Symptoms of ADHD in Adults
A 43-year-old married woman visited Dr. Amen concerned she may be suffering from ADD (predominantly inattentive type). She was having trouble managing household chores and schoolwork. She was disorganized and frequently lost her wallet or keys.
She was prone to not remembering appointments and losing the track of time. She was self-deprecating and a negative outlook. She also suffered from a constant sadness that was not depression.
Inattentional ADD
People with inattentive ADHD are prone to making mistakes without paying attention to the details. They may have trouble remembering what they've heard or forget to finish a project or homework assignment. They often misplace keys, wallets and other things they require to live. As a result, they often miss appointments or struggle to keep track of their bills and messages.
While children who suffer from hyperactive ADHD are easy to spot when they wiggle around in their seats, fidget or talk constantly, children with the inattentive kind of ADD slip under the radar since they don't show obvious behavioral issues. Children who have this type of ADD are more likely to be females than males, and many teachers don't recognize their symptoms because they don't fit the stereotype of a "bad kid."
Adults who suffer from inattention ADHD often have trouble following instructions at home as well as at work. They also have a tendency to procrastinate or skip tasks that require sustained mental effort. They may also find it difficult to listen to lectures or conversations and can be easily distracted by other distractions, such as unrelated thoughts or the internet or television. Inattentive ADHD symptoms can be misinterpreted as lazyness or apathy. Many adults are annoyed when loved ones or colleagues continually remind them of commitments they have not fulfilled.
It is important to remember that inattention ADD symptoms could be caused by other factors like stress, other mental health issues, or physical illnesses. To determine the severity of the symptoms and determine if treatment is necessary for you, a thorough examination by an expert in mental health or health care provider is required. They will request an extensive medical history and conduct a physical examination and discuss your life style to pinpoint any other issues which may be causing your symptoms.
Overfocused ADD
People suffering from those suffering from ADD have difficulty shifting their focus, and can become focused on a specific task. They can also be extremely organized, which can cause confusion to some people and result in confusion and a misdiagnosis. These people are often treated by conventional ADHD medications, which increase serotonin and/or dopamine. However, this treatment can actually cause ADD symptoms worse.
They can feel suffocated because they are unable to divert their thoughts, leading to anxiety and depression. They are also prone to become stuck in negative thought patterns and behaviors that can be difficult to get rid of without intervention. Cognitive-behavioral therapy that identifies and change negative patterns, mindfulness practices to reduce rumination, and training in skills have produced positive results for people with Overfocused ADD.
When someone suffers from Overfocused ADD, their brain's anterior cingulate gland is hyperactive, which can lead to hyper-focus and moodiness. The stimulant ADD medication can stimulate this region of the brain too much which can increase their symptoms and cause irritability. A healthy diet and non-medicated treatments have been proven to be beneficial for these people.
People with Overfocused ADD tend to become "stuck" in negative cycles that can cause tension in relationships and increase stress. Certain symptoms can be alleviated by creating a plan or using an electronic planner, and forming supportive communities. Couples coaching for ADD can also be very beneficial in creating clear roles and expectations for both partners. This can improve communication and allow both parties to lead a more balanced lifestyle. The most effective method of treating ADD/ADHD will always be working with Medical or Naturopathic Doctors to determine a program to assist you in managing and reducing your symptoms.
Anxious ADD
ADD patients are often also suffering from anxiety. It could be a recurring anxiety, tense periods of worry or more serious anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder or phobias that are specific to. It does not matter if it's an anxiety that is mild or chronic, severe anxiety. It can impact your work and personal life. Almost adult add symptoms of people suffering from ADHD have at least one additional diagnosis, and anxiety is the most frequently-cited co-occurring diagnosis.
Anxious ADD is one of the "7 kinds of ADD." This kind is characterized by a strong anxiety and nervousness as well as inattention. It is caused by dysregulated brain. In this instance the qEEG map shows that certain brain regions are overactive or out-of-balance. These include the limbic system as well as the prefrontal cortex.
The people with this kind of ADD are highly sensitive to external stimuli such as noise, light and the touch. They are prone to overreact and have short fuses. They are prone negative thoughts or behaviors and frequently engage in self-sabotage. They tend to be impulsive and argumentative and possess an antagonistic personality.
Treatment for this type of ADD involves the balancing of GABA and dopamine as well as encouraging relaxation. This type of ADD requires that individuals have enough sleep and exercise regularly, as well as consume healthy food. They should also avoid processed foods and sugar. If they can, they should adhere to the same routine each day for waking up and sleeping. They should also try to incorporate physical exercise into their professional or academic tasks. For example, if they have an office job or a desk job, they should get up or walk around at least once an hour.
Ring of Fire ADD
This type of ADD is characterised by an overactive in the Cerebral Cortex as well as an increase in activity in the right and left Parietal Lobes, and the left and right Temporal Lobes. People suffering from Ring of Fire ADD will likely suffer from all the typical ADHD symptoms, such as difficulty staying focused and impulsive behaviors. They may also display high levels of anxiety and erratic thoughts. They can become overwhelmed by sensory stimulation, and are usually rigid and irritable.
Ring of Fire ADD is often mistakenly referred to as Bipolar Disorder because the symptoms are remarkably similar. But the difference is that people who suffer from Bipolar Disorder can experience periods of mania and depression while those who have Ring of Fire ADD typically suffer from their symptoms regularly.
Ring of Fire ADD can be more difficult to treat when compared to other types of ADHD. The symptoms are usually related to an imbalance in brain chemicals, and treatment usually is focused on correcting the imbalance. With the help of expert strategies, people can manage their Ring of Fire ADHD and lead a balanced life.
If you're experiencing Ring of Fire ADHD symptoms It is essential to seek help from a trained medical professional. While Dr. Daniel Amen's work has been viewed with suspicion by a large portion of the medical field, he does have some good points. By identifying the different types of ADHD and knowing what to look for, you will be able to receive the help you require. Get in touch with a specialist today to receive a dependable diagnosis and begin on the road to a healthy and happy life.
Classic ADD
Classic ADD is the type that most people imagine when they hear ADHD. It is characterized by all the signs of inattentive ADD however it also has hyperactivity and the tendency to be impulsive. Those with this form of ADD are unable to organize, prioritizing tasks, managing time, and monitoring themselves. They are easily distracted and do not have the mental strength to finish tasks that aren't their preferred ones. These people are typically not classified as "hyperactive," but they are troubled in following 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 difficulty in coping with anxiety, stress and depression. They might have a history of familial abuse or trauma or have been through a difficult divorce. Individuals with limbic ADD exhibit decreased 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 neuronal function.
Dr. Zlatin Ivanov specializes in diagnosing and treating various forms of adult ADD. His unique testing process identifies and determines the best treatment for each patient's specific symptoms. Call Psychiatry NYC to schedule an appointment today to receive a personalized ADHD treatment.