Three Reasons Why You're Symptoms Of ADD In Adults Is Broken (And How To Repair It)
Symptoms of ADHD in Adults
A 43-year-old married woman came to Dr. Amen concerned she may be suffering from ADD (predominantly inattentive type). She was having trouble keeping up with her schoolwork and household chores. She was unorganized and often lost her wallet or keys.
She was prone to not remembering appointments and losing the track of time. She was self-deprecating, a negative outlook and a constant sadness that was not depression.
Inattentive ADD
People who have inattention ADHD have difficulty paying attention to the details and making careless mistakes. They may have trouble remembering what they've heard, or fail to complete a project or homework assignment. They often lose keys, wallets and other objects they need to live. 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 spot as they move around in their seats, fidget and talk nonstop, those with the inattentive type of ADD are often overlooked since they don't show obvious behavior issues. Children who suffer from this subtype of ADD tend to be girls than boys and teachers are often unable to acknowledge their symptoms because they don't fit into the stereotype of a "bad child."
Adults with inattention ADHD struggle to follow directions at home as well as at the workplace. They tend to put off tasks and avoid tasks that require a sustained mental effort. They may also have difficulty listening to lectures or conversations, and they are easily distracted by non-related things like the television or the internet. Signs of inattention ADHD could be misinterpreted as lazyness or apathy, and many adults are annoyed when they are constantly reminded of missed deadlines by family members or colleagues.
It is important to remember that inattention ADD symptoms can also be caused by other factors, including stress, mental health issues, or physical ailments. A thorough evaluation by a health care provider or mental health professional is needed to determine the presence of symptoms and determine if treatment is needed. They will take a detailed medical history, conduct a physical exam and discuss your lifestyle to help pinpoint any other issues that may be contributing to your symptoms.
Overfocused ADD
People with Overfocused ADD are not able to shift their focus and instead become hyper-focused on a specific task. signs and symptoms of adhd in women can also be extremely organized, which can cause confusion for some people and lead to incorrect diagnosis. Because they tend to lack serotonin and dopamine These individuals are typically treated with the standard ADHD medications that increase dopamine and serotonin. This can actually aggravate their ADD symptoms.
They may feel overwhelmed because they are unable to control their minds, which leads to anxiety and depression. They are also prone to become stuck in negative behaviors and thought patterns that are difficult to break out 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.
When a person is suffering from hyperfocus ADD and has an anterior cingulate region of their brain is overactive. This can cause hyperfocus and moodiness. Stimulant ADD medications can stimulate this area of the brain to a great extent and can cause a rise in symptoms and irritability. A healthy diet and non-medicated treatments have been proven to be helpful for these individuals.
People with over-focused ADD tend to "stick" in negative cycles. This can cause stress and tension in relationships. Setting up a routine and using a digital planner and interacting with community-based support can help ease some of their symptoms. Couples coaching can be beneficial for those suffering from ADD, as it helps to clarify roles and expectations between partners. This can help improve communication and assist both people to live more well-balanced lives. The most effective treatment for ADD/ADHD is working with an Occupational or Medical Doctor to find the right program that can help you manage and reduce the symptoms.
Anxious ADD
Many people with ADD also experience anxiety. It could be a recurring anxious moments or full-blown anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder or social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, or specific phobias. It doesn't matter if it is a mild anxiety or a chronic, severe anxiety. It can affect your work and personal life. Nearly 80% of those who suffer from 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 feeling of nervousness and anxiety and inattention. It is caused by a disordered brain. In the situation of this type the brain mapping qEEG can show that certain areas of the brain are overactive or are out of balance. This includes the limbic and prefrontal cortex. system.
Those with this type of ADD are highly sensitive to external stimuli such as light, noise and touch. They tend to overreact and have an insufficient reactivity. They are prone to repetitive negative thoughts or behaviors and often engage in self-sabotage. They are also more likely to have an impulsive, conflict-prone and atypical personality.
The treatment for this kind involves balancing GABA with dopamine, and promoting relaxation. This kind of ADD requires that people get enough sleep and exercise regularly, as well as consume a balanced diet. They should avoid sugar and processed foods. If possible, they should keep the same routine throughout the day for waking up and going to sleep. It is also recommended to incorporate physical activity into their educational or professional tasks. For example for those who have a desk job, they should stand up or walk around at least every hour.
Ring of Fire ADD
This kind of ADD is characterized as having an overactive Cerebral cortex and an more activity in the right and left Parietal Lobes and the left-right Temporal Lobes. People with Ring of Fire ADD will likely exhibit all the typical ADHD symptoms, such as difficulty staying focused and impulsive behaviors. They may also display high levels of anxiety and rapid thoughts. They may become overwhelmed by sensory stimulation, and are often highly inflexible and irritable.
People who have Ring of Fire ADD are frequently misdiagnosed with Bipolar Disorder, because their symptoms seem very similar. However, the difference is that those who suffer from Bipolar Disorder can experience periods of depression and mania; those with Ring of Fire ADD typically experience their symptoms on a consistent basis.
Ring of Fire ADD is more difficult to treat than other types of ADHD. The symptoms are usually related to an imbalance in brain chemicals, and treatment generally is focused on correcting the imbalance. The positive side is that by implementing expert strategies, individuals can manage their Ring of Fire ADHD symptoms and lead a healthy and productive life.
If you're suffering from Ring of Fire ADHD symptoms It's crucial to seek help from a qualified medical professional. While Dr. Daniel Amen's research has been met with skepticism by a lot of the medical community However, he has good points. You can receive the assistance that you require by identifying the different types of ADHD. Contact a professional today to receive a valid diagnosis and start on the right path to a healthy and happy life.
Classic ADD
Classic ADD is what people think of when they hear the word ADHD. It includes all the symptoms of inattentive ADD but also hyperactivity and impulsivity. People with this type of ADD struggle with planning, organization prioritizing, time management and self-monitoring. They are easily distracted, and do not have the mental strength to complete tasks they do not like. They aren't usually referred to as "hyperactive," yet they struggle to follow instructions and often miss appointments. They have low dopamine and reduced blood flow in the prefrontal cortex.
People with this type of ADD have trouble with their emotions and exhibit difficulty in dealing with anxiety, stress and depression. They may have experienced trauma or abuse within the family or suffered a difficult separation. People with limbic ADD are less active in their prefrontal cortex as well as abnormalities in the temporal lobes which regulate moods. This type of ADD is treated with antidepressants and supplements to regulate neuronal function.
Dr. Zlatin Ivanov specializes in diagnosing and treating all forms of adult ADD. His unique testing method helps identify the root cause of a patient's issues and determines the appropriate treatment. Contact Psychiatry NYC today to schedule an appointment to receive individualized ADHD care.