Symptoms of ADHD in Adults
A 43-year-old married woman visited Dr. Amen concerned she may be suffering from ADD (predominantly inattention type). She had trouble keeping up with her schoolwork and household chores. She was unorganized and often lost her keys or wallet.
She was prone to forgetting appointments and losing the track of time. She was also moody with constant sadness that was not linked to depression and a negative view of life and low self-esteem.
Inattentive ADD
People with inattention ADHD tend to make mistakes without paying attention to the finer 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 with. They are often late to appointments or are unable to keep the track of their messages and bills.
While adhd symptoms and treatment who suffer from hyperactive ADHD are easy to identify as they wiggle in their seats, fidget and talk all the time, children who have the inattentive form of ADD slip under the radar since they don't show obvious behavior issues. Children who suffer from this subtype of ADD are more likely to be females than boys and a lot of teachers don't recognize their symptoms because they don't fit into the stereotype of the "bad child."
Adults with inattention ADHD have difficulty following instructions at home and at work. They tend to delay tasks and avoid tasks that require a sustained mental effort. They may also find it difficult to listen to lectures or conversations and can be easily distracted by extraneous stimuli, such as unrelated thoughts or the internet or television. Inattention ADHD symptoms could be misinterpreted as lazyness or inability to focus. Many adults are upset when their loved ones or colleagues keep reminding them of missed commitments.
It is important to understand that inattentive ADD can also be caused by stress, other mental or physical ailments. To determine the severity of the symptoms and determine if treatment is required for you, a thorough evaluation by an expert in mental health or health professional is needed. They will take a detailed medical history, conduct a physical exam and discuss your lifestyle to help you determine any other issues that might contribute to your symptoms.
Overfocused ADD
Those afflicted with over-focused ADD have difficulty shifting their focus and are often hyper-focused on certain activities. They can also be highly organized, which could cause confusion for certain people and cause confusion and misdiagnosis. They are usually treated by conventional ADHD medications, which boost serotonin and/or dopamine. However, this treatment can actually cause ADD symptoms worse.
They may feel overwhelmed because they are unable to control their thoughts, leading to anxiety and depression. They are also prone to become stuck in negative behaviors and patterns of thought that are difficult to break free from without intervention. adhd symptoms and treatment with overfocused ADD have observed positive results from cognitive behavioral therapies to change negative thought patterns, mindfulness exercises that reduce rumination and skill training.
If someone is diagnosed with overfocused ADD the brain's anterior cingulate gland is hyperactive, which can cause hyper-focus and moodiness. The stimulant ADD medications can stimulate this region of the brain too much and can cause a rise in symptoms and irritability. A healthy diet and non-medication treatments have been shown to be helpful for these people.
People with over-focused ADD tend to "stick" in negative cycles. This can cause stress and strain relationships. Making a schedule or using a planner that is digital, and engaging in supportive communities can help alleviate some of their symptoms. Couples coaching for ADD can be beneficial in creating clear roles and expectations for both partners. This can improve communication and assist both people to lead a more balanced lifestyle. The most effective treatment for ADD/ADHD involves working with a Medical Doctor or Naturopathic Doctor to find the right program to manage and minimize the symptoms.
Anxious ADD
ADD patients also often suffer from anxiety. It could be a few irritating anxieties or a complete anxiety disorder like panic disorder or social anxiety disorder. It doesn't matter if it is a mild anxiety or chronic severe anxiety. It can have a negative impact on your life and work. Around 80% of those who suffer from ADHD also have a different diagnosis. Anxiety is the most prevalent.
Anxious ADD, one of the "7 types" of ADD, is defined by a feeling of anxiety and nervousness as well as inattention. It is caused by a dysregulated brain. In the situation of this type, qEEG brain mapping shows that certain regions of the brain are either overactive or are out of balance. This includes the limbic system and the prefrontal cortex.
People with this kind of ADD are highly sensitive to external stimuli like light, noise and touch. They are prone to overreact and have a short fuse. They are susceptible to 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.
The treatment for this type is to balance GABA with dopamine and promoting relaxation. Patients suffering from this kind of ADD must get enough sleep and exercise, as well as eating a healthy diet. They should also avoid sugar and processed foods. If they can, they should adhere to the same routine each day for waking and sleeping. It is also recommended to integrate physical activity into their educational or professional activities. If they are at a desk, they should get up and move around every hour.
Ring of Fire ADD
This type of ADD is described as having an overactive Cerebral cortex and an more activity in the left and rights Parietal Lobes and the left-right Temporal Lobes. Those who suffer from Ring of Fire ADD are likely to suffer from all the classic symptoms of ADHD, including trouble staying focused and having impulsive behavior. They may also show high levels of anxiety, erratic thoughts and anger. They are often overwhelmed by sensory stimuli, and are frequently rigid and irritable.
Ring of Fire ADD is often mistakenly referred to as Bipolar Disorder because the symptoms are very similar. The distinction is that people suffering from Bipolar Disorder cycle through periods of mania or depression and those with Ring of Fire ADD experience their symptoms continuously.
Ring of Fire ADD can be more difficult to treat compared to other forms of ADHD. The symptoms are usually linked to an imbalance in brain chemicals, and treatment generally focuses on correcting that imbalance. With the help of expert strategies, people can learn to manage their Ring of Fire ADHD and lead a balanced life.
If you're experiencing Ring of Fire ADHD symptoms It's crucial to seek assistance from a trained medical professional. Dr. Daniel Amen has some valid points despite the fact that his work is often viewed with suspicion by the medical field. You can receive the assistance that you need by identifying the types of ADHD. Contact a specialist to receive a valid diagnose and start on the road to a happy and healthy life.
Classic ADD
Classic ADD is the kind that most people think of when they hear ADHD. It encompasses all the signs of inattentive ADD but also impulsivity and hyperactivity. People with this type of ADD have difficulty organizing, prioritizing tasks, managing time, and focusing on themselves. They are easily distracted, and lack the mental stamina to complete tasks that they don't enjoy. They are not usually classified as "hyperactive," but they are troubled in following instructions and frequently miss appointments. They have reduced blood flow to the prefrontal cortex, and low dopamine levels.
People suffering from this type of ADD have trouble with their emotions and have difficulty in dealing with anxiety, stress and depression. They may have experienced trauma or abuse in the family or suffered an emotional separation. Individuals with limbic ADD have less activity in their prefrontal cortex and irregularities in the temporal lobes, which regulate moods. Treatment for this kind of ADD revolves around supplements and antidepressants to regulate the neuronal activity.
Dr. Zlatin ivanov specializes in diagnosing and addressing all forms of adult ADD. His unique test method identifies the root cause of a patient's issues and determines the best treatment. Contact Psychiatry NYC today to schedule an appointment for individualized ADHD care.