Symptoms of ADHD in Adults
A 43-year-old married woman came to Dr. Amen concerned she may be suffering from ADD (predominantly inattentive type). She was having trouble keeping up with household chores and schoolwork. She was unorganized and often lost her wallet or keys.
She was prone to losing track of time. She had a low self-esteem and a negative outlook. She also suffered from a chronic sadness that was not depression.
Inattentional ADD
People who have inattention ADHD have difficulty paying attention to details and are prone to making mistakes. They may struggle to remember what they've heard or forget to finish a project or homework assignment. They frequently lose wallets, keys, and other things they require to live. They are usually late for appointments or have trouble keeping track of messages and bills.
Children with inattentive ADD aren't as obvious because they don't exhibit any obvious behavioral issues. This type of ADD is more prevalent among girls than in boys. Teachers are often unaware of the signs, since they don't conform to the stereotype of a 'bad kid'.
Adults with inattention ADHD are unable to follow instructions, both at home and at the workplace. They also tend to procrastinate and avoid tasks that require sustained mental effort. They may also find it difficult to follow conversations or lectures and can be easily distracted by extraneous stimuli, such as unrelated thoughts or the television or internet. Inattentive ADHD symptoms could be mistaken for laziness or lack of motivation. Many adults are frustrated when loved ones or colleagues constantly remind them of their missed commitments.
It's important to note that inattention ADD symptoms may also be caused by other factors such as stress, other mental health issues or physical illnesses. A thorough examination by a medical professional or mental health professional is required to determine the presence of symptoms and determine if treatment is needed. They will collect a complete medical history, conduct physical examinations and talk about your lifestyle to help identify any other issues that may be contributing to your symptoms.
Overfocused ADD
People suffering from Overfocused ADD are unable to shift their focus and are often focused on a specific task. They can also be highly organized, which could cause confusion to some people and lead to misdiagnosis. These people are often treated by traditional ADHD medications, which boost serotonin and/or dopamine. This treatment can actually worsen their ADD symptoms.
They can feel suffocated because they are unable to divert their thoughts, leading to depression and anxiety. They are also 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 alter negative patterns, mindfulness exercises to lessen rumination, as well as training in skills have produced positive results for people with Overfocused ADD.
When a person has hyper-focused ADD their brain's anterior cortex gyrus is hyperactive, which can lead to hyper-focus and moodiness. Stimulant ADD medications can stimulate this area of the brain to a great extent which can cause a rise in symptoms and cause irritability. This is why a healthy diet and other non-medicated therapies have been proven helpful for these individuals.
People suffering from Overfocused ADD have a tendency to get "stuck" in negative cycles, which can cause tension in relationships and increase stress. Certain symptoms can be cured by creating a schedule by using an electronic planner and forming supportive communities. 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 live more well-balanced lives. The most effective treatment for ADD/ADHD involves working with an Occupational or Medical Doctor to identify the best program to reduce and manage your symptoms.
Anxious ADD
ADD patients also often suffer from anxiety. It may be a few nagging anxieties or a complete anxiety disorder like panic disorder or social anxiety disorder. Whatever the case, whether it's an occasional feeling of anxiety or a longer-lasting anxiety that is serious, it can significantly interfere with the way you live and work. About 80% of people who suffer from 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 severe feeling of nervousness and anxiety and inattention. It is caused by dysregulated brain. In this instance, qEEG mapping shows that certain brain regions are overactive or out of balance. These include the limbic system and the prefrontal cortex.
People who suffer from this type of ADD are highly sensitive to external stimuli like the sound, light and touch. They are susceptible to overreacting and have a short temper. They are susceptible to repetitive negative thoughts and behavior and are often involved in self-sabotage. They tend to be impulsive, arguing and possess an antagonistic personality.
The treatment for this type involves balancing GABA with dopamine, and promoting relaxation. People suffering from this type of ADD must get enough sleep and exercise, as well as eating a healthy diet. They should also stay away from sugar and processed foods. If possible, they should use the same routine for sleeping and getting up and stick to the same routine daily. Lastly, they should try to include physical activities in their educational or work-related tasks. If they work at desks, they should get up and move every hour.
Ring of Fire ADD
This kind of ADD is defined by excessive activity in the Cerebral Cortex and also increased activity in the left and right Parietal Lobes, and the left and right Temporal Lobes. People with Ring of Fire ADD will likely exhibit all the typical ADHD symptoms, including difficulties in staying focused and impulsive behaviors. They may also show high levels of anxiety and erratic thoughts. They can 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 similar. However, the difference is that those who have Bipolar Disorder can experience periods of mania and depression 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 forms of ADHD. The symptoms are usually related to an imbalance in brain chemicals, and treatment generally concentrates on repairing that imbalance. By implementing expert strategies, individuals 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 important to seek out help from a trained medical professional. While Dr. Daniel Amen's work has been met with skepticism by many in the medical community however, he does have good points. By recognizing the various types of ADHD and understanding what to look for, you will be able to receive the help you require. Talk to a professional for an accurate diagnosis and begin on the road towards a happy and healthy life.
Classic ADD
Classic ADD is what people think of when they hear ADHD. It includes all the symptoms of inattentive ADD but also impulsivity and hyperactivity. People with this type of ADD struggle with organization, planning prioritizing, time management and self-monitoring. They are easily distracted and do not have the mental strength to finish tasks they do not enjoy. They are not usually labeled as "hyperactive," but they are unable to follow instructions and often miss appointments. They have reduced blood flow to the prefrontal cortex, and low dopamine levels.
This type of ADD is characterized by emotional problems and a struggle to cope with stress, anxiety, and depression. simply click the next internet page might have a history of family abuse or trauma, or have gone through an emotional divorce. People suffering from limbic ADD have less activity in their prefrontal cortex as well as abnormalities in the temporal lobes which regulate mood. This form of ADD is treated with antidepressants and supplements to regulate the neuronal activity.
Dr. Zlatin ivanov specializes in diagnosing and treating all types adult ADD. His unique testing method is able to identify and determines the correct treatment for each patient's needs. Contact Psychiatry NYC to schedule an appointment today to receive a personalized ADHD treatment.