Symptoms of ADHD in Adults
A 43-year-old married woman visited Dr. Amen concerned she may be suffering from ADD (predominantly inattentive type). She was struggling to keep up with her schoolwork and household chores. She was disorganized, and often lost her wallet or keys.
She was prone to losing track of time. She was also moody and had chronic sadness not related to depression, a negative outlook on life and low self-esteem.
Inattentional ADD
People with inattention ADHD have difficulty paying attention to the details and making careless mistakes. They may struggle to remember what they've heard or forget to finish a project or homework assignment. They often misplace keys, wallets, and other objects they need to live with. They often miss appointments or are unable to keep the track of their messages and bills.
While children who suffer from hyperactive ADHD are easy to spot as they move around in their seats, fidget or talk all the time, children who have the inattentive form of ADD slip under the radar since they don't show obvious behavior issues. This type of ADD is more common among girls than in boys. Many teachers are unaware of the signs, since they don't conform to the stereotype of a 'bad child''.
Adults with inattention ADHD are unable to follow instructions at home and at work. They tend to delay tasks and avoid tasks that require sustained mental effort. They may also have trouble following conversations or lectures, and they are easily distracted by non-related stimuli such as the internet or television. Inattention ADHD symptoms could be misinterpreted as lazyness or apathy. Many adults are frustrated when family members or colleagues constantly remind them of missed commitments.
It is crucial to know that inattention ADD can be caused by stress, other mental or physical ailments. To determine the cause and determine if treatment is required for you, a thorough evaluation by an expert in mental health or health professional is required. They will ask for details about your medical history, perform a physical examination and review your lifestyle in order to identify any other issues which may be contributing to your symptoms.
Overfocused ADD
Those afflicted with over-focused ADD are unable to shift their focus and are often focused on a specific task. They may also be very organized, which can cause confusion to some people and result in confusion and a misdiagnosis. Since they lack serotonin and dopamine, these individuals are often treated with conventional ADHD drugs that boost dopamine and serotonin. This can actually aggravate their ADD symptoms.
They may feel trapped due to their inability to redirect their thoughts, causing them to struggle with anxiety and depression. female symptoms of adhd are prone to get stuck in negative behaviors and patterns of thought that can be difficult to break free from without intervention. Cognitive-behavioral therapy to recognize and change negative patterns, mindfulness practices to lessen rumination, as well as skill training have shown positive results for people with Over-focused ADD.
When a person has overfocused ADD their brain's anterior cingulate gyrus is hyperactive, which can lead to hyper-focus and moodiness. Stimulant ADD medications can stimulate this area of the brain to much which can cause a rise in symptoms and cause irritability. A healthy diet and non-medication treatments have been proven to be helpful for these individuals.
People suffering from over-focused ADD tend to "stick" in negative cycles. This can create stress and tension in relationships. Some of their symptoms can be cured by creating a plan or using an electronic planner and joining communities that support. Couples coaching for ADD can be beneficial in creating clear roles and expectations for both partners. This can improve communication, and help both individuals to lead a more balanced lifestyle. The most effective method of treating ADD/ADHD will always be working with a Naturopathic or Medical Doctor to find a program that can assist you in managing and reducing the symptoms.
Anxious ADD
Often people who have ADD also have anxiety. It could be a few annoying concerns or a more severe anxiety disorder like panic disorder or social anxiety disorder. It isn't a matter of whether 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 with ADHD have at least one additional diagnosis, and anxiety is the most frequently-cited disorder that is a comorbidity.
Anxious ADD is one of the theorized "7 kinds of ADD." This kind is characterized by a strong anxiety and a feeling of nervousness and inattention. It is caused by dysregulated brain. In the situation of this type, qEEG brain mapping shows that certain regions of the brain are hyperactive or out of balance. These include the limbic system and prefrontal cortex.
People with this type of ADD have a high sensitivity to external stimuli, such as the sound, light and touch. They tend to overreact and have short fuses. They are prone to repetitive negative thoughts or behaviors and are often self-defeating. They tend to be impulsive and argumentative and possess an antagonistic personality.
Treatment for this kind of ADD involves the balance of GABA and dopamine, while also helping to promote relaxation. This type of ADD requires that individuals get enough sleep and exercise regularly, as well as eat healthy. They should also stay away from processed and sugary foods. If possible, they must follow the same routine every day for waking and sleeping. Lastly, they should try to include physical activities in their educational or work-related tasks. For female add symptoms when they work at an office job and they are sitting, they should stand or walk around at least once per hour.
Ring of Fire ADD
This theoretical type of ADD is defined by excessive activity in the Cerebral Cortex, as well as increased activity in the left and right Parietal Lobes, and the left and right Temporal Lobes. The people with Ring of Fire ADD are likely to exhibit all the typical symptoms of ADHD and have trouble staying focused and having impulsive behavior. They may also show high levels of anxiety, rapid thinking, and irritability. They may become overwhelmed by the stimulation of their surroundings, and are often highly inflexible and irritable.
People with Ring of Fire ADD are frequently misdiagnosed with Bipolar Disorder, because their symptoms are similar. However, the difference is that people who suffer from Bipolar Disorder are prone to experiencing periods of depression and mania and those who suffer from Ring of Fire ADD typically suffer from their symptoms regularly.
Ring of Fire ADD is more difficult to treat than other types of ADHD. The symptoms are usually linked to an imbalance in brain chemicals and treatment is focused on correcting the imbalance. The good news is that through applying the right strategies, people can learn to manage their Ring of Fire ADHD symptoms and live a balanced and productive life.
If you're experiencing symptoms of Ring of Fire ADHD, it is essential to seek medical advice from a qualified medical professional. Dr. Daniel Amen has some important points to make despite the fact that his work is viewed with skepticism in the medical field. By recognizing the different kinds of ADHD and knowing what to look for, you can receive the help you require. Contact a specialist today to receive a valid diagnosis and begin on the path to a happy and healthy life.
Classic ADD
Classic ADD is what most people think of when they hear ADHD. It encompasses all of the symptoms of inattention ADD but also impulsivity and hyperactivity. People with this type of ADD are unable to organize and prioritizing tasks, balancing time, and monitoring themselves. They are easily distracted and lack the mental stamina to complete tasks that they don't enjoy. These people are typically not labeled as "hyperactive," but they are unable to follow instructions and are often late for appointments. They have decreased blood flow to the prefrontal cortex and low levels of dopamine.
This type of ADD is characterised by emotional issues and a struggle to cope with anxiety, stress and depression. They might have suffered trauma or abuse in their family or experienced an emotional separation. People suffering from limbic ADD have reduced activity in their prefrontal cortex as well as disturbances in the temporal lobes that regulate moods. Treatment for this form of ADD revolves around supplements and antidepressants that regulate the neuronal activity.
Dr. Zlatin Ivanov specializes in diagnosing and treating all forms of adult ADD. His unique testing process identifies and determines the best treatment for each patient's specific symptoms. Contact Psychiatry NYC to schedule an appointment today for a personalised ADHD treatment.