Symptoms of ADHD in Adults
A 43-year-old married woman visited Dr. Amen concerned signs of adhd may be suffering from ADD (predominantly inattentive type). She was having trouble staying on top of schoolwork and household chores. She was unorganized, and often lost her keys or wallet.
She was prone to forgetting appointments and losing track of time. She had a low self-esteem and a negative outlook. She also suffered from a constant sadness that was not depression.
Inattentive ADD
People who have inattention ADHD tend to make mistakes without paying attention to the details. They have a difficult time remembering information they've heard and might forget to finish homework assignments or work project. They frequently lose keys, wallets, and other things they require to survive. This is why they are often late for appointments or have difficulty keeping track of their bills and messages.
Children who have inattention ADD are not as obvious since they don't display any overt behavioral issues. Children who suffer from this subtype of ADD tend to be girls than boys and a lot of teachers don't recognize their symptoms since they don't conform to the stereotype of being a "bad child."
Adults with inattentive ADHD often have trouble following directions at home and at work and make it a habit to delay or avoid tasks that require constant mental effort. They may also find it difficult to listen to lectures or conversations and are easily distracted by extraneous stimuli such as thoughts that are not related or the internet or television. Inattentive ADHD symptoms can be mistaken for laziness or lack of motivation. Many adults are annoyed when family members or colleagues continually remind them of missed commitments.
It's important that you understand that inattention ADD can also be caused by stress, mental disorders, or physical illnesses. A comprehensive evaluation by a health care professional or mental health professional is necessary to confirm the existence of symptoms and determine if treatment is needed. They will request details about your medical history, perform a physical examination and discuss your life style to determine any other issues that may be contributing to your symptoms.
Overfocused ADD
Those with people with ADD are not able to shift their focus and instead become hyper-focused on specific tasks. They may also be extremely organized, which could cause confusion for some people and result in incorrect diagnosis. Because they tend to lack serotonin and dopamine they are usually treated with conventional ADHD medication that increases dopamine and serotonin. This treatment can actually worsen their ADD symptoms.
People who suffer from this condition may feel suffocated due to their inability to redirect their thoughts, which causes them to struggle with anxiety and depression. Moreover, they are prone to become stuck in negative thinking patterns and behaviors that can be difficult to break free of without intervention. Cognitive-behavioral therapy that identifies and alter negative patterns, mindfulness exercises to decrease rumination, and skill training have shown positive results for adults suffering from Over-focused ADD.
When a person is suffering from overfocused ADD and has an anterior cingulate gyrus in their brain is overactive. This can lead to hyperfocus and moodiness. The stimulant ADD medications can stimulate this region of the brain to much, which can exacerbate symptoms and irritability. This is why a balanced diet and other non-medicated treatments have proven beneficial for those suffering from this condition.
People suffering from over-focused ADD tend to "stick" in negative cycles. This can cause stress and strain relationships. Setting up a routine, using a digital planner and interacting with supportive communities can help alleviate some of their symptoms. Couples coaching for ADD can be beneficial in setting clear roles and expectations for both partners. This will improve communication and help develop a more balanced life for both individuals. As always, the most effective treatment for ADD/ADHD involves working with a Medical Doctor or Naturopathic Doctor to identify the best program that can help you manage and reduce the symptoms.
Anxious ADD
Often people who have ADD also have anxiety. It could be a few annoying anxieties or a complete anxiety disorder, such as social anxiety disorder or panic disorder. Whatever the case, whether it's an occasional anxiety attack or a more chronic anxiety, it can significantly interfere with the way you live and work. Almost 80% of people who suffer from ADHD have at least one additional diagnosis and anxiety is the most common co-occurring diagnosis.
Anxious ADD is one of the "7 kinds" of ADD is defined by a feeling of anxiety and nervousness, as well inattention. It is caused by a dysregulated brain. In this instance it is evident that qEEG mapping reveals that certain brain regions are hyperactive or out-of-balance. This includes the limbic system and prefrontal cortex.
Those with this kind of ADD are highly sensitive to external stimuli, such as the sound, light and touch. They are susceptible to overreacting and have a short temper. They are prone negative thoughts or behavior and often engage in self-sabotage. They are also more likely to be impulsive, conflict-prone and atypical personality.
The treatment for this type involves balancing GABA with dopamine and encouraging relaxation. People with this type of ADD must get enough sleep and exercise, as well as eating a healthy diet. They should also avoid processed foods and sugar. If they can, they should use the same routine for sleeping and waking up and follow the same routine daily. Lastly, they should try to include physical activities in their educational or work-related tasks. For example when they work at a desk job, they should stand up or walk around at least every hour.
Ring of Fire ADD
This kind of ADD is characterized as having an overactive Cerebral cortex and increased activity on the left and rights Parietal Lobes and the left-right Temporal Lobes. The people who suffer from Ring of Fire ADD are likely to suffer from all the classic symptoms of ADHD and have trouble staying focused and impulsive behaviour. They might also experience high levels of anxiety, rapid thinking, and irritation. They can be overwhelmed by sensory stimuli and are often rigid and irritable.
Ring of Fire ADD is often misdiagnosed as Bipolar Disorder because the symptoms are remarkably similar. The difference is that people with Bipolar Disorder go through periods of mania or depression and those with Ring of Fire ADD experience their symptoms consistently.
Ring of Fire ADD can be more difficult to treat compared to other forms of ADHD. The symptoms are often related to a lack of brain chemical. Treatment usually aims at resolving this imbalance. Through the use of effective 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 essential to seek medical advice from a qualified medical professional. Although Dr. Daniel Amen's work has been viewed with suspicion by a lot of the medical world However, he has valid points. By identifying the different types of ADHD and understanding what to look for, you will be able to receive the help you require. Get in touch with a specialist today to get a reliable diagnosis and start on the right path to a healthy and happy life.
Classic ADD
Classic ADD is what people think of when they hear the word ADHD. It includes all the symptoms of inattention ADD but also impulsivity and hyperactivity. The people who suffer from this form of ADD struggle with organization, planning prioritizing, managing time and self-monitoring. They are easily distracted and lack the mental strength to finish tasks that aren't their preferred ones. These individuals are usually not labeled as "hyperactive," but they are troubled in following instructions and often miss appointments. They have decreased blood flow to the prefrontal cortex as well as low levels of dopamine.
This type of ADD is characterized by emotional problems and a difficulty in coping with stress, anxiety, and depression. They may have a history of familial trauma or abuse, or have gone through a difficult divorce. People with limbic ADD exhibit decreased activity in the prefrontal cortex, and irregularities in their temporal lobes that control mood. This type of ADD is treated with antidepressants and supplements to regulate neuronal function.
Dr. Zlatin Ivanov specializes in diagnosing and treating all forms of adult ADD. His unique testing method is able to identify and determines the appropriate treatment for each patient's needs. Contact Psychiatry NYC today to schedule an appointment for individualized ADHD care.