Symptoms of ADHD in Adults
A 43-year-old married woman visited Dr. Amen concerned she may have ADD (predominantly inattentive type). She had trouble keeping up with her schoolwork and household chores. She was unorganized and frequently lost her wallet or keys.
She was often prone to losing track of time. She was also moody and had constant sadness that was not linked to depression or depression, but a negative outlook on life and low self-esteem.
Inattentive ADD
People who have inattention ADHD are unable to pay attention to the details and making rash mistakes. They may have trouble remembering what they've heard, or forget to finish a task or homework assignment. They frequently lose wallets, keys, and other items they need to survive. They are often late to appointments or are unable to keep up with messages and bills.
While children who suffer from hyperactive ADHD are easy to spot as they wiggle in their seats, fidget or talk nonstop, those who have the inattentive form of ADD are often overlooked since they don't show obvious behavior issues. This subtype of ADD is more prevalent for girls than boys. Many teachers are unaware of their symptoms since they don't conform to the stereotype of a "bad kid'.
Adults with inattentive ADHD struggle to follow directions, both at home and at the workplace. They tend to put off tasks and avoid tasks that require sustained mental effort. They may also have trouble listening to lectures or conversations and can easily be distracted by irrelevant stimuli such as the internet or television. Inattentive ADHD symptoms could be mistaken for laziness or apathy. Many adults are frustrated when their loved ones or colleagues constantly remind them of missed commitments.
It's important that you understand that inattention ADD can be triggered by stress, other mental issues, or physical illnesses. To confirm the symptoms and determine if treatment is required an extensive assessment by an expert in mental health or health care professional is needed. add symptoms adults will request an extensive medical history, perform a physical examination and discuss your lifestyle in order to determine any other issues which may contribute to your symptoms.
Overfocused ADD
Those afflicted with over-focused ADD have trouble shifting their focus, and can become focused on a specific task. They can also be extremely organized, which could confuse some people and result in misdiagnosis. Because they are lacking serotonin and dopamine they are usually treated with the standard ADHD drugs that boost dopamine and serotonin. However, this treatment could actually cause ADD symptoms worse.
People who suffer from this condition may feel suffocated due to their inability to redirect their thoughts, which causes them to suffer from depression and anxiety. They also are prone to becoming stuck in negative behavior and thought patterns that can be difficult to break free from without intervention. Adults with Overfocused ADD have observed positive results from cognitive-behavioral therapy to change negative thoughts patterns, mindfulness techniques which reduce rumination as well as the development of skills.
When someone suffers from Overfocused ADD their brain's anterior cortex gyrus is overactive, which can cause hyper-focus and moodiness. Stimulant ADD medication can stimulate this region of the brain too much which can increase their symptoms and irritability. A healthy diet and non-medication treatments have been proven to be helpful for these individuals.
People with Overfocused ADD are more likely to get "stuck" in negative cycles that can strain relationships and increase stress. Certain symptoms can be eased by establishing a routine by using an electronic planner and joining communities that support. Couples coaching for ADD can also be very helpful in establishing clear roles and expectations for both partners. This can help improve communication and to create a more balanced and healthy life for both individuals. The most effective treatment for ADD/ADHD involves working with a Naturopathic or Medical Doctor to determine the best program that can help you manage and reduce the symptoms.
Anxious ADD
ADD patients also often suffer from anxiety. It could be a few annoying worries or a full-blown anxiety disorder such as social anxiety disorder or panic disorder. It does not matter if it's a mild anxiety or a chronic, severe anxiety. It can impact your work and life. About 80% of people who suffer from ADHD also have another diagnosis. Anxiety is the most common.
Anxious ADD is one of the "7 types" of ADD, is associated with a feeling anxiety and nervousness as well as inattention. It is caused by a dysregulated brain. In the case of this kind, qEEG brain mapping shows that certain regions of the brain are either overactive or out of balance. These include the limbic system as well as the prefrontal cortex.
People with this type of ADD are extremely sensitive to external stimuli, such as noise, light and the touch. They are prone to overreact and have an insufficient reactivity. They are more prone to repeating negative thoughts and behavior and frequently engage in self-sabotage. They tend to be impulsive, argumentative, and have an oppositional personality.
Treatment for this type of ADD involves the balance of GABA and dopamine while encouraging relaxation. This type of ADD requires that individuals get enough sleep and exercise regularly, as well as consume a balanced diet. They should avoid sugar and processed foods. If possible they should follow the same routine for sleeping and waking up and adhere to the same routine daily. Lastly, they should try to incorporate physical activities into educational or work-related activities. For example when they work at a desk job or a desk job, they should get up or walk around at least every hour.
Ring of Fire ADD
This kind of ADD is characterized as having an overactive Cerebral cortex, as well as more activity in the left and rights Parietal Lobes and the left-right Temporal Lobes. Those with Ring of Fire ADD will likely exhibit all the classic ADHD symptoms, including difficulties in staying focused and impulsive behaviors. They may also exhibit high levels of anxiety, rapid thoughts and irritability. They can be overwhelmed by sensory stimulation and are often highly inflexible and irritable.
Ring of Fire ADD is often misdiagnosed as Bipolar Disorder because the symptoms are very similar. However, the difference is that people who suffer from Bipolar Disorder will cycle through periods of mania and depression while those who have Ring of Fire ADD typically experience their symptoms regularly.
Ring of Fire ADD is more difficult to treat than other types of ADHD. The symptoms are usually related to an imbalance of brain chemical. Treatment usually aims towards resolving this imbalance. Through the use of effective strategies, individuals can manage their Ring of Fire ADHD and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
If you're experiencing symptoms of Ring of Fire ADHD, it is crucial to seek medical advice from a qualified medical professional. Although Dr. Daniel Amen's work has been met with skepticism by a lot of the medical field, he does have some valid points. By recognizing the different kinds of ADHD and understanding what to look for, you can get the help you need. Contact a professional today to receive a dependable diagnosis and get on the path to a happy and healthy life.
Classic ADD
Classic ADD is what people think of when they hear the word ADHD. It is characterized by all the signs of inattention ADD but also hyperactivity and the tendency to be impulsive. Those with this form of ADD struggle with organizing and prioritizing tasks, balancing time, and focusing on themselves. female adhd symptoms are easily distracted and lack the mental strength to finish tasks that aren't their preferred ones. They aren't usually referred to as "hyperactive," yet they have difficulty following instructions and are often late for appointments. They have a low level of dopamine and reduced blood flow in the prefrontal cortex.
People with this form of ADD have trouble with their emotions and experience difficulties dealing with stress, anxiety and depression. They may have experienced trauma or abuse within the family or experienced an emotional separation. People suffering from limbic ADD show reduced activity in the prefrontal cortex, and irregularities in their temporal lobes which control mood. This form of ADD is treated with antidepressants and supplements to regulate neuronal function.
Dr. Zlatin ivanov specializes in diagnosing, treating and treating all kinds of adult ADD. His unique testing process identifies and determines the appropriate treatment for each patient's specific symptoms. Contact Psychiatry NYC to schedule an appointment today for personalized ADHD treatment.