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Unfocused Anxiety and Depression (Type 7): Symptoms, Brain Patterns & Support

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Understand Type 7: Unfocused Anxiety and Depression including symptoms, brain activity patterns, how it differs from ADHD, and treatments.

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What Is Type 7: Unfocused Anxiety and Depression?

If you’ve ever wondered why you feel scattered when you’re anxious, unmotivated when you’re depressed, or stuck in an endless search for focus, the reason may be simpler than you think. That’s because not all depression is the same.

In fact, brain-imaging research at Amen Clinics has helped our clinicians identify seven distinct types of anxiety and depression. Each one requires a different approach to treatment.

Brain SPECT imaging has helped Amen Clinics clinicians identify seven distinct brain patterns, or subtypes, associated with depression and anxiety. Each one requires a different approach to treatment.

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Type 7 (unfocused anxiety and depression) is a specific brain-based subtype in which emotional distress blends with cognitive fog, distractibility, and inconsistent attention. It’s the pattern that makes your mind feel too busy and not engaged enough at the same time.

Understanding your subtype matters.

Unfortunately, people with Type 7 are often misdiagnosed with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, high-functioning anxiety, or treated only for depression.  Without looking at functional brain imaging, most mental health professionals are unable to see that multiple areas of the brain are affected, which can lead to unsuccessful treatment.

When treatment doesn’t match the underlying brain pattern, progress can stall, or symptoms can even worsen. This can be deeply confusing and discouraging to the individual, affecting both work and personal life. Some people begin to blame themselves, feeling as though they’re not trying hard enough or doing something wrong.

Learning how this subtype works opens the door to clarity, accurate support, and a treatment plan that truly addresses your lived experience.

Here’s what you need to know about Type 7 depression, and what to do if you recognize these symptoms in yourself or someone you love.

Related: Understanding the Anxiety and Depression Types—Type 2: Pure Depression

Defining Your Type 7 Symptom Profile

You may be wondering what “unfocused” means in terms of symptoms. It essentially refers to symptoms rooted in inattention, distractibility, negative thinking patterns, mental fatigue, and brain fog.

With Type 7 anxiety depression, these unfocused symptoms occur along with the emotional symptoms of anxiety and depression.  This can create an internal feeling of being overwhelmed while feeling externally disengaged, which presents as a cognitive slowdown (a decrease in thinking abilities like memory, attention, and reasoning).

Some typical signs of Type 7 include:  

  • Procrastination
  • Unfinished tasks
  • Difficulty following through even with important goals

Common Symptoms of Anxiety + Depression Unfocused Type 7

Symptoms of unfocused anxiety and depression may include any of the following:

  • Persistent low mood or loss of interest
  • Excessive worry or a sense of internal restlessness
  • Irritability or emotional overwhelm
  • Rumination or looping thoughts
  • Feeling easily discouraged or unmotivated
  • Inattention or distractibility
  • Poor concentration or working memory issues
  • Brain fog, slow processing, or forgetfulness
  • Trouble prioritizing or organizing
  • Low follow-through despite good intentions
  • Procrastination tied to mental fatigue

Minimal Diagnostic Threshold

Though this subtype is not a formal diagnosis in the latest version of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, it’s important to understand it and share it with your doctor if the symptoms seem to fit. Clinicians familiar with this subtype typically look for:

  • At least four symptoms of anxiety or depression, plus
  • At least four symptoms of inattention, cognitive fog, or distractibility

One important distinction of this pattern from more typical anxiety or depression is that the cognitive impairments occur alongside emotional symptoms, not independent of them.

Brain Patterns Don’t Lie

Brain SPECT imaging conducted at Amen Clinics suggests that unfocused anxiety depression subtype 7 is characterized by a combination of underactive and overactive brain regions. Unlike structural imaging, which shows brain anatomy, SPECT is a type of functional imaging that measures blood flow activity in the brain.

Although research continues, there are several distinct blood flow activity patterns that have consistently emerged across studies of attention networks and mood regulation, including the following:

Underactive Prefrontal Cortex

The prefrontal cortex (PFC) is the brain’s command center for focus, planning, impulse control, and organization. When it’s there’s too little activity in this area, especially during tasks requiring sustained attention, people experience distractibility, poor follow-through, and mental fog.

Studies show that reduced PFC activity is linked with attention problems, low motivation, and difficulty managing emotions. A 2018 neuroimaging review in Neuropsychopharmacology found that PFC hypoactivity (low activity) is common in both attentional disorders and depressive disorders, especially those characterized by cognitive slowing. 

Related: What is the “Executive Center” of the Brain?

Relative Overactivity in Basal Ganglia and Deep Limbic Regions

The basal ganglia and limbic system coordinate emotional regulation and threat sensitivity. When these regions show relative overactivity, symptoms such as worry, nervous energy, and emotional tension increase.

Research has shown that heightened limbic activation is associated with anxiety, rumination, and the negative mood states often seen in depression. When combined with an underactive prefrontal cortex, the result is a brain that feels “stuck on” emotionally but sluggish cognitively.

How SPECT Imaging Helps Differentiate Type 7 From ADHD

Unlike structural imaging that looks at anatomy only, SPECT scans show brain blood flow patterns in real time making it possible for a clinician to visually see if a patient’s attention issues may be stemming from anxiety, depression, trauma, or attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), also known as attention deficit disorder (ADD).

Brain SPECT imaging can reveal whether inattention stems from:

  • Pure underactivity (ADHD)
  • Underactivity with emotional overactivation (Type 7 – unfocused anxiety and depression)
  • Overactive patterns (Type 4 – over-focused anxiety and depression)

This distinction helps tailor treatment, especially since stimulant medications may worsen anxiety if your emotional circuitry is already overactive.

Overlapping and Differential Diagnosis

When symptoms overlap, it can be challenging for mental health clinicians to catch more nuanced presentations of combined disorders like brain type 7 anxiety depression. Here are some helpful clues.  

Mistaking Type 7 for ADHD, GAD, or Standard Depression

Because Type 7 blends emotional and cognitive symptoms, it’s often confused with ADHD or generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). A recent article for mental health professionals reported that up to 30% of adults with depression also meet criteria for attention impairments, which can mimic ADHD. However, Type 7 tends to fluctuate with mood, stress levels, or inflammation, whereas ADHD is typically lifelong.

When to Suspect Type 7 Instead of ADHD or Pure Anxiety

Clinicians should consider Type 7 when:

  • Inattention emerges or worsens after chronic stress, trauma, hormonal shifts, or illness
  • Anxiety and depression come with procrastination or mental fatigue
  • The patient has a history of mood symptoms but no childhood ADHD pattern

People with Type 7 will often describe their experience as “unfocused because I’m overwhelmed,” rather than “unfocused no matter what mood I’m in.”

Historical and Cognitive Clues

Type 7 is more likely when someone reports:

  • Good early academic performance followed by adult-onset distractibility
  • Cognitive fog during depressive periods
  • Attention that declines when stress rises
  • Cycles of low motivation paired with excessive worry

Research notes that cognitive in mood disorders often presents as slowed processing speed. Keep in mind that this trait is more characteristic of Type 7 than standard ADHD.

Type 7 Common Causes, Risk Factors, and Exacerbators

Type 7 may develop from a mix of biology, environmental factors, and prior health issues, which includes:

1) Genetic or Developmental Vulnerability

A family history of depression, anxiety, attentional disorders, or executive-function challenges increases risk.

2) Stressors, Sleep Deprivation, Substance Use, Inflammation

Chronic stress, poor sleep, addictive behaviors, alcohol and substance abuse, hormonal fluctuations, systemic inflammation, or blood sugar instability can worsen Type 7 symptoms dramatically.

3) Comorbidities that Lower Cortical Activity

Head injury, concussion, toxin exposure, mold exposure, or untreated thyroid issues can all decrease PFC functioning, making cognitive and emotional symptoms more pronounced.

Interventions and Natural Support for Type 7

Managing Type 7 symptoms involves strategies that boost focus and calm emotional overactivation. The goal is to support prefrontal cortex function while calming limbic overactivity to promote better executive function and emotional equanimity.

Here are a number of easy, natural ways to help boost prefrontal cortex activity and calm the brain’s emotional centers:

  • Consume higher-protein meals to stabilize glucose and improve focus
  • Get plenty of omega-3 fatty acids to support mood and cognition
  • Take herbal and nutritional supplements that boost attention and emotional balance (e.g., rhodiola, magnesium, saffron, L-theanine)
  • Try neurofeedback or brain-training programs to strengthen attentional networks
  • Practice meditation and deep breathing, which have been shown to activate the PFC in studies
  • Use organizational tools and accountability systems such as planners, reminders, and structured workflows
  • Try psychotherapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapy, EMDR, and trauma-informed approaches
  • Take medication when necessary, ideally guided by a medical doctor trained in functional mental health and brain-based assessment

For deeper support, many readers benefit from Amen Clinics’ resources on brain health, including related articles on depression, anxiety, and emotional regulation.

Type 7 Is More Than Just “Bad Focus”

Remember that all types of depression are a brain health issue. The symptoms you experience with Type 7 serve as an indicator that your brain needs help.  Be careful not to dismiss the symptoms as something else and delay getting the right treatment.

It can be helpful to note what Type 7 is not:

  • laziness or lack of motivation
  • “just” poor focus
  • ADHD
  • “just” anxiety or depression
  • a character flaw

On a positive note, unfocused anxiety and depression is highly treatable. The challenging symptoms resulting from the emotional imbalance and cognitive underactivity that are characteristic of this anxiety-depression subtype improve with the right strategies. Type 7 responds extremely well to targeted intervention.

While brain SPECT is a vital aspect of Amen Clinics’ comprehensive evaluation, it’s just one portion of it.  Clinical diagnosis is based on multiple factors. Our process also includes taking a thorough personal history, traditional psychiatric assessments, cognitive testing, and medical diagnostic.  Such a comprehensive approach is aimed at uncovering underlying causes rather than just treating symptoms. The information gathered from each assessment serves as the basis for developing an effective, personalized treatment plan.

Your Type 7 Can Thrive with Clarity, Focus, and Hope

If you’ve been cycling between anxious thoughts, low mood, and foggy concentration, Type 7 may finally give a name to your experience. This anxiety-depression subtype has identifiable features, understandable brain patterns, and, most importantly, effective treatment options that address both the emotional and cognitive layers.

You don’t have to navigate these symptoms alone. Amen Clinics’ brain-based approach  offers effective solutions to help restore focus, calm anxiety, and lift mood by treating the underlying causes. Personalized plans may include any number of targeted therapies, medication (when necessary), nutraceuticals, and specific lifestyle recommendations, plus ongoing support.

FAQs About Unfocused Anxiety and Depression

No. While the inattention can feel similar, ADHD is typically lifelong, whereas Type 7 emerges from mood patterns, stress, trauma, or brain chemistry shifts. ADHD involves consistent inattention across situations while Type 7 fluctuates with emotional state.

Imaging is not required, but it is incredibly helpful. Clinicians typically diagnose Type 7 based on medical history, symptoms, and functional changes. SPECT imaging can help clarify whether inattention stems from mood circuits or true ADHD.

Yes. Because it’s a functional pattern, and not structural damage, symptoms can often improve significantly with targeted brain-based strategies, psychotherapy, nutrition, and lifestyle changes.

After gaining an accurate diagnosis from a qualified mental health professional, an individual with Type 7 can initially be helped by establishing a daily rhythm and building healthy habits like eating high-protein meals, getting consistent sleep, and reducing stress with calming activities.  

These simple lifestyle adjustments can help foster better focus, more calm, and a stabilized mood. Seeking a comprehensive evaluation at Amen Clinics would provide both an accurate diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan.

Unfocused depression and anxiety, and other mental health conditions can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we provide personalized, science-backed treatment plans designed to target the root causes of your symptoms. Our 360-approach includes brain SPECT imaging, clinical evaluations, innovative therapeutic techniques, medications (when necessary), and holistic lifestyle recommendations to promote the health of your brain, body, and mind. Speak to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here.

Amen Clinics

Founded in 1989 by double-board certified psychiatrist and neuroscientist Daniel G. Amen, MD, Amen Clinics Inc. (ACI) is known as the best brain and mental health company in the world. Our clinical staff includes over 50 healthcare specialists, including adult and child psychiatrists, integrative (functional) medicine physicians, naturopaths, addiction specialists, forensic psychiatrists, geriatric psychiatrists, nutritionists, licensed therapists, and more. Our clinicians have all been hand-selected and personally trained by Dr. Amen, whose mission is to end mental illness by creating a revolution in brain health. Over the last 35-plus years, ACI has built the world’s largest database of functional brain scans—over 250,000 SPECT scans on patients from 155 countries—related to how people think, feel, and behave.
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  2. Pizzagalli, D. A., & Roberts, A. C. (2022). Prefrontal cortex and depression. Neuropsychopharmacology : official publication of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology, 47(1), 225–246. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41386-021-01101-7
  3. Lee, D.Y., Lee, S., Son, S.J. et al. Identifying affective state via clustering of temporal variability in limbic activity and mediating role of negative emotion. Mol Psychiatry(2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41380-025-03282-9
  4. Dodson, W. (2025, August 4). The ADHD–depression link: Symptom parallels and distinctions. ADDitude Magazine. https://www.additudemag.com/adhd-depression-link-symptoms-diagnosis-treatments/
  5. Zaremba, D., Schulze Kalthoff, I., Förster, K., Redlich, R., Grotegerd, D., Leehr, E. J., Meinert, S., Dohm, K., Bürger, C., Enneking, V., Böhnlein, J., Repple, J., Opel, N., Jörgens, S., Yüksel, D., Schmitt, S., Stein, F., Kircher, T., Krug, A., Nenadić, I., Zwitserlood, P., Baune, B. T., Arolt, V., & Dannlowski, U. (2019). The effects of processing speed on memory impairment in patients with major depressive disorder. Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry, 92, 494–500. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pnpbp.2019.02.015
  6. Jackson, P. A., Forster, J., Khan, J., Pouchieu, C., Dubreuil, S., Gaudout, D., Moras, B., Pourtau, L., Joffre, F., Vaysse, C., Bertrand, K., Abrous, H., Vauzour, D., Brossaud, J., Corcuff, J. B., Capuron, L., & Kennedy, D. O. (2021). Effects of Saffron Extract Supplementation on Mood, Well-Being, and Response to a Psychosocial Stressor in Healthy Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Parallel Group, Clinical Trial. Frontiers in nutrition, 7, 606124. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2020.606124
  7. Rathore, M., Verma, M., Nirwan, M., Trivedi, S., & Pai, V. (2022). Functional Connectivity of Prefrontal Cortex in Various Meditation Techniques – A Mini-Review. International journal of yoga, 15(3), 187–194. https://doi.org/10.4103/ijoy.ijoy_88_22
  8. Curtiss, J. E., Levine, D. S., Ander, I., & Baker, A. W. (2021). Cognitive-Behavioral Treatments for Anxiety and Stress-Related Disorders. Focus (American Psychiatric Publishing), 19(2), 184–189. https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.focus.20200045
  9. Gao, W., Yan, X., & Yuan, J. (2022). Neural correlations between cognitive deficits and emotion regulation strategies: understanding emotion dysregulation in depression from the perspective of cognitive control and cognitive biases. Psychoradiology, 2(3), 86–99. https://doi.org/10.1093/psyrad/kkac014

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7 Differences Between Male and Female Brains

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In one of the largest functional brain imaging studies ever, Amen Clinics compared the brain SPECT scans of 46,034 female and male brains, and it

Does your toddler or preschooler struggle with hyperactivity, impulsivity, or inattention? Are they prone to tantrums or appear overly sensitive? If so, you may wonder if these are just normal phases of childhood, or if they indicate attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), also known as attention deficit disorder (ADD).

Many children can demonstrate the early signs of ADHD, such as restlessness, outbursts, or lack of concentration. Parents may expect them to “grow out” of these tendencies by their later years. But if they do have the neurodevelopmental condition and carry it into adulthood—especially if they remain undiagnosed and/or untreated—it can negatively impact their entire lives.

Today, we have more knowledge than ever about this common mental health condition, which affects 7 million (11.4%) children ages 3-17, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Children who are found to meet the criteria for ADHD can be diagnosed as early as 4 years old.

Recognizing the earliest warning signs of ADHD is key to getting kids the help they need. In this blog, you’ll discover seven ADD symptoms every parent needs to know.

EARLY-CHILDHOOD RISK FACTORS FOR ADD/ADHD

A retrospective study of risk factors for ADHD in different stages of infancy found that eight elements were significantly associated with the condition’s later development. At 0-1 month old, these factors were:

  • Advanced maternal age
  • Lower maternal education
  • Family history of ADHD
  • Social problems (such as divorce, socioeconomic difficulties, and parental illness)

At 3 and 18 months, a decrease in head circumference growth was associated with later ADHD. And, at 9 and 18 months, there were correlations found between ADD, delays in motor and language development, and having a difficult temperament.

A 2023 systematic review of 48 articles also found that temperament in infancy or toddlerhood could indicate an early risk for childhood ADHD. Moderate associations were found with activity level, negative emotionality, and sustained attention.

The first two of these were found to be “predictive of all three symptom dimensions (i.e., inattention, hyperactivity/impulsivity, and combined).” The third, sustained attention, was associated only with combined symptoms.

Further research will help explore the links between ADHD’s development and sustained attention and inhibition in a child’s earliest months and years.

Finally, in an overview published in Health Psychology Research, a variety of genetic, neurobiologic, and neurochemical factors were explored as contributors to ADHD in young children. These include:

  • Heredity and genetics
  • Brain structure, neurobiology, and neuropsychology
  • Cognitive dysregulation
  • Pregnancy or birth complications
  • Exposure to environmental toxins
  • Parenting styles
  • Diet

EARLY SIGNS OF ADD/ADHD

What does this mean for parents who are concerned about possible early symptoms of ADHD in their child? Here are some early signs of ADHD to look out for in your toddler or preschooler:

  1. Poor coordination and a tendency to be accident-prone.

The overview mentioned above notes that ADHD in children can manifest with poor motor coordination or motor performance and balance.

These children are also more prone to accidental injuries and physical trauma, including head trauma, which itself can lead to or exacerbate ADHD symptoms.

  1. Impulsivity.

One of the hallmarks of ADHD, impulsivity in a preschooler or toddler may present itself as speaking before thinking, impatience while waiting, or interrupting others.

An impulsive child may also yell or scream when they’re frustrated, get physical with other kids, or run into the street without looking for oncoming vehicles.

  1. Impaired academic performance.

Once a child reaches preschool, their performance may already be compromised by the academic challenges associated with ADHD. One of the early signs of ADD in preschoolers, trouble with paying attention, impacts their ability to learn in a traditional classroom.

Parents working with their child’s teachers may be instrumental in helping children with ADHD perform better, which is one benefit of early diagnosis.

  1. Sleep disruption.

A 2022 study published in Frontiers in Pediatrics noted that children with ADHD are more likely to have sleep disorders.

This association works in both directions. Not only does the degree of ADHD symptoms correlate with sleep disorder severity, but sleep disorders can trigger or worsen the symptoms of ADHD.

  1. Sensitivity and intense emotions.

In the retrospective study mentioned above, researchers found that temperamental and behavioral problems in children 9 and 18 months old are “an important predictive factor for the development of ADHD.”

This may take the form of excessive crying during infancy. Later, these children displayed issues with sensory integration, attention, and behavioral development.

Emotional hyperarousal, emotional dysregulation, and rejection sensitive dysphoria are some of the common emotional issues faced by those who have ADHD.

Parents may notice that their child has intense reactions or stays “stuck” in emotions for longer periods than would be expected. Or perhaps their child has more, or longer-lasting, tantrums and outbursts, or frequently shows signs of frustration.

  1. Behavioral issues.

A 2021 study reported that 40% to 60% of children with ADHD also have oppositional defiant disorder (ODD). Another behavioral disorder that may overlap with ADHD is conduct disorder. Harming oneself and/or others (with behaviors such as biting) may also become an issue in children with ADHD.

  1. Constant movement.

Young children with ADHD can be excessively restless or fidgety, with difficulty sitting still and paying attention. They may be constantly in motion and excessively talkative. Parents may have trouble getting them to sleep, eat a meal, or focus on tasks.

TREATING ADHD IN TODDLERS AND PRESCHOOLERS

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics’ (AAP) Clinical Practice Guideline for the Diagnosis, Evaluation, and Treatment of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Children and Adolescents, ADHD criteria can be applied to children as young as ages 4-6. The guidelines advise medical professionals to note symptoms across multiple settings, such as home and preschool.

The most common treatment prescribed at these early childhood ages is parent training in behavior management (PTBM). The AAP explains that this consists of helping parents learn:

  • What to expect in terms of age-appropriate development
  • Behaviors that will help strengthen the parent’s relationship with the child
  • Useful skills to help manage problem behaviors

Parents who have spent time implementing and incorporating these strategies at home can then report their results to the medical professional, as well as provide a picture of the child’s persistent symptoms and struggles. This enables a more accurate ADHD diagnosis.

Brain SPECT scans can also help in the diagnosis of ADHD in toddlers and preschoolers. Because there are seven different types of ADD/ADHD, it’s crucial to pinpoint which type is interfering with a child’s development. With brain scans, clinicians can then determine an effective and personalized treatment plan.

Many doctors rely on prescription medications for childhood ADHD, and they can be highly beneficial for some kids. However, stimulant medications are not effective for all ADD types—and they may even cause harm. In addition to ADHD medication or in lieu of it, children can reap significant benefits from all-natural lifestyle changes, including:

  • An elimination diet that removes sugar, gluten, dairy, corn, soy, and artificial dyes and sweeteners from the diet (to rule out potential allergies)
  • A higher-protein, lower-carbohydrate diet
  • More exercise
  • Sleep hygiene and increased sleep duration
  • Less screen time
  • Supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids

Parents can also help by rethinking traditional discipline measures, which may not be helpful for children with ADHD. Instead of yelling, threats, and anger, these children tend to respond to different strategies. Remaining calm and positive will help better guide their behavior.

Finally, because there is a genetic component associated with the condition, parents of children with attention problems may want to undergo screening for ADHD themselves. At Amen Clinics, many adults with ADHD only learn about their condition after bringing in their child for an evaluation.

HELPING ADHD TODDLERS, PRESCHOOLERS, AND PARENTS

It’s never easy to be a parent. But it can be even more challenging when you’re parenting a child who shows the early signs and symptoms of ADHD.

Fortunately, we know more than ever about what to watch for in our toddlers and preschoolers—as well as the benefits of early diagnosis. With vigilance, patience, and understanding, we can help ensure that they are given the best chance of success in life.

Reviewed by Amen Clinics Inc. Clinicians

We Are Here For You

Brain and mental health conditions can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, clinical evaluations, and therapy for adults, teens, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here.
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Amen Clinics

Founded in 1989 by double-board certified psychiatrist and neuroscientist Daniel G. Amen, MD, Amen Clinics Inc. (ACI) is known as the best brain and mental health company in the world. Our clinical staff includes over 50 healthcare specialists, including adult and child psychiatrists, integrative (functional) medicine physicians, naturopaths, addiction specialists, forensic psychiatrists, geriatric psychiatrists, nutritionists, licensed therapists, and more. Our clinicians have all been hand-selected and personally trained by Dr. Amen, whose mission is to end mental illness by creating a revolution in brain health. Over the last 35-plus years, ACI has built the world’s largest database of functional brain scans—over 250,000 SPECT scans on patients from 155 countries—related to how people think, feel, and behave.

Amen, Daniel G et al. “Gender-Based Cerebral Perfusion Differences in 46,034 Functional Neuroimaging Scans.” Journal of Alzheimer’s disease : JAD vol. 60,2 (2017): 605-614. doi:10.3233/JAD-170432

Nishizawa, S et al. “Differences between males and females in rates of serotonin synthesis in human brain.” Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America vol. 94,10 (1997): 5308-13. doi:10.1073/pnas.94.10.5308

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Content updated from previous publish date. Most people think of ADD/ADHD as a childhood disorder, but this common condition also affects millions of adults. Although 9.4% of kids aged 2-17 have been diagnosed with this brain-based disorder compared with just 4.4% of adults, diagnoses in adults are rising at 4 times the rate seen in children, according to research. Experts suggest that many adults are living with undiagnosed ADD/ADHD. This is alarming because untreated adult ADD/ADHD often leads to chronic stress, anxiety, depression, divorce, and job failure. Even more alarming is the fact that studies show ADD/ADHD is considered a risk factor for dementia in later life. This is why it’s so important to know the warning signs of adult ADD/ADHD. Although 9.4% of kids aged 2-17 have been diagnosed with ADD/ADHD compared with just 4.4% of adults, diagnoses in adults are rising at 4 times the rate seen in children.
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10 SIGNS OF ADULT ADD/ADHD

ADD/ADHD symptoms in adults can be more subtle than those seen in kids, which can make them harder to identify. Here are warning signs of ADD/ADHD.

1. Poor sustained attention span.

If you have trouble being able to concentrate for extended periods of time while reading, doing paperwork, or working on a project for your job, it could indicate that ADD/ADHD is to blame.

2. High susceptibility to boredom.

Adults with ADD/ADHD tend to get bored easily when doing routine chores or wading through tedious material. Conversely, adults with this condition can have laser-like focus when engaged in activities they love.

3. Frequent lateness.

If you’re often late for work, appointments, and dates, it might be a symptom of ADD/ADHD. In addition to routinely showing up late, adults with this condition tend to have difficulty completing tasks and assignments on time. This can cause problems in the workplace and can prevent you from getting promoted. In some cases, it can lead to demotions or result in being fired.

4. A tendency to misplace things frequently.

Do you spend too much of your time searching for where you left your keys, wallet, or phone? If you’re disorganized and have trouble keeping track of where you put things, it may not be a sign of memory loss but rather ADD/ADHD. Misplacing things is linked to a lack of paying attention and disorganization.

5. Poor organization and planning.

Does the idea of planning a big project for work, a birthday party, or preparing your taxes fill you with dread? Does it seem so overwhelming that you don’t know where to start? This can be a sign of the condition because the ADD/ADHD brain has trouble filtering out unimportant external information. This means there is so much data filling your mind at once that it’s challenging to narrow down what needs to be done.

6. Procrastination until deadlines are imminent.

Adults with ADD/ADHD can have trouble with motivation, which means chores and work assignments get put off until the last minute. Do you let things go until a deadline looms—“Oh no, it’s due tomorrow!”—or someone gets mad at you because you haven’t started yet? When workplace issues like this happen repeatedly, it can derail your career.

7. Restlessness.

Do you feel fidgety, keyed up, or agitated? Do you have trouble sitting still or being quiet for extended periods of time? Do you feel uncomfortable in a confined space (not a phobia)? These may all be signs of adult ADD/ADHD.

8. Frequent job changes or falling in and out of romantic relationships.

If you find yourself feeling antsy after a short time at a new job or getting bored quickly in a new relationship, it could be an indicator of ADD/ADHD. People with this brain-based disorder tend to like excitement and novelty, meaning that once a job or fling starts to feel mundane or static, it’s time to bolt or stir things up. Creating drama in the workplace or picking fights with a loved one can serve as a way to stimulate the brain of someone with ADD/ADHD. But this unhealthy tactic ultimately undermines career advancement and ruins relationships.

9. Failure to listen carefully to directions.

Do your eyes glaze over when you look at the instructions for installing new software, a recipe with more than a few steps, or the directions for assembling DIY furniture? An inability to listen to and follow directions is one of the clear signs that ADD/ADHD may be involved.

10. Poor performance at work, despite abilities.

Making silly mistakes, not paying attention to details, and otherwise coming up short on work assignments despite being intelligent and a hard worker may be a tip-off that ADD/ADHD is a factor. Having this condition can also make you more prone to burnout, which drains your energy and prevents you from performing your best. If you feel like you aren’t living up to your potential in your career, you may want to learn more about ADD/ADHD.

CASE STUDY: AN ADULT WITH ADD/ADHD

What does life look like for adults with undiagnosed and untreated ADD/ADHD? Look at Brett. At age 27, Brett had just been fired from his fourth job in a year. He blamed his bosses for expecting too much of him, but it was the same old story. Brett had trouble with details, he was often late to work, he seemed disorganized, and he missed important deadlines. The end came when he impulsively told off a difficult customer who complained about his attitude. All his life Brett had similar problems. He dropped out of school in the eleventh grade despite having a high IQ. He was restless, fidgety, impulsive, and had a fleeting attention span. When he was in school, small amounts of homework would take him several hours to complete, and it involved a lot of nagging from his mother. Brett had mastered the art of getting people angry at him, and it seemed to others that he intentionally stirred things up. These were lifelong symptoms of ADD/ADHD that had gone unnoticed, undiagnosed, and untreated. When he finally decided to seek help at Amen Clinics for his symptoms, he got a brain SPECT scan, which revealed low activity in the prefrontal cortex, a common finding in people with ADD/ADHD. With appropriate treatment to boost activity in the prefrontal cortex, his life made a dramatic turnaround. He returned to school, finished a technical degree in fire-inspection technology, and got a job. He kept that job for at least years now and said he felt happier, more focused, and more positive than ever before.

MANAGING ADULT ADD/ADHD

It’s never too late to get diagnosed with ADD/ADHD and to learn how to manage the condition. Natural ways to heal ADD/ADHD include vigorous exercise; a higher-protein diet; setting goals; neurofeedback; and taking nutritional supplements such as rhodiola, ashwagandha, and green tea extract. Getting the proper treatment for your type—brain imaging at Amen Clinics shows there are 7 types of ADD/ADHD—is the key to reducing symptoms and living the life you deserve. ADD/ADHD and other mental health issues can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, clinical evaluations, and therapy for adults, teens, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here. Here’s a sad statistic: Having attention-deficit disorder (ADD), more commonly referred to as attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), increases the risk for mood disorders such as depression. Even worse, when a child or an adult has these co-existing disorders, both conditions are intensified. When ADD/ADHD goes untreated, young people who struggle with co-occurring depression, especially girls, are at higher risk of suicide. And adults with undiagnosed or untreated ADD/ADHD and depression may lose jobs, struggle in relationships, and are at greater risk for substance abuse and addiction. For those who currently struggle with ADHD, there’s positive news. Research indicates that when ADD/ADHD is properly diagnosed and successfully treated, the risk of depression significantly decreases. Having ADD/ADHD increases the risk for mood disorders such as depression. And when a child or an adult has these co-existing disorders, both conditions are intensified.
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BASICS ABOUT ADD/ADHD

Currently, it is estimated that 9.4% of children and 4.4% of adults in the U.S. have ADD/ADHD, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data. However, experts believe there are millions more that remain undiagnosed. ADD/ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by issues with attention, and in many cases, impulsive and hyperactive behavior as well. Although the disorder affects millions of people, it continues to be highly misunderstood and is often incorrectly treated, if it is treated at all. Research estimates that roughly 40% of kids with ADD/ADHD symptoms don’t receive proper diagnosis or treatment, and a review study on ADD/ADHD underdiagnosis estimates that 80% of adults with symptoms of the condition do not get the treatment they need. The implications are far-reaching.

THE ADD/ADHD-DEPRESSION CONNECTION

The link between ADD/ADHD and major depressive disorder in medical research is strong. Studies indicate that among youths with ADD/ADHD, rates of concurrent depression range from 12% to 50%, and additional research suggests the rate in adults to be from 16% to 31%. ADD/ADHD and depression “travel together” in several ways. The most obvious connection is that the consequences of living with the core symptoms of ADD/ADHD—which include short attention span for common everyday tasks; poor organization; being easily distracted; procrastination; lack of follow-through; and poor impulse control—lead to depression. These symptoms can and do create a lot of problems in children and adults. They can adversely affect school or work performance, leading to a poor self-image and low self-esteem, which can contribute to depression, studies have shown. Relationships, finances, and even driving are negatively impacted by ADD/ADHD, which may contribute to low mood. Those with ADD/ADHD have more difficulty regulating emotions. They often experience emotions more intensely than others without the condition, and they can struggle to soothe themselves and transition out of difficult emotions, which factors into a low mood. Further, research in the Journal of Abnormal Psychology shows that for inattentive ADD/ADHD types, social problems with peers and dysfunctional parent-child relationships can trigger depression. One study that controlled for poor academic performance and social problems with peers found that adolescents with ADD/ADHD remained at high risk for depression, suggesting that additional factors are at play. Indeed, there are other factors involved, including what’s happening in the brain. The combined symptoms of ADD/ADHD and depression include inattentiveness, being easily distracted, disorganization, chronic low mood or negativity, a “glass half empty” perspective, low energy, a tendency to be more isolated socially, and general feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness a majority of the time. Those with ADD/ADHD and depression may or may not be hyperactive.

ADD/ADHD, DEPRESSION, AND THE BRAIN

ADD/ADHD brains work differently. Brain SPECT imaging scans have revealed that ADD/ADHD is associated with biological changes in the brain. When neurotypical people (those without ADD/ADHD) concentrate, blood flow increases to the prefrontal cortex, the area of the brain that controls focus, planning, judgment, empathy, and impulse control. However, in those with ADD/ADHD, scans reveal decreased activity in the prefrontal cortex during concentration. This physiological difference may explain why it is difficult for people with ADD/ADHD to focus. In fact, the harder they try to focus, the worse it gets. Similarly, when people are depressed, SPECT scans reveal decreased activity in the prefrontal cortex (especially on the left side) at rest, although it improves with concentration—and increased deep limbic activity at rest and during concentration. The limbic system is the brain’s emotional center. What’s more, a 2021 neuroimaging study has shown that both conditions are associated with dysregulation of the brain’s reward system.  Dopamine, the neurochemical that drives motivation and plays a role in reward systems and moods is typically in short supply in people with ADD/ADHD.  It’s not surprising then that research indicates those with the condition have a harder time realizing rewards and staying motivated. One study in the Journal of Clinical Psychology on college students with ADD/ADHD revealed that this dysfunction in reward responsivity is evident in both ADD/ADHD and depression (although not for hyperactive types).

UNTREATED ADD/ADHD AND DEPRESSION

There are reasons ADD/ADHD often goes undiagnosed and untreated. Unfortunately, the stereotype of ADD/ADHD to be a childhood affliction limited to hyperactive boys with poor impulse control causes other less obvious symptomology to fly under the radar. According to a 2016 paper in The ADHD Report the condition is likely underdiagnosed in girls because they more frequently exhibit inattentive symptoms, which are internalized rather than externalized and more difficult to catch. Additionally, symptoms are misinterpreted in childhood, especially the ones having to do with focus and attention, distractibility, procrastination, and disorganization. Kids (and their parents) may simply believe they are not smart, lazy, or not trying hard enough. Many of those undiagnosed in childhood continue to struggle as adults. And adults are more prone to overlook these symptoms. In fact, the condition is so unrecognized in adults that research in the Journal of Psychiatric Research shows it’s usually the accompanying depression that gets people to seek treatment, not the ADD/ADHD.

UNDERSTAND THE SIGNS OF ADD/ADHD AND DEPRESSION

It’s important for parents and adults to understand the signs of both ADD/ADHD and depression and what the risk factors are for them occurring together. Getting the correct treatment for both conditions is essential. Here are some risk factors to keep in mind: If you suspect you or a loved one may have undiagnosed or untreated ADD/ADHD and related depression, it is important to identify and address both conditions. With proper diagnoses, these brain-based disorders can be treated successfully. ADD/ADHD, depression, and other mental health issues can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, clinical evaluations, and therapy for adults, teens, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here. Type 7: Unfocused Anxiety/Depression is characterized by feelings of anxiousness or low moods in addition to inattention, trouble concentrating, or in some cases, brain fog. This type is often seen in conjunction with ADD/ADHD. People with this type of anxiety and depression tend to lack motivation, have trouble achieving their goals, and tend to get easily distracted or off task. This holds you back at school, at work, and in relationships, which just makes you feel more depressed and anxious. Type 7: Unfocused Anxiety/Depression is characterized by feelings of anxiousness or low moods in addition to inattention, trouble concentrating, or in some cases, brain fog.
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COMMON SYMPTOMS OF TYPE 7: UNFOCUSED ANXIETY/DEPRESSION

People with Unfocused Anxiety/Depression typically have at least 4 symptoms from Pure Anxiety (Type 1) and/or Pure Depression (Type 2) plus at least 4 of the “unfocused” symptoms. Anxiety symptoms include: Depression symptoms include: Unfocused Symptoms TYPE 7: UNFOCUSED ANXIETY/DEPRESSION IN THE BRAIN SPECT findings with this type show decreased activity in the prefrontal cortex at rest and during concentration (often associated with ADD/ADHD), in addition to high activity in the ganglia (see Type 1: Pure Anxiety for more on the basal ganglia) and/or the deep limbic system (see Type 2: Pure Depression for more on the deep limbic system). Distinguishing Unfocused Anxiety/Depression from ADD/ADHD can be difficult because of the similarity in symptoms. However, brain imaging provides a window into the brain to see the areas with too little or too much activity. This allows for a more accurate diagnosis. A variation of Unfocused Anxiety/Depression is caused by overall reduced blood flow and activity in the cortex along with too much activity in the basal ganglia and/or deep limbic system. This pattern may be related to physical illness, drug or alcohol abuse, hypoxia (lack of oxygen), infections (such as Lyme disease), traumatic brain injury, or exposure to toxic mold or other environmental toxins. Symptoms of this variation also include frequent feelings of sickness, mental dullness, “brain fog,” or cognitive impairment. INTERVENTIONS FOR TYPE 7: UNFOCUSED ANXIETY/DEPRESSION There are many natural solutions for Unfocused Anxiety/Depression, including: Depression, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, infections, and other mental health issues can’t wait. During these uncertain times, your mental well-being is more important than ever and waiting until life gets back to “normal” is likely to make your symptoms worsen over time. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, remote clinical evaluations, and video therapy for adults, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here. The hallmark of Type 6: Cyclic Anxiety/Depression is a cyclic pattern of low moods or anxiousness. People with this type tend to experience major mood swings, their depression or anxiety comes and goes, or it increases and decreases in severity. Cyclical disorders, such as bipolar disorder, cyclothymia, premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PDD), and panic attacks are part of this category because they are episodic and unpredictable. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD), which is associated with winter blues, is a variant of this type. Type 6: Cyclic Anxiety/Depression is a spectrum disorder, which means you can have a very mild form or a very severe form, or anything in between. A person can have a mild form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or a mild cyclic mood disorder, or the problems can be so severe that they are debilitating or even life-threatening. Cyclic Anxiety/Depression must be closely and skillfully monitored, especially at critical times in the course of the disorder, such as when a person is experiencing intense stress, going through a hormonal transition, or changing medications. The hallmark of Type 6: Cyclic Anxiety/Depression is a cyclic pattern of low moods or anxiousness.
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COMMON SYMPTOMS OF TYPE 6: CYCLIC ANXIETY/DEPRESSION

People with this type generally have 4 symptoms from Pure Anxiety (Type 1) and/or Pure Depression (Type 2) in addition to at least 4 “cyclic” symptoms. Anxiety symptoms include: Depression symptoms include: Cyclic Symptoms

TYPE 6: CYCLIC ANXIETY/DEPRESSION IN THE BRAIN

Type 6: Cyclic Anxiety/Depression is associated with extremely high activity in the brain’s basal ganglia and/or deep limbic system. These areas of excessive activity act like “emotional seizures” as the emotional centers hijack the brain for periods of time in a cyclical pattern. Not surprisingly, SPECT scan findings for this type vary depending on the phase of the disorder. For example, a woman with severe premenstrual syndrome may show only increased focal deep limbic activity during the unaffected time of her cycle. However, during the worst time of her cycle, her scans may show not only increased focal deep limbic activity but also decreased activity in the prefrontal cortex (associated with trouble concentrating and impulsivity) and increased activity in the anterior cingulate gyrus (associated with getting stuck on thoughts or behaviors).

INTERVENTIONS FOR TYPE 6: CYCLIC ANXIETY/DEPRESSION

In some cases, people with cyclic mood disorders or anxiety may require medication to stabilize moods. This needs to be monitored very closely. There are other natural solutions that may be beneficial, including: Depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, mood swings, and other mental health issues can’t wait. During these uncertain times, your mental well-being is more important than ever and waiting until life gets back to “normal” is likely to make your symptoms worsen over time. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, remote clinical evaluations, and video therapy for adults, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here.

 

Does having ADD/ADHD put you at an increased risk of contracting COVID-19? If the ADD/ADHD is untreated, the answer is yes, according to a new study in the Journal of Attention Disorders. The research involving 14,022 people in Israel found that people with untreated ADD/ADHD are about 52% more likely to have tested positive for the coronavirus illness compared with individuals who don’t have ADD/ADHD.

The researchers found, however, that in people with the attention-deficit disorder who are being treated with stimulant medication, the infection rate for COVID-19 is no higher than in those without ADD/ADHD. In these individuals, the infection rate was about 10%.

WHO’S AT RISK?

An estimated 6.1 million children ages 4-17 have been diagnosed with ADD/ADHD and approximately 8 million U.S. adults have the disorder. However, it is estimated that less than 20% of adults with the condition have received a diagnosis. And of those who have been diagnosed, only about 1 in 4 seek treatment. This adds up to millions of adults who are at increased risk of developing COVID-19 due to untreated ADD/ADHD.

WHAT’S ADD GOT TO DO WITH IT?

What is behind the connection between ADD/ADHD and increased risk? It likely lies in the hallmark ADD/ADHD symptoms, including:

During the pandemic, these characteristics can manifest in potentially harmful ways, such as forgetting to wash your hands, impulsively hosting a wild party with a lot of people, or not following health directives. These actions put people at greater risk of exposure to COVID-19 and to developing the illness.

ADD/ADHD ISN’T JUST ONE THING

What most people don’t realize is that ADD/ADHD isn’t just one thing. Over 30 years of brain SPECT imaging studies at Amen Clinics have shown that there are 7 types of ADD/ADHD. One size does not fit all, and each type has its own set of symptoms and requires a personalized treatment plan. What works for one person with ADD/ADHD may not work for another—or could even make the symptoms worse.

At Amen Clinics, brain scans of people with ADD/ADHD consistently point to decreased activity in the prefrontal cortex (PFC). Typically, when a person without ADD/ADHD tries to concentrate, activity increases in the PFC, but when someone with the condition attempts to concentrate, activity decreases. The harder they try, the worse it gets.

The 7 Types of ADD/ADHD are:

Type 1: Classic ADD: When most people think about attention-deficit disorder they think about this type, which is characterized by hyperactivity, restlessness, impulsivity, disorganization, distractibility, and trouble concentrating.

Type 2: Inattentive ADD: This is the second most common type of ADD/ADHD. People with this type tend to be labeled as slow, lazy, spacey, or unmotivated. They can be quiet and distracted.

Type 3: Overfocused ADD: People with this type have all of the core ADD/ADHD symptoms plus tremendous trouble shifting attention and a tendency to get stuck of locked into negative thought patterns or behaviors.

Type 4: Temporal Lobe ADD: The temporal lobes, which are located underneath your temples and behind your eyes, are involved with memory, learning, mood stability, and visual processing of objects. Learning and behavior problems are commonly associated with this type.

Type 5: Limbic ADD: In this type, ADD/ADHD and depression intersect. The core ADD/ADHD symptoms are present in addition to negativity, moodiness, sadness, low energy, and decreased interest in life.

Type 6: Ring of Fire ADD: Unlike those with type 1 who have low activity in certain areas of the brain, these people tend to have excessive activity throughout the brain. On brain SPECT scans, it lights up like a ring of hyperactivity. Symptoms commonly seen in this type include irritability, hyperactivity, excessive talking, overfocus issues, extreme oppositional behavior, and cyclic periods of calm behavior alternating with intense aggressive behavior. Stimulant medication tends to make these people worse.

Type 7: Anxious ADD: In people with this type it is common for ADD/ADHD symptoms to become magnified and to be accompanied by anxiety, a fear of being judged, predicting the worst, being conflict avoidant, and having physical stress symptoms (such as headaches, stomachaches, muscle tension).

Knowing your type of ADD/ADHD is the key to finding the most effective treatment.

ADD/ADHD, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues can’t wait. During these uncertain times, your mental well-being is more important than ever and waiting until life gets back to “normal” is likely to make your symptoms worsen over time.

At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, remote clinical evaluations, and video therapy for adults, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834. If all our specialists are busy helping others, you can also schedule a time to talk.

 

Chronic pain can impact your life in so many ways. It can rob you of the activities you once loved and leave you feeling depressed and anxious. It can also alter your brain in ways that keep you mired in negative moods and emotions.

That’s what happened to Sam, a 38-year-old police officer. After three car accidents, he had pain that didn’t go away, even after six back surgeries. The pain was so intense, he was practically bedridden, and his family was about to leave him. He couldn’t stop thinking about the pain, and believing he had no way out, Sam attempted suicide. It was only after that attempt that Sam sought help to find out what was happening in his brain.

CHRONIC PAIN IN THE BRAIN

Chronic pain can change the way your brain functions. Brain imaging shows that people who have chronic pain often have high activity in the thalamus, which is part of the limbic system that is the brain’s emotional center. Too much activity in this region is associated with depression.

Sam also had marked overactivity in an area of the brain called the anterior cingulate gyrus (ACG). This area of the brain acts like the brain’s gear shifter. When it is healthy, it helps you go from one idea to another. When it is overactive, you tend to get stuck on worrisome thoughts. It also indicates low levels of the feel-good neurotransmitter serotonin. When serotonin is low, people tend to be obsessive, moody, and inflexible. This caused Sam to get stuck on thoughts about his pain and his perceived hopelessness.

GETTING YOUR BRAIN UNSTUCK

Even though chronic pain can alter the way your brain functions, it doesn’t have to be permanent. If you’re suffering from chronic pain, medication may be recommended, but there are also many natural ways to calm an overactive limbic system as well as an ACG that is working too hard.

5 Ways to Balance the Limbic System

3 Ways to Balance the Anterior Cingulate Gyrus

Sam used a combination of these strategies—supplements, acupuncture, social bonding, and more—to balance his brain and address his pain. After a month, Sam said his back still hurt, but he was much less focused on the pain. He was able to get out of bed and go back to school to start training for a different line of work.

Don’t let chronic pain keep you on the sidelines of life. At Amen Clinics, where Sam was treated, brain SPECT imaging is performed as part of a comprehensive evaluation for people with chronic pain as well as symptoms of depression or obsessive thoughts. The Amen Clinics Method takes an integrative approach to diagnosis and treatment to help balance the brain utilizing the least toxic, most effective solutions so you can stop focusing on the pain and start living again.

To find a path to help you feel better fast, call 888-288-9834 to talk to a specialist today or schedule a visit.

It is important to maintain strong relationships with people, but just how important? The United Kingdom appointed a Minister for Loneliness to address the finding that nine million British people often or always feel lonely. To some, this may come as a surprise. It should not.

Loneliness and social isolation are on the rise, leading many to call it an epidemic.

Why?

In recent decades, the number of people with zero confidants has tripled, and most adults do not belong to a local community group. Consequently, more than one third of Americans over the age of 45 report feeling lonely, with prevalence especially high among those under 25 and over 65 years old. While this alarming trend has grown, so has understanding of its impact. By now, the evidence is abundant and decisive: social connection significantly affects health. When you believe that you have people in your life who care about you, and you interact with them regularly, you are better off. For instance, you may be less likely to catch a cold, slip into early cognitive decline, and develop depression.

What Does Research Tell Us?

A study at Harvard University that followed hundreds of people for 75 years identified the quality of people’s relationships as the single clearest predictor of their physical health, longevity, and quality of life.

Limbic System + Loneliness

Do you know people who see every situation in a bad light? Or someone who struggles with feelings of sadness, loneliness, lack of motivation, or hopelessness? If so, they could be experiencing troubles with the functioning of the limbic system in their brain. The limbic system, also called the emotional brain, lies near the center of the brain. Considering its size – about that of a walnut – it is packed with functions critical for human behavior and survival. The limbic system processes our sense of smell, stores highly charged emotional memories, and affects sleep and appetite cycles, moods, sexuality, and bonding.

What Can You Do?

It has been shown that enhancing emotional bonds between people will help heal the limbic system. How you get along with other people can either help or hurt your limbic system! The better you get along with those around you, the better you will feel.

We Can Help

You CAN change your brain, and change your life. At Amen Clinics, we want to help you. Call us today at 888-288-9834 or visit here to schedule an appointment. Romance and love is a part of life. Whether we are single or are in a relationship, having a good understanding of how your brain works and getting brain healthy can put the sizzle in your love life or dating life. Typically, we don’t think of the brain when contemplating dating or improving relationships, but our brains play a big part in how attractive we are to others and how sexy we feel. Here are five parts of the brain that you may want to pay attention to if you want a better love life.

Limbic System (LS)

The Limbic System can help you feel more attractive. It sets the emotional tone of the mind, it modulates motivation and the libido. It stores emotional memories and promotes bonding. When you’re feeling positive you can filter information accurately; you feel playful and sensual. That is an indication your LS is working well. This also means you’re more comfortable in close relationships, can go with the flow better, and can have fun dating and connecting with new people. An overactive LS can make dating and maintaining relationships more difficult, overactivity can cause depression, negative thinking, you may shy away from sexual activity, push people away. To improve your LS:
  1. Get social. Bonding is essential to all human relationships. Be sure to spend time with others.
  2. Look for scents that make you feel attractive. The LS processes the sense of smell.
  3. Kill the ANTs (automatic negative thoughts). Do not believe every thought you have. Focus on positive uplifting and nurturing thoughts about yourself.

Basal Ganglia (BG)

The BG is involved with integrating feelings, thoughts and physical movements. It sets the body’s anxiety levels and mediates pleasure and ecstasy. When this area of the brain is functioning properly you see a positive future, feel good and relaxed enough to feel attractive and sensual. If you are feeling plagued with multiple physical complaints, there may be problems in this area. To improve the BG:
  1. Predict the best. Look positively at prospects.
  2. Breathe to get control of your anxiety, tension.
  3. Focus on what you want. Clear focus is essential.

Prefrontal Cortex (PFC)

The PFC is the brain system that focuses on behavior. When the PFC is functioning properly, you are effectively supervising what you say and do. You’re more likely to follow through on your commitments. Having an underactive PFC can cause problems building or sustaining relationships. People with underactive PFC have impulsive tendencies. They may say hurtful things without much forethought. To improve the PFC:
  1. Be cool and stay calm.
  2. Focus on what you like most, not what you don’t like.
  3. Get organized.

Anterior Cingulate Gyrus (ACG)

The ACG is responsible for cognitive flexibility and ability to shift attention, with a well-functioning ACG you are flexible, and adaptable with the ability to forgive mistakes. When it’s over-active, you may find that you get locked in thoughts and hold grudges and hurts from the past. To improve the ACG:
  1. Notice when you are stuck. Break negative cycles notice when you are in them. Be aware of repetitive negative patterns.
  2. Have a smart carbohydrate snack such as sweet potatoes or hummus to improve your moods low blood sugar often correlates with anger and irritability.

Temporal Lobes (TL)

The TLs are involved with understanding and processing language, word retrieval, long-term memories, the TLs also controls emotion stability. In romantic situations, people with properly functioning TLs clearly understand what is said. TLs that aren’t functioning well tend to be temperamental, they struggle with memory, and they may often take things the wrong way. To improve the TL:
  1. Dance with your partner.
  2. Listen to healing music.
  3. Create a library of experiences to treasure.
When we know how our brain functions we have a better understanding of how to form happy, loving relationships. If you want to improve your love life, why not focus on how your brain functions? Enhancing your love life by getting brain healthy can become the most exciting, fulfilling life experience. To find out more about how you can improve your brain health and your relationships, contact Amen Clinics online today or call 888-288-9834.