Symptoms of ADHD in Adults
Dr. Amen was concerned that a woman who was married and 43 could be suffering from ADD. She was having trouble staying on top of household chores and schoolwork. She was disorganized, and often lost her keys or wallet.
She often missed appointments and was unable to keep the track of time. She was self-deprecating and a negative outlook. She also suffered from an ongoing sadness that was not depression.
Inattentive ADD
People with inattention ADHD tend to make careless errors and not paying attention to the details. They have a hard time remembering the information they've heard, and might forget to finish homework assignments or work project. They often misplace keys, wallets and other items they require to live. This is why they are often late for appointments or struggle to keep track of their bills and messages.
While children with hyperactive ADHD are easy to identify as they move around in their seats, fidget and talk constantly, children with the inattentive type of ADD slip under the radar because they don't display overt behavior issues. This type of ADD is more common among girls than in boys. Teachers are often unaware of their symptoms, because they don't fit the stereotype of a 'bad kid'.
Adults who suffer from inattention ADHD are unable to follow instructions, both at home and at work. They tend to delay tasks and avoid tasks that require sustained mental effort. They may also find it difficult to follow conversations or lectures and are easily distracted by distractions like unrelated thoughts or the television or internet. Inattentive ADHD symptoms could be misinterpreted as lazyness or inability to focus. Many adults are annoyed when family members or colleagues constantly remind them of missed commitments.
It is important to remember that inattentive ADD symptoms could be caused by other causes like stress, other mental health issues, or physical ailments. To determine the severity of the symptoms and determine if treatment is needed an extensive evaluation by a mental health professional or health care professional is needed. They will ask for details about your medical history, perform a physical examination and discuss your lifestyle to pinpoint any other issues that could be contributing to your symptoms.
Overfocused ADD
Those afflicted with Overfocused ADD have trouble shifting their focus, and can become focused on a specific task. They can also be extremely organized, which can confuse some people and cause a misdiagnosis. These individuals are often treated by conventional ADHD medication, which increases serotonin and/or dopamine. However, this treatment could actually make their ADD symptoms worse.
They can feel suffocated because they are unable to divert their minds, leading to anxiety and depression. They also are prone to become trapped in negative behaviours and patterns of thought that are difficult to break out of without intervention. Cognitive-behavioral therapy to recognize and change negative patterns, mindfulness exercises to reduce rumination, and the development of skills have demonstrated positive results for adults with Overfocused ADD.
If someone is diagnosed with hyper-focused ADD, their brain's anterior cingulate gland is hyperactive, which could lead to hyper-focus and moodiness. The stimulant ADD medications can stimulate this part of the brain to much, which can exacerbate symptoms and irritability. A healthy diet and non-medication therapies are proven to be helpful for these individuals.
People suffering from Overfocused ADD tend to get "stuck" in negative cycles, which can strain relationships and cause stress. Setting up a routine or using a planner that is digital and interacting with supportive communities can help alleviate some of their symptoms. Couples coaching for ADD can also be very helpful in establishing clear roles and expectations for both partners. This can help improve communication and help both individuals to live a more balanced lifestyle. The most effective treatment for ADD/ADHD is working with an Occupational or Medical Doctor to determine the best program that can help you manage and reduce the symptoms.
Anxious ADD
Most people with ADD also suffer from anxiety. inattentive adhd symptoms could be a recurring anxiety, tense periods of worry or full-blown anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder or social anxiety disorder panic disorder, or specific phobias. Whatever the case, whether it's an occasional feeling of anxiety or a longer-lasting anxiety, 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 common comorbid diagnosis.
Anxious ADD is one of the "7 types" of ADD, is associated with a feeling anxiety and nervousness, as well inattention. It is caused by dysregulated brain. In this case, qEEG mapping shows that certain brain regions are hyperactive or out of balance. These include the prefrontal cortex and limbic system.
People with this type of ADD are extremely sensitive to external stimuli, like light, noise and the touch. They tend to overreact and have an insufficient reactivity. They are more prone to repeating negative thoughts and behaviors and are often involved in self-sabotage. They are also more likely to have an impulsive, argumentative and oppositional personality.
Treatment for this type of ADD involves balancing GABA and dopamine, while also promoting relaxation. People with this type of ADD should get enough sleep, exercise and eat healthfully. They should also avoid processed foods and sugar. If they can they should follow the same routine for sleeping and waking up and follow it daily. They should also try to incorporate physical activity into their educational or professional activities. For example 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 type of ADD is characterized by overactivity in the Cerebral Cortex, as well as increased activity in the left and right Parietal Lobes, and the left and right Temporal Lobes. People with Ring of Fire ADD will likely experience all of 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 stimulation and are often highly inflexible and irritable.
People who have Ring of Fire ADD are often misdiagnosed with Bipolar Disorder, because their symptoms seem very similar. The difference is that people who have Bipolar Disorder cycle through periods of mania or depression, while those with Ring of Fire ADD experience their symptoms consistently.
Ring of Fire ADD can be more difficult to treat when compared to other types of ADHD. The symptoms are usually linked to an imbalance in brain chemicals. Treatment is usually aimed at correcting this imbalance. Through the use of effective strategies, people can manage their Ring of Fire ADHD and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
If you're dealing with Ring of Fire ADHD symptoms It's crucial to seek help from a qualified medical professional. Although Dr. Daniel Amen's work has been met with skepticism by a lot of the medical world However, he has good points. You can receive the assistance that you require by identifying the various types of ADHD. Contact a specialist today to get a reliable diagnosis and get on the right path to a happy and healthy life.
Classic ADD
Classic ADD is the type that most people think of when they hear ADHD. It is characterized by all the signs of inattentive ADD but also hyperactivity and the tendency to be impulsive. People with this type of ADD struggle with planning, organization prioritizing, time management and self-monitoring. They are easily distracted and lack the mental endurance to complete tasks that are not their favorite. These individuals are usually not classified as "hyperactive," but they are unable to follow instructions and are often late for appointments. They have reduced blood flow to the prefrontal cortex as well as low dopamine levels.
This form of ADD is marked by emotional issues and a struggle to cope with anxiety, stress and depression. They could have a history of family trauma or abuse, or have gone through an emotional divorce. Individuals with 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 of adult ADD. His unique test method identifies the source of each patient's symptoms and determines the best treatment. Contact Psychiatry NYC to schedule an appointment today for personalized ADHD treatment.