ADD Women
By Tellman Knudson
Men and women have similar ADD symptoms, but they don’t have the same reactions. Because women often have the dual responsibility of home and being in the workforce, the multi-tasking they’re expected to maintain can be overwhelming. These extreme pressures can lead to frustration and worse, especially when you have ADD.
Depression is common among ADD women. Men are more likely to act out their stress than women, who internalize their feelings. This can lead to feelings of depression and despair and make everyday life seem insurmountable. It’s important to allow your feelings to air. If you’re feeling put upon, speak out. If your kids are frustrating you, go into an empty room and cry. Scream, if you have to, but it’s important that you allow negative emotions to vent. Or talk to a friend or family member. And if small measures aren’t enough, then seek the advice of your physician before depression becomes an issue.
Women no longer have to strive to be the “superwoman,” who knows all and does all. Women now can choose what kind of life they want, and if it’s at home with the kids, you don’t have to feel bad about it. Just realize that you’re going to get bored. Because ADD makes you so creative and intelligent, you may want to pursue work inside the home. That’s OK, too. But when working outside is necessary to work to keep the family going, don’t feel guilty about that, either. Spend as much time as you can with your kids and let them know how much you love them. But get someone to help you take care of them. If you can’t afford full-time help, then hire a babysitter and get a couple of hours a week, at least, for yourself. You deserve and need that!
But don’t feel anxious about giving up some responsibility to other people. You have to be on top of your game to compete with men outside your home, but inside, you can do whatever you like. So what if there are a few piles of clutter? Schedule in 5 minutes a day to handle messes. Your ADD attention span is undoubtedly that long, at least. Plus, you’ll be amazed at how much you can do in that short a period of time. Of course, if you can afford to delegate the responsibility of clean up by paying someone to do it for you, do that. It’s better than sitting around being upset with yourself.
Hormones also play a big role when it comes to ADD women because they’re intensified. Those mood swings, irritability, and feelings of frustration and guilt all pop up periodically and their strength doubles with menopause. When you have these feelings, try some vigorous exercise or a relaxing bath or hot tub. But if you just feel that you just aren’t in control, talk to your doctor. You don’t have to feel miserable.
There’s no doubt that women with ADD have a much harder time with life. Sometimes, the feelings of guilt, fear, and frustration can just seem overwhelming. When that happens, don’t blame yourself. If you want to look at the facts, you’re pretty awesome!
Not only are you creative, but you’re a fast thinker. Rather than taking a 9 to 5 job, you may want to pursue a career as an entrepreneur, a writer, or artist. Anything you can do at home will alleviate some pressure. You will have to suffer through the initial time of getting yourself established, but you need to be in control of your life, rather than it being in control of you. If you have ADD, work within its limitations and use its strengths. You’ll find that you’re a much happier person.
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Tellman Knudson is CEO of OvercomeEverything, Inc. and a certified hypnotherapist and NLP practitioner who has helped many women with ADD live happier lives. Sign up for his weekly ADD Success Tips when you visit Instant ADD Success at http://www.instantaddsuccess.com |
