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7 types of ADHD

ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. Recent research has identified 7 types of ADHD based on the unique symptoms and characteristics individuals may experience. Understanding these different types can help improve diagnosis and treatment approaches for those living with ADHD.

Woman needs treatment for schizoaffective disorder

What Is ADHD?

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by difficulties with attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Individuals in need of ADHD treatment may have trouble focusing on tasks, controlling their impulses, and sitting still for extended periods. It can impact various areas of daily life, including school performance, work productivity, relationships, and overall quality of life.

The 7 Types of ADHD

The 7 types of ADHD can have overlapping symptoms. However, unique symptoms are often associated with each type, which helps in diagnosis and treatment.  

 

Anxious ADHD: 

Individuals with Anxious ADHD may experience symptoms of excessive worry, fear, and anxiety in addition to typical ADHD symptoms. 

 

Classic ADHD: 

The classic symptoms of inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity characterize this type. Other symptoms include difficulty focusing on tasks for long periods, impulsive decision-making without considering consequences, fidgeting or squirming, and talking excessively.

 

Over-Focused ADHD: 

People with over-focused ADHD tend to fixate on specific tasks or ideas to the point where it interferes with their ability to switch focus when needed. Symptoms may include rigid thinking patterns, negative thoughts or behaviors, and difficulties completing tasks efficiently.

 

Ring of Fire ADHD: 

This type of ADHD is often associated with intense emotions, unpredictable behavior, outbursts, irritability, and mood swings, along with impulsivity and hyperactivity seen in other types of ADHD. Other common symptoms may include hypersensitivity to light, sound, and touch.  

 

Temporal Lobe ADHD: 

Those with temporal lobe ADHD may exhibit symptoms related to temporal lobe dysfunction, such as memory issues, mild paranoia, emotional dysregulation, aggression, and difficulties processing information. They will also experience common symptoms associated with classic ADHD.

 

Inattentive ADHD: 

Individuals with inattentive ADHD tend to have predominant symptoms of inattention, including being easily distracted, forgetful, having short attention spans, procrastinating, daydreaming, and being disorganized. Individuals often have trouble staying focused on tasks or conversations, frequently misplace items, and struggle to complete tasks that require sustained mental focus.

 

Limbic ADHD: 

Limbic ADHD is characterized by increased sensitivity to criticism or rejection, along with feelings of guilt and helplessness. Other symptoms may include sadness, lack of energy, mood swings, irritability, and anger outbursts. 

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    How Is ADHD Diagnosed?

    ADHD is usually diagnosed through a comprehensive evaluation conducted by a qualified healthcare provider, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist. During this evaluation, the provider collects information about the individual's medical history, symptoms, and behaviors. 

     

    Next, a physical exam may be conducted to rule out any underlying medical conditions that could be causing ADHD-like symptoms. The individual is often given behavior assessments using rating scales and questionnaires to determine the presence of ADHD symptoms and their impact on daily routines. 

    Once a diagnosis is made, the healthcare provider collaborates with the client to develop a personalized care and treatment plan.

    Woman discussing treatment for her schizoaffective disorder

    Treatment Options for ADHD

    Treatment options for ADHD include using a variety of different methodologies personalized to each individual’s specific needs and ADHD diagnosis. These can include: 

     

    • Psychotherapy: Counseling, behavior therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and other forms of psychotherapy can help individuals with ADHD manage symptoms and develop coping strategies to improve focus, organization, time management, and emotional regulation.
    • Psychiatry: Psychiatrists provide medication management for ADHD and offer psychoeducation about ADHD and its treatment options.
    • Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Therapy: TMS is a non-invasive therapy that stimulates target brain cells using magnetic fields. It has shown promise in treating mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and ADHD.
    • Ketamine Therapy: Ketamine infusions are a potential treatment for individuals with treatment-resistant depression, PTSD, anxiety, and ADHD. Ketamine therapy often alleviates symptoms within a few hours of treatment. 
    • Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): MAT involves using FDA-approved medications in combination with counseling and behavioral therapies to treat ADHD.
    • Genetic Testing: Genetic testing can help identify specific genetic markers associated with ADHD risk factors. It can also assist with determining what medications could be the most effective.
    • Nutritional Therapy: Adopting a balanced diet rich in nutrients, vitamins, and minerals can support cognitive function and overall well-being in individuals with ADHD. Some dietary supplements may also be recommended to address specific deficiencies related to ADHD symptoms.

    The 7 types of ADHD highlight the diverse ways in which this neurodevelopmental disorder can manifest. Understanding these distinct types can lead to more targeted interventions and personalized treatment approaches for individuals living with ADHD. By recognizing and addressing the specific symptoms and characteristics associated with each type of ADHD, healthcare providers, and individuals can work together to develop effective treatment and care plans to manage their symptoms and improve their overall mental health and well-being.

    Find Personalized ADHD Treatment in Atlanta Today

    It is easy to find personalized ADHD treatment in Atlanta at Atlanta Integrative Psychiatry. Our caring and compassionate team of mental health experts is dedicated to providing individualized care tailored to your unique needs and symptoms. Take the first step toward better mental health by contacting us to schedule an appointment today.

    You are not alone. You deserve to get help.

    Atlanta Integrative Psychiatry is an Industry leader in mental health treatment . Our team of top medical experts specialize in dual diagnosis treat and are committed to ensuring that each patient is treated as an individual.
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