Symptoms of ADHD in Adults
A 43-year-old married woman visited Dr. Amen concerned she may have ADD (predominantly inattentive type). She was having trouble keeping up with her school work and household chores. She was unorganized and often lost her wallet or keys.
She often was late for appointments and lost track of time. She was also moody and had chronic sadness not related to depression, a negative outlook on life and low self-esteem.
Inattentive ADD
People who have inattention ADHD have trouble paying attention to details and making rash mistakes. They have trouble remembering information they've heard and may forget to complete homework assignments or work project. They often lose keys, wallets, and other items they need to live. In the end, they often miss appointments or have difficulty keeping track of their bills and messages.
While children with hyperactive ADHD are easy to spot when they wiggle around in their seats, fidget and talk nonstop, those who have the inattentive form of ADD are often overlooked because they don't display overt behavior issues. Children who have this type of ADD are more likely to be girls than boys, and many teachers don't acknowledge their symptoms since they don't conform to the stereotype of the "bad kid."
Adults with inattention ADHD frequently have difficulty following instructions at home as well as at work. They also have a tendency to delay or avoid tasks that require sustained mental effort. They may also have difficulty follow conversations or lectures and are easily distracted by other distractions, such as unrelated thoughts or the television or internet. Inattentive ADHD symptoms can be misinterpreted as lazyness or inability to focus. Many adults are frustrated when their loved ones or colleagues keep reminding them of their missed commitments.
It's important to note that inattention ADD symptoms may also be caused by other causes such as stress, other mental health issues, or physical ailments. To determine the cause and determine if treatment is required, a comprehensive assessment by a mental health professional or health professional is recommended. They will conduct a thorough medical history, perform an examination of your body and discuss your lifestyle to help you identify any other issues that may contribute to your symptoms.
Overfocused ADD
People suffering from Overfocused ADD are unable to shift their focus, and can become hyper-focused on certain activities. They may also be very organized, which could cause confusion for some people and lead to a misdiagnosis. Because they tend to lack serotonin and dopamine they are usually treated with the standard ADHD medications that increase serotonin and dopamine. adhd symptoms in adults can actually worsen their ADD symptoms.
They may feel overwhelmed because they are unable to control their minds, leading to anxiety and depression. They are also susceptible to become stuck in negative behavior and patterns of thought that can be difficult to break free from without intervention. Adults with Overfocused ADD have seen positive results from cognitive behavioral therapies to identify and change negative thinking patterns, mindfulness practices which reduce rumination as well as skill training.
When someone suffers from hyperfocus ADD and has an anterior cingulate region of the brain is hyperactive. This can cause hyperfocus and moodiness. Stimulant ADD medications can stimulate this area of the brain to much which can cause a rise in symptoms and irritability. This is why a balanced diet and other non-medication therapies have been proven helpful for those suffering from this condition.
adhd in adults symptoms with Overfocused ADD are more likely to get "stuck" in negative cycles that can strain relationships and increase stress. Making a schedule or using a planner that is digital and interacting with communities that support each other can ease some of their symptoms. Couples coaching can be beneficial for ADD, as it helps to clarify roles and expectations between partners. This can improve communication, and assist both people to lead more well-balanced lives. The most effective treatment of ADD/ADHD is always working with a Naturopathic or Medical Doctor to discover a treatment plan to aid you in managing and reducing the symptoms.
Anxious ADD
Often people who have ADD also suffer from anxiety. It could be a few annoying worries or a full-blown anxiety disorder like social anxiety disorder or panic disorder. Whatever the case, whether it's an occasional feeling of anxiety or a more persistent anxiety that is serious, it can significantly interfere with work and life. Almost 80% of people with ADHD have at least one additional diagnosis, and anxiety is the most common co-occurring diagnosis.
Anxious ADD is one of the theorized "7 types of ADD." This type is characterized by a heightened anxiety and nervousness and inattention. It is caused by a dysregulated brain. In the situation of this type, qEEG brain mapping shows that certain areas of the brain are either overactive or are out of balance. This includes the limbic system and the prefrontal cortex.
adhd in adult women symptoms with this kind of ADD are extremely sensitive to external stimuli, such as light, noise and the touch. They are prone to overreacting and are prone to a quick temper. They are more prone to repeating negative thoughts and actions and are often involved in self-sabotage. They tend to be impulsive and argumentative, and have an oppositional personality.
The treatment for this type is to balance GABA with dopamine and encouraging relaxation. This type of ADD requires that people have enough sleep and are active, and eat healthy. They should also avoid sugar and processed foods. If possible they should follow the same routine for sleeping and getting up and adhere to the same routine daily. They should also strive to incorporate physical activity into their educational or professional activities. For instance when they work at a desk job and they are sitting, they should stand or walk around at least once an hour.
Ring of Fire ADD
This kind of ADD is characterised by an overactive in the Cerebral Cortex and also increased activity in the left and right Parietal Lobes, and the left and right Temporal Lobes. Those with Ring of Fire ADD are likely to exhibit all the typical symptoms of ADHD that include difficulty staying focused and impulsive behaviour. They may also show high levels of anxiety, erratic thoughts, and irritation. They may be overwhelmed by sensory stimuli and are often inflexible and argumentative.
Ring of Fire ADD is often mistakenly referred to as Bipolar Disorder because the symptoms are remarkably similar. But the difference is that those who suffer from Bipolar Disorder will cycle through 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 generally focuses on correcting that imbalance. The positive side is that by applying the right strategies, people can manage their Ring of Fire ADHD symptoms and live a balanced and productive life.
If you're experiencing signs of Ring of Fire ADHD, it is crucial to seek medical advice from a qualified doctor. While Dr. Daniel Amen's research has been viewed with suspicion by a lot of the medical world however, he does have legitimate points. You can receive the assistance you require by identifying the different types of ADHD. Contact a professional today to receive a dependable diagnosis and get on the path towards a happy and healthy life.
Classic ADD
Classic ADD is the type that most people imagine when they hear the term ADHD. It exhibits all the signs of inattentive ADD however it also has hyperactivity and the tendency to be impulsive. People with this type of ADD struggle with planning, organization prioritizing, managing time and self-monitoring. They are easily distracted, and lack the mental endurance to complete tasks they don't enjoy. They aren't usually referred to as "hyperactive," yet they struggle to follow instructions and frequently miss appointments. They have decreased blood flow to the prefrontal cortex, and low levels of dopamine.
People with this form of ADD are troubled by their emotions and exhibit difficulty in coping with anxiety, stress and depression. They might have suffered trauma or abuse in the family or suffered an emotional separation. Individuals with limbic ADD exhibit decreased activity in the prefrontal cortex, and the temporal lobes which 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 types adult ADD. His unique test method identifies the causes of a patient's issues and determines the appropriate treatment. Contact Psychiatry NYC to schedule an appointment today to receive a personalized ADHD treatment.