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Natural Ways to Help ADD

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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.

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August 7, 2024
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Having attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), also known as attention-deficit disorder (ADD), can have a major impact on every aspect of your life. It can negatively affect your performance at work or school, interfere with your relationships, and make you feel like a failure in so many ways.

To combat ADD/ADHD symptoms, people often look to medication. And in the traditional medical and psychiatric communities, stimulant medications are considered first-line treatments for the condition.

From 2006-2016, total stimulant usage doubled, according to a study in Plos One. Since then, the numbers keep rising. Statistics from the CDC show that from 2020-2021, prescriptions for stimulants increased 10% among females from 15-44 years of age and males 25-44 years of age.

Many people with this neurodevelopmental disorder think ADD/ADHD medication is the only solution, however, there are many proven natural strategies that can help.

NATURAL TREATMENTS FOR ADHD

Many alternatives to medication have been found to reduce ADD/ADHD symptoms, which include:

  • Short attention span
  • Distractibility
  • Procrastination
  • Disorganization
  • Problems with follow-through
  • Poor impulse control

This is good news for the 6 million children and 4.4% of adults who are affected by this common condition. In some cases, natural solutions can complement prescription stimulants and allow for reduced dosages.

For other people, taking a natural approach is enough to keep symptoms at bay. Talk to your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medications.

Here are some natural tips to start helping ADD/ADHD today:

  1. Take a high-quality multivitamin and mineral supplement every day.

Research shows that people with ADD/ADHD often have nutritional deficiencies, including low levels of vitamin D, zinc, ferritin, and magnesium. Taking a supplement helps replenish levels of these important nutrients.

Studies have reported that daily multivitamins/minerals are beneficial for learning and also help prevent chronic illness.

  1. Take omega-3 fatty acids.

Multiple studies, including a 2020 trial in Translational Psychiatry and a 2017 study in the Journal of Lipids, show that taking omega-3 fatty acids can be beneficial for ADD/ADHD symptoms, such as attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity.

There are 2 active compounds in omega-3 fatty acids: EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). Research suggests that fish oil higher in the EPA form of omega-3s may be the most helpful, but it depends on your type of ADD/ADHD.

Dose suggestions are 2,000 to 6,000 mg of high-quality fish oil a day for adults and 1,000-2,000 mg per day for children.

  1. Eliminate everyday stimulants.

Avoid consuming caffeine or using nicotine products. The brain SPECT imaging work at Amen Clinics—over 225,000 functional brain scans and growing—shows that caffeine and nicotine decrease brain activity over time.

In some cases, the decline can be significant. In addition, both interfere with sleep, and people with ADD/ADHD often have difficulty sleeping.

  1. Know your (or your child’s) ADD type.

The brain-imaging work at Amen Clinics has shown that there are 7 types of ADD/ADHD. Knowing your type is critical to getting the right treatment plan.

You can begin with our ADD Type Test to discover your (or your loved one’s) ADD Type and get a personalized overview on what to do about it.

  1. Exercise daily for 30-45 minutes.

The neuropsychiatrists at Amen Clinics have seen a direct relationship between the level of exercise a patient gets and the severity of their symptoms. In general, more exercise is associated with less severe symptoms.

This is because physical activity boosts blood flow to the brain. This is critical because SPECT scans show a reduction in blood flow to the brain in individuals with ADD/ADHD. In particular, this drop in blood flow occurs in the prefrontal cortex during concentration, which makes it harder to stay focused.

Among ADD/ADHD patients at Amen Clinics, those who play sports that involve intense aerobic exercise, such as basketball, tend to do better in school or at work. Be sure to choose safe exercises that do not pose a risk for brain injuries. This means no tackle football, hockey, or soccer headers.

  1. Limit screen time.

Keep television, video games, and device time to no more than 30 minutes a day. This may be hard for kids and teens, but it can make a dramatic difference.

In a 2019 study on preschoolers in Plos One, when screen time exceeded 2 hours a day, there were “clinically significant” increases in attentional problems and other symptoms associated with ADD/ADHD.

  1. Think of food as medicine.

Most people with ADD/ADHD do best with a higher-protein, lower-simple carbohydrate diet. Protein helps you focus, helps balance blood sugar, and provides essential building blocks for brain health.

However, eating a higher-protein diet doesn’t work for everyone with the condition. People with Over-Focused ADD/ADHD tend to respond better to a more balanced diet with more complex carbohydrates.

  1. In dealing with kids, employees, and spouses with ADD/ADHD – NO YELLING!

Many people with ADD/ADHD have low activity in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) due to lower levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine. To feel more alert, they often find themselves seeking conflict or excitement.

They can be masterful at making other people mad or angry at them. Don’t lose your temper with them, because it often makes things worse. If they get you to explode, their unconscious, low-energy PFC activates and unconsciously, they come to crave it. Never let your anger be their medication. They can get addicted to it.

  1. Get screened for other issues.

Up to 60% of people with this neurodevelopmental disorder also have learning disabilities, and they are particularly common in those with Temporal Lobe ADD/ADHD.

In addition, consider getting screened for Irlen Syndrome. This visual processing problem affects approximately 1 in 3 individuals with ADD/ADHD. Treatment for Irlen Syndrome does not require medication. Rather, it involves the use of colored eyeglass lenses.

  1. Never give up seeking help.

If you aren’t getting the results you want from your treatment plan, keep investigating. Other issues, such as head trauma, co-occurring conditions like depression, or hormonal imbalances may play a role in the severity of your symptoms.

Brain SPECT imaging and lab testing may be helpful in determining if other issues are at work. Treating these underlying problems may improve symptoms and reduce or eliminate the need for ADD/ADHD medication.

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.

Do you feel separation anxiety when you’re away from your phone, tablet, or video game console? Are you feeling flat, bored, depressed, or like you’ve lost your joie de vivre? Do you have low motivation but increased anxious thoughts? If so, these are signs you may need a dopamine detox. Our brains are releasing a near-constant and overwhelming stream of dopamine, which exhausts the brain’s pleasure centers. This is especially true if you’ve been engaging in certain stimulating activities or impulsive behaviors, such as too much social media use, shopping, recreational drug use, or emotional eating, to name a few. These types of behavior can dramatically increase dopamine levels and exhaust your brain’s pleasures centers while making healthy habits feel less enjoyable. This can cause low motivation, flat mood, anxious feelings, and/or depression. It’s not uncommon in our modern world with access to near-constant stimulation. Your brain chemistry can get easily hijacked! Here’s what you need to know about dopamine, reward, pleasure, and how dopamine fasting could help you regain control of your habits and protect your mental wellness.

ABOUT DOPAMINE

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is critical for mental health. Dopamine plays a role in many important behavioral and physical functions, including motivation, learning, mood, attention, movement, sleep, and more. Often referred to as a “feel good” neurochemical, dopamine works in myriad ways and is an essential component of your brain’s reward system and pleasure centers. The brain’s reward pathways include structures such as: The VTA and substantia nigra are 2 of the primary structures that produce dopamine. This brain chemical is released when you’re exposed to something that is rewarding and pleasurable. Dopamine’s role is to cue the brain that it should repeat an experience that results in positive effects. This dopaminergic system is designed for learning and survival. It helps us to learn about and seek out positive behaviors such as reproduction, food, and comfort that ensure we will survive. The problem is that in our fast-paced modern life, pleasure-seeking culture is impacting, and sometimes even exploiting, the brain’s reward system. Our brains are releasing a near-constant and overwhelming stream of dopamine, which exhausts the brain’s pleasure centers. Activities such as too much text messaging, email, playing games online, scrolling social media, watching TV, online shopping, and multi-screening can have a similar impact on dopamine release as recreational drugs, alcohol, or caffeine. Medical experts and science estimate that drugs can cause a dopamine hit that is 10 times stronger than with natural rewards! Too much or too little dopamine can cause mental health conditions, such as depression. When your brain is exposed to intense stimuli, it can prompt such disorders, leading to behavioral or substance dependence. Indeed, when dopamine production is excessively high for prolonged periods as a result of maladaptive behaviors and compulsive habits, the brain’s pleasure centers become less responsive to it. The dopamine “high” stops being as intense as it once was, requiring more stimulus and thus the addictive cycle begins. For example, social media apps are designed to manipulate the brain’s reward system by triggering a dopamine hit every time you scroll to a new video, hear a notification sound, or see the red message alert. There is scientific evidence to prove it. Dopamine triggers the drive to repeat the behavior. These apps are literally designed to lock you into more screen time!

WHAT IS A DOPAMINE DETOX?

Several years ago, Dr. Cameron Sepah, a researcher and psychiatrist from the University of California, San Francisco, coined the term dopamine detox. The catchy name is a bit of a misnomer though, because a dopamine detox is actually not about detoxing from dopamine, because it is essential for our brains. It focuses on curbing or abstaining from the impulsive and/or addictive behaviors and activities that trigger a large surge or dump of dopamine in the brain’s pleasure centers, and focusing instead on healthy habits. The concept of a dopamine detox is rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), according to scientific studies. Dopamine fasting is also focused on breaking the classic conditioning response that drives an individual to engage in excessive behaviors. This might mean a dopamine-fasting individual allows themselves to feel uncomfortable, bored, or even feel lonely. They may choose simple activities rather than going for the high-octane ones that deliver a dysregulating dopamine dump. Ultimately, it’s aimed at targeting problematic habits, and restoring some level of control over behaviors that bring pleasure. Amen Clinics similarly interprets a dopamine detox to mean limiting unhealthy behaviors and activities that dramatically increase dopamine or “dump” dopamine (i.e. nonstop screen time), while cultivating behaviors and activities that “drip” dopamine moderately and make you feel good over the long haul.

HOW TO DOPAMINE DETOX

You can experience the brain health benefits of dopamine detoxes by abstaining from the technology or behavior that is dumping an overload of dopamine into your brain’s reward centers. Do it for a few hours, a full day, a weekend, or an entire week. Simply take a break from the intense stimulation and give your brain’s pleasure centers a chance to reset and recalibrate to a higher sensitivity. That way, you can gain control of your behaviors and not need as much dopamine to feel good. Natural, sustaining rewards such as conversation with a loved one, taking a walk in nature, reading an insightful spiritual passage, or playing a piece of music will likely be satisfying again. These are dopamine-balancing activities  as they “drip” dopamine moderately and provide a more sustainable feeling of well-being. To moderate the effects of technology, consider taking mini-breaks during the day. Just 15 minutes of a digital detox can be good for your brain. Consider making tech off limits in some of your rooms so you can unplug on a regular basis.

DOPAMINE-DUMPING ACTIVITIES TO LIMIT

 Here are a number of so called “pleasurable activities” (they actually hurt you!) and compulsive behaviors to limit: When you fast from these behaviors, you’ll likely feel some discomfort. But, the most important thing is to stay with it. Your brain will thank you. Journal if you need to.

DOPAMINE-DRIPPING ACTIVITIES TO PRACTICE

In addition to avoiding dopamine-dumping activities, embrace new behaviors and healthy activities that drip dopamine. Dopamine producing activities that promote healthy dopamine production and enhance the brain’s pleasure centers without wearing them out include: Depending on how attached you are to behaviors that dump dopamine, you may need to seek the help of a qualified mental health professional. If you think you may have a behavioral or substance use addiction, reach out to a professional right away to help you get a greater sense of control over your life. Addictions, impulsive behaviors, 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. Reviewed by Amen Clinics Inc. Clinicians 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 30-plus years, ACI has built the world’s largest database of functional brain scans—over 300,000 SPECT scans on patients from 155 countries—related to how people think, feel, and behave. Dr. Amen is also the founder of BrainMD, a fast growing, science-based nutraceutical company, and Amen University, which has trained thousands of medical and mental health professionals on the methods he has developed. In addition, he has produced 16 national public television shows about the brain and his online videos on brain and mental health have been viewed over 300 million times. Dr. Amen is a 12-time New York Times bestselling author, including Change Your Brain, Change Your Life; The End of Mental Illness; Healing ADD; and many more. Hist latest book, Raising Mentally Strong Kids, was published March 2024. Attention-deficit disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, over-focused ADD, over-focused ADHD, spect scans, amen clinics, excessive worry, types of ADHD, what is adhd, what is over-focused ADHD, obsessive-compulsive disorder, ADD types, adhd treatment, One of the most common symptoms of ADD/ADHD is having trouble with focus. Surprisingly, however, some people with this condition have a tendency to hyperfocus on certain things. At Amen Clinics, which has identified 7 types of based on more than 300,000 brain SPECT scans, this type is called over-focused ADD/ADHD. In part 3 of this 7-part blog series, you’ll learn about over-focused ADD, its symptoms, what SPECT scan reveal, and proven interventions. Some people with ADD/ADHD have a tendency to hyperfocus on certain things. At Amen Clinics, which has identified 7 types of based on more than 300,000 brain SPECT scans, this type is called over-focused ADD/ADHD.
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WHAT IS ADHD?

Attention-deficit disorder (ADD), more commonly called attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by attention issues, impulse-control problems, and hyperactivity (in some cases). Come people who are diagnosed with ADD/ADHD in childhood continue struggle from symptoms as an adult. The brain-imaging work using SPECT scans at Amen Clinics show that ADD/ADHD is not a singular condition. To date, Amen Clinics has identified 7 different brain patterns associated with ADD/ADHD. Each type has its own set of symptoms, and each type requires a targeted treatment plan.

WHAT IS OVER-FOCUSED ADHD?

Based on the patients at Amen Clinics, over-focused ADD/ADHD is the third most common type of the condition. Basically, people with this type can have difficulty shifting their attention. They become hyper-focused on one thing while tuning out everything else. Individuals with over-focused ADD/ADHD have troubles with cognitive processing. They aren’t inattentive, rather, they are over-attentive. People with over-focused ADHD tend to get “stuck” in negative thought patterns and behaviors. In addition, they can be argumentative or oppositional. And they may have outbursts when things don’t go a certain way. In some cases, this form of the neuropsychiatric disorder has been mistaken for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). A pivotal difference between the two conditions is impulsivity. People with OCD typically aren’t impulsive, whereas those with over-focused ADD/ADHD tend to make more impulsive decisions. Another common trait among those with this type of the condition is having a substance use disorder. It is also more likely to be found in the children and grandchildren of alcoholics.

HALLMARK SYMPTOMS OF ADHD

The SPECT scans and clinical work at Amen Clinics shows that each ADHD subtype has unique symptoms. However, the following symptoms can be seen in all of the 7 ADHD types: People who have over-focused ADD/ADHD can struggle with all of these symptoms or just some of them. Some people experience mild symptoms while others suffer with severe problems. When it comes to disorganization, people who are over-focused may not be like those with other types of ADD/ADHD. In fact, in some cases, they may be obsessively organized. In other cases, the over-focused type may appear very organized to others. They may be dressed perfectly, and their homes may look very neat and tidy. However, if you look inside their desk drawers or their closets, you may find a disaster.

OVER-FOCUSED ADHD SYMPTOMS

In addition to the hallmark symptoms mentioned above, the unique characteristics of over-focused ADD/ADHD include: These type-specific symptoms can range from mild to severe. OVER-FOCUSED ADHD IN THE BRAIN On SPECT scans, people with over-focused ADD may have increased activity in the anterior cingulate gyrus (ACG)  when their brain is at rest or during concentration. In the scan below, the arrow is pointing to overactivity in the ACG. The ACG is the brain’s gearshift. It allows a person to shift from one thought to another thought or from one idea to the next. When the ACG is overactive, people have a tendency to get stuck or locked into negative thoughts and behaviors. SPECT scans also show that during concentration, people with over-focused ADHD have decreased activity in the underside of the prefrontal cortex, cerebellum, and basal ganglia.

Over-Focused ADD SPECT Scan During Concentration

OVER-FOCUSED ADHD TREATMENT

Strategies that can help manage the symptoms of over-focused ADD/ADHD include the following:
  1. Boost serotonin and dopamine levels.
One way to treat this type is to increase the dopamine and serotonin levels in the brain. The best way to boost both is with exercise. Exercise can help to distract from obsessive thoughts, provide relaxation for open-mindedness, and boost blood flow to the brain.
  1. Focus on complex carbohydrates.
An optimal diet for people with ADHD who tend to over-focus should include complex carbs like sweet potatoes, as well as small amounts of high-quality proteins. Too much protein in these individuals can exacerbate the tendency to hyperfocus.
  1. Ensure quality sleep.
It’s recommended that individuals with this type get 7-8 hours of sleep each night. Getting appropriate levels of sunlight during the day can also increase your body’s production of serotonin. In the evening, serotonin converts into melatonin, which aids in getting a good night’s sleep.
  1. Use the 3-thought cutoff.
If you frequently experience obsessive or negative thoughts, establish a 3-thought cutoff. Once a negative thought has repeated in your mind 3 times, get up and do a different activity. Focusing on something else will allow you to push negative thoughts to the back of your mind.
  1. Review goals daily.
One effective way to reduce over-focus symptoms is to start writing down your goals. Review these goals each day, evaluate your decisions and adjust your behavior so that you’re working toward your goals, instead of against them.
  1. Take targeted supplements.
This type of ADD seems likely due to low levels of both serotonin and dopamine. Because of this, it’s a good idea to take nutritional supplements that boost these important neurotransmitters. A combination of St. John’s Wort and L-tyrosine can be very helpful. L-tryptophan and 5-HTP, which are serotonin building blocks, are other nutraceuticals that may increase serotonin in the brain.
  1. Get a personalized treatment plan.
If you have over-focused ADD/ADHD, you need a targeted treatment program. What works for other types of ADHD may not work for you. In fact, some standard ADHD treatments could make your symptoms worse. To make sure you get the right treatment for your needs, ask yourself these questions: To know which type of ADHD you have, consider getting a SPECT scan to learn more about your brain activity. Without looking at your brain, mental health professionals can only guess which type you have. Want more information? Download Amen Clinics’ free Getting to Know the 7 ADD Types eBook. 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. This post has been updated since its original publication date. When you think of attention-deficit disorder (ADD), more commonly referred to as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), your mind probably goes straight to hyperactive schoolchildren. However, kids aren’t the only ones with this common condition. Adults can have it too. A host of celebrities are sharing that they have been diagnosed with ADHD. For example, Olympic gold medalist Simone Biles announced on X that she has ADHD and has taken medication for the condition since she was a child. Maroon 5 frontman Adam Levine wrote in Additude Magazine that the ADHD he had as a child didn’t go away in adulthood. And “Dancing With the Stars” performer Karina Smirnoff told the Saturday Evening Post that she’s an adult with ADHD. Unfortunately, too many adults with ADD/ADHD go undiagnosed and untreated. And this can have devastating lifelong consequences. Too many adults with ADD/ADHD go undiagnosed and untreated. And this can have devastating lifelong consequences.
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WHAT IS ADULT ADHD?

ADD/ADHD is a disorder that affects brain development. It typically begins in childhood and can persist into adulthood. It is associated with a short attention span and behavior issues that can interfere with school, work, and relationships. It is estimated that 4.4% of American adults currently have ADD/ADHD, but experts suggest the condition is underreported in adults, so the number could be much higher. This indicates that many adults are likely unaware that they have the condition and remain untreated. Having undiagnosed ADHD or untreated ADHD can lead to consequences that lower your quality of life and can keep you from reaching your potential.

ADULT ADD AND THE BRAIN

Individuals with ADD/ADHD are considered “neurodivergent.” Simply, this means their brains work differently than the brains of people who are “neurotypical.” A person who is neurotypical has healthy brain function. The brain-imaging work using SPECT scans at Amen Clinics shows that children and adults with ADD/ADHD typically have low activity in an area of the brain called the prefrontal cortex (PFC). In particular, activity in the PFC decreases when people with the condition try to concentrate. This is the opposite of what occurs in neurotypical individuals. In the healthy brain, concentration increases activity levels in the PFC. Healthy SPECT Scan Healthy SPECT Scan ADD spect scan ADD/ADHD SPECT Scan In the ADD/ADHD SPECT scan here, the “holes” indicate areas of low blood flow and activity in the prefrontal cortex. The PFC is responsible for planning, judgment, organization, follow-through, impulse control, empathy, and more. These are known as executive functions. When there is low activity in the PFC, people tend to have trouble with these functions.

10 ADULT ADHD SYMPTOMS

Adults with ADD/ADHD may experience a wide range of emotional and behavioral symptoms, including the following. 1. Having a short attention span A lack of focus is one of the hallmark symptoms of ADD/ADHD. In adults, this can include having a hard time with routine tasks, not paying attention to details, making careless mistakes, and having trouble staying focused in conversations. If you have this brain-based disorder, you may start a lot of things but have difficulty completing them. Having a slew of unfinished projects lying around is a sign of adult ADD/ADHD. 2. Being disorganized Adults with ADD/ADHD often have trouble keeping things organized. At work, you might have a hard time finding what you need to finish a task because your desk is messy, your computer files are scattered randomly, and your emails are unorganized. This can make projects seem more challenging and take longer to complete. Disorganization also includes have trouble prioritizing assignments and keeping track of them. When you aren’t sure which task to tackle first, it can lead to procrastination. 3. Being easily distracted Having adult ADD/ADHD makes you more likely to notice more things in your environment compared to others. This means you can be easily distracted by external stimuli, including sounds, lights, scents, touch, or some tastes. For example, you may be overly aware of a tag in the back of your shirt, a flickering light, or a beeping noise. This acute sensitivity can prevent you from focusing on an important task at hand. 4. Having poor internal supervision Many people with ADD struggle with impulse control and judgment. You may say or do things reflexively without thinking about the consequences of your actions. This can lead to problems at work, at home, and in relationships. Another one of the common signs of adult ADHD is having a hard time learning from your mistakes. Making the same errors over and over is an indicator that you might have this condition. 5. Procrastinating and being chronically late Individuals with ADD/ADHD often have trouble with time management. You may put things off until the last minute. For example, you may wait until the night before a project is due to start working on it. ADHD adults are also notorious for being late for everything. Showing up 15 minutes, 30 minutes, or an hour late for work, appointments, and events is a red flag. 6. Being hyper focused Surprisingly, research shows that many adults with ADD/ADHD can achieve laser-like focus for certain things. In general, hyperfocus is more likely to occur when a person engages in something that they love to do or in things that are highly stimulating, frightening, fun, or novel. When hyperfocused, people become completely absorbed in an activity and tune out everything else. In these instances, you may not notice external stimuli, such as your spouse asking you a question, the doorbell ringing, or your dog barking because they need to go outside. 7. Being forgetful Forgetfulness is common in ADD/ADHD and can become a major issue on the job and in relationships. People with this condition often forget birthdays, anniversaries, and deadlines. You may leave your work materials at home or forget that it’s your day to pick up your child after school. In some cases, forgetfulness may be related to distractibility. If you aren’t paying attention to what someone is saying to you, it’s going to be harder to remember what they said. 8. Lacking motivation Some types of ADD/ADHD are associated with low levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine, which is heavily involved in motivation. Because of this, adults with this disorder may feel unmotivated. This can hold you back in your career and in other areas of your life. 9. Low self-esteem Self-doubt and a lack of confidence are common in people with ADD/ADHD. In part, this may come from growing up with people talking about you in a negative way due to your symptoms. Many ADHD types grow up hearing people say that they are “lazy,” “dumb,” or “troublemakers.” These hurtful comments can have lasting repercussions on a person’s self-image. 10. Misusing substances Adults with ADD/ADHD are at a greater risk for substance use disorders compared with people who don’t have the condition, according to research. If you turn to alcohol, marijuana, nicotine, or other substances to self-medicate or to improve focus, it’s a problem.

SEEKING AN ADULT ADHD DIAGNOSIS

Adults who suspect they may have the condition often wait to seek help. At Amen Clinics, which has helped tens of thousands of mental health patients over the past 30-plus years, adults typically don’t get diagnosed with ADD until they are experiencing the following: Being diagnosed with ADD/ADHD as an adult can be life-changing. It can help you understand that your issues aren’t due to a character flaw or lack of willpower, but rather related to your brain function. This can be very powerful in helping you reduce feelings of shame and enhance your self-image.

TAKE THE ADHD QUIZ

Take Dr. Amen’s simple, confidential 4-minute ADD quiz . This will help you discover if you potentially have the condition. In addition, the brain-imaging work at Amen Clinics has helped identify 7 types of ADD/ADHD. Taking this quiz can help you determine if you may be struggling with one of these types.

ADULT ADHD TREATMENT

If you are diagnosed with ADD/ADHD, be aware that in some cases, treatment may require medication. However, many people see improvement with natural treatments for ADD/ADHD. 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.       This post has been updated since its original publication date. If you think attention-deficit disorder (ADD), or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as it is more commonly called, is just one thing, you’re wrong! The brain-imaging work at Amen Clinics—over 300,000 SPECT scans—shows that it is not a single or simple disorder. In fact, there are 7 types of ADD/ADHD. Each type has a unique set of symptoms that requires a personalized treatment plan. Knowing your type or your child’s type can help you find the most effective treatment to manage symptoms. The brain-imaging work using SPECT scans at Amen Clinics shows that there are 7 types of ADD/ADHD and each has a unique set of symptoms that requires a customized treatment plan.
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In this 7-part blog series, you’ll discover the basics about each of the ADD/ADHD types, their unique symptoms, SPECT scan findings, and science-backed interventions.

WHAT IS CLASSIC ADHD?

Classic ADD is often referred to as ADHD. The “H” is for hyperactivity and is one of the more notable symptoms of this type. Classic ADD/ADHD is the most common diagnosis of the 7 types and is the easiest to recognize. That’s because hyperactivity is one of the more notable symptoms of this type. The hyperactive-impulsive ADHD type is seen more frequently in boys. As babies, they tend to be colicky, active and wiggly. As children, they tend to be noisy, impulsive and demanding. Their hyperactivity, constant need for excitement, and conflict-seeking behavior typically make them the center of attention. Parents of these kids are often tired, overwhelmed and even embarrassed by the behavior of their non-stop, hard-to-control children. In adolescence and adulthood, people who suffer from Classic ADD typically have difficulties handling stress and maintaining relationships. As a group, these individuals also have low self-esteem, which can have negative consequences at work, at home, and in relationships. The standard treatment for Classic ADD in both children and adults is stimulant medications, such as Ritalin or Adderall. Sometimes negative reactions to these medications can be extreme, such as hallucinations, violent outbursts, psychosis, and suicidal behavior.

ADD/ADHD IN THE BRAIN

Most of the 7 types of ADHD and ADD share a common feature of brain function. In people who don’t have ADD, concentration increases blood flow in the prefrontal cortex (PFC). This brain region is involved in focus, planning, organization, judgment, empathy, and impulse control. When activity increases in this region, it helps us focus and stay on task. In people with ADD, however, the opposite occurs. Blood flow decreases during concentration. This makes it difficult to focus. In fact, the harder they try, the harder it gets! This shows that this condition is not due to a lack of willpower or laziness. ADD/ADHD is a neurobiological disorder with serious psychological and social consequences. In fact, research shows that having ADD/ADHD increases the risk of having other mental health disorders, such as clinical depression and substance use disorders. 

CORE ADD/ADHD SYMPTOMS

Though each of the ADD subtypes has its own set of symptoms, they all share the same core symptoms:

TYPE 1: CLASSIC ADD SYMPTOMS

In addition to the core characteristics, Classic ADD entails a number of additional signs and symptoms, including: Take note that these symptoms can range from mild to severe. In addition, not everyone with Classic ADD will have all of these symptoms. You or your child may only have some of them.

CLASSIC ADHD TREATMENT

Medication isn’t the only way to treat ADD/ADHD. In fact, there are many natural ways to help ADD symptoms. Here are 6 lifestyle interventions that can help manage symptoms.
  1. Keep moving.
Due to hyperactivity and impulsivity, those with Classic ADD frequently fall short when attempting to complete concentration tasks. To help improve concentration, frequent movement is essential. The more that exercise is incorporated into mundane activities, the easier it will be to concentrate.
  1. Make it fun.
For children who have trouble concentrating during educational activities, a busy activity right beforehand, such as cardio, can help improve concentration. Additionally, children with Type 1 are more focused when educational or clean-up tasks are presented as a race, obstacle course, or other fun game.
  1. Be a stand-up employee.
For those with adult ADHD, if you have a desk job, stand up and move around at least once an hour. Creating an organized and creative work environment will also help you focus and maximize productivity.
  1. Get good sleep.
For optimal functioning and focus, get 7-9 hours of sleep each night. To restore proper balance to your sleep cycle, avoid common sleep stealers like caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, daytime naps, and using technology right before bed.
  1. Create a support structure.
Maintaining relationships with friends and family who support you and understand your personality can be beneficial in helping you cope with Type 1 flare-ups.
  1. Get a customized solution.
Like many other mental health conditions, ADHD has multiple types. Therefore, treatment is not a one-size-fits-all solution. What works for one person with ADHD may not work for another—or could even make the symptoms worse! To get a personalized treatment plan, you need to know two things: To know your type, brain imaging with SPECT can be very helpful. Without brain imaging, psychiatrists can only guess which type you have. Want more information? Download Amen Clinics’ free Getting to Know the 7 ADD Types eBook. 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. ADD/ADHD is associated with a host of challenges that can impact your everyday life. And according to two recent studies, it appears that having adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), also known as attention-deficit disorder (ADD), may also increase the likelihood of dementia later than life. Researchers found that adults with ADHD have a 2.77-fold greater risk of dementia than people without the condition.
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Indeed, adults diagnosed with ADD/ADHD are nearly three times more likely to develop some form of dementia than adults without the condition, a large-scale observational study found. Additionally, a six-year study following adults with genetic markers for ADHD revealed an association with increased cognitive impairment and markers for Alzheimer’s disease. While much more remains to be researched and understood, this association between ADHD and dementia underscores the importance of recognizing, diagnosing, and treating adult ADHD. It also alerts adults diagnosed with the disorder to be watchful for signs of dementia as they age.

ABOUT ADULT ADHD AND DEMENTIA

ADD/ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by pervasive attention problems, and often impulsive or hyperactive behavior too. While it is commonly known as a disorder affecting children and teens, it affects about 5.4% of adult men and 3.2% of adult women as well, according to the Institute of Mental Health. What’s more, fewer than 20% of adults with the disorder are properly diagnosed or treated, experts report. The signs of ADHD manifest differently in adults, which too often allows the disorder to persist unrecognized. In fact, brain SPECT imaging work at Amen Clinics has revealed that there are 7 types of ADD/ADHD. Dementia is a general term that refers to an entire category of progressive neurodegenerative diseases that impact brain function, which may lead to memory loss, trouble with language, compromised cognition, and changes to personality and behavior. More than 55 million people around the world have one of several types of dementia. It is among the world’s leading causes of disability and mortality. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common and recognized form of dementia. About 6.5 million U.S. adults are estimated to have Alzheimer’s disease and that figure is expected to double by 2050. The biggest risk factor for dementia is aging. Thus, dementia usually develops later in life, typically in one’s mid-60s or later. Approximately 300,000 Americans under the age of 65 (sometimes in their 30s and 40s) have early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. Frontotemporal dementia is usually diagnosed between age 45 and 60.

HOW ADHD RELATES TO DEMENTIA

When ADD/ADHD goes undiagnosed and untreated in adults, it can have a detrimental effect on many areas of life. It’s important to understand that mental health disorders that negatively affect the mind also have adverse impacts on the brain, and there’s a marked brain component to every disorder. ADD/ADHD is associated with lower activity in the cerebellum, prefrontal cortex, and basal ganglia. Hallmark ADHD symptoms such as short attention span, being easily distracted, disorganization, restlessness, the tendency to procrastinate, and impulsivity tend to make afflicted individuals more vulnerable to a host of disorders. These individuals are more likely to be depressed, experience traumatic brain injury (TBI), and to have addictions to food, alcohol, drugs, and tobacco (smoking). Any one of these conditions comes with its own set of challenges, but they all also increase the chances of dementia later in life. Since there’s a level of brain compromise with ADD/ADHD, older individuals have a double whammy of lower brain and cognitive resilience plus the higher dementia risk that comes with aging.

ADHD AND DEMENTIA RESEARCH

Researchers are just beginning to uncover and understand the association ADHD has with the development of dementia. An Argentinian study published in the European Journal of Neurology in 2011 first got the attention of scientists when it found an association between ADD/ADHD and a certain form of dementia called Lewy Body dementia. The two more recent studies are the latest adding to this body of research on ADHD and dementia. The first is a cohort study published in October 2023 in JAMA Network Open, involving more than 100,000 participants. The participants—aged 51 to 70 and born between 1933 and 1952—entered the cohort on January 1, 2003 without an ADD/ADHD or dementia diagnosis. They were followed until February 28, 2020. The researchers evaluated the data collected from 2022 to 2023. After adjusting for multiple confounding factors, the researchers found that adults with ADD/ADHD have a 2.77-fold greater risk of dementia than people without the condition. Interestingly, participants who were diagnosed with ADD/ADHD and treated with psychostimulant medication showed no clear increased risk of dementia. This appears to reflect separate research that indicated ADHD treatment with prescription stimulant medication might improve several aspects of cognition. However, the scientists involved with this newer study caution against making any conclusions and encourage more research on how medications may impact dementia risk. They also encourage natural ways to treat ADHD.    The second study conducted by University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine researchers involved 212 individuals between the ages of 55 to 90 with high genetic risk of ADD/ADHD. The participants were evaluated regularly over a six-year period. The data revealed an association between having genetic markers for ADD/ADHD and cognitive deterioration and the development of Alzheimer’s Disease. While the findings again highlight an ADHD-dementia association, the study’s authors encouraged further research on clinically confirmed ADHD participants and the development of Alzheimer’s disease.

RECOGNIZE ADD/ADHD AND DEMENTIA SYMPTOMS

Until more is understood, adults showing ADD/ADHD symptoms are encouraged to get proper diagnosis and treatment. There are many effective natural approaches to treating ADD/ADHD, including: Additionally, if you or someone you know is experiencing repeated memory loss problems or other signs of dementia, it’s important to get evaluated as soon as possible. ADD/ADHD, memory loss, dementia, 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. This post has been updated since it’s original publish date. What part of the brain makes up about 30 percent of the total human brain – compared with just 11 percent for chimpanzees, 7 percent for dogs, 3 percent for cats (perhaps why they need nine lives), and 1 percent for mice (perhaps why they’re eaten by cats)? If you guessed the prefrontal cortex (PFC), you’re right.

What is the “Executive Center” of the Brain?

Your brain is responsible for every aspect of your life—how you think, how you feel, how you act, and how you interact with others. But do you know which region of the brain plays the biggest role in your ability to think, problem-solve, plan ahead, and communicate effectively? It’s the prefrontal cortex, otherwise known as the executive center of the brain. This region makes up about 30% of the total human brain. Compare that with just 11% for chimpanzees, 7% for dogs, 3% for cats, and 1% for mice. Learning to love and care for your brain’s executive center can mean the difference between struggling in life or living the life you want. Healthy habits contribute to a well-functioning brain while unhealthy habits increase the risk of brain dysfunction.
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PREFRONTAL CORTEX BASICS

The prefrontal cortex (PFC) is the most evolved part of the brain. It occupies the front third of the brain, behind the forehead. The PFC is divided into three sections: • Dorsal lateral section, located on the outside surface of the PFC • Inferior orbital section, located on the front undersurface of the brain • Anterior cingulate gyrus, running through the middle of the frontal lobes The PFC is involved with executive functions, such as: • Focus • Empathy • Judgment • Organization • Impulse control • Learning from mistakes Our ability as a species to think, plan ahead, use time wisely, and communicate with others is heavily influenced by this part of the brain. The PFC is responsible for helping you be goal-oriented, socially responsible, and productive in every area of your life. Brain-imaging research shows that the PFC continues to develop throughout childhood, into late adolescence, and even into a person’s mid-20s. As such, an individual’s daily habits greatly impact how the brain develops. The brain-imaging work using SPECT scans at Amen Clinics clearly shows that healthy habits contribute to a well-functioning brain while unhealthy habits increase the risk of brain dysfunction.

THE PREFRONTAL CORTEX AND SELF-CONTROL

Why are some people able to say no to cocktails, drugs, potato chips, gambling, and other behaviors that aren’t good for them, while others impulsively partake in risky activities? It has to do with self-control. In large part, self-control is tied to the PFC. When the brain’s reward system drives you to seek out things that bring you pleasure, it’s the PFC that puts on the brakes to prevent you from engaging in risky behavior. In a healthy self-control circuit, an effective PFC provides impulse control and good judgment. At the same time, the reward system offers an adequate dose of motivation, so you can plan and follow through on your goals. But what happens when the PFC isn’t working well?

PROBLEMS IN THE PFC

Think of the PFC as your boss at work. When the PFC is low in activity, it’s as if the boss is on vacation, so there’s little to no supervision and nothing gets done. On the other end of the spectrum, when the PFC works too hard, it’s as if the boss is micromanaging everyone and people are left with anxiety and worry. Decreased activity in the PFC has been associated with lack of forethought, poor judgment, impulse control problems, and poor internal supervision. If the PFC is underactive, it can create an imbalance in the reward system and cause you to lose control over your behavior. When this is the case, you’re more likely to fall victim to your cravings.

HEAD INJURIES AND THE PFC

Due to its location, the PFC is especially susceptible to concussions. Unfortunately, much of the PFC sits on top of several sharp, bony ridges inside the skull, and it lies just behind the area where many blows to the head occur. Your brain wasn’t made to endure the punishment of soccer headers, tackle football, or boxing. Even mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBI) can have far-reaching health consequences. Post-concussion syndrome can lead to brain fog, aggression, substance abuse, and more. A growing body of research shows that head injuries are a major cause of psychiatric disorders including anxiety, depression, and even memory issues and Alzheimer’s disease. ADD/ADHD AND THE PFC Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), also referred to as attention-deficit disorder (ADD), typically occurs as a result of neurological dysfunction in the PFC. When people with ADD/ADHD try to concentrate, PFC activity tends to decrease. Normally, the PFC sends inhibitory signals to certain areas of the brain, quieting stimulation from the environment so that you can concentrate. When the PFC is underactive, it doesn’t adequately dampen the sensory parts of the brain. As a result, too many stimuli bombard the brain at once. For those who struggle with ADD/ADHD, distractibility is evident in many different settings. Common ADD/ADHD symptoms include: Without proper PFC function, it’s difficult to act in consistent, thoughtful ways, and impulses can take over. Impulse control problems may lead to behaviors such as lying, stealing, having affairs, or excessive spending. Increased death rates have been associated with impulsive behaviors, such as: tobacco use, poor diet, excessive alcohol use, violence, risky sexual behavior, aggressive driving, suicide, and drug use. According to research, these factors can have a huge impact on a person’s longevity.

4 WAYS TO STRENGTHEN THE EXECUTIVE CENTER OF YOUR BRAIN 

  1. Get your heart pumping.
Exercise is literally the fountain of youth. It boosts blood flow to the brain and increases chemicals that are important for learning, memory, and stimulating the growth of new brain cells. Exercise boosts blood flow to the PFC, which can help you be more productive. Try to exercise at least 30 minutes every day. 
  1. Get adequate sleep.
While you sleep, your brain is still working hard to carry out essential tasks. According to a 2019 study, as you slumber, your brain washes itself, clearing away toxins and neural debris that has accumulated during the day. When your brain doesn’t take out the “neural trash,” it accumulates and contributes to sluggish brain function. Sleep disorders can lead to brain and mental health problems, such as slower reaction times, brain fog, and poor decision-making. To keep your executive center operating at peak condition, it’s recommended that you get 7 to 9 hours of sleep every night. 
  1. Balance your blood sugar.
Low blood sugar levels are associated with lower overall blood flow to the brain, poor impulse control, irritability, and bad decisions. Basically, it drains your executive center. For optimal executive center function, keep your blood sugar balanced throughout the day with healthy snacks. Also, supplements, green tea, and Rhodiola can increase blood flow to the PFC which can help you make better decisions.
  1. Ask yourself this question.
Whenever you’re about to make a decision, ask youself, “Then what?” When it comes to your health, these are the two most important words in the English language. Think about the consequences of your behavior before you act. Exercising self-control is one of the best ways to strengthen your PFC. To develop your PFC, you can practice saying no to the things that aren’t good for you and, over time, you’ll find it easier to do the right thing.

SUPPORT YOUR PFC

Taking care of your brain is the single most important thing you can do for your health, your life, and the lives of those around you. When your executive center works optimally, it helps you be smarter, healthier, happier—and even wealthier. Isn’t that what you want? 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. Having can negatively impact your life in many ways. Most people are familiar with the neurodevelopmental disorder’s trademark short attention span, distractibility, impulsivity, disorganization, and procrastination. What many people don’t realize is that having ADD/ADHD also puts you at increased risk for substance use disorders, such as alcoholism or drug abuse. In fact, as many as half of all adolescents and adults with substance use disorders have been diagnosed with ADD/ADHD at some point during their lives, according to research. As many as half of all adolescents and adults with substance use disorders have been diagnosed with ADD/ADHD at some point during their lives.
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What’s the link between ADD/ADHD and addictions? And what can you do to reduce your risk of alcohol abuse, nicotine use, or drug dependence?

THE DISTURBING STATISTICS ABOUT ADHD AND ADDICTIONS

Decades of research show that individuals with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), also called attention-deficit disorder (ADD), are more likely to develop substance use disorders than those without the mental health disorder. For example, adults with ADD/ADHD are about three times more likely to struggle with a substance use disorder (SUD) than their peers. Similarly, compared to kids who don’t have ADD/ADHD, children with the condition are two to three times more likely to abuse substances, according to a study in Clinical Psychology Review. In particular, research shows that children with ADD/ADHD are: The fact that nearly 10% of school-age children have received a medical diagnosis of ADD/ADHD raises a red flag on the issue.

ADHD AND THE BRAIN

ADD/ADHD is a brain-based disorder. The brain-imaging work using SPECT at Amen Clinics shows that the brain functions differently in people with this condition. Specifically, SPECT scans show abnormal activity in a part of the brain called the prefrontal cortex (PFC). This brain region is responsible for executive functions, such as planning, judgment, forethought, impulse control, and follow-through. In the healthy brain, concentration stimulates activity in the PFC. Not so in the ADD/ADHD brain. In people with this disorder, there’s a reduction in activity in the PFC when they try to concentrate. Effectively, this makes it harder for them to pay attention. The decreased activity in the PFC also helps explain the symptoms associated with the disorder. Brain imaging shows that having ADD/ADHD symptoms is not due to a lack of willpower or failing to try hard enough. Rather it’s related to the way the brain functions.

ADHD AND THE BRAIN’S SELF-CONTROL CIRCUIT

ADD/ADHD is also associated with other brain functions, such as the self-control circuit. This circuit involves the brain systems that drive you to seek out things that bring you pleasure and the prefrontal cortex (PFC), which puts on the brakes when you are about to engage in risky behavior. In a healthy self-control circuit, an effective PFC provides impulse control and good judgment while the deep limbic system offers an adequate dose of motivation so you can plan and follow through on your goals. You can say no to alcohol, marijuana, cocaine, cigarettes, and other substances. When activity in the PFC is decreased, the drive circuits take control and cause you to lose control over your behavior. When this is the case, you’re more likely to fall victim to your cravings. Having low activity often results in a tendency for impulse-control problems and poor internal supervision. These contribute to the increased risk of addiction.

SELF-MEDICATION AND THE ADHD BRAIN

Many people with ADD/ADHD self-medicate with substances in order to feel better—more focused, less anxious, less depressed, or less overwhelmed. Because the PFC is underactive in the ADD/ADHD brain, it can lead people to use substances as a way to stimulate brain activity. And those with hyperactivity may turn to other substances to calm down. Although these individuals abuse substances as a way to treat their underlying problems, it is bad medicine. Over time, substance abuse often exacerbates ADD/ADHD symptoms. The brain-imaging work at Amen Clinics clearly shows that substance abuse is harmful to brain function. Alcohol, marijuana, nicotine, cocaine, methamphetamines, and even caffeine reduce brain activity over time. In some cases, the reduction in brain activity can be significant. This means that when a teen with ADD/ADHD drinks alcohol to calm internal feelings of restlessness, it soothes them but only temporarily. At the same time, it damages cellular activity, which can lead to a worsening of symptoms in the long run. One study out of UCLA found that cocaine addicts had 23% less overall brain activity compared to individuals who had never taken drugs. In this study, the people addicted to cocaine who also smoked cigarettes had 45% less activity in their brain. Based on the clinical experience at Amen Clinics, people tend to use different substances based on which type of ADD/ADHD they have. The SPECT scans at Amen Clinics have helped identify 7 types of ADD/ADHD. People with Classic or Inattentive ADD/ADHD tend to use stimulants, such as cocaine or methamphetamine. Individuals with Overfocused ADD/ADHD are more likely to abuse alcohol. Having Temporal Lobe or Limbic ADD/ADHD makes people more inclined to use marijuana or stimulants. People with Anxious or Ring of Fire ADD/ADHD tend to abuse alcohol and marijuana.

ADHD STIMULANT TREATMENT AND ADDICTION

Substance abuse often complicates the treatment of ADD/ADHD. As mentioned earlier, as many as 50% of adolescents and adults with ADD/ADHD also have substance abuse issues. Some people fear that stimulant medications may be a gateway drug to other substances. However, research has found that this is not the case. In fact, a 2016 study found that people who are taking prescription stimulants for ADD/ADHD are 7.3% less likely to develop a substance use disorder. However, many health care providers feel uncomfortable prescribing stimulant medications such as Ritalin or Adderall to people who have a substance use disorder. Physicians have to be very careful when this is the case. If you have an active addiction, you may need to wait until you’re enrolled in an addiction treatment program before a physician will prescribe stimulant medication for ADHD. After showing a sustained commitment to sobriety, you may be prescribed ADD/ADHD stimulants. Be aware that you will likely need to be monitored frequently. If you have ADD/ADHD, several lifestyle changes can also help prevent substance abuse. A healthy diet, daily exercise, and meditation are all natural ways to boost activity in the PFC to help you regain control. ADD/ADHD, addictions, 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 Are you finding it harder to pay attention these days? You’re not alone. A study by Microsoft found that the human attention span has dwindled to just 8 seconds. That’s less than the 9-second attention span of a goldfish! In part, you can blame our fast-paced, digital society for the dramatic decrease. With our phones, laptops, tablets, and digital personal assistants pinging and buzzing constantly, it’s nearly impossible not to get distracted. That’s bad news for anyone who wants to succeed in life. Whether you’re working on a big project at work, developing a new product line for your business, or taking a professional course, concentration is key. What can you do to regain your mental focus in the face of distractions? The first step is optimizing your brain, especially a region called the prefrontal cortex that’s heavily involved in focus, planning, and follow-through. With our phones, laptops, tablets, and digital personal assistants pinging and buzzing constantly, it’s nearly impossible not to get distracted. That’s bad news for anyone who wants to succeed in life.
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WHAT IS THE PREFRONTAL CORTEX?

The prefrontal cortex (PFC) is the most evolved part of the brain. As such, it is essential in helping you reach your goals. The PFC is responsible for executive functions, which are higher-level cognitive skills. These brain functions include concentration, attention span, judgment, impulse control, organization, follow-through, empathy, and critical thinking. This brain region controls your ability to look at situations, organize your thoughts, plan what you want to do, and carry out your plans. When the PFC is healthy, it makes it easier for you to carry out these functions. When your prefrontal cortex is low in activity, it’s more challenging. Functional brain imaging with a technology called SPECT proves it. At Amen Clinics, which has built the world’s largest database of SPECT scans, the images from tens of thousands of patients show that blood flow and activity in the prefrontal cortex are critical for focus. Low blood flow and activity in the PFC are associated with difficulty concentrating, poor impulse control, disorganization, poor judgment and more. It is also a common sign of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), also called attention-deficit disorder (ADD). People with ADD/ADHD also have lower levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine. This is linked to decreased motivation and focus. The good news is that you can boost activity in the PFC and improve focus and attention with some simple lifestyle changes. Here are 5 neuroscience-based tips to enhance prefrontal cortex function to help you have better focus.

5 LIFESTYLE STRATEGIES FOR BETTER FOCUS

  1. Eat a diet that’s higher in protein.
Nutritional intervention can be especially helpful for this part of the brain. Unfortunately, the standard American diet is filled with refined carbohydrates, which have a negative impact on dopamine levels in the brain and concentration. Typical breakfasts consist of foods that are high in simple carbohydrates, such as frozen waffles, pancakes, Pop-Tarts, muffins, pastry, or cereal. This drains the brain and reduces the ability to pay attention to what’s most important in your life. Focus Rx: Choose foods that are higher in protein and lower in simple carbohydrates. This is especially important for breakfast to start the day with better focus.
  1. Listen to classical music.
Music has been proven to reduce distractions and improve focus. One study found that listening to Mozart was helpful for people with ADD/ADHD. Rosalie Rebollo Pratt and colleagues studied 19 individuals, ages 6 to 27, who had been diagnosed with ADD/ADHD. They played recordings of Mozart for them three times a week during neurofeedback therapy sessions. The group that listened to Mozart reduced their theta brain-wave activity (slow brain waves that are often excessive in ADD/ADHD) in exact rhythm to the underlying beat of the music. This group displayed better focus and mood control, diminished impulsivity, and improved social skill. Focus Rx: While studying or doing other mentally taxing tasks, turn on classical music in the background.
  1. Meditate or pray daily.
Most people think meditation helps you turn your brain off. In reality, it heightens activity in the brain, especially in the prefrontal cortex. Research indicates that both meditation and prayer improve blood flow to the PFC, which increases focus and concentration. Studies show that even short sessions of mindfulness meditation improve attention. And you don’t have to be an expert at meditation to reap the benefits. In this study, beginners who listened to a 10-minute meditation session performed better on attention tasks. Focus Rx: Spend 10-20 minutes a day in prayer or meditation.
  1. Focus on what you love.
The prefrontal cortex is intimately involved with focus, concentration, and attention span. Where we focus our attention has a significant impact on how we feel and act day to day. Many people with prefrontal cortex challenges, especially those with ADD/ADHD, tend to be conflict-driven as a way to stimulate activity in the PFC. They look for the negative, pick fights, and create drama to “turn on” their brain. Unfortunately, this behavior has many negative side effects, especially on relationships and immune system functioning. When you’re struggling with your relationships or physical health, it makes it harder to stay focused on your goals. Focus Rx: Focusing on what you like about your life and about others is a powerful way to keep your prefrontal cortex, relationships, and immune system healthy.
  1. Do your best to stay organized.
People who have PFC difficulties often have trouble with organization. This can impact your ability to succeed at work, in relationships, and at home. You might miss deadlines at work because you can’t find your files on your computer. You may irritate your significant other because you space out and leave the dirty dishes in the sink. Or you might forget to pay your bills because they’re hidden under a stack of junk on your desk. It’s time to learn how to get organized. Focus Rx: Day planners and computer organizational programs can be lifesaving. If you need additional help, ask others to teach you organizational skills.

STAY FOCUSED ON YOUR ABILITY TO PAY ATTENTION

Focus and attention are so important in life. Make it a priority to keep an eye on your ability to concentrate. By implementing the strategies in this blog, you’ll be better able to stay on track to reach your goals. If you find that after putting these tips into action, you’re still struggling, seek help from a mental health professional. Be sure to look for a provider who understands that the brain’s prefrontal cortex is the key to improving focus and attention and who provides brain-based treatment plans. 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. This post has been updated from it’s original publish date. If you have ADHD, also called ADD—or if you have a child with ADHD—it can make life more challenging in so many ways. For example, people may think you’re lazy because you show up late for work, or because you wait until the last minute to start your household chores or work assignments. Your child may impulsively say rude things, which makes it hard for them to make friends. And that can have a negative effect on the trajectory of their life. It can make them feel like a failure. What you may not realize is that attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or attention-deficit disorder (ADD), isn’t your fault. It’s due to faulty brain activity in an area called the prefrontal cortex. Learning more about this important brain region and how it functions in people with the mental health disorder can change the way you view yourself or your child. And it can lead the way to better control over ADD/ADHD symptoms. What you may not realize is that ADD/ADHD isn’t your fault. It’s due to faulty brain activity in an area called the prefrontal cortex.
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WHAT IS THE PREFRONTAL CORTEX?

The prefrontal cortex (PFC), also known as the brain’s “executive center,” is the most evolved part of the brain. It occupies the front third of the brain, behind the forehead. It is often divided into three sections: • Dorsal lateral section—on the outside surface of the PFC • Inferior orbital section—on the front undersurface of the brain • Anterior cingulate gyrus—which runs through the middle of the frontal lobes The PFC is involved in many functions, such as: • Focus and attention • Planning • Organization • Forethought • Judgment • Empathy • Impulse control • Learning from mistakes • Follow-through Healthy PFC activity helps people think through the consequences of their behavior, which is essential for effective living in nearly every aspect of life. It impacts decisions related to: • Choosing a good mate • Interacting with customers • Dealing with difficult children • Spending money wisely • Driving safely on the freeway Without proper PFC function, it’s difficult to act in consistent, thoughtful ways, and impulses can take over. Damage to the prefrontal cortex can have far-reaching effects, such as with YouTube star Logan Paul. The YouTuber’s decision-making often lands him in hot water and made him the most hated celebrity in 2018.

ADD/ADHD IS A BRAIN-BASED DISORDER

ADD/ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder. Functional brain imaging with SPECT scans shows that it is associated with abnormal function in the prefrontal cortex. On SPECT scans of people with healthy brain function, the act of concentrating increases activity in the PFC. However, when those with ADD/ADHD try to concentrate, PFC activity decreases rather than increases. Healthy Brain SPECT Scan
In the healthy brain, there is full, even, symmetrical blood flow/activity.
ADD/ADHD Brain SPECT Scan In the ADD/ADHD brain, there is low blood flow/activity in the prefrontal cortex. In the image here, the holes indicate areas of low blood flow. Due to low activity in the PFC, people can struggle with a range of ADD/ADHD symptoms, such as:

ADD/ADHD AND THE PREFRONTAL CORTEX

Here are some common characteristics of ADD/ADHD that clearly connect this disorder to the PFC:

  1. The harder you try, the worse it gets.

Research has shown that the more people with ADD/ADHD try to concentrate, the worse things get for them. Instead of increasing as it should, the activity in the PFC will actually decrease. This means that when a parent, teacher, supervisor, or manager puts more pressure on the person or student with ADD to perform, he or she often becomes less effective. Too frequently when this happens, the parent, teacher or boss interprets this decreased as willful misconduct, and serious problems arise. Although it is true that almost all of us perform better with praise, praise is especially impactful for people with ADD/ADHD. When the boss encourages an employee to do better in a positive way, it is more likely to lead to greater productivity. In parenting, teaching, supervising, or managing someone with ADD/ADHD, it is much more effective to use praise than harsh criticism.

  1. You have difficulty paying attention.

A short attention span is the hallmark of this disorder. People with ADD have trouble sustaining attention and effort over prolonged periods of time. Their attention tends to wander and they are frequently off task, thinking about or doing things other than the task at hand. Yet one of the things that often fools inexperienced clinicians assessing this disorder is that people with ADD/ADHD do not have a short attention span for everything. Often, people with the disorder can pay attention just fine to things that are new, novel, highly stimulating, interesting, or frightening. These things provide enough intrinsic stimulation that they activate the PFC so the person can focus and concentrate.

  1. You get easily distracted.

The prefrontal cortex sends inhibitory signals to other areas of the brain, quieting stimulation from the environment so you can concentrate. When the PFC is underactive, it doesn’t adequately dampen the sensory parts of the brain. This means that too many stimuli bombard the brain as a result. Distractibility is evident in many different settings for the person with ADD/ADHD. In class, during meetings, or while listening to a partner, people with ADD/ADHD tend to notice other things going on and have trouble staying focused on the issue at hand. These are the individuals who tend to look around the room, drift off, appear bored, forget where the conversation is going, and interrupt with extraneous information. Their distractibility and short attention span may also cause them to take much longer to complete their work.

  1. You say and do things impulsively.

Lack of impulse control gets many ADD/ADHD people into hot water. They may say inappropriate things to parents, friends, teachers, supervisors, colleagues, or customers. Poorly thought-out decisions also relate to impulsivity. Rather than thinking a problem through, these people want an immediate solution and act without the necessary forethought. In a similar vein, impulsivity causes these people to have trouble going through the established channels at work. They often go right to the top to solve problems, rather than working through the system.

  1. You like drama.

Many people with ADD unconsciously seek conflict as a way to stimulate their own PFC. They do not know they are doing it. They do not plan to do it. They deny that they do it. And yet they do it just the same. The relative lack of activity and stimulation to the PFC craves more activity. Hyperactivity, restlessness, and humming are common forms of self-stimulation. Another way that people with ADD will “try to turn on their brains” is by causing turmoil. If they can get their parents or spouses to be emotionally intense or yell at them, it may increase frontal lobe activity. This helps them to feel more tuned in. Again, this is not a conscious phenomenon, but it appears that many children and adults with ADHD become addicted to the turmoil.

SUPPORT THE PREFRONTAL CORTEX

Anyone with ADD/ADHD needs to support the brain for better prefrontal cortex function. Strategies to optimize the PFC include: Some people may also benefit from stimulant medication to optimize brain function and control ADD/ADHD symptoms. Work closely with a mental health professional who uses functional brain imaging to ensure you get the most effective treatment. 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.