7 Types of ADHD in Adults

ADHD can present with different symptoms that may change with time. Most children diagnosed with ADHD have ADHD symptoms in adulthood. Approximately 40% to 60% of adults were diagnosed with ADHD in childhood.

Each type and subtype of ADHD involves a combination of inattention, hyperactivity, and some form of impulsivity. Gaining insight into different types of ADHD can help improve diagnosis and guide personalized treatment strategies. The concept of “7 types of ADHD” proposed by Dr Amen includes the following types:

1. Classic ADHD

Classic ADHD is a combination of:

i. Hyperactivity: 

excessive chatting, difficulty sitting still, interrupting others unintentionally, fidgeting movements

ii. Impulsivity: 

making impulsive or reckless decisions  

iii. Inattention: 

difficulty staying focused, being forgetful, and being unable to manage time

2. Inattentive ADHD

Inattentive ADHD is a form of ADHD that does not display symptoms of hyperactivity. It is alternatively named Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD). Common signs of inattentive ADHD are:

• Reduced energy
• Forgetfulness
• Being disorganized
• Trouble staying focused
• Daydreaming
• Lack of motivation
• Tendency to get overwhelmed.

3. Overfocused ADHD

People with overfocused ADHD find themselves fixated on certain thoughts or tasks. Compared to inattentive ADHD, overfocused ADHD is being mentally stuck on particular thoughts or activities. Characteristics of over-focused ADHD include:

• Obsessiveness
• Difficulty switching attention from one thought to another
• Inflexible thinking
• Being stuck mentally in a negative thought cycle

4. Temporal Lobe ADHD:

Temporal lobe ADHD may originate from a pathology in the temporal lobe, which is a region in the brain that is responsible for emotional regulation and memory. When the temporal region of the brain is affected, people may exhibit:

• Aggressiveness
• Instability in mood
• Paranoia or suspiciousness
• Problems with visual memory
• Rash emotional reactions or decisions

5. Limbic ADHD:

Limbic ADHD impacts the limbic system of the brain. This part of the brain is responsible for regulating emotions, memory, and motivation. Limbic ADHD may display similar symptoms to persistent depressive disorder, such as sadness and hopelessness. However, it is not clinical depression and is a form of attention deficit disorder. Adults with this type of ADHD experience symptoms such as:

• Low self-esteem
• Sadness
• Hopelessness
• Negative thinking
• Low energy
• Low motivation

6. Ring of Fire ADHD:

Ring of Fire ADHD is characterized by high activity across multiple brain regions. Adults with this subtype exhibit intense energy and are usually sensitive to stimuli such as noise or light. Common signs of this type of ADHD include:

• Hyperactivity
• Instability in mood
• Aggressiveness
• Tendency to get distracted
• Tendency to get overstimulated
• Irritability

7. Anxious ADHD:

Anxious ADHD is characterized by physical symptoms such as stomachache, nervousness, and headache. Adults with this subtype struggle with:

• Nervousness
• Muscular tension
• Being avoidant
• Difficulty getting relaxed
• Fear of failing
• Worrying constantly

9 Treatment Options and Coping Strategies for ADHD in Adults

ADHD negatively impacts the daily lives of many people. People with ADHD struggle with things such as poor time management, maintaining relationships, and coping with challenges at the workplace. In the US, nearly 15 million adults are affected by ADHD, and only 1 in every 3 adults uses stimulant medication to help with ADHD.

Treatment and coping strategies include:

1. Medication: stimulants/non-stimulants
2. Therapies for adults with ADHD: Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapy, ABA therapy
3. Routine adjustment for ADHD 
4. Physical exercise
5. Healthy sleep routine for adults with ADHD
6. Time management tools for ADHD in adults
7. Support groups for ADHD in adults 
8. Couple or family counseling
9. Learning about ADHD

1. Medications: (Stimulants, Non-stimulants)

Stimulants such as:

1. Adderall
2. Adderall XR
3. Liquid Adderall
4. Ritalin
5. Vyvanse
6. Concerta
7. Focalin

Stimulants are typically the first-line management for treating ADHD. Stimulants can be an effective treatment for many adults suffering from ADHD. Some adults may have a poor tolerance for stimulant medication and may experience severe adverse effects. In some cases, Stimulants like Adderall may stop working after a certain period due to a change in dosage or tolerance. 

There might be some other reasons to consider adjusting your Adderall dosage. 

Non-stimulant medications, including Intuniv, Qelbree, or Strattera, can be prescribed if stimulant medications are not effective at treating ADHD.

2. Therapies for Adults With ADHD:

1. Cognitive behavior therapy CBT is useful and effective for managing ADHD symptoms. It can help individuals improve emotional control and boost self-esteem. 
2. Mindfulness-based therapy can be helpful for focus, attention, and reducing impulsivity. It helps people with ADHD become more aware of their emotions and thoughts.
3. Mindfulness and relaxation techniques help reduce stress, improve focus, and promote emotional regulation.
4. Applied behavior analysis ABA therapy may also benefit adults with ADHD, as this approach is based on reinforcing positive behavior. ABA therapy can help improve focus, attention, and impulse control. 

3. Routine Adjustment for ADHD in Adults

1. Establishing a predictable daily routine can help you stay organized and support better decision-making.
2. Organizing the workspace can reduce distractions and improve focus.
3. Task management websites and apps track responsibilities, which may improve productivity and help reduce stress.
4. A balanced and healthy diet sustains energy levels.
5. Staying hydrated and limiting sugar intake can help improve focus and maintain mental stability. This, in turn, may help with ADHD symptoms.

4. Time Management Tools for ADHD in Adults

Using calendars with reminders of important tasks and appointments is a convenient way to stay organized. Dividing complex tasks into simpler steps can prevent being overwhelmed. 

5. Physical Exercise

Regular physical activity contributes to mental well-being and managing ADHD symptoms in adults. Walking, yoga, stretching, or swimming can reduce stress and boost mood. Physical activity also improves sleep quality and enhances focus.

6. Healthy Sleep Routine for Adults With ADHD

Healthy Sleep habits can improve sleep quality and boost mood. A few healthy habits that can lead to better sleep. Some tips are:

1. Avoiding digital screen usage before bed,
2. Keeping the bedroom dark and quiet,
3. Limiting caffeine intake in the evening. 

These habits can help manage ADHD symptoms in adults

7. Support Groups for ADHD in Adults

Joining online support groups to connect with others who are facing similar challenges can be a great way to find emotional and moral support. Sharing experiences and challenges may reduce feelings of isolation. As people with similar struggles come together, it becomes easier for them to learn coping strategies and management techniques. These communities encourage open discussion about struggles without fear of judgment. It can help to improve communication and understanding.

8. Family or Relationship Counseling

Family or relationship counseling can help build stronger and more supportive relationships. It can promote healthy communication skills, reduce conflicts, and teach management techniques for maintaining a healthy relationship with your family or significant other. 

9. Learning about ADHD

Learning about ADHD and how it affects our thoughts, actions, and emotions is crucial for managing ADHD symptoms. A deeper understanding of ADHD can help reduce frustration and self-scrutiny. With the help of knowledge about ADHD and how it manifests, we can assess and develop coping strategies to effectively manage ADHD symptoms.

ADHD awareness in educational institutions will help educators provide students with constructive feedback and adapt teaching approaches to meet students’ individual needs