Symptoms of ADHD in Adults
Dr. Amen was concerned that a married woman of 43 years old could have ADD. She was struggling to keep up with her schoolwork and household chores. She was disorganized and frequently lost her wallet or keys.
She frequently forgot appointments and lost the track of time. She was also depressed with constant sadness that was not linked to depression or depression, but a negative outlook on life and low self-esteem.
Inattentional ADD
People with inattentive ADHD tend to make careless errors and not 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 objects they need to live with. They are often late to appointments or have trouble keeping the track of their messages and bills.
While children who suffer from hyperactive ADHD are easy to identify as they wiggle in their seats, fidget or talk nonstop, those with the inattentive kind of ADD slip under the radar because they don't exhibit obvious behavior issues. Children who have this type of ADD tend to be girls than boys, and many teachers don't recognize their symptoms because they don't fit into the stereotype of a "bad child."
Adults who suffer from inattention ADHD struggle to follow directions, both at home and at the workplace. They tend to put off tasks and avoid tasks that require a sustained mental effort. They may also have trouble listening to lectures or conversations, and they can easily be distracted by irrelevant stimuli such as the television or the internet. Inattention ADHD symptoms could be misinterpreted as lazyness or inability to focus. Many adults are upset when their loved ones or colleagues keep reminding them of commitments they have not fulfilled.
It's important that you understand that inattentive ADD can be caused by stress, mental disorders, or physical illnesses. To determine the cause and determine if treatment is needed an extensive assessment by an expert in mental health or health care professional is needed. They will collect a complete medical history, perform physical examinations and talk about your lifestyle to help determine any other issues that may cause your symptoms.
Overfocused ADD
Those afflicted with over-focused ADD are unable to shift their focus and become hyper-focused on certain activities. They can also be highly organized, which can confuse some people and result in misdiagnosis. They are usually treated with conventional ADHD medications, which boost serotonin and/or dopamine. This can actually aggravate their ADD symptoms.
These individuals can feel suffocated by their inability to divert their thoughts, which causes them to struggle with depression and anxiety. They are also prone to become stuck in negative thoughts and behaviors that can be difficult to get rid of without intervention. symptoms of adhd with overfocused ADD have seen positive results from cognitive-behavioral therapy to identify and change negative thoughts patterns, mindfulness practices that reduce rumination and skill training.
When someone suffers from Overfocused ADD, the anterior cingulate gyrus of the brain is hyperactive. This can lead to hyperfocus and moodiness. The stimulant ADD medication can stimulate this area of the brain too much, which can exacerbate their symptoms and cause irritability. This is why a healthy diet and other non-medication therapies have been proven helpful for these individuals.
People suffering from Overfocused ADD tend to become "stuck" in negative cycles that can cause tension in relationships and increase stress. Developing a schedule, using a digital planner and interacting with communities that support each other can ease some of their symptoms. Couples coaching for ADD can be beneficial in creating clear roles and expectations for both partners. This can improve communication and assist both people to live an enlightened lifestyle. The most effective approach to treating ADD/ADHD is to work with Medical or Naturopathic Doctors to determine a program that will aid you in managing and reducing the symptoms.
Anxious ADD
ADD patients are often also suffering from anxiety. It could be a few irritating worries or a full-blown anxiety disorder, such as panic disorder or social anxiety disorder. It does not matter if it's an anxiety that is mild or chronic severe anxiety. It can have a negative impact on your work and personal life. Nearly 80% of those suffering from ADHD also have a different diagnosis. Anxiety is the most frequent.
Anxious ADD is one of the theorized "7 kinds of ADD." This kind is characterized by a severe anxiety and nervousness as well as inattention. It is caused by a dysregulated brain. In this case the qEEG map shows that certain brain regions are either overactive or out-of-balance. This includes the limbic system and the prefrontal cortex.
People who suffer from this kind of ADD have a high sensitivity to external stimuli such as light, noise and touch. They are prone to overreacting and have a short temper. They are more prone to repeating negative thoughts or behavior and frequently engage in self-sabotage. They tend to be impulsive, arguing, and have an oppositional personality.
The treatment for this kind involves balancing GABA with dopamine and encouraging relaxation. People with this type of ADD should get enough sleep and exercise, as well as eat a balanced diet. They should also avoid processed foods and sugar. If possible, they should use the same routine for sleeping and waking up and adhere to the same routine daily. They should also try to integrate physical activity into their educational or professional activities. If they work at an office then they must get up and move around every hour.
Ring of Fire ADD
This kind of ADD is known as having an overactive Cerebral cortex, as well as increased activity on the right and left Parietal Lobes and the left-right Temporal Lobes. Those with Ring of Fire ADD are likely to suffer from all the classic symptoms of ADHD, including trouble staying focused and having impulsive behavior. They might also exhibit high levels of anxiety and rapid thoughts. They may be overwhelmed by sensory stimuli and are often inflexible and argumentative.
People who have Ring of Fire ADD are often misdiagnosed as having Bipolar Disorder, because their symptoms appear to be similar. The difference is that people who have Bipolar Disorder have periods of depression or mania and those with Ring of Fire ADD experience their symptoms in a constant manner.
Ring of Fire ADD can be more difficult to treat when compared to other forms of ADHD. The symptoms are often related to an imbalance of brain chemicals. Treatment is usually aimed at resolving this imbalance. The positive side is that by using a set of strategies that are well-established, people can manage their Ring of Fire ADHD symptoms and live a balanced and productive life.
If you're experiencing Ring of Fire ADHD symptoms, it's important to seek out help from a trained medical professional. Dr. Daniel Amen has some important points to make even though his work is seen with suspicion in the medical field. By recognizing the various types of ADHD and knowing what to look for, you can receive the help you require. Talk to a professional for a valid diagnose and start on the road to a happy and healthy life.
Classic ADD
Classic ADD is what most people think of when they hear ADHD. It has all the symptoms of inattention ADD however it also has hyperactivity and impulsivity. Those with this form of ADD struggle with organizing, prioritizing tasks, managing time, and focusing on themselves. They are easily distracted and lack the mental endurance to finish tasks they do not like. These people are typically not labeled as "hyperactive," but they are unable to follow instructions and frequently miss appointments. They have a reduced flow of blood to the prefrontal cortex as well as low levels of dopamine.
People suffering from this type of ADD struggle with their emotions and experience difficulties in dealing with stress, anxiety and depression. They might have a family history of abuse or trauma or have experienced an emotional divorce. People suffering from limbic ADD have decreased activity in the prefrontal cortex and abnormalities in their temporal lobes that control mood. This form of ADD is treated with antidepressants as well as supplements to regulate the neuronal activity.
Dr. Zlatin ivanov specializes in diagnosing and treating all kinds of adult ADD. His unique testing process identifies the source of a patient's issues and determines the appropriate treatment. Contact Psychiatry NYC to schedule an appointment today to receive a personalized ADHD treatment.