Symptoms of ADHD in Adults
A 43-year-old woman who was married came to Dr. Amen concerned she may be suffering from ADD (predominantly inattentional type). She had trouble keeping up with her schoolwork and household chores. She was unorganized and frequently lost her wallet or keys.
She frequently missed appointments and lost track of time. She was also depressed with constant sadness that was not linked to depression and a negative view of life and low self-esteem.
Inattentive ADD
People with inattentive ADHD are unable to pay attention to the details and making careless mistakes. They may struggle to remember what they've heard, or forget to finish a task or homework assignment. They frequently lose keys, wallets and other objects they need to live. They are usually late for appointments or are unable to keep up with bills and messages.
Children who have inattention ADD are not as obvious since they don't exhibit any overt behavioral issues. This subtype of ADD is more prevalent among girls than in boys. Teachers are often unaware of their symptoms as they don't fit into the stereotype of a "bad kid'.
Adults with inattention ADHD frequently have difficulty following instructions at home as well as at work and make it a habit to procrastinate or skip tasks that require constant mental effort. They may also have difficulty keep track of lectures or conversations and can be easily distracted by distractions such as thoughts that are not related or the internet or television. Inattentive ADHD symptoms could be misinterpreted as lazyness or lack of motivation. Many adults are annoyed when family members or colleagues keep reminding them of their missed commitments.
It is important to remember that inattention ADD symptoms could be caused by other factors, including stress, mental health issues, or physical ailments. A comprehensive evaluation by a health care provider or mental health professional is necessary to confirm the existence of symptoms and determine whether treatment is necessary. They will ask for details about your medical history, perform a physical examination and review your lifestyle to identify any other issues that may be causing your symptoms.
Overfocused ADD
People with the condition of those suffering from ADD have difficulty shifting their focus and become hyper-focused on certain activities. They may also be extremely organized, which can cause confusion for some people and result in misdiagnosis. These people are often treated by conventional ADHD medications, which boost serotonin and/or dopamine. This treatment can actually worsen their ADD symptoms.
They can feel suffocated because they are unable to control their minds, leading to anxiety and depression. They also are prone to get stuck in negative behavior and thought patterns which are difficult to break free from without intervention. Adults with Overfocused ADD have had positive results from cognitive behavioral therapies to change negative thought patterns, mindfulness practices that help reduce rumination, and skill training.
If someone is diagnosed with hyper-focused ADD, their brain's anterior cortex gyrus is hyperactive, which can lead to hyper-focus and moodiness. Stimulant ADD medications can stimulate this area of the brain to an extent and can cause more symptoms and irritability. A healthy diet and non-medicated therapies are proven to be beneficial for these individuals.
People with over-focused ADD tend to "stick" in negative cycles. This can cause stress and stress relationships. Developing a schedule, using a digital planner and joining in communities that support each other can ease some of their symptoms. Couples coaching can be beneficial for those suffering from ADD as it can help to clarify roles and expectations between partners. This can help improve communication and to create a more balanced and healthy life for both people. As always, the most effective treatment for ADD/ADHD involves working with a Medical Doctor or Naturopathic Doctor to identify the best program to manage and minimize your symptoms.
Anxious ADD
Most people with ADD also suffer from anxiety. It could be a few annoying concerns or a more severe anxiety disorder like social anxiety disorder or panic disorder. It does not matter if it's a mild anxiety or a chronic severe anxiety. It can have a negative impact on your life and work. About 80% of people suffering from ADHD have at least one additional diagnosis, and anxiety is the most frequent co-occurring diagnosis.
Anxious ADD is one of the theorized "7 types of ADD." This kind is characterized by a strong feeling of nervousness and anxiety and inattention. It is caused by a disordered brain. In this instance, qEEG mapping shows that certain brain regions are overactive or out of balance. These include the limbic and prefrontal cortex. system.
People with this type of ADD are highly sensitive to external stimuli, such as light, noise and the touch. They are prone to overreact and have short fuses. They are prone to repetitive negative thoughts or behavior and often engage in self-sabotage. They are also more likely to be impulsive, argumentative and oppositional personality.
Treatment for this kind of ADD involves the balance of GABA and dopamine as well as helping to promote relaxation. signs of adhd in adults suffering from this type of ADD should get enough sleep and exercise, as well as eating a healthy diet. They should avoid processed and sugary foods. If they can, they should adhere to the same routine each day for waking up and going to sleep. They should also strive to incorporate physical exercise into their professional or academic activities. For example, if they have an office job or a desk job, they should get up or walk around at least once an hour.
Ring of Fire ADD
This type of ADD is described as having an overactive Cerebral cortex and more activity in the right and left Parietal Lobes and the left-right Temporal Lobes. Those with Ring of Fire ADD will likely suffer from all the classic ADHD symptoms, such as difficulties in staying focused and impulsive behaviors. They may also exhibit high levels of anxiety, rapid thoughts, and irritation. They can become overwhelmed by sensory stimulation, and are often highly inflexible and irritable.
People with Ring of Fire ADD are often misdiagnosed with Bipolar Disorder, because their symptoms appear to be similar. However, the difference is that people who have Bipolar Disorder can experience periods of mania and depression while those who have Ring of Fire ADD typically have symptoms that occur regularly.
Ring of Fire ADD can be more difficult to treat compared to other types of ADHD. The symptoms are usually related to an imbalance in brain chemicals. Treatment usually aims towards resolving this imbalance. With the help of expert strategies, people can learn to manage their Ring of Fire ADHD and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
If you are experiencing symptoms of Ring of Fire ADHD, it is crucial to seek medical advice from a qualified medical professional. While Dr. Daniel Amen's research has been viewed with suspicion by many in the medical field, he does have some valid points. By recognizing the different kinds of ADHD and knowing what to look for, you will be able to receive the help you require. Talk to a professional for an accurate diagnosis and begin on the road to a happy and healthy life.
Classic ADD
Classic ADD is what most people think of when they hear ADHD. It exhibits all the signs of inattention ADD but also hyperactivity and the tendency to be impulsive. People with this type of ADD are unable to organize tasks, prioritizing their priorities, managing time, and keeping track of their own. They are easily distracted and do not have the mental strength to finish non-preferred tasks. They are not usually classified as "hyperactive," but they are troubled in following instructions and frequently miss appointments. They have low dopamine and reduced blood flow in the prefrontal cortex.
People suffering from this type of ADD have trouble with their emotions and exhibit difficulty in coping with stress, anxiety and depression. They might have suffered trauma or abuse in the family or suffered difficult separation. People suffering from limbic ADD exhibit decreased activity in the prefrontal cortex, and abnormalities in their temporal lobes, which regulate mood. Treatment for this type of ADD revolves around supplements and antidepressants that regulate the neuronal activity.
Dr. Zlatin Ivanov specializes in diagnosing and treating various forms of adult ADD. His unique test method identifies and determines the best treatment for each patient's symptoms. Contact Psychiatry NYC to schedule an appointment today to receive a personalized ADHD treatment.