Symptoms of ADHD in Adults
A 43-year-old woman who was married came to Dr. Amen concerned she may have ADD (predominantly inattentional type). She was having difficulty managing household chores and schoolwork. She was unorganized and frequently lost her keys or wallet.
She frequently missed appointments and was unable to keep the track of time. She was self-deprecating as well as a negative outlook. a constant sadness that was not depression.
Inattentive ADD
People with inattention ADHD are prone to making mistakes without paying attention to the details. They have trouble recalling information they've learned and may forget to complete homework assignments or even a project. They often lose keys, wallets and other objects they need to live. As a result, they are often late for 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 with the inattentive kind of ADD are often overlooked since they don't show obvious behavior issues. This type of ADD is more prevalent in girls than in boys. Teachers are often unaware of their symptoms, because they don't fit the stereotype of a "bad kid'.
Adults who suffer from inattention ADHD are unable to follow instructions, both at home and at the workplace. They also tend to procrastinate and avoid tasks that require sustained mental effort. They may also have difficulty follow conversations or lectures and can be easily distracted by other distractions like unrelated thoughts or the internet or television. Signs of inattention ADHD can be misinterpreted as lazyness or apathy. Many adults feel frustrated when they are constantly reminded of missed obligations by loved ones or coworkers.
It's important to note that inattention ADD symptoms can also be caused by other causes like stress, other mental health issues or physical illnesses. A thorough examination by a medical professional or mental health professional is necessary to confirm the presence of symptoms and to determine whether treatment is necessary. They will conduct a thorough medical history, perform a physical exam and discuss your lifestyle to help pinpoint any other issues that might contribute to your symptoms.
Overfocused ADD
Those with People with ADD are incapable of shifting their focus, and instead become hyper-focused on specific tasks. They may also be very organized, which can cause confusion for some people and lead to a misdiagnosis. These individuals are often treated with standard ADHD medications, which boost serotonin and/or dopamine. This treatment can actually worsen their ADD symptoms.
They may feel trapped due to their inability to redirect their thoughts, causing them to suffer from depression and anxiety. They are also prone to get trapped in negative behaviours and patterns of thought that are difficult to break out of without intervention. Cognitive-behavioral therapy to identify and alter negative patterns, mindfulness practices to lessen rumination, as well as skill training have shown positive results for adults with over-focused ADD.
If someone is diagnosed with overfocused ADD their brain's anterior cingulate gland is hyperactive, which can result in hyper-focus and a mood swing. Stimulant ADD medication can stimulate this area of the brain too much, which can exacerbate their symptoms and irritability. This is the reason why a healthy diet and other non-medicated treatments have proven beneficial for those suffering from this condition.
People with Overfocused ADD have a tendency to get "stuck" in negative cycles, which can strain relationships and cause stress. Setting up a routine, using a digital planner and joining in communities that support each other can ease some of their symptoms. Couples coaching can be beneficial for those suffering from ADD, as it helps to establish roles and expectations among partners. This can help improve communication and create a more harmonious life for both of them. As always, the most effective treatment for ADD/ADHD involves working with a Medical Doctor or Naturopathic Doctor to find the right program that will help manage and reduce the symptoms.
Anxious ADD
Often people who have ADD also experience anxiety. It may be a few nagging anxieties or a complete anxiety disorder like panic disorder or social anxiety disorder. It doesn't matter if it is a mild anxiety or chronic severe anxiety. It can have a negative impact on your work and life. Nearly 80% of those who suffer from ADHD have at least one additional diagnosis and anxiety is the most common disorder that is a comorbidity.
Anxious ADD is one of the theorized "7 kinds of ADD." This type is characterized by a heightened feeling of nervousness and anxiety and inattention. It is caused by a dysfunctional brain. In this case it is evident that qEEG mapping reveals that certain brain regions are overactive or out of balance. This includes the limbic and prefrontal cortex. system.
People who suffer from this type of ADD are highly sensitive to external stimuli such as light, noise and touch. They are prone 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.
Treatment for this type of ADD involves the balance of GABA and dopamine, while also helping to promote relaxation. This type of ADD requires that people get enough rest, are active and consume a balanced diet. They should avoid processed foods and sugar. If possible they should follow the same routine for sleeping and waking up and adhere to the same routine daily. They should also try to incorporate physical activity in their professional or educational activities. If they are at desks and are not able to be active and up and about every hour.
symptoms of adult add of Fire ADD
This kind of ADD is defined by excessive activity in the Cerebral Cortex and also increased activity in the left and right Parietal Lobes, and the left and right Temporal Lobes. People suffering from Ring of Fire ADD will likely experience all of the typical ADHD symptoms, including the difficulty in focusing and impulsive behavior. They may also display high levels of anxiety and rapid thoughts. They can become overwhelmed by sensory stimulation, and are usually rigid and irritable.
People with Ring of Fire ADD are often misdiagnosed as having Bipolar Disorder, because their symptoms seem very similar. However, the difference is that those who have Bipolar Disorder will cycle through periods of depression and mania; those with Ring of Fire ADD typically have symptoms that occur regularly.
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 of brain chemicals. Treatment is usually aimed towards resolving this imbalance. The good news is that by implementing expert strategies, individuals can manage their Ring of Fire ADHD symptoms and live a balanced and productive life.
If you're suffering from Ring of Fire ADHD symptoms It's crucial to seek assistance from a trained medical professional. While Dr. Daniel Amen's research has been viewed with suspicion by a large portion of the medical field, he does have some legitimate points. You can get the help that you require by identifying the types of ADHD. Contact a professional today to receive a dependable diagnosis and begin 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 exhibits all the signs of inattentive ADD however it also has hyperactivity and the tendency to be impulsive. Those with this form of ADD have difficulty organizing and prioritizing tasks, balancing time, and monitoring themselves. They are easily distracted, and lack the mental endurance to finish tasks they do not like. They are not typically categorized as "hyperactive," yet they have difficulty following instructions and often miss appointments. They have decreased blood flow to the prefrontal cortex, and low dopamine levels.
People with 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 in their family or have been through difficult separation. People suffering from limbic ADD have less activity in their prefrontal cortex and disturbances in the temporal lobes that regulate mood. This type of ADD is treated with antidepressants and other supplements to regulate neuronal function.
Dr. Zlatin Ivanov specializes in diagnosing and treating various forms of adult ADD. His unique test method identifies the causes of the patient's symptoms and determines the appropriate treatment. Contact Psychiatry NYC to schedule an appointment today for personalized ADHD treatment.