Symptoms of ADHD in Adults
A 43-year-old woman who was married came to Dr. Amen concerned she may have ADD (predominantly inattentive type). She was having difficulty staying on top of schoolwork and household chores. She was unorganized, and often lost her wallet or keys.
She often missed appointments and was unable to keep track of time. She was also moody with persistent sadness that was not caused by depression and a negative view of life and low self-esteem.
Inattentional ADD
People who have inattention ADHD have trouble paying attention to details and are prone to making mistakes. They may struggle to remember what they've heard or fail to complete a project or homework assignment. They frequently lose keys, wallets and other things they require to survive. They are often late to appointments or have trouble keeping up with messages and bills.
Children with inattentive ADD are not as obvious because they do not display any behavior issues that are obvious. This type of ADD is more prevalent for girls than boys. Teachers are often unaware of the signs, because they don't fit the stereotype of a 'bad child''.

Adults who suffer from inattention ADHD often have trouble following instructions at home and at work. They also have a tendency to delay or avoid tasks that require constant mental effort. They may also have trouble following conversations or lectures, and they can easily be distracted by irrelevant media such as the internet or television. Signs of inattention ADHD can be misinterpreted as laziness or apathy. Many adults feel frustrated when they are constantly reminded of their missed deadlines by their family or friends.
It is crucial to know that inattention ADD can be triggered by stress, other mental disorders, or physical illnesses. A thorough examination by a health care provider or mental health professional is required to confirm the presence of symptoms and to determine if treatment is required. They will conduct a thorough medical history, perform an examination of your body and discuss your lifestyle to help determine any other issues that could contribute to your symptoms.
Overfocused ADD
People suffering from People with ADD are not able to shift their focus and instead become hyper-focused on specific tasks. They can also be extremely organized, which may cause confusion for some people and lead to misdiagnosis. Because they tend to lack serotonin and dopamine, these individuals are often treated with standard ADHD drugs that boost dopamine and serotonin. However, this treatment could actually make their ADD symptoms worse.
symptoms of adult attention deficit disorder who suffer from this condition may feel suffocated because they are unable to control their thoughts, which causes them to suffer from depression and anxiety. Additionally, they are susceptible to getting stuck in negative thought patterns and behavior patterns that are difficult to get rid of without intervention. Adults suffering from Overfocused ADD have observed positive results from cognitive behavioral therapies to identify and change negative thinking patterns, mindfulness techniques which reduce rumination as well as the development of skills.
When someone suffers from hyperfocus ADD the anterior cingulate gyrus in their brain is overactive. This can lead to hyperfocus and moodiness. Stimulant ADD medications can stimulate this area of the brain too much, which can exacerbate their symptoms and cause irritability. A healthy diet and non-medicated therapies are proven to be beneficial for these people.
People suffering from Overfocused ADD tend to "stick" in negative cycles. This can cause stress and stress relationships. Making a schedule or using a planner that is digital, and engaging in supportive communities can help alleviate some of their symptoms. Couples coaching for ADD can be helpful in establishing clear roles and expectations for both partners. This can help improve communication and help both individuals to lead a more balanced lifestyle. The most effective treatment for ADD/ADHD is to work with a Naturopathic or Medical Doctor to find the right program to reduce and manage the symptoms.
Anxious ADD
ADD patients often also suffer from anxiety. It 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 doesn't matter if it is an anxiety that is mild or chronic, severe anxiety. It can have a negative impact on your life and work. Nearly 80% of those suffering from ADHD have at least one additional diagnosis and anxiety is the most frequent disorder that is a comorbidity.
Anxious ADD is one of the "7 kinds of ADD." This kind is characterized by a heightened feeling of nervousness and anxiety and inattention. It is caused by a dysfunctional brain. In the case of this type the brain mapping qEEG can show that certain regions of the brain are overactive or unbalanced. This includes the limbic system and prefrontal cortex.
Those with this kind of ADD have a high sensitivity to external stimuli like light, noise and touch. They tend to overreact and have an insufficient reactivity. They are more prone to repeating negative thoughts and behavior and are often involved in self-sabotage. They are also more likely to have an impulsive, combative and antagonistic personality.
Treatment for this type of ADD involves balancing GABA and dopamine while helping to promote relaxation. This kind of ADD requires that people get enough rest and are active, and consume healthy food. They should also avoid processed foods and sugar. If possible, they should keep the same routine throughout the day for waking up and going to sleep. In addition, they should attempt to incorporate physical activities into educational or work-related tasks. If they are at desks and are not able to be active and up and about every hour.
Ring of Fire ADD
This kind of ADD is described as having an overactive Cerebral cortex and more activity in the right and left Parietal Lobes and the left-right Temporal Lobes. Those with Ring of Fire ADD will likely experience all of the typical ADHD symptoms, such as difficulty staying focused and impulsive behavior. They might also exhibit high levels of anxiety and rapid thoughts. They can become overwhelmed by the stimulation of their surroundings, and are typically rigid and argumentative.
People with Ring of Fire ADD are often misdiagnosed as having Bipolar Disorder, because their symptoms are similar. The difference is that people who have Bipolar Disorder go through periods of depression or mania, while those who suffer from Ring of Fire ADD experience their symptoms in a constant manner.
Ring of Fire ADD can be more difficult to treat when compared to other types of ADHD. The symptoms are usually linked to an imbalance in brain chemicals, and treatment usually focuses on correcting that imbalance. With the help of expert strategies, people can manage their Ring of Fire ADHD and lead a balanced life.
If you're dealing with Ring of Fire ADHD symptoms It's crucial to seek assistance from a medical professional who is trained. Although Dr. Daniel Amen's research has been viewed with suspicion by a lot of the medical field, he does have some good points. By identifying the different types of ADHD and knowing what to look for, you can receive the help you require. Consult a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and get on the path to a happy and healthy life.
Classic ADD
Classic ADD is what most people think about when they hear the word ADHD. It has all the symptoms of inattentive ADD but also hyperactivity and the tendency to be impulsive. Those who have this form of ADD struggle with planning, organization, prioritizing, time management and self-monitoring. They are easily distracted, and lack the mental endurance to complete tasks they do not enjoy. These people are typically not classified as "hyperactive," but they are unable 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.
This form of ADD is characterised by emotional issues and a struggle to cope with anxiety, stress, and depression. They might have experienced trauma or abuse in their family or suffered difficult separation. People with limbic ADD exhibit decreased activity in the prefrontal cortex and irregularities in their temporal lobes which control mood. Treatment for this kind of ADD revolves around supplements and antidepressants to regulate the neuronal activity.
Dr. Zlatin ivanov specializes in diagnosing the causes, treating and treating all types adult ADD. His unique testing process identifies and determines the best treatment for each patient's symptoms. Call Psychiatry NYC to schedule an appointment today for personalized ADHD treatment.