Symptoms of ADHD in Adults
A 43-year-old married woman visited Dr. Amen concerned she may have ADD (predominantly inattentive type). She was having difficulty staying on top of household chores and schoolwork. She was unorganized and often lost her wallet or keys.
She often was late for appointments and lost track of time. She was also moody with chronic sadness not related to depression or depression, but a negative outlook on life and low self-esteem.
Inattentional ADD
People with inattentive ADHD have difficulty paying attention to details and are prone to making mistakes. They may have trouble remembering what they've heard, or fail to complete a project or homework assignment. They often lose wallets, keys, and other things they require to survive. They often miss appointments or have difficulty keeping track of messages and bills.
While children who suffer from hyperactive ADHD are easy to spot when they wiggle around in their seats, fidget or talk nonstop, those who have the inattentive form of ADD slip under the radar because they don't exhibit obvious behavioral problems. This type of ADD is more prevalent in girls than in boys. Many teachers are unaware of the signs, since they don't conform to the stereotype of a 'bad kid'.
Adults with inattentive ADHD are unable to follow instructions at home and at the workplace. They tend to put off tasks and avoid tasks that require constant mental effort. They may also have difficulty listen to lectures or conversations and are easily distracted by extraneous stimuli, such as unrelated thoughts or the television or internet. Inattention ADHD symptoms can be mistaken for laziness or lack of motivation. Many adults are annoyed when loved ones or colleagues continually remind them of commitments they have not fulfilled.
It's important that you understand that inattentive ADD can be triggered by stress, other mental issues, or physical ailments. symptoms of add in adults by a health care provider or mental health professional is required to confirm the existence of symptoms and to determine if treatment is required. They will collect a complete medical history, conduct a physical exam and discuss your lifestyle to help you identify any other issues that could be contributing to your symptoms.
Overfocused ADD
Those afflicted with those suffering from ADD are unable to shift their focus, and can become focused on a specific task. They may also be very organized, which can cause confusion to some people and result in an incorrect diagnosis. Because they are lacking dopamine and serotonin they are usually treated with the standard ADHD medications that increase serotonin and dopamine. However, this treatment could actually make their ADD symptoms worse.
They may feel trapped because they are unable to control their thoughts, which causes them to struggle with anxiety and depression. They are also prone to get stuck in negative thoughts and behaviors that can be difficult to get rid of without intervention. Adults with overfocused ADD have observed positive results from cognitive behavioral therapies to recognize and alter negative thought patterns, mindfulness practices which reduce rumination as well as skill training.
If someone is diagnosed with overfocused ADD their brain's anterior cingulate gland is hyperactive, which could lead to hyper-focus and moodiness. The stimulant ADD medications can stimulate this region of the brain to much and can cause more symptoms and cause irritability. A healthy diet and non-medicated treatments have been shown to be helpful for these individuals.
People with over-focused ADD tend to "stick" in negative cycles. This can create stress and tension in relationships. Developing a schedule, using a digital planner and joining in communities that support each other can ease some of their symptoms. Couples coaching can be beneficial for ADD as it assists to clarify roles and expectations between partners. This can improve communication, and help both individuals to lead a more balanced lifestyle. The most effective treatment of ADD/ADHD is always working with an naturopathic doctor or a medical professional to determine a program that will aid you in managing and reducing the symptoms.
Anxious ADD
Often people who have ADD also experience anxiety. symptoms of adult attention deficit disorder may be a few nagging concerns or a more severe anxiety disorder like social anxiety disorder or panic disorder. It doesn't matter if it is a mild anxiety or a chronic severe anxiety. It can impact your work and life. About 80% of people with ADHD have at least one additional diagnosis, and anxiety is the most frequently-cited comorbid diagnosis.
Anxious ADD is one of the "7 types of ADD." This type is distinguished by a severe anxiety and a feeling of nervousness and inattention. It is caused by a disordered brain. In the case of this kind the brain mapping qEEG can show that certain regions of the brain are overactive or out of balance. These include the limbic and prefrontal cortex. system.
Individuals with this type of ADD are highly sensitive to external stimuli such as noise, light and the touch. They are more prone to reacting too quickly and are prone to a quick temper. They are prone to repetitive negative thoughts or behaviors and are often self-defeating. They are also more likely to have an impulsive, conflict-prone and atypical personality.
Treatment for this kind of ADD involves the balancing of GABA and dopamine while promoting relaxation. This kind of ADD requires that people have enough sleep and exercise regularly, as well as consume healthy food. They should also avoid processed foods and sugar. If possible, they should follow the same routine every day for waking up and sleeping. They should also strive to incorporate physical exercise into their professional or academic tasks. If they work at an office and are not able to get up and move every hour.
Ring of Fire ADD
This kind of ADD is characterized by overactivity in the Cerebral Cortex, as well as increased activity in the left and right Parietal Lobes, and the left and right Temporal Lobes. Those with Ring of Fire ADD are likely to suffer from all the typical symptoms of ADHD and have trouble staying focused and having impulsive behavior. They might also experience high levels of anxiety, erratic thoughts and anger. They may become overwhelmed by the stimulation of their surroundings, and are typically rigid and irritable.
Ring of Fire ADD is often mistakenly referred to as Bipolar Disorder because the symptoms are very similar. The difference is that people with Bipolar Disorder cycle through periods of mania or depression, while those suffering from Ring of Fire ADD experience their symptoms consistently.
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 is usually aimed at correcting this imbalance. By implementing expert strategies, individuals can manage their Ring of Fire ADHD and live a healthy and balanced life.
If you're experiencing symptoms of Ring of Fire ADHD, it is essential to seek medical advice from a qualified professional. Dr. Daniel Amen has some valid points even though his work is viewed with suspicion in the medical community. You can get the help that you need by identifying the types of ADHD. Talk to a professional for a valid diagnose and start on the path to a healthy and happy life.
Classic ADD
Classic ADD is what people think of when they hear ADHD. It includes all the symptoms of inattention ADD but also hyperactivity and impulsivity. Those who have this form of ADD struggle with planning, organization prioritizing, managing time and self-monitoring. They are easily distracted and do not have the mental strength to finish tasks that are not their favorite. They are not usually labeled "hyperactive," yet they struggle to follow instructions and are often late for appointments. They are low in dopamine levels and a reduced flow of blood in the prefrontal cortex.
People with this type of ADD struggle with their emotions and exhibit difficulty dealing with anxiety, stress and depression. They may have experienced trauma or abuse in the family or experienced difficult separation. People suffering from limbic ADD have less activity in their prefrontal cortex as well as abnormalities in the temporal lobes which regulate moods. Treatment for this form of ADD revolves around supplements and antidepressants to regulate neuronal activity.
Dr. Zlatin ivanov specializes in diagnosing the causes, treating and addressing all forms of adult ADD. His unique test method identifies the root cause of the patient's symptoms and determines the appropriate treatment. Call Psychiatry NYC to schedule an appointment today for personalized ADHD treatment.