thinking. This can lead to financial issues and problems with relationships, particularly if she makes rash decisions, interrupts people when they're talking, or engages in relationships and projects full speed ahead. She might also be more prone to putting things off and procrastinating. She may lose or misplace items and have trouble keeping her track of her time. The mood swings, irritability, and hypersensitivity to stress or criticism are not uncommon.
Mood swings can be another indication that a woman might have ADD, which can be mistakenly diagnosed as bipolar disorder, or mistaken for depression. Women suffering from ADD can be easily annoyed. Small irritations can develop into major issues, causing them to cry, scream off, or even abandon the project. They are often unable to hold a job or stay in school, nor maintain healthy eating habits. They are constantly thinking about their thoughts and tend to talk about themselves or to themselves excessively despite the fact that they are aware that their behavior isn't appropriate. This type of impulsivity is more common during menopausal or perimenopausal periods when hormone levels fluctuate. These women are more likely to be diagnosed with a depression or mood disorder that must be treated in conjunction with ADD.
Mood Swings
Women are more vulnerable to mood swings, particularly during menopausal or pregnancy. Mood changes are typically short-term and are triggered by hormonal fluctuations. The rapid shifts in mood aren't always an indication of danger, but persistent ones could indicate an illness of the mood that requires treatment.
Moods swings can include everything from extreme happiness to depression or anxiety. These changes can be temporary and are usually caused either by stress or a new routine. However, add adult women could suggest a mental health problem which can be treated through therapy and medication.
In some cases the woman's mood fluctuations can also be an indication of an underlying medical problem. UTIs are a prime example. They can cause mood changes as well as irritability and confusion in older adults. Chronic pain can affect your mood and make it difficult to control.
For some, even the slightest irritations can become major frustrations that result in anger or impulsive actions. In addition, a lack of sleep can contribute to mood fluctuations which can make them more volatile and difficult to manage.
Changing moods can occur in reaction to life events or due to an imbalance in hormones. Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is described as emotional tenseness that cause you to feel uneasy, and is most frequent during the days prior to your period. Women with polycystic ovary syndrome, premenopause and menopause are more likely to have hormonal fluctuations that may cause mood changes.
Consult your physician if you are experiencing mood swings that are affecting your daily activities. He or she will be able to identify what is causing your mood changes and suggest treatments that can help them. If you are experiencing severe mood changes or suicidal symptoms, you should seek immediate treatment.