Symptoms of ADHD in Adults
A 43-year-old married woman came to Dr. Amen concerned she may have ADD (predominantly inattentive type). She had trouble keeping up with her school work and household chores. She was unorganized, and often lost her wallet or keys.
She was often prone to not remembering appointments and losing track of time. She was also moody with constant sadness that was not linked to depression, a negative outlook on life and low self-esteem.
Inattentional ADD
People who have inattention ADHD tend to make mistakes without paying attention to the finer details. They have trouble recalling information they've learned and may forget to complete homework assignments or a work project. They frequently lose keys, wallets and other things they require to survive. This is why they are often late for appointments or struggle to keep track of their bills and messages.
While children who suffer from hyperactive ADHD are easy to identify as they move around in their seats, fidget and talk constantly, children who have the inattentive form of ADD do not get noticed because they don't exhibit obvious behavioral problems. This subtype of ADD is more common for girls than boys. Teachers are often unaware of their symptoms, as they don't fit into the stereotype of a 'bad kid'.
Adults with inattentive ADHD frequently have difficulty following instructions at home and at work and have a tendency to procrastinate or skip tasks that require constant mental effort. They may also have trouble following conversations or lectures, and they are easily distracted by unrelated media such as the television or the internet. Signs of inattention ADHD can be misinterpreted as laziness or apathy. A lot of adults are frustrated when they are constantly reminded of missed obligations by their family or friends.
signs of adhd in adults to note that inattentive ADD symptoms can also be caused by other factors like stress, other mental health issues or physical ailments. To confirm the symptoms and determine if treatment is needed an extensive assessment by a mental health professional or health care provider is required. They will request a detailed medical background and a physical exam and talk about your lifestyle to pinpoint any other issues which may contribute to your symptoms.
Overfocused ADD
Those with people with ADD are incapable of shifting their focus and instead are focused on specific tasks. They can also be extremely organized, which could cause confusion to some people and result in confusion and a misdiagnosis. These individuals are often treated with conventional ADHD medication, which increases serotonin and/or dopamine. This treatment can actually worsen their ADD symptoms.
People who suffer from this condition may feel suffocated because they are unable to control their thoughts, which leads them to suffer from anxiety and depression. Moreover, they are prone to become stuck in negative thought patterns and behaviours that are difficult to get rid of without intervention. Adults with Overfocused ADD have observed positive results from cognitive-behavioral therapy to recognize and alter negative thinking patterns, mindfulness techniques that help reduce rumination, and training for skills.
When someone suffers from overfocused ADD the anterior cingulate region of the brain is hyperactive. This can cause hyperfocus and moodiness. Stimulant ADD medication can stimulate this part of the brain too much, which can exacerbate their symptoms and irritability. A healthy diet and non-medicated therapies are proven 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. Making a schedule, using a digital planner and interacting with communities that support each other can ease some of their symptoms. Couples coaching can be beneficial for ADD as it assists to define roles and expectations between partners. This can improve communication and allow both parties to live a more balanced lifestyle. The most effective treatment for ADD/ADHD involves working with a Naturopathic or Medical Doctor to determine the best program that will help manage and reduce the symptoms.
Anxious ADD
Often people who have ADD also have anxiety. It could be a recurring anxious moments or full-blown anxiety disorders like generalized anxiety disorder or social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, or specific phobias. Regardless of whether it's just an occasional feeling of anxiety or a more persistent, serious anxiety that can be a major issue with life and work functioning. Nearly 80% of those suffering from ADHD have at least one additional diagnosis and anxiety is the most frequent comorbid diagnosis.
Anxious ADD is one of the "7 kinds" of ADD, is defined by a feeling of anxiety and nervousness, as well as inattention. It is caused by a dysregulated brain. In this case it is evident that qEEG mapping reveals that certain brain regions are hyperactive or out of balance. This includes the prefrontal cortex and limbic system.
People who suffer from this type of ADD are highly sensitive to external stimuli like light, noise and touch. They are more prone to reacting too quickly and have a short temper. They are prone negative thoughts or behaviors and frequently engage in self-sabotage. They are also more likely to be impulsive, combative and antagonistic personality.
The treatment for this type is to balance GABA with dopamine and promoting relaxation. People suffering from this type of ADD should get enough sleep, exercise and eat healthfully. They should also stay away from sugar and processed foods. If they can, they should keep the same routine throughout the day for waking and sleeping. In addition, they should attempt to include physical activities in their educational or work-related tasks. For example for those who have a desk job and they are sitting, they should stand or walk around at least every hour.
Ring of Fire ADD
This type of ADD is characterized as having an overactive Cerebral cortex and more activity in the right and left Parietal Lobes and the left-right Temporal Lobes. The people who suffer from Ring of Fire ADD are likely to suffer from all the typical symptoms of ADHD and have trouble staying focused and impulsive behavior. They may also exhibit high levels of anxiety, erratic thoughts, and irritability. They can become overwhelmed by sensory stimulation, and are usually rigid 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 suffer from Bipolar Disorder are prone to experiencing periods of depression and mania; those with Ring of Fire ADD typically experience their symptoms on a regular basis.
Ring of Fire ADD can be more difficult to treat when compared to other forms of ADHD. The symptoms are usually related to an imbalance of brain chemical. Treatment usually aims at resolving this imbalance. The good news is that through applying the right strategies, people can learn to 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 help from a qualified medical professional. While Dr. Daniel Amen's work has been viewed with suspicion by a large portion of the medical community However, he has legitimate points. By identifying the different types of ADHD and knowing what to look for, you can get the help you need. Get in touch with a specialist today to receive a valid diagnosis and start on the road to a healthy and happy life.
Classic ADD
Classic ADD is the kind that most people think of when they hear the term ADHD. It includes all the symptoms of inattention ADD but also hyperactivity and impulsivity. 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 stamina to complete non-preferred tasks. These individuals are usually not classified as "hyperactive," but they are troubled in following instructions and are often late for appointments. They have a reduced flow of blood to the prefrontal cortex as well as low dopamine levels.
This form of ADD is characterized by emotional problems and a struggle to cope with anxiety, stress and depression. They might have suffered trauma or abuse within the family or have been through an emotional separation. People suffering from limbic ADD have reduced activity in their prefrontal cortex, as well as disturbances in the temporal lobes which regulate moods. This form of ADD is treated with antidepressants and supplements to regulate neuronal function.
Dr. Zlatin Ivanov specializes in diagnosing and treating all types of adult ADD. His unique test method identifies the source of the patient's symptoms and determines the appropriate treatment. Contact Psychiatry NYC today to schedule an appointment to receive individualized ADHD care.