A Step-By-Step Guide To Symptoms Of ADD In Adults
Symptoms of ADHD in Adults
A 43-year-old married woman came to Dr. Amen concerned she may be suffering from ADD (predominantly inattentional type). She was struggling to keep up with her schoolwork and household chores. She was disorganized, and often lost her keys or wallet.
She was prone to forgetting appointments and losing track of time. She was also moody with persistent sadness that was not caused by depression, a negative outlook on life and low self-esteem.
Inattentional ADD
People who have inattention ADHD have difficulty paying attention to details and are prone to making mistakes. They have a difficult time remembering the information they've heard, and might forget to finish homework assignments or even a project. They frequently lose wallets, keys, and other items they need to survive. This is why they often miss appointments or have difficulty keeping track of their bills and messages.
While children with hyperactive ADHD are easy to spot when they wiggle around in their seats, fidget or talk all the time, children 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. Teachers are often unaware of their symptoms, since they don't conform to the stereotype of a 'bad kid'.
Adults with inattentive ADHD struggle to follow directions at home and at work. They also tend to procrastinate and avoid tasks that require a sustained mental effort. They might also struggle to keep track of lectures or conversations and are easily distracted by distractions like unrelated thoughts or the television or internet. Signs of inattention ADHD can be misinterpreted as laziness or apathy. Many adults are frustrated when they are constantly reminded of missed obligations by family members or colleagues.
It is important to understand that inattention ADD can be caused by stress, mental disorders, or physical ailments. A thorough examination by a medical professional or mental health professional is necessary to confirm the existence of symptoms and to determine whether treatment is necessary. They will take a detailed medical history, conduct a physical exam and discuss your lifestyle to help you pinpoint any other issues that may contribute to your symptoms.
Overfocused ADD
People suffering from those suffering from ADD have difficulty shifting their focus and are often obsessed with certain activities. They can also be highly organized, which could cause confusion to some people and lead to misdiagnosis. Since they lack serotonin and dopamine, these individuals are often treated with conventional ADHD drugs that boost serotonin and dopamine. However, this treatment could actually make their ADD symptoms worse.
They may feel like they are suffocating because they are unable to divert their minds, leading to anxiety and depression. They are also prone to become stuck in negative thoughts and behaviors that can be difficult to get rid of without intervention. Adults suffering from Overfocused ADD have had positive results from cognitive behavioral therapies to identify and change negative thoughts patterns, mindfulness practices which reduce rumination as well as training for skills.
If a person suffers from Overfocused ADD, the anterior cingulate region of the brain is hyperactive. This can lead to hyperfocus and moodiness. Stimulant ADD medication can stimulate this part of the brain to a great extent which can increase their symptoms and irritability. This is the reason why a healthy diet and other non-medicated therapies have been proven helpful for those suffering from this condition.
People suffering from Overfocused ADD are more likely to become "stuck" in negative cycles that can strain relationships and cause stress. Setting up a routine, using a digital planner and interacting with communities that support each other can ease some of their symptoms. Couples coaching for ADD can be beneficial in creating clear roles and expectations for both partners. This can improve communication and allow both parties to lead an enlightened lifestyle. The most effective treatment for ADD/ADHD involves working with a Medical Doctor or Naturopathic Doctor to identify the best program to manage and reduce your symptoms.
Anxious ADD
ADD patients are often also suffering from anxiety. what is it worth could be a recurring anxiety, tense periods of worry or full-fledged anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder or specific phobias. It isn't a matter of whether it's an anxiety that is mild or chronic, severe anxiety. It can impact your work and personal life. Almost 80% of people suffering from ADHD have at least one additional diagnosis and anxiety is the most frequent co-occurring diagnosis.
Anxious ADD is one of the "7 types of ADD." This type is distinguished by a severe anxiety and a feeling of nervousness as well as inattention. It is caused by a dysfunctional brain. In this case the qEEG map shows that certain brain regions are either overactive or out-of-balance. These include the limbic system as well as the prefrontal cortex.
People who suffer from this kind of ADD are highly sensitive to external stimuli like noise, light and touch. They are prone to overreact and have short fuses. They are more prone to repeating negative thoughts or behaviors and often engage in self-sabotage. They are more likely to be impulsive, argumentative and have an atypical personality.
Treatment for this kind of ADD involves the balancing of GABA and dopamine as well as helping to promote relaxation. This kind of ADD requires that individuals get enough sleep and exercise regularly, as well as consume healthy food. They should avoid processed and sugary foods. If possible, they should adhere to the same routine each day for waking up and going to sleep. They should also try to incorporate physical exercise into their professional or academic tasks. For symptoms of adhd adult for those who have an office job, they should stand up or walk around at least every hour.
Ring of Fire ADD
This kind of ADD is known as having an overactive Cerebral cortex and more activity in the left and rights Parietal Lobes and the left-right Temporal Lobes. Those with Ring of Fire ADD are likely to experience all of the typical symptoms of ADHD and have trouble staying focused and having impulsive behavior. They may also exhibit high levels of anxiety, rapid thoughts and irritation. They can be overwhelmed by sensory stimuli and are often unresponsive and argumentative.
Ring of Fire ADD is often misdiagnosed as Bipolar Disorder because the symptoms are very similar. The distinction is that people suffering from Bipolar Disorder go through periods of mania or depression, while those suffering from Ring of Fire ADD experience their symptoms continuously.
Ring of Fire ADD can be more difficult to treat when compared to other forms of ADHD. The symptoms are often related to an imbalance in brain chemical. Treatment is usually aimed at correcting this imbalance. The good news is that by implementing expert strategies, individuals can manage their Ring of Fire ADHD symptoms and lead a balanced and productive life.
If you're suffering from Ring of Fire ADHD symptoms It's crucial to seek help from a qualified medical professional. Although Dr. Daniel Amen's research has been viewed with suspicion by many in the medical world However, he has valid points. You can get the help you require by identifying the different types of ADHD. Talk to a professional for an accurate diagnosis and get on the road towards a happy and healthy life.
Classic ADD
Classic ADD is the type most people think of when they hear the term ADHD. It includes all the symptoms of inattentive ADD but also hyperactivity and impulsivity. The people who suffer from this form of ADD struggle with organization, planning 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 are unable to follow instructions and frequently miss appointments. They have low dopamine levels as well as a decreased flow of blood in the prefrontal cortex.
This type of ADD is characterised by emotional issues and a difficulty in coping with anxiety, stress and depression. They may have a family history of trauma or abuse or have been through a difficult divorce. People with limbic ADD exhibit decreased activity in the prefrontal cortex and the temporal lobes, which regulate mood. This type of ADD is treated with antidepressants as well as supplements to regulate the neuronal activity.
Dr. Zlatin Ivanov specializes in diagnosing and treating all types of adult ADD. His unique testing process identifies and determines the correct treatment for each patient's specific symptoms. Contact Psychiatry NYC today to schedule an appointment for individualized ADHD care.