Symptoms of ADHD in Adults
A 43-year-old married woman came to Dr. Amen concerned she may have ADD (predominantly inattention type). She was having trouble keeping up with household chores and schoolwork. She was unorganized and often lost her keys or wallet.
She frequently forgot appointments and lost the track of time. She was self-deprecating and a negative outlook. She also suffered from a constant sadness that was not depression.
Inattentive ADD
People who have inattention ADHD are unable to pay attention to the details and making rash mistakes. They have a difficult time recalling information they've learned and may forget to complete homework assignments or work project. They frequently lose keys, wallets, and other things they require to survive. As a result, they often miss appointments or have difficulty keeping track of their bills and messages.
While children with hyperactive ADHD are easy to spot as they move around in their seats, fidget or talk nonstop, those with the inattentive type of ADD are often overlooked because they don't display overt behavioral problems. Children who suffer from this subtype of ADD are more likely to be females than boys, and many teachers don't recognize their symptoms because they don't fit into the stereotype of the "bad kid."
Adults with inattention ADHD are unable to follow instructions at home as well as at work. They also tend to procrastinate and avoid tasks that require constant mental effort. They may also have difficulty with lectures or conversations and are easily distracted by unrelated things like the internet or television. Inattentive ADHD symptoms can be misinterpreted as lazyness or inability to focus. Many adults are annoyed when their loved ones or colleagues constantly remind them of their missed commitments.
It is important to remember that inattentive ADD symptoms can also be caused by other causes such as stress, mental health issues, or physical illnesses. To determine the cause and determine if treatment is necessary an extensive examination by an expert in mental health or health care provider is recommended. They will ask for details about your medical history and conduct a physical examination and review your life style to identify any other issues which may contribute to your symptoms.
Overfocused ADD
Those afflicted with Overfocused ADD are unable to shift their focus and are often obsessed with certain activities. They can also be extremely organized, which can cause confusion to some people and result in an incorrect diagnosis. Because they are lacking dopamine and serotonin, these individuals are often treated with conventional ADHD drugs that boost serotonin and dopamine. However, this treatment could actually cause ADD symptoms worse.
They can feel suffocated because they are unable to divert their minds, leading to depression and anxiety. They are also prone to become trapped in negative behaviours and thought patterns that can be difficult to break free from without intervention. Adults with Overfocused ADD have seen positive results from cognitive-behavioral therapies to change negative thought patterns, mindfulness techniques that reduce rumination and skill training.
When someone suffers from overfocused ADD the anterior cingulate gyrus in their brain is overactive. This can cause hyperfocus and moodiness. The stimulant ADD medications can stimulate this region of the brain to much and can cause more symptoms and cause irritability. This is why a healthy diet and other non-medication treatments have proven to be beneficial for these people.
People suffering from Overfocused ADD have a tendency to get "stuck" in negative cycles, which can strain relationships and cause stress. Making a schedule and using a digital planner and interacting with communities that support each other can ease some of their symptoms. Couples coaching for ADD can also be very beneficial in creating clear roles and expectations for both partners. This will improve communication and help to create a more balanced and healthy life for both individuals. The most effective treatment of ADD/ADHD is always working with Medical or Naturopathic Doctors to find a program to assist you in managing and reducing the symptoms.
Anxious ADD
Many people with ADD also suffer from anxiety. It could be a few irritating concerns or a more severe anxiety disorder, such as social anxiety disorder or panic disorder. Whatever the case, whether it's an occasional anxious feeling or a longer-lasting anxiety that is serious, it can significantly interfere with the way you live and work. Around 80% of those who suffer from ADHD also have another diagnosis. Anxiety is the most frequent.
Anxious ADD, one of the "7 types" of ADD, is characterized by a feeling of anxiety and nervousness, as well as inattention. It is caused by a dysregulated brain. In this instance it is evident that qEEG mapping reveals that certain brain regions are hyperactive or out of balance. These include the limbic system and prefrontal cortex.
People who suffer from this kind of ADD are highly sensitive to external stimuli such as noise, light and touch. They are more prone to reacting too quickly and have a short temper. They are susceptible to repetitive negative thoughts and actions, and often engage in self-sabotage. They are more likely to be impulsive and argumentative, and have an oppositional personality.
Treatment for this kind of ADD involves the balancing of GABA and dopamine while encouraging relaxation. This kind of ADD requires that people get enough sleep and exercise regularly, as well as consume a balanced diet. They should also stay away from processed and sugary foods. If possible they should follow the same routine for sleeping and getting up and adhere to it every day. In addition, they should attempt to incorporate physical activities into educational or work-related activities. For instance for those who have a desk job, they should stand up or walk around at least once per hour.
Ring of Fire ADD
This kind of ADD is known as having an overactive Cerebral cortex and an more activity in the left and rights Parietal Lobes and the left-right Temporal Lobes. adhd in adults signs suffering from Ring of Fire ADD will likely suffer from all the typical ADHD symptoms, including the difficulty in focusing and impulsive behaviors. They might also exhibit high levels of anxiety and erratic thoughts. They may be overwhelmed by sensory stimuli and are often rigid and irritable.
People who have Ring of Fire ADD are often misdiagnosed as having Bipolar Disorder, because their symptoms seem very similar. But adhd in adults signs is that those who have Bipolar Disorder can experience periods of mania and depression; those with Ring of Fire ADD typically suffer from their symptoms on a regular basis.
Ring of Fire ADD is more difficult to treat than other types of ADHD. The symptoms are usually related to an imbalance in brain chemicals, and treatment generally is focused on correcting the imbalance. The good news is that by implementing expert strategies, individuals can manage their Ring of Fire ADHD symptoms and live a balanced and productive life.
If you're experiencing symptoms of Ring of Fire ADHD, it is important to seek medical advice from a qualified medical professional. Although Dr. Daniel Amen's research has been viewed with suspicion by a lot of the medical world however, he does have good points. You can get the help that you need by identifying the types of ADHD. Contact a specialist to receive an accurate diagnosis and begin on the path to a happy and healthy life.
Classic ADD
Classic ADD is what the majority of people think about when they hear ADHD. It includes all the symptoms of inattention ADD but also impulsivity and hyperactivity. The people with this type of ADD struggle with organizing, prioritizing tasks, managing time, and focusing on themselves. They are easily distracted and lack the mental stamina to complete tasks that they do not like. They are not usually labeled "hyperactive," yet they have difficulty following instructions and are often late for appointments. They have low dopamine levels as well as a decreased flow of blood in the prefrontal cortex.
This form of ADD is marked by emotional issues and difficulty in dealing with stress, anxiety, and depression. They might have suffered trauma or abuse in their family or experienced difficult separation. Individuals with limbic ADD exhibit decreased activity in the prefrontal cortex, and irregularities in their temporal lobes that control mood. This form of ADD is treated with antidepressants and other supplements to regulate neuronal function.
Dr. Zlatin ivanov specializes in diagnosing the causes, treating and addressing all forms of adult ADD. His unique test method identifies the causes of a patient's issues and determines the most appropriate treatment. Contact Psychiatry NYC today to schedule an appointment for personalized ADHD treatment.