Symptoms of ADHD in Adults
A 43-year-old married woman came to Dr. Amen concerned she may be suffering from ADD (predominantly inattention type). She was having trouble staying on top of household chores and schoolwork. She was unorganized, and often lost her wallet or keys.
She often forgot appointments and lost track of time. She was also depressed with persistent sadness that was not caused by depression, a negative outlook on life and low self-esteem.
Inattentive ADD
People who have inattention ADHD tend to make careless errors and not paying attention to the small details. They may struggle to remember the information they've heard or forget to finish a project or homework assignment. They often misplace keys, wallets, and other things they require to live. They are often late to appointments or have trouble keeping the track of their bills and messages.
While children who suffer from hyperactive ADHD are easy to spot as they move around in their seats, fidget and talk all the time, children with the inattentive type of ADD are often overlooked because they don't exhibit obvious behavioral issues. This type of ADD is more common in girls than in boys. Many teachers are unaware of their symptoms, because they don't fit the stereotype of a "bad kid'.
Adults with inattention ADHD are unable to follow instructions at home and at the workplace. They also tend to procrastinate and avoid tasks that require sustained mental effort. They might also struggle to keep track of lectures or conversations and can be easily distracted by extraneous stimuli, such as unrelated thoughts or the television or internet. Inattentive ADHD symptoms can be mistaken for laziness or lack of motivation. Many adults are frustrated when loved ones or colleagues constantly remind them of missed commitments.
It is important to recognize that inattentive ADD symptoms could be caused by other causes like stress, mental health issues, or physical illnesses. To confirm the symptoms and determine if treatment is necessary, a comprehensive examination by an expert in mental health or health care professional is recommended. They will request details about your medical history and a physical exam and talk about your life style to identify any other issues which may be contributing to your symptoms.
Overfocused ADD
People suffering from people with ADD are incapable of shifting their focus, and instead, they become focused on specific activities. They can also be highly organized, which could confuse certain people and cause incorrect diagnosis. These people are often treated with standard ADHD medications, which boost serotonin and/or dopamine. However, this treatment could actually make their ADD symptoms worse.
People who suffer from this condition may feel suffocated by their inability to divert their thoughts, causing them to suffer from depression and anxiety. They also are prone to becoming stuck in negative behaviors and thought patterns which are difficult to break free from without intervention. Cognitive-behavioral therapy that identifies and alter negative patterns, mindfulness exercises to lessen rumination, as well as training in skills have produced positive results for people with over-focused ADD.
When a person is suffering from overfocused ADD, the anterior cingulate gyrus in their brain is overactive. This can cause hyperfocus and moodiness. The stimulant ADD medications can stimulate this region of the brain too much which can increase their symptoms and cause irritability. A healthy diet and non-medicated treatments have been shown to be beneficial for these individuals.
People with Overfocused ADD have a tendency to become "stuck" in negative cycles, which can strain relationships and increase stress. Making a schedule and using a digital planner and interacting with community-based support can help ease some of their symptoms. Couples coaching for ADD can be beneficial in setting clear roles and expectations for both partners. This can help improve communication and allow both parties to lead a more balanced lifestyle. The most effective treatment of ADD/ADHD is always working with an naturopathic doctor or a medical professional to find a program to aid you in managing and reducing the symptoms.
Anxious ADD
Most people with ADD also experience anxiety. This can be annoying anxious moments or full-fledged anxiety disorders like generalized anxiety disorder or social anxiety disorder panic disorder or phobias that are specific to. It isn't a matter of whether it's an anxiety that is mild or chronic severe anxiety. It can affect your life and work. Almost 80% of people with ADHD have at least one additional diagnosis, and anxiety is the most frequent disorder that is a comorbidity.
Anxious ADD, one of the "7 types" of ADD is defined by a feeling of anxiety and nervousness, as well inattention. It is caused by a dysregulated brain. In the case of this type the brain mapping qEEG can show that certain areas of the brain are hyperactive or are out of balance. These include the limbic system as well as the prefrontal cortex.
Those with this kind of ADD have a high sensitivity to external stimuli such as the sound, light and touch. They are prone to overreact and have a short fuse. They are prone towards repetitive negative thoughts and behavior, and often engage in self-sabotage. They are also more likely to have an impulsive conflict-prone and atypical personality.
Treatment for this kind of ADD involves the balance of GABA and dopamine, while also promoting relaxation. People suffering from this type of ADD need to get enough rest, exercise and eat healthfully. They should avoid processed foods and sugar. If possible, they should use the same routine for sleeping and getting up and follow it daily. They should also strive to incorporate physical exercise into their educational or professional activities. If they work at desks then they must get up and move every hour.
Ring of Fire ADD
This type of ADD is characterized as having an overactive Cerebral cortex, as well as more activity in the left and rights Parietal Lobes and the left-right Temporal Lobes. female adhd symptoms with Ring of Fire ADD are likely to exhibit all the classic symptoms of ADHD that include difficulty staying focused and impulsive behaviour. They may also show high levels of anxiety as well as rapid thoughts. They may be overwhelmed by sensory stimuli and are usually rigid and irritable.
People who have Ring of Fire ADD are often misdiagnosed with Bipolar Disorder, because their symptoms are similar. The difference is that people who have Bipolar Disorder go through periods of depression or mania as those suffering from Ring of Fire ADD experience their symptoms in a constant manner.
Ring of Fire ADD is more difficult to treat than other types of ADHD. The symptoms are typically related to an imbalance in brain chemicals, and treatment generally is focused on correcting the imbalance. The positive side is that by implementing expert strategies, individuals can manage their Ring of Fire ADHD symptoms and lead a balanced and productive life.
If you are experiencing symptoms of Ring of Fire ADHD, it is crucial to seek medical advice from a qualified professional. Dr. Daniel Amen has some important points to make despite the fact that his work is often viewed with suspicion by the medical field. You can receive the assistance you require by identifying the different types of ADHD. Contact a specialist today to get a reliable diagnosis and get on the road to a happy and healthy life.
Classic ADD
Classic ADD is the type most people think of when they hear the term ADHD. It has all the symptoms of inattentive ADD however it also has hyperactivity and an impulsive nature. People with this type of ADD struggle with organization, planning prioritizing, managing time and self-monitoring. They are easily distracted, and lack the mental endurance to complete tasks that they do not like. They aren't usually referred to as "hyperactive," yet they have difficulty following instructions and often miss appointments. They have decreased blood flow to the prefrontal cortex and low levels of dopamine.
This form of ADD is characterized by emotional problems and a struggle to cope with stress, anxiety, and depression. They could have a history of familial abuse or trauma or have been through a difficult divorce. Individuals with limbic ADD have decreased activity in the prefrontal cortex and irregularities in their temporal lobes that control mood. This type of ADD is treated with antidepressants as well as supplements to regulate neuronal function.
Dr. Zlatin Ivanov specializes in diagnosing and treating all types of adult ADD. His unique testing process identifies and determines the correct treatment for each patient's needs. Contact Psychiatry NYC today to schedule an appointment to receive individualized ADHD treatment.