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Where To Research Signs Of ADHD Online

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 15:46:51 +0000

What Are the Signs of ADHD? A good hook is a way to draw attention to your essay. It's usually the first paragraph you'll see on your piece. The presence of symptoms in the early years (before the age of 12) that create difficulties in a variety of environments, including at school, home, or work, is a requirement for an ADHD diagnosis. The symptoms must also be continuous. 1. Inattentiveness ADHD is characterized by inattention and difficulty focusing on tasks or activities. These symptoms could include problems at work or school, like forgetting important particulars, missing appointments or losing documents, and problems with everyday life like remembering to make phone calls or pay bills. Inattentional ADHD can also show up in relationships. Some people may have trouble comprehending what others are saying or confused about certain issues. Inattention-related symptoms ADHD typically begin in childhood, however they can continue into the teenage years and into adulthood. A person must display at least six symptoms such as impulsivity, hyperactivity, and inattention. The symptoms must last for at least six months and have a negative impact on the person's life. Although people with inattention ADHD may be able to make up for their issues at home or with their family members, they often run into trouble at work or in their relationships. They could miss out on opportunities to advance or lose their jobs if they do not finish projects on time. They may struggle to keep up with the demands of their friendships or families and could get into arguments because they don't know what others mean when they make a statement. A diagnosis of inattentive ADHD may help someone receive the assistance they require. Speak to a healthcare professional, like their primary care physician or mental healthcare professional, can assist them in learning to manage symptoms. adult signs of adhd can also request an appointment with a specialist who is trained in diagnosing mental disorders, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. 2. Hyperactivity Hyperactive children have difficulty controlling their behavior, or even sitting still. They leap off furniture, climb into places they shouldn't be and don't want to wait for their turn in group activities or games. They also can't play quietly on their own. They have a difficult time making friends and focusing on their schoolwork. They will often answer questions after others have finished or interrupt a conversation. They might be unable wait for certain things, like food or video games. Or they may play with other people's toys or games. They might also become bored or anxious in classes, at work or when they're on vacation. Children who are hyperactive or impulsive and behave inappropriately in school are frequently diagnosed with ADHD but the signs might not be apparent. Children who are hyperactive or impulsive and act out in school usually get diagnosed for ADHD but it's not always easy to spot the symptoms. They may be mistaken as defiant, or not listening to parents. A doctor who is specialized in mental illness and has experience diagnosing ADHD will evaluate your child's behavior to find out if they fit the American Psychiatric Association's criteria for ADHD. The health professional will discuss the child's symptoms with as well as parents and teachers. They will also review your child's past and present behavior and school experience. They might also look for other causes of the symptoms, like depression or a sleeping disorder. Many children with ADHD can control their symptoms until they reach elementary school. As they begin to take on more responsibilities and more tasks they are unable to keep up with the demands of the classroom or work, and are unable to concentrate and remain calm. They can also start having issues at home. 3. Impulsivity Impulsivity is a characteristic of ADHD that makes it difficult for people with this condition to inhibit their behavior or thoughts. People with an impulsive nature tend to speak before they think, and often make quick decisions without considering the consequences. They might also indulge in things like eating out, shopping or consuming intoxicants. Impulsivity can also affect relationships, especially those with teens and children. It can come in many forms however, there are a few common characteristics that can help you recognize it. Do you often make comments that you aren't actually saying or are you annoyed with small things, such as waiting to board a bus or train? Are you having trouble keeping track of things and get rid of important items (like school supplies, tools keys, wallets eyeglasses, and phones)? In certain instances, impulsiveness in teenagers and children may manifest differently than the other symptoms of ADHD. They may be less able to staying still and paying attention, but they can still be distracted often, interrupt others, and act without thought. These are the children and teens who usually meet criteria for a diagnosis of hyperactive-impulsive ADHD. There are some simple strategies that you can use to manage your impulses. One of them is a good idea to practice mindfulness and become more conscious of your thoughts, feelings and impulses as well as how you feel physically when you're about be impulsive, says Matlen. She suggests identifying what triggers impulsive behavior and then creating an action plan to address it in the future. She also suggests relaxation methods like listening to soothing music and deep breathing during the day. 4. It is difficult to concentrate Even in the most familiar situations, people with ADHD might have difficulty focusing. They might get distracted while doing their homework, or have trouble staying focused at work, in class or during conversations. They might miss important appointments, or forget to take their medications. This can result in poor performance at work, relationship issues and financial issues. Contrary to the common perception that adults suffer from ADHD don't always exhibit the signs of hyperactivity or impulsivity. They may experience difficulty focus in meetings or at work, but they do not necessarily slam into objects, jump on others or act without first thinking. They may be dissatisfied with their inability manage their behavior or finish their work on time, which may lead to low self-esteem and tension and stress in their relationships. See your doctor if you or someone in your family has ADHD symptoms. Your doctor will likely conduct thorough examinations, including hearing and vision tests, to be sure nothing else is causing the. They will inquire about your health history as well as that of your child. You will also be asked to fill out an inventory of symptoms. Untreated ADHD symptoms can lead to serious problems. But treatment can make a big difference. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, using a combination of cognitive-behavioral treatment and prescription medication is the most efficient. Stimulants like Ritalin and Adderall can help by increasing the brain's chemical components that help in paying attention. Non-stimulants such as Clonidine or Intuniv can also improve focus however they need a longer time to start working. Discuss with your doctor the right medication for you. 5. Emotional issues As children grow, many ADHD symptoms can change or disappear. It's crucial to be aware of some of the symptoms of ADHD that can occur in adults. People suffering from ADHD often struggle to comprehend how they feel and what their emotions mean. They may also have difficulty managing their emotions and behaviors. This can lead to issues in relationships, at school or in performance. This may include squirming, fidgeting excessively, blurting out answers to questions before they're finished and leaving their seat when they're expected to remain seated and being in a position to not sit or wait in class or at the doctor's office, and having a hard time playing or engaging in leisure activities with a calm and quiet approach often interrupting others and not listening well. A few of these emotional issues could be caused by other health issues, so it's crucial for someone with these concerns to see their GP or mental health professional. They can get support from a psychologist or psychiatrist or try cognitive behavioral therapy, or even take medications such as stimulants to treat their symptoms. A person must have suffered from these issues since the age of a child, and they should be affecting their daily lives at home and school. A person with ADHD may forget about important dates or deadlines and may have difficulty planning their future. They could be susceptible to hyperfocus. This means that they become so engrossed with the task that they do not pay attention to the people around them. This can lead to relationship issues. They are also prone to getting distracted by other activities or tasks and lose track of time. They tend to make decisions impulsively without thinking about the consequences. This can result in legal and financial issues.

"Ask Me Anything": Ten Answers To Your Questions About Symptoms Of ADHD

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 13:03:26 +0000

Symptoms of ADHD Hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity are the main symptoms of adhd. Some people have only one kind of symptom. A primary care physician may determine ADHD after evaluating the patient. A specialist, like a developmental-behavioral pediatrician or psychiatrist, may also help with diagnosis and treatment. ADHD is a condition that must be recognized in early childhood (before 12 years of age). The behaviors must create difficulties in at least two different settings. Attention It can be difficult to remain focused and on task when you have ADHD. You might forget about meetings or forget tasks you have to complete at work or home. You might also have trouble keeping track of conversations or remembering specifics like phone numbers or names of people you talk to. The signs of inattention can impact your ability to succeed at school, at work, and in relationships. You can overcome these symptoms with treatment. You can take medication, utilize cognitive behavior therapy or even change your surroundings to help you stay organized and focused. Inattentive ADHD generally has less issues with hyperactivity and impulsivity, so it is harder to identify than the other two presentations of the disorder. Your doctor will ask you to describe your symptoms and the effects they have on your life. They will look at your medical history and do a physical exam. They will also discuss your medical history with teachers, school staff or family members to verify your symptoms and determine if they affect you at school, in work and in social situations. Children with this form of ADHD are full of energy and find it difficult to stop or quiet talking. They may also have difficulty following directions, remembering or doing their chores. They typically have a wide range of interests and often jump from one activity to another. They can also get bored easily and seek new experiences. A medical professional will find that your child has this form of ADHD in the event that they exhibit six or more symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity for at least six months. The DSM-5 guidelines will be used to diagnose ADHD. Children who suffer from inattention ADHD are also prone to having difficulty sitting still or paying attention in class, however they don't have the same symptoms as children with the other two presentations of the disorder. Teachers and school staff might notice that they frequently daydream, are slow to finish their work or struggle to stay on track during classes. They might not even be aware of their ADHD symptoms until they are adults and are faced with the demands of work, family, and college classes. Hyperactivity Hyperactivity is defined as excessive talk, fidgeting and a difficult time sitting still. They also have a tendency of making impulsive choices without considering the consequences. This type of ADHD is more prevalent in teens and children. Inattention ADHD manifests as a difficulty paying attention at school or in other places. The child has difficulty following rules or directions at school. They also have difficulty keeping their possessions in order and aren't able to finish lengthy reading assignments. They may also appear to be “daydreaming” or are calm, even though they're not. Instead they are unable to stay focused on their task and engaging with their peers. For the diagnosis of adhd, the symptoms must be present in at least two different settings, like home and school. The child's symptoms must begin before the age of 12, and they must be significantly impairing their functioning. Parents and teachers often identify children with inattentive ADHD, and they are treated by using behavioral therapies, like group therapy, counseling, and parent education. The disorder can be managed with medication, but it is always necessary to combine with behavioral therapy. As children age, hyperactivity and impulsivity can affect their academics and relationships. They might become angry or have an inability to tolerate frustration and may be unable to finish their assignments or meet their social obligations. They may struggle to keep an employment or adhering to the corporate rules. They may also experience frequent financial difficulties due to missed payments and unpaid bills. Adults must be aware that ADHD symptoms are not the result of their own actions and that there are effective solutions available. It is also helpful to have a supportive family members and friends who can appreciate the challenges ADHD can bring. They can help manage impulsive behaviors and encourage healthy lifestyle choices, such as getting enough sleep and eating a balanced diet, and reducing stress. They can also join a support group to meet with others who share the same experiences and concerns. Impulsivity Impulsivity is one of the main symptoms of ADHD. It is the tendency to act on impulse or speak without considering consequences. This can lead to trouble at home and school. For instance children who are impulsive may shout out answers before the questions are completed or often interrupt other children during conversations or games. They may also be unable to sit and wait their turn or find it difficult to adhere to the rules that require them to do so. This symptom is especially common in kids with hyperactive-impulsive ADHD, the most prevalent type of this disorder. They are always on their feet, fidget and have a lot of energy. They tend to take a step up or engage in activities that aren't appropriate for their age. This presentation of the disorder is marked by impulsivity and hyperactivity, but not usually problems with attention. They are unable to remain still and speak at a rate more rapid than light. They also get bored easily. They tend to be very loud, and they often interrupt other people. They're always playing and appear to be unaware of their surroundings. The thalamus region of the brain is responsible for regulating the inhibition of responses and functions as gate, sending signals to allow or restrict actions. Research suggests that for people with ADHD the gate isn't functioning properly and may contribute to an increase in impulsivity. This is the reason why people with ADHD struggle to control their short-term urges, such as eating a handful of candy or spending more than they intended to. Additionally, those with this type of ADHD feel a constant sense of restlessness and anxiety, which can lead to mood swings and trouble handling frustration. They are typically very emotional and have a tendency to believe in themselves. The good news is that although impulsivity is a big problem in many situations but it can also be an advantage in certain situations. It can lead to creative solutions and help someone excel in their work or personal life. If it's managed properly the impulsiveness of a person is a powerful skill. Organization People with ADHD frequently struggle to stay well-organized, both mentally and physically. They might lose or forget important items. This can lead to mental clutter, which impedes their ability to prioritize tasks and maintain focus. It can also cause physical clutter, which can create an unorganized living space that makes it difficult find items and may cause security concerns. This lack of organization may lead to dissociation – an inability to connect with the world and experiences. This is more prevalent among young adults and teens and may be associated with other issues like anxiety disorders or depression. It's particularly damaging to teens and preteens, who are more susceptible to dissociative disorders as they go through significant emotional changes. Disorganization can also impact interpersonal relationships, as those with ADHD may not be able to communicate effectively. They may react in a way that is overly emotional when they receive negative feedback, and not be able to reflect and respond more carefully. They may also have difficulty expressing their feelings. This can lead to strained relationships and marriages. Emotional reactivity also affects people with ADHD and their sex lives, as they could be more likely to skip the pre-sex activities, like foreplay, and immediately jump into sexual sex. This can cause them to feel bored while having sex, leading them to look for more stimulating sexual experiences outside of their relationship. For those with ADHD there is various strategies that can help them improve their focus and detachment. Setting alarms for phones or creating a routine using sticky notes or a dry-erase board, can help them stay on the right path. They can also use organizational tools like shelves or bins, to organize items in a way that makes them easier to find. signs of adhd adults with ADHD benefit from counseling, such as dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) which helps them manage their emotions and help to recognize when they are feeling overwhelmed or out of control. Adults who experience ADHD can also benefit from medication that enhances executive functioning and can help them organize their daily lives.

The Reasons ADHD Symptom Adult Has Become The Obsession Of Everyone In 2024

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 12:28:14 +0000

ADHD Symptom Adult People with ADHD often miss appointments, make impulsive mistakes and handle demands at work and home in an erratic way. To be diagnosed recognized, symptoms must manifest before the age of 12 and must cause impairment in a variety of settings, such as school or at work. Many adults are not diagnosed with ADHD until they experience difficulties managing the stress and demands of adulthood. Their undiagnosed symptoms may have caused them to lose jobs, reputations or even marriages. Anxiety and restlessness The National Institute of Mental Health observes that many people with ADHD also suffer from anxiety disorders. Anxiety sufferers can experience feelings of fear and nervousness that are unrelated to their circumstances. These feelings can interfere with people's daily lives and cause stress in relationships. People suffering from ADHD have trouble concentration and are therefore more susceptible to anxiety. They may also have more than usual impulsive behavior that can increase their anxiety like shopping sprees or jumping in an area without taking into account the risks. Both ADHD and anxiety can be managed by treating them separately. For example, some medications for ADHD can exacerbate anxiety symptoms in certain people. It's crucial to seek out a professional diagnosis and consider all treatment options together which include cognitive behavioral therapy, prescription medication and other treatments. The symptoms of anxiety are often overlapping with symptoms of ADHD It is often difficult to distinguish the distinction between the two. Symptoms of anxiety can also change throughout the day, and it is possible to experience both anxiety and ADHD simultaneously. It is possible to treat both anxiety and ADHD, but the two conditions can cause each other to become worse. For instance, if a person suffers from untreated ADHD their anxiety may become worse as they have to focus and meet deadlines at work and at school. People with anxiety might be more sensitive to rejection and they may experience difficulties in relationships because of this sensitivities (called Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria). ADHD can also lead to conflicts with others because of its inattention and indecisiveness. This can raise anxiety levels. There are many methods to manage ADHD and anxiety. This includes decreasing stress, and working out. Making sure signs of adhd adults have a clear diagnosis is the most crucial step, however. Utilize Frida's ADHD Self-Assessment Tool to connect you with an expert in clinical medicine who can provide a precise evaluation and develop a treatment plan. Boredom Boredom is an unpleasant feeling that can make it challenging to remain focused and engaged at work or in leisure activities. It can also make you feel stressed and angry. The feeling of boredom is a natural human emotion that everyone experiences at some point, but people with ADHD are often unable to manage it. If you're bored at work, you could start to make careless errors or lose focus on what you're doing. You could also be prone to daydreaming or doodle. This is because your brain cannot sustain a boring activity without stimulation from the outside. People suffering from ADHD are more likely to be bored than others. This is typically due to the lack of stimulation in their environment. If you're bored in school, you may start writing messages or observing the conversation of the person next door. Similar to adults with ADHD struggle to cope with boredom in relationships and it can be difficult to follow through on tasks your partner demands of you. If you attribute your relationship problems on boredom, it is recommended to seek counseling from a therapist who is familiar with ADHD issues. When you are having conversations with someone, you may become bored and respond with a sarcastic joke or unrelated tale. You might also start an argument in order to alleviate boredom. This is due to the fact that your brain isn't able to focus on what your partner is saying. It can also affect your memory, which means you may forget important details and not follow through on your commitments. It's difficult to understand what it's like to suffer from ADD or ADHD from the outside however sharing your experiences with friends and family members can provide you with an understanding of what your symptoms are. Talking to a mental healthcare professional can be beneficial particularly if boredom is leading to negative behavior or emotional issues such as depression. People with ADHD require a high level stimulation to keep them active and engaged. You can fight boredom by creating a routine that has the structure, consistency and routine. You can also use mindfulness techniques to help master the art of managing your boredom and increase your self-awareness. Relationship Issues Maintaining fulfilling relationships isn't easy for people with ADHD. Their inability to focus on other people and the situation can make them prone to misinterpretations and confusion, which could lead to conflict. Additionally, impulsive behavior could result in them being late for social engagements or forget important tasks. The non-ADHD partner's response to these issues could make the person feel accepted and respected, or be disregarded and attacked. It is common for a person with untreated ADHD to develop issues in both the family and romantic relationships. In some cases, the underlying problem is inattention or hyperactivity/impulsivity, but it could be an emotional issue such as low self-esteem or a history of abuse. The symptoms can also affect the ability of a person social cues and respond appropriately. People who have a combination of inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity tend to blurt out answers to questions or interrupt others while talking, for example. Additionally, they may be incapable of keeping their emotions in check, which can cause them to explode when angry or frustrated. Even if a person is diagnosed with ADHD, they do not always realize that their behaviors are hurtful to their partners or families. If the person doesn't know they have ADHD and their partner may think that they don't want spend time with them. This can be very detrimental to a relationship, and lead the person to blame themselves for the problems in the marriage or partnership. If you suspect that you or your partner have ADHD, you should discuss your concerns with your primary care physician or mental health professional. There are specialists who assess adults with ADHD in a variety of insurance policies. Or, you can request a local hospital or medical school for a referral. It is also possible to join a support group for adults with ADHD and meet with other people who are experiencing the same struggles similar to yours. You can learn a lot from your partner on how to manage symptoms and develop a healthy relationship. Attention Many people with inattention ADHD experience difficulty with remembering things, especially important information related to work or school. This can lead to forgetting about appointments, paying late and other problems. These issues can cause stress, particularly when they affect the quality of relationships or work performance. Inattentive ADHD is a type of the disorder that targets focus and organization but does not manifest as hyperactivity or an impulsive nature. This kind of ADHD is most common among adults, however some children may also be diagnosed with it. When it comes time to diagnose ADHD in adults, many of the symptoms of the disorder must be present and cause impairment in at least two different areas of one's life in order to be able to be diagnosed with the condition. The impairment can be severe enough to result in losing a job, suffering from marital difficulties, financial troubles or even failing to graduate from college. Inattention ADHD people usually find it difficult to focus on their work or schoolwork because of interruptions and distractions. signs of adult add could be easily distracted by conversations or find their attention wandering away from their classroom and socializing with friends and resulting in unfinished homework or home chores that are not completed. People with inattention ADHD are so overwhelmed by their responsibilities and struggles to keep up that they begin to feel low about themselves. They also feel embarrassed for their lack of accomplishment. They may feel like they're constantly letting down others and this can cause anxiety and depression. A mental health professional can utilize standardized tests to determine whether an adult is meeting the criteria for ADHD, such as checklists and scales for assessing behavior. They will also analyze the person's previous behavior in school and their childhood. They may also inquire with relatives about their medical history, and speak to their close family and friends about the way in which the person is interacting with them. Medication is a popular treatment for ADHD and includes psychostimulants that enhance the signals sent to the central nervous system to make people more alert. These drugs can be combined with antidepressants to help counteract the effects of these drugs. Behavioral therapy is also useful to improve a person's ability to concentrate and manage.

11 "Faux Pas" Which Are Actually Okay To Use With Your Female ADD Symptoms

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 11:20:23 +0000

Adult Female ADD Symptoms Women with ADD can suffer from various symptoms. Some women with ADD are hyperactive while others are hypoactive. Women with ADD have difficulty staying on top of everyday tasks like keeping the house clean and attending to the needs of children or participating in activities with their families. Another symptom that is common is a difficulty recalling names. This condition can get worse before, during, or after menopausal symptoms. 1. Inability to Focus A lack of focus could be a sign of several mental health problems. You should seek assistance if you are not able to finish the task or make poor choices, or miss important details, whether at work or at home. These symptoms can be caused by side effects of medications or stress factors. However, they can also be signs of underlying conditions like ADHD. Women suffering from ADD tend to lose their focus rapidly. They may daydream or struggle to complete routine chores like grocery shopping or washing clothes. They may also be prone to make erroneous mistakes or lose items frequently, which can result in an unclean office, cluttered home, or lost work materials. They may also be impulsive and make poor decisions that could result in serious consequences such as using drugs or engaging in risky sexual activities or fighting. In addition, they can be at either end of the spectrum, either hyperactive or hypoactive. A woman who is hyperactive could run until she collapses due to exhaustion, while a woman who is hypoactive doesn't have the energy to make it through the day. Both women struggle to keep relationships intact, keep up with family obligations, or fulfill professional obligations. Women with ADD are typically diagnosed as having a high-functioning symptom. This isn't a medical diagnosis, but rather describes how they manage their symptoms. They may have issues with concentration however, they don't impact their daily lives as much. Symptoms can come and go however if you notice that they're getting worse over time it's best to talk with your doctor. They can help you understand the reasons for your symptoms and suggest treatments. 2. Mood Swings Women who suffer from ADD tend to be more susceptible than men to mood swings. They may be angry at the slightest annoyance, become easily irritated and then explode in anger, or simply give up and quit the project. signs of adult add tend to be more impulsive, and tend to jump in head first instead of taking things slow and consistently. This can lead to financial problems or relationship disasters. These emotional symptoms are often incorrectly identified as bipolar disorder, however, they can coexist with ADD in many instances. The mood swings can become more severe during menstrual cycles, pregnancy, or the perimenopausal phase. ADD can make it difficult to keep a job, which may also contribute to depression. 3. Distractions Women who suffer from ADD tend to be easily distracted by the events around them, as well as their own thoughts. They can get lost in a daydream or struggle to concentrate on tasks like grocery shopping due to the multitude of choices. Simple tasks require too many commitments to a single idea and they become frustrated when their attention is diverted. Changes in mood are also common among women with ADD because they are on the emotional rollercoaster of the disorder. They can be frustrated by the smallest of things and blame themselves for their failures. The impulsive nature of their behavior can cause problems in relationships, school and at work. Extreme mood swings can often lead to confusion over whether they are bipolar disorder or not. This is especially the case since many women with ADD suffer from depression which must be treated well. 4. Irritability Irritability is a typical indication of a mental illness. It could be caused by a physical problem such as hormone imbalances or food intolerance. A person experiencing irritability can feel tense or uptight with a quick temper and easily getting angry or frustrated. It can cause a lack of patience or anger, which could cause them to lash out at people who haven't done anything wrong. It can also affect their mood and make them more prone to anxiety or depression. Irritation is a mood of partial physiological agitation that is characterized by a higher sense of sensory stimuli, a non-cognitively mediated lowered threshold for responding to typically less vexing stimuli without anger or aggression, and an increased propensity for outbursts of irritable behavior (Digiuseppe Tafrate and Digiuseppe 2007). Irritability can be triggered by hunger or fatigue, poor sleep or discomfort. It can be a symptom of hormonal changes, like those experienced during premenstrual syndrome (PMS). In one study, researchers polled 287 students to determine their level of anger. Researchers found that those with extreme irritability also had more psychiatric issues than those who didn't. They also reported greater difficulty with daily activities than those with no an episode of irritability. Relaxation techniques can help reduce your stress levels. Find signs of adult add to practice breathing exercises or listen to music or take a bath away from the chaos and noise of a busy environment. Practicing self-care by focusing on your emotional and physical needs can help reduce stress and calm your mind and body which in turn will reduce your stress levels. 5. Depression Depression is a persistent low mood that can affect the person's ability to function in a daily manner. Depression is more than just a feeling of sadness following an event that is stressful or a loss. Depression is a serious psychiatric disorder that can lead to feelings of despair, apathy and helplessness. Depression can occur in people of all ages, races and genders. However women are more likely to suffer from depression. Depression may manifest as a perpetually low mood, a change in appetite and weight (either loss or gain) and changes in sleeping patterns fatigue, or an inability to focus. Other symptoms include a negative self-image, feeling empty or hopeless suicidal thoughts, attempts to commit suicide to commit suicide, slowing movements and speech, a general inability to think clearly and having trouble making decisions. Depression can also trigger an absence of enthusiasm for activities and hobbies, and a sense of despair and being trapped. Depression is more prevalent for women than men and the peak is during pregnancy and puberty, and also in the first year following the birth of a child. Depression can also be a factor in menopausal or perimenopausal women. A number of other mental health disorders can be co-existing with depression, including anxiety disorders and addiction to substances. See this NIMH fact sheet for more information about depression and treatment options, as well as resources to find help.