Symptoms of ADHD in Adults
A 43-year-old married woman came to Dr. Amen concerned she may have ADD (predominantly inattentional type). She was having difficulty keeping up with schoolwork and household chores. She was disorganized, and often lost her wallet or keys.
She was often prone to not remembering appointments and losing the track of time. She had a low self-esteem and a negative outlook. She also suffered from a chronic sadness that was not depression.
Inattentive ADD
People with inattentive ADHD are more likely to make mistakes without paying attention to the details. They have a difficult time remembering the information they've heard, and may forget to complete homework assignments or even a project. They often lose keys, wallets, and other things they require to survive. In the end, they often arrive late for appointments or have trouble keeping track of their bills and messages.
While children who suffer from hyperactive ADHD are easy to identify as they wiggle in their seats, fidget or talk all the time, children with the inattentive type of ADD are often overlooked because they don't exhibit obvious behavior issues. This type of ADD is more prevalent among girls than in boys. Many teachers are unaware of their symptoms as they don't fit into the stereotype of a 'bad child''.
adhd signs in adults with inattention ADHD have difficulty following instructions, 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 they can easily be distracted by irrelevant stimuli such as the internet or television. The signs of inattention ADHD can be misinterpreted as lazyness or apathy. Many adults feel frustrated when they are constantly reminded of missed obligations by family members or colleagues.
It is crucial to know that inattention ADD can also be caused by stress, mental issues, or physical ailments. To confirm the symptoms and determine if treatment is needed, a comprehensive examination by a mental health professional or health professional is needed. They will take a detailed medical history, conduct physical examinations and talk about your lifestyle to help identify any other issues that could contribute to your symptoms.
Overfocused ADD
People with the condition of over-focused ADD are unable to shift their focus, and can become focused on a specific task. They may also be extremely organized, which can confuse some people and result in incorrect diagnosis. Because they tend to lack dopamine and serotonin they are usually treated with the standard ADHD medications that increase serotonin and dopamine. This can actually aggravate 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 depression and anxiety. They are also prone to becoming stuck in negative behaviors and thought patterns that are difficult to break free from without intervention. Cognitive-behavioral therapy to identify and change negative patterns, mindfulness techniques to reduce rumination, and skill training have shown positive results for adults with Overfocused ADD.
If someone is diagnosed with overfocused ADD their brain's anterior cingulate gyrus is hyperactive, which could result in hyper-focus and a mood swing. The stimulant ADD medications can stimulate this region of the brain to a great extent which can cause a rise in symptoms and cause irritability. A healthy diet and non-medicated therapies are proven to be beneficial for these individuals.
People who suffer from Overfocused ADD tend to "stick" in negative cycles. This can lead to stress and stress relationships. Certain symptoms can be alleviated by establishing a routine, using an electronic planner, and joining communities that support. Couples coaching can be beneficial for ADD, as it helps to define roles and expectations between partners. This can help improve communication and develop a more balanced life for both of them. The most effective treatment for ADD/ADHD is to work with an Occupational or Medical Doctor to determine the best program that will help manage and reduce the symptoms.
Anxious ADD
Most people with ADD also experience anxiety. It could be a few annoying worries or a full-blown anxiety disorder like social anxiety disorder or panic disorder. It does not matter if it's a mild anxiety or a chronic, severe anxiety. It can affect your life and work. Almost 80% of people with ADHD have at least one additional diagnosis, and anxiety is the most frequently-cited disorder that is a comorbidity.
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 dysregulated brain. In this case the qEEG map shows that certain brain regions are overactive or out of balance. This includes the limbic and prefrontal cortex. system.
People with this type of ADD are highly sensitive to external stimuli like noise, light and touch. They are more prone to reacting too quickly and are prone to a quick temper. They are more prone to repeating negative thoughts or behaviors and often engage in self-sabotage. They tend to be impulsive, argumentative and possess an antagonistic personality.
The treatment for this type is to balance GABA with dopamine and encouraging relaxation. Patients suffering from this kind of ADD should get enough sleep and exercise, as well as eating a healthy diet. They should also stay away from sugar and processed foods. If they can, they should keep the same routine throughout the day for waking up and sleeping. In addition, they should attempt to incorporate physical activities into their educational or work-related tasks. For instance when they work at an office job, they should stand up or walk around at least every hour.
Ring of Fire ADD
This type of ADD is described as having an overactive Cerebral cortex and more activity in the left and rights Parietal Lobes and the left-right Temporal Lobes. People with Ring of Fire ADD are likely to experience all of the classic symptoms of ADHD and have trouble staying focused and having impulsive behavior. They might also experience high levels of anxiety, rapid thinking, and irritability. They can become overwhelmed by sensory stimulation, and are typically rigid and irritable.
Ring of Fire ADD is often misdiagnosed as Bipolar Disorder because the symptoms are similar. The difference is that people who have Bipolar Disorder cycle through periods of mania or depression and those who suffer from Ring of Fire ADD experience their symptoms consistently.
Ring of Fire ADD is more difficult to treat than other types of ADHD. The symptoms are often related to an imbalance in brain chemicals. Treatment is usually aimed towards resolving this imbalance. The good news is that through using a set of strategies that are well-established, people can learn to manage their Ring of Fire ADHD symptoms and live a balanced and productive life.
If you're experiencing signs of Ring of Fire ADHD, it is crucial to seek medical advice from a qualified professional. Although Dr. Daniel Amen's work has been viewed with suspicion by a large portion of the medical field However, he has good points. By identifying the different types 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 start on the road to a healthy and happy life.
Classic ADD
Classic ADD is the type that most people think of when they hear ADHD. It has all the symptoms of inattention ADD, but also includes hyperactivity and the tendency to be impulsive. The people who suffer from this form of ADD struggle with planning, organization, prioritizing, time management and self-monitoring. They are easily distracted and lack the mental stamina to complete tasks they do not like. They are not usually labeled "hyperactive," yet they have difficulty following instructions and often miss appointments. They have reduced blood flow to the prefrontal cortex as well as low dopamine levels.
People suffering from this type of ADD have trouble with their emotions and experience difficulties in dealing with anxiety, stress and depression. They might have experienced trauma or abuse within the family or experienced a difficult separation. People with limbic ADD show reduced activity in the prefrontal cortex, and irregularities in their temporal lobes that control mood. Treatment for this type of ADD revolves around supplements and antidepressants to regulate the neuronal activity.
Dr. Zlatin ivanov specializes in diagnosing and treating all types adult ADD. His unique testing process identifies the causes of a patient's issues and determines the most appropriate treatment. Call Psychiatry NYC to schedule an appointment today for personalized ADHD treatment.