Symptoms of ADHD in Adults
A 43-year-old woman who was married came to Dr. Amen concerned she may be suffering from ADD (predominantly inattentive type). She was having trouble keeping up with her school work and household chores. She was disorganized and frequently lost her keys or wallet.
She often missed appointments and lost track of time. She had low self-esteem as well as a negative outlook. a chronic sadness that was not depression.
Inattentive ADD
People with inattention ADHD have difficulty paying attention to the details and making rash mistakes. They might have difficulty remembering the information they've heard or fail to complete a project or homework assignment. They frequently lose keys, wallets and other objects they need to live. This is why they often arrive late for appointments or have difficulty keeping track of their bills and messages.
Children with inattentive ADD aren't as evident because they don't exhibit any overt behavioral issues. This subtype of ADD is more prevalent among girls than in boys. Teachers are often unaware of the signs, because they don't fit the stereotype of a 'bad child''.
Adults who suffer from inattention ADHD often have trouble following instructions at home and at work. They also make it a habit to procrastinate or skip tasks that require constant mental effort. They may also have difficulty listening to lectures or conversations and can easily be distracted by irrelevant stimuli such as the television or the internet. The signs of inattention ADHD can be misinterpreted as lazyness or apathy. Many adults are annoyed when they are constantly reminded of missed obligations by loved ones or coworkers.
It's important that you understand that inattentive ADD can be caused by stress, other mental or physical illnesses. To determine the cause and determine if treatment is necessary an extensive assessment by an expert in mental health or health professional is required. They will take a detailed medical history, conduct an examination of your body and discuss your lifestyle to help pinpoint any other issues that may be contributing to your symptoms.
Overfocused ADD
People suffering from Overfocused ADD are incapable of shifting their focus and instead, they become focused on specific activities. They may also be very organized, which may confuse some people and cause confusion and a misdiagnosis. Because they are lacking dopamine and serotonin, these individuals are often treated with conventional ADHD medication that increases serotonin and dopamine. However, this treatment may actually cause their ADD symptoms worse.
Read A lot more can feel suffocated because they are unable to divert their thoughts, leading to anxiety and depression. Additionally, they are susceptible to become stuck in negative thinking patterns and behaviours that are difficult to break free of without intervention. Cognitive-behavioral therapy to recognize and alter negative patterns, mindfulness exercises to reduce rumination, and the development of skills have demonstrated positive results for people with Over-focused ADD.
When someone suffers from hyper-focused ADD, their brain's anterior cingulate gland is overactive, which can lead to hyper-focus and moodiness. The stimulant ADD medications can stimulate this part of the brain to a great extent and can cause more symptoms and cause irritability. A healthy diet and non-medication treatments have been shown to be beneficial for these people.
People suffering from Overfocused ADD have a tendency to become "stuck" in negative cycles that can strain relationships and increase stress. Some of their symptoms can be alleviated by establishing a routine, using an electronic planner, and joining communities that support. Couples coaching for ADD can also be very beneficial in creating clear roles and expectations for both partners. This can help improve communication and develop a more balanced life for both individuals. As always, the most effective treatment for ADD/ADHD is to work with a Medical Doctor or Naturopathic Doctor to find the right program to reduce and manage your symptoms.
Anxious ADD
Often people who have ADD also experience anxiety. This could be pesky, troublesome bouts of worry or full-fledged anxiety disorders like generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, or specific phobias. Whatever the case, whether it's an occasional feeling of anxiety or a more persistent, serious anxiety is a significant issue with life and work functioning. About 80% of people suffering from ADHD also have a different diagnosis. Anxiety is the most common.
Anxious ADD is one of the theorized "7 types of ADD." This type is characterized by a severe feeling of nervousness and anxiety and inattention. It is caused by a disordered brain. In the situation of this type the brain mapping of qEEG shows that certain areas of the brain are overactive or are out of balance. This includes the limbic system and prefrontal cortex.
The people with this kind of ADD are extremely sensitive to external stimuli such as light, noise and touch. They are prone to overreact and have an insufficient reactivity. They are prone negative thoughts or behavior and frequently engage in self-sabotage. They are also more likely to be impulsive, conflict-prone and atypical personality.
Treatment for this kind of ADD involves the balance of GABA and dopamine while helping to promote relaxation. This kind of ADD requires that patients get enough sleep, are active and consume healthy food. They should also avoid processed and sugary foods. If they can, they should keep the same routine throughout the day for waking up and going to sleep. Lastly, they should try to incorporate physical activities into their educational or work-related tasks. If they work at desks and are not able to be active and up and about 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 right and left Parietal Lobes, and the left and right Temporal Lobes. People with Ring of Fire ADD will likely experience all of the classic ADHD symptoms, such as difficulties in staying focused and impulsive behaviors. They may also display high levels of anxiety as well as rapid thoughts. They can be overwhelmed by the stimulation of their surroundings, and are often highly inflexible and argumentative.
People with Ring of Fire ADD are often misdiagnosed with Bipolar Disorder, because their symptoms appear to be similar. But the difference is that those who have Bipolar Disorder can experience periods of depression and mania while those who have Ring of Fire ADD typically have symptoms that occur on a consistent basis.
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 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 lead a healthy and productive life.
If you're dealing with Ring of Fire ADHD symptoms, it's important to seek assistance from a trained medical professional. While Dr. Daniel Amen's research has been viewed with suspicion by a large portion of the medical world, he does have some valid points. By recognizing the various types of ADHD and understanding what to look for, you can get the help you need. Contact a specialist to receive a valid diagnose and start on the road towards a happy and healthy life.
Classic ADD
Classic ADD is the kind that most people imagine when they hear ADHD. It is characterized by all the signs of inattentive ADD, but also includes hyperactivity and an impulsive nature. The people with this type of ADD struggle with organizing and prioritizing tasks, balancing time, and keeping track of their own. They are easily distracted and lack the mental endurance to complete non-preferred tasks. These people are typically not labeled as "hyperactive," but they are unable to follow instructions and frequently miss appointments. They are low in dopamine levels as well as a decreased flow of blood in the prefrontal cortex.
This type of ADD is marked by emotional issues and a difficulty in coping with stress, anxiety, and depression. They may have a history of familial abuse or trauma or have been through an emotional divorce. Individuals with limbic ADD show reduced activity in the prefrontal cortex and abnormalities in their 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 the causes, treating and treating all types adult ADD. His unique testing method is able to identify and determines the best treatment for each patient's symptoms. Contact Psychiatry NYC to schedule an appointment today for a personalised ADHD treatment.