Impulsivity is a common manifestation of ADD/ADHD, and when that behavior leads to volunteering for more than you can handle, burnout may occur in the not-too-distant future. Taking on too many tasks without thinking through the effort involved leaves you exhausted, overwhelmed, and even resentful. These tendencies stem from the same area of the brain: ADD/ADHD typically occurs as a result of neurological dysfunction in the prefrontal cortex, while saying yes without considering consequences is associated with low activity in the prefrontal cortex. Signing up for an overload of responsibility often leads to anxiety and, eventually, burnout.
Beat burnout: Practice saying, “Let me think about it” before reflexively saying yes.
2. Trouble with organization.
Alongside saying yes without thinking, disorganization is one of the bad habits that can derail forward progress in life—and those with ADD/ADHD are particularly prone to it. When faced with a lack of organization in the home or workplace, it takes greater effort to stay on track and complete tasks. This can trigger a cumulative effect: When those disorganization-fueled derailments pile up, they may further exacerbate procrastination and ultimately lead to the desire to give up completely.
Beat burnout: Ask a friend or family member to help you get organized or to teach you how to use organizational systems.
3. Difficulty concentrating.
Those with ADD/ADHD can display remarkable concentration when delving into their passion projects. But, on the other side of the coin, staying focused can frequently pose a challenge. Though not all attention issues are caused by ADD/ADHD, this condition often leads to the feeling that the brain is “all over the place,” unable to home in on a specific target. There is a reason for this inability to concentrate: Brain imaging at Amen Clinics has found that when people with ADD/ADHD try to concentrate, blood flow actually decreases in the prefrontal cortex—the opposite of a healthy brain, in which blood flow increases during concentration.
Beat burnout: Start a daily meditation practice, as brain imaging research shows that it enhances function in the PFC and improves focus.
4. Lack of motivation.
Those with ADHD may often be written off as lazy, but they’re often just misunderstood—because this condition appears to be closely tied to a lack of motivation. One study even concluded that ADD/ADHD is a disorder marked not only by lack of attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity but also by a deficit in motivation. The study noted that this appears to reflect a low-functioning dopamine reward pathway, which therefore makes it difficult to summon the motivation needed to tackle tasks. This deficit can make someone want to give up altogether—another telltale sign of burnout.
Beat burnout: In order to boost dopamine naturally, your body needs tyrosine, which can be found in avocados, almonds, bananas, eggs, fish, beans, and dark chocolate.
5. Difficulty prioritizing.
When it’s time to start a project, a person with ADD/ADHD may have trouble knowing how or where to begin—or, for a project that’s already underway, how to prioritize during the process, in order to follow through and complete it. This lack of initiative or continuity understandably causes anxiety, which can contribute to feelings of burnout.
Beat burnout: For tasks such as work projects, hobbies, or schoolwork, employ helpful learning strategies to push back against these potential pitfalls.
6. Stress from overcompensation.
Especially in school or the workplace, comparison with others—and feeling like you aren’t measuring up to your colleagues—easily leads to increased stress over time. This all can add up to working harder and putting in longer hours to do what others can do more efficiently in less time. One study found that the persistent hyperactivity associated with ADHD may lead to emotional exhaustion and poor work performance. The findings demonstrated that ADHD is also likely an underlying factor of emotional exhaustion syndrome and burnout. Because burnout itself creates a hyperactive phase, it can be difficult to differentiate from the hyperactivity caused by ADHD, but the condition makes someone extra vulnerable to stress, which can easily result in burnout.
Beat burnout: Practice stress-management strategies and challenge automatic negative thoughts (ANTs) such as, “I’m not good enough” or “I’m not as smart as my colleagues.”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, 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. Sleepless nights—we’ve all had them. Whether you feel like you’re buzzing at night and can’t fall asleep, you toss and turn all night, or you wake up at 2 a.m. and can’t get back to sleep for hours, a lack of sleep can make you feel miserable. If you have chronic insomnia, which affects approximately 1 in 10 adults according to statistics, it’s even worse. Any form of sleep disorder can leave you with a bad mood, anxiety, and brain fog.
To get the quality sleep you need, you first have to find out what’s causing your sleep issues. Is it something related to your physical health? Is it due to emotional issues? For many people, sleep problems are connected to both biological issues and psychological conditions. Learn the most common physical and emotional sleep stealers so you can overcome them to sleep better.
For many people, sleep problems are connected to both biological issues and psychological conditions.
Sleep issues are more common in people who have psychiatric disorders. Research shows that in more than 50% of cases, insomnia is linked to anxiety, depression, or stress. Some of the more common mental health conditions that are associated with sleep problems include the following:
Depression
Sleep problems are one of the symptoms of major depressive disorder. Depressed people may have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, or they may feel overly fatigued during the day. Research shows that about 75% percent of people with depression also have insomnia. In some cases, they may sleep too much.
Anxiety
When you’re filled with fear, anxiousness, and worry, it’s no wonder it’s hard to get restful sleep. In fact, a 2020 study in Psychiatry Advisor shows that people with anxiety are 5 times more likely to have sleep disorders or insomnia.
Bipolar Disorder
Sleep disturbances are extremely common in people with bipolar disorder, a condition that is characterized by alternating periods of heightened moods and depressive symptoms. According to a 2016 study on the role of sleep in bipolar disorder, from 69% to 99% of people with the condition experience insomnia or feel a reduced need for sleep during manic episodes. During depressive episodes, disrupted sleep is more common as well as hypersomnia, which affects an estimated 38% to 78% of those with bipolar disorder.
ADD/ADHD
Having attention-deficit disorder (ADD), or attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as it is more commonly called, increases the likelihood of experiencing sleep issues. Findings from a 2018 study show that 25% to 50% of people with the condition report troubled sleep.
BIOLOGICAL CAUSES OF SLEEP ISSUES
Numerous physical conditions can interfere with a good night’s rest. Some of the most common biological causes of sleep disturbances include the following:
Sleep Apnea
Affecting an estimated 22 million Americans, sleep apnea interrupts breathing for short periods throughout the night, robbing you of restful sleep and leaving you feeling fatigued, forgetful, and unfocused the following day.
Restless Leg Syndrome
One of the most common sleep and movement disorders, this condition causes uncomfortable feelings in the legs and an uncontrollable need to move them to calm those sensations. Affecting an estimated 5% to 10% of adults, this condition typically occurs while a person is at rest and becomes most severe at night during sleep. This makes it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep.
Thyroid Imbalances
Having thyroid imbalances such as hypothyroidism, which affects about 5% of the US population, or hyperthyroidism, which affects about 1% of Americans, can cause sleep problems. A 2021 study shows that over 66% of people with hyperthyroidism have trouble falling asleep, and those with hypothyroidism have lower sleep duration.
Hormonal Issues
Low levels of progesterone, often seen in women during perimenopause and menopause, are associated with poor sleep. This is often attributed to the hot flashes and night sweats commonly experienced during this time of a woman’s life.
Congestive Heart Failure
Research shows that people with heart failure often experience sleep apnea, leg twitching, or orthopnea (paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea), which is a shortness of breath that causes periodic awakenings during sleep.
Chronic Pain
When your body aches due to arthritis, headaches, or past injuries, it can lead to long-term sleep deprivation. Unfortunately, the lack of quality sleep increases pain susceptibility, creating a vicious cycle. An estimated 50% to 80% of people living with chronic pain suffer from some form of sleep disruption, according to the Psychiatric Times.
Dementia
Research shows that about 25% of people with dementia experience sleep issues. For example, people with Alzheimer’s disease “sundown,” or rev up at night and wander.
Acid Reflux
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), also known as acid reflux, affects an estimated 1 in 5 American adults and can interfere with sleep. Experiencing heartburn, indigestion, or vomit rising up in your throat can wake you during the night.
Enlarged Prostate Gland
Having an enlarged prostate gland, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia, interrupts sleep due to an urgent need to use the restroom multiple times during the night.
Medications and Substances
Certain medications—including stimulants, beta-blockers, and nasal decongestants—and foods, such as caffeine, can contribute to sleep disturbances.
TREATING BIOLOGICAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL CAUSES OF SLEEP PROBLEMS
To get more restful sleep, it’s important to address any underlying physical or psychiatric issues. Taking care of your overall health and well-being will enhance your sleep, which in turn, will improve your life.
Sleep disorders, as well as the mental health issues that contribute to them, 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 888-288-9834or visit our contact page here. Learning a new skill can feel daunting if you live with attention deficit disorder (ADD), also called attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Whether you’re sitting in a university lecture hall, want to start a new hobby, or training for a new job or career, having symptoms such as a short attention span, distractibility, disorganization, procrastination and issues with judgment and impulse control can get in the way of having a positive learning experience. The feeling that something is wrong with you and you can’t get past these symptoms, even when you want to learn something new, can make it difficult to be excited about learning and trying new things.
Fortunately, there are many practical ways to not only cope but thrive with ADD/ADHD in a learning environment.
Whether you’re sitting in a university lecture hall, want to start a new hobby, or training for a new job or career, having ADD/ADHD symptoms can get in the way of having a positive learning experience.
If you struggle with ADD/ADHD symptoms, here are 10 helpful ways to set yourself up for success.
1. Break up big projects into smaller chunks.
For people with ADD/ADHD, complex learning projects like integrating a new CRM software program at work or writing a college thesis can seem so overwhelming that you don’t know how or where to begin. To lessen the learning curve, break it up into more digestible chunks and write out a plan with steps you can realistically accomplish. As an example, for that thesis, start with the research, then write an outline, and so on. When you’ve done the research, check that off. You’ll feel good about completing something and will be more motivated to move to the next step.
2. Take frequent breaks and do some physical activity to boost blood flow.
Increasing blood flow to your prefrontal cortex improves focus. A study published in Current Psychiatry Reports suggests that intense aerobic exercise enhances brain structure and function, which in turn can increase performance in cognitive abilities. Stay away from sports that could incite brain injury such as football, hockey, or rugby, but do get out in the world and get your heart pumping. Even a brisk walk can help stimulate blood flow and get you feeling ready to dive into the next lesson.
3. Mix up your learning strategies.
There are a variety of ways to learn, and what works best for your individual needs requires trial and error. However, research shows there are effective learning strategies for people with ADD/ADHD, such as distributed practice, where learning is broken up into shorter sessions over a longer time. Can you retain information better when you take notes as someone is talking rather than listen to a teacher verbally give you instructions? A 2018 study in the journal Ear and Hearing suggests that people with ADD/ADHD are more likely to have auditory processing disorders, which can be taken into consideration when finding your optimal learning strategies.
4. Start with an easy lesson first.
Learning something relatively easy will make you feel good about yourself and encourage you to tackle more challenging material. Jumping into the cognitive deep end can be a recipe for drowning in overwhelm. Keep it simple is the motto here. If you’re learning how to play the piano, start with your best version of “Chopsticks” rather than Mozart’s “Eine Kleine Nachtmusik.” This will give you a sense of accomplishment and build a foundation of confidence on which you can build.
5. Tackle challenging material earlier in the day.
Children and teens with ADD/ADHD fatigue more easily than others; also, their medication often wears off in the late morning (if they are taking the regular form of Ritalin or Dexedrine). Keep this in mind when you’re scheduling the day and utilizing the brain when it’s at its maximum functional level. While this may vary individually, research published in Sleep Medicine Reviews suggests that children and adults with ADD/ADHD have symptoms of sleep disorders such as daytime sleepiness. Good sleep hygiene is vital to brain functioning so make sure you’re getting your zzzzs!
6. Find ways to get organized.
In the journal Education, researchers showed that organizational skills helped students with ADD/ADHD in the classroom. Tools such as day planners and computer organizational programs can help you keep track of your learning schedule. Also, if you can control your environment, try not to cover your walls with too much stimulating art, avoid clutter if possible, have fresh flowers or plants around to bring nature inside, and make sure you have enough proper lighting at your workspace.
7. Take advantage of auxiliary study materials.
In addition to the lesson you’re given, take the initiative to source more educational resources that work for your specific type of learning style. if you’re learning how to use new computer software, you might benefit from hands-on and practicing as you go, rather than sitting through a lecture. If you investigate the subject you’re learning, there will likely be various supplemental materials available online—whether it’s an extra book, making a poster, or watching a documentary, there are plenty of modalities to choose from.
8. Request accommodations if necessary.
Advocating for yourself or your loved one can sound tiring from the gate, but it can be vital to successful learning for someone with ADD/ADHD. Getting the proper diagnosis is imperative (more about this in a bit), but once that’s completed it might be necessary to request accommodations to create an enriched educational experience. Whether you’re in college and just discovering you have ADD/ADHD or your child is embarking on the K-12 journey, support is available. Different types of help are offered such as having extra time for test-taking, being offered a quiet workspace, and reduced course loads.
9. Give yourself a reward for hitting milestones and deadlines.
What do you love to do? Soon enough—with the proper diagnosis and treatment—your answer might be learning a new task! In the meantime, celebrate your learning victories by doing something you love. Make time to dance in your living room, take a walk in nature, get together with friends or just enjoy some quiet time alone. Don’t skip this step; it’s vital to build confidence and pace yourself along the way.
10. The first step is to discover if you or a loved one really has it.
You might assume you have ADD/ADHD and have coped with a self-diagnosis for years, but the most important learning experience of all is understanding the condition. Brain SPECT imaging at Amen Clinics shows that there are 7 types of ADD/ADHD; knowing which one applies to you can help your course of healing. This is a discovery process that might shed light on the way you’ve been living and pivot you in a brand new, wonderful direction where learning is no longer a chore, but fun and exciting.
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 888-288-9834or visit our contact page here.
ADD. ADHD. People use these terms interchangeably to describe the attention-deficit condition that affects approximately 9.4% of children and 4.4% of adults, according to the CDC. But are ADD and ADHD the same thing? And if not, what are the differences between them?
Experts used to refer to attention-deficit disorder primarily as ADD but that has since changed, and ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder) is now the preferred term. However, this is confusing because not everybody with the condition is hyperactive. Brain SPECT imaging at Amen Clinics has helped identify 7 types of ADD/ADHD, and surprisingly, there is only 1 type in which hyperactivity is always a symptom.
Brain SPECT imaging at Amen Clinics has helped identify 7 types of ADD/ADHD, and surprisingly, there is only 1 type in which hyperactivity is always a symptom.
There are a number of hallmark symptoms seen in all of the types, including short attention span, distractibility, disorganization, procrastination, and poor internal supervision. Hyperactivity, however, is not a hallmark symptom, meaning it is not present in each of the types.
In the classic type, hyperactivity is a common symptom that may take the shape of squirming, tapping feet or hands, talking incessantly, fidgeting, or being in constant motion. This restlessness occurs on a routine basis and can be disruptive in certain situations.
Such is not the case for the inattentive type, which doesn’t involve wriggling, twitching, or perpetual movement. People with this type are more likely to be daydreamers or to appear spacey or lazy. They may also be forgetful, seem bored, or be unmotivated.
In the remaining 5 types, hyperactivity may or may not be present. This means that in 6 of the 7 types, a person may have ADHD even though they do not display hyperactive tendencies.
WHY NON-HYPERACTIVE ADHD OFTEN GOES UNDIAGNOSED
Because hyperactivity is highly noticeable to other people, it is often what prompts an assessment for ADHD. On the contrary, people with non-hyperactive ADHD are more likely to fly under the radar. Symptoms such as being inattentive, being a daydreamer, or seeming bored aren’t as readily identifiable and aren’t always associated with the condition. For this reason, people who are missing the “H” in ADHD are more likely to remain undiagnosed. This is especially important for females, in whom inattentive ADHD is more common.
People who are missing the “H” in ADHD are more likely to remain undiagnosed.
A lack of diagnosis means these individuals don’t receive the treatment they need to overcome their symptoms. Having any type of untreated ADHD is associated with an increased risk of depression, substance abuse, divorce, obesity, and other issues that further compound symptoms.
7 TREATMENTS FOR ALL TYPES OF ADHD
There are many treatments that are beneficial for all people with ADHD, including non-hyperactive ADHD.
Take a 100% multIvitamin every day. Research shows that they help prevent chronic illness and help people with learning.
Take omega-3 fatty acids in the form of high-quality fish oil. Recommended dosages are about 2,000 – 6,000mg for adults and 1,000 – 2,000mg for children. According to research, fish oil that is higher in the EPA form of omega-3s may be the most helpful, however, it depends on which type of ADHD a person has.
Skip caffeine and ditch nicotine. These substances interfere with sleep, which may worsen symptoms.
Aim for 30-45 minutes of daily exercise. Table tennis is the world’s best brain game, but any brain-safe activity will do.
Set limits on digital device time. Strive for less than 30 minutes a day. This may be difficult, but it can be highly beneficial.
Eat for the ADHD brain. Most people with ADHD do best with a higher-protein, lower-carbohydrate diet.
Never give up seeking help and target treatments to your specific type of 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 888-288-9834or visit our contact page here. Do you struggle to pay attention? Have trouble retaining important information? Put off big projects in favor of menial tasks? You may think this sounds like attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), which is also called attention-deficit disorder (ADD). But ADHD isn’t the only cause of attention problems. A host of other issues can sometimes be at the root of inattention, forgetfulness, and procrastination.
ADHD isn’t the only cause of attention problems. A host of other issues—such as anxiousness, stress, or lack of sleep—can sometimes be at the root of inattention, forgetfulness, and procrastination.
That’s what chef and wellness expert Radhi Devlukia-Shetty discovered when she visited Amen Clinics with her husband Jay Shetty. The couple wanted to see their brain SPECT scans so they could learn how to optimize their brains for ultimate health and well-being. In an episode of Scan My Brain with Daniel Amen, MD, Devlukia-Shetty says that her mind can be very creative, but structure, attention, and focus can be difficult. She has trouble starting on projects unless there’s a deadline approaching. In addition, she says that “names won’t stay in my mind” and wants to improve her recall.
Although these are some of the characteristics seen in people with ADHD, the wellness influencer’s brain scan and psychological assessment did not indicate this condition. According to Dr. Amen, when people who don’t have ADHD but who experience issues of inattention, forgetfulness, or procrastination, there are likely other issues at play.
INATTENTION AND ANXIOUSNESS
In some cases, anxiousness can get in the way of paying attention, processing memories or tackling a big project. On brain SPECT scans, anxiousness is often associated with a “busy brain”—meaning there is heightened activity in the brain’s emotional centers. People with a busy brain tend to overthink things, feel restless, and can have trouble concentrating. In addition, anxiousness can interfere with the memory-making process, making it harder to recall people’s names, what’s on your grocery list, or the details of that vacation you took as a teenager.
When it comes to working on a complex project, such as creating a new product, writing a book, or delivering a speech, anxiety can throw you off track. Having trouble making decisions, which is common among anxious people, can make it hard to know where to start. And when a project is so big that it makes you feel angst, you’re more likely to put it off rather than diving in. These issues may resemble symptoms of ADHD even though they are unrelated to the condition.
HOW STRESS IMPACTS FOCUS
We live in a stressful world. For some people, that stress builds up and impacts brain function in a negative way. This can lead to symptoms—such as restlessness, distraction, and inattention—that look like ADHD but have nothing to do with the disorder. Having chronic stress also negatively impacts areas of the brain involved in memory formation.
In some people, however, a little bit of stress can be a powerful motivator. Take Devlukia-Shetty, for instance. She says she performs best when under pressure. “When there’s a deadline, I can get things done and focus,” she says.
MOOD ISSUES AND CONCENTRATION
The energetic and bubbly Devlukia-Shetty does not grapple with low moods, but many people who do struggle with blue moods have trouble concentrating. Depression is linked to focus problems, forgetfulness, low motivation, and low energy—all issues also seen in ADHD.
THE SLEEP-ATTENTION CONNECTION
Sleep issues can have a powerful impact on the ability to pay attention, learn new things, or recall facts and events. For Devlukia-Shetty, who’s a good sleeper, this isn’t an issue. For others, however, not getting enough shut-eye produces ADHD-like symptoms. A lack of adequate sleep decreases blood flow to the brain, which disrupts concentration and memory while lowering energy and motivation.
WHAT’S STEALING YOUR ATTENTION?
Discovering what’s behind an inability to pay attention or focus is the key to finding the right solutions. Anxiousness, stress, low moods, and disrupted sleep can all contribute to inattention, forgetfulness, and procrastination. Brain SPECT imaging, which looks at how the brain functions is one way to gain a better understanding of what’s causing your symptoms.
ADHD, anxiety, 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 888-288-9834or visit our contact page here. Although attention deficit disorder (ADD), also commonly referred to as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), is a national health crisis that continues to grow, it is highly misunderstood.
A lack of understanding, as well as misinformation, can be hugely detrimental in people with ADD/ADHD. Too often those with ADHD are incorrectly labeled as stupid, flakey, spacey, unreliable, unbearable, overly sensitive, troublemaker, or something similar. These hurtful judgments often stem from myths about ADHD that are still present in our culture, despite being untrue.
Too often those with ADHD are incorrectly labeled as stupid, flakey, spacey, unreliable, unbearable, overly sensitive, a troublemaker, or something similar. These hurtful judgments often stem from myths about ADHD.
Perhaps the best way to truly understand what it feels like to have ADHD is to listen to what people with the condition have to say. Here are 9 things that patients at Amen Clinics have expressed that they wish other people understood about ADHD.
9 TRUTHS ABOUT ADHD FROM PEOPLE WHO HAVE IT
1. Telling someone with ADHD to try harder makes things worse.
Brain SPECT imaging shows that when people with ADHD concentrate, blood flow to the prefrontal cortex goes down, which makes concentration worse. ADHD is not a failure of willpower, it’s a neurological condition. Living successfully with ADHD is not about “trying harder” but is rather a process of optimizing the brain and adjusting habits, environment, and structure.
2. They aren’t necessarily lazy or procrastinating, they just don’t know where to start.
People with ADHD have brains that work differently than those who don’t have the condition, and differently from lazy people. They tend to struggle with planning and doing parts of a task in order. Tasks in the neurotypical world have a beginning, a middle, and an end. Individuals with ADHD have trouble prioritizing, so they don’t know where and how to start.
That’s why complex projects can be very challenging for those with ADHD. They do better receiving assignments in chunks, or a series of smaller assignments, especially on longer projects.
3. Having ADHD is exhausting.
Those with ADHD have to work extra hard to stay organized and get things done as they have a million things going on in their mind at once. It’s a moment-to-moment struggle of the brain needing to do mundane tasks yet wanting to avoid them while it monitors the environment for higher stimulation. This continuous inner negotiation is exhausting. All this behind-the-scenes tug-of-war makes self-regulation difficult.
4. Focus isn’t the problem.
ADHD is not about a focus problem. It’s about focusing on too many things at once. ADHD is not necessarily a deficit of attention, but rather a problem with regulating one’s attention span to the desired task. So, while mundane tasks may be difficult to focus on, others may be completely absorbing. ADHD people can hyperfocus when interested.
5. They don’t mean to be rude.
Brain imaging research shows that ADHD is associated with low activity in the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for forethought, focus, and executive function. Thus, it is characterized by poor impulse control. People with ADHD may blurt out the first thing that comes to mind, even if it is unkind.
6. ADHD is not a joke.
A lighthearted joke about ADHD may be well-intentioned, but it overlooks the severity of the disorder. It’s particularly dismissive of the complex, debilitating, very real disorder that ADHD is. The truth is that ADHD can be devastating.
7. It can affect physical intimacy.
Research suggests that roughly 40% of men and women with ADHD will have sexual problems. Lack of focus is a symptom of ADHD. In some cases, that lack of focus can make achieving orgasm more difficult.
8. ADHD isn’t all bad.
People with ADHD often are high in energy, enthusiastic, full of ideas, creative, and they often have bursts of energy! They are also spontaneous, adventurous, willing to take risks, and have out-of-the-box thinking.
There’s truly no deficit in people with ADHD. Brain differences are normal. The 90% of non-ADHD people in the world referred to as “neurotypical” does not mean they are “normal” or better. Their neurology is simply more accepted and endorsed by the world.
9. ADHD isn’t just one thing.
Thanks to brain SPECT imaging, Amen Clinics has identified 7 types of ADHD. Surprisingly, some of them do not involve hyperactivity at all.
Ask the person with ADHD in your life what they’d like you to know about their neurological condition. You’ll likely gain a new understanding!
ADD/ADHD and other brain 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. Have you ever wondered if you might have attention deficit disorder (ADD), also known as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)? Have you ever thought that it might be holding you back from living the life you want? Is ADD/ADHD the reason why you aren’t performing up to your potential at work, why your relationships sizzle then burn, or why you never seem to follow through on your goals? The best way to determine if you have this condition that affects an estimated 4.4% of U.S. adults is to undergo a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation. But if a psych eval isn’t in the cards for you right now, check to see if you have any of the following common signs of ADD/ADHD.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, are you easily able to pay attention when you’re engaged in something you love? For example, if you’re a big basketball fan, can you spend hours watching games on TV, checking scores on your phone, or participating in a fantasy sports league? Being able to stay laser-focused only when you really like something is another sign associated with ADD/ADHD.
3. You’re a thrill-seeker.
Do you gravitate toward activities like bungee jumping, riding motorcycles, or rock climbing without ropes? Are you the type who loves scary movies? Needing stimulation or excitement is a classic sign of ADD/ADHD. If you’re like most people with the condition, you probably feel most alive when things are new, novel, interesting, highly stimulating, or frightening.
4. You get easily distracted.
Do you get easily distracted by outside stimuli, such as light, sounds, smells, certain tastes, or even the clothes you’re wearing? People with ADD/ADHD tend to have keen sensitivity that can be distracting. For example, in a job interview, you may find yourself tuning out from the question the interviewer is asking because the tag on the back of your shirt is so itchy it’s demanding all of your attention.
5. You’re disorganized and messy.
Is your desk a complete mess or covered with piles of unorganized documents that make it hard to find what you need? Are your closets cluttered? Are dirty clothes strewn about the floor even though the laundry hamper is nearby? Most people with ADD/ADHD tend to struggle with organization, which can make it harder to perform at your best.
6. You’re almost always late.
Are you chronically running late for meetings and appointments? Do your family members get upset with you because you keep them waiting? Do you get into hot water at work because you show up after your designated start time? Having trouble managing time is a common sign of ADD/ADHD.
7. You procrastinate.
When you have an assignment due at work, do you find yourself waiting until the last minute to get started? Do you tend to ignore your honey-do list until your spouse gets mad at you for not doing it? Having ADD/ADHD is associated with procrastination.
8. You have a hard time with impulse control.
Do you impulsively say or do things you regret later? Do you neglect to think through the consequences of your actions? Many people with ADD/ADHD have issues with impulse control, which can get you into trouble in your relationships or at work.
9. You tend to make the same mistakes over and over.
Do you have a hard time learning from your mistakes? Do you make some sort of blunder, vow never to do it again, then find yourself repeating it anyway? Not learning from past errors is associated with ADD/ADHD.
10. You create drama in relationships.
Are you the type who likes to irritate people to get a rise out of them? Do you get a secret thrill when you have an argument with your spouse then make up? These can be signs of ADD/ADHD, as people with the condition tend to be conflict-seeking and create problems as a way to build excitement.
11. Your symptoms started early in life.
ADD/ADHD is referred to as a developmental disorder because it emerges early in life. It is not something that shows up in middle age. If you develop symptoms of the condition as an adult but never had them as a child, it is likely due to something else, such as depression, chronic stress, hormonal changes, a head injury, or some form of toxic exposure.
THE 1 COMMON ADD/ADHD SYMPTOM YOU MIGHT NOT HAVE
Hyperactivity is one of the most well-known symptoms associated with ADD/ADHD. You may assume that if you aren’t hyperactive you can’t have ADD/ADHD, but that isn’t the case. That’s because ADD/ADHD isn’t just one thing. Brain SPECT imaging shows that there are 7 types of ADD/ADHD, and hyperactivity is only seen in certain types of the disorder. Knowing the symptoms associated with each of the 7 types can be helpful in determining if you might be struggling with the condition.
WHEN TO SEEK A PSYCHIATRIC EVALUATION
If you suspect you have ADD/ADHD, what can you do? Many people think stimulant medication is the only way to treat the condition, but there are many natural solutions that can be effective. Eliminating caffeine, exercising more, avoiding simple carbohydrates are just a few of the lifestyle changes that can help. If your symptoms don’t improve, or if they are creating problems in your life at work, in your relationships, or at school, it may be time to seek a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation that includes brain SPECT imaging, lab work, and more.
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 888-288-9834or visit our contact page here. Short attention span, distractibility, disorganization, procrastination, impulsivity—these are the hallmark symptoms of attention-deficit disorder (ADD), also known as attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). But having untreated ADD/ADHD can also wreak havoc on your body, setting you up for a host of physical health problems. You may develop physical health issues because you put off routine health checks, develop poor health habits due to impulsivity, have trouble following medical advice, or misplace critical prescription medications. There are many other ways ADD/ADHD can negatively impact your overall well-being.
Having untreated ADD/ADHD can wreak havoc on your body, setting you up for a host of physical health problems.
Here are 8 physical consequences associated with ADD/ADHD and the lasting complications they can bring.
1. Weight gain.
People with untreated ADD/ADHD often don’t plan out meals and are prone to impulsively reach for unhealthy foods that can lead to weight gain or obesity. The prevalence of obesity is 70% higher in adults with ADD/ADHD and 40% higher in children with ADHD compared with those who don’t have the condition, according to a review in the American Journal of Psychiatry. Compulsive eating, which fuels weight gain, is also seen in people with this mental health issue. And a report from Duke University shows that 30% of people with binge eating disorder, a type of eating disorder, also have ADD/ADHD. Being obese comes with a litany of troublesome health consequences, including a greater chance of heart disease, stroke, and arthritis.
2. Type 2 diabetes.
Research has found that having ADD/ADHD increases the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes. A 2018 study in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry shows that kids and adolescents with the common disorder are at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life compared with their peers who don’t have attention problems. Complications of diabetes include heart attack, stroke, and vision problems, among others.
3. Hypertension.
If you have ADD/ADHD, you may want to get your blood pressure checked frequently. A Swedish study from 2018 in Plos One found that people with attention deficit disorder are twice as likely to have hypertension. Elevated blood pressure puts you at increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and dementia.
4. Broken bones.
Children and adults with ADD/ADHD tend to be risk takers who like excitement and need stimulation. This means you may engage in dangerous activities, such as free climbing, bungee jumping, skydiving, or riding a motorcycle without a helmet, which puts you at increased risk of bodily harm. In some people, ADD/ADHD is also linked to anger, irritability, and aggression, which can lead to violent behavior that results in physical harm.
5. Traumatic brain injuries.
Having ADD/ADHD can have serious implications on brain health as researchers have noted higher rates of traumatic brain injuries (TBI) in children with ADHD compared with the general population. A 2021 study in JAMA Pediatrics on TBI and ADHD found that the rate of kids diagnosed with ADD/ADHD prior to having a head injury was 16%. When it comes to ADD/ADHD and TBIs, it’s a two-way street, as this same study points to the development of attention-deficit symptoms following severe TBI. Among the many consequences associated with concussions and TBIs are substance abuse, aggression, and suicide.
6. Sexually transmitted infections.
People with ADD/ADHD are 3 times as likely to get an STI, according to a 2018 study in the Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. A lack of forethought or impulsively giving in to spur-of-the-moment desire can lead to unsafe sexual behavior. Engaging in unprotected sex raises the likelihood of developing sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and infections, such as chlamydia, HPV, or gonorrhea.
7. Unplanned pregnancy.
A 2019 study in JAMA reports that women and girls with ADD/ADHD are over 6 times more likely to give birth before reaching age 20 compared with their non-ADD peers. Other research shows that 38% of young adults with unmedicated ADD/ADHD have either caused an unplanned pregnancy or become pregnant compared with 4% of their peers who don’t have the condition. Unplanned pregnancies have been associated with heightened stress and mental health consequences in women and girls.
8. Early death.
Sadly, having ADD/ADHD doubles the risk of dying early, according to research from 2018 in The Lancet. This study points to accidents as the main cause for the high incidence of premature death in individuals with ADD/ADHD. Even more alarming is the study’s findings that people who are not diagnosed until adulthood are at more than 4 times the risk of dying an early death. Undiagnosed or untreated ADD/ADHD can kill you early.
Overcoming ADD/ADHD to Boost Your Health
As you can see, leaving ADD/ADHD untreated can have devastating consequences on your physical health. To ward off these potential problems, it’s essential to seek treatment. Be aware that when it comes to treatment, one size does NOT fit all. Brain imaging work at Amen Clinics has helped identify 7 types of ADD/ADHD and knowing your type is foundational to getting the right treatment plan. Plus, there are many natural solutions for ADD/ADHD that can be effective alternatives to prescription stimulants. And it’s important to recognize that it’s never too late to seek help.
ADD/ADHD 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. 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, children, and couples.Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834or visit our contact page here.By Amar Chakra, MD
While many professions consider attention-deficit disorder (ADD), also known as attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a straightforward condition to treat, the nuances of this common condition are extremely complex. Prescription stimulants and nutritional supplements are commonly used in the treatment of the disorder, but they are not the only solutions. Outside of medications and nutraceuticals, there are a number of technological tools and interventions that are beneficial for most individuals with ADD/ADHD.
Here are 6 ways technology can help in the diagnosis and treatment of ADD/ADHD.
1. Brain SPECT imaging
Have you ever wondered why some individuals respond incredibly well to stimulant medications or supplements, while others seem to become more anxious, depressed, or irritable? SPECT imaging shows that ADD/ADHD is not one thing, that there are a variety of brain patterns associated with it. The brain imaging work at Amen Clinics has helped identify 7 types of ADD/ADHD, including classic, inattentive, over-focused, temporal lobe, limbic, anxious, and the “ring of fire.” These individual types of ADD/ADHD require their own unique treatments to achieve optimal results. Getting the right diagnosis is the key to getting the most effective treatment plan.
2. Neurofeedback
This non-invasive form of biofeedback has been shown to improve attention in those with ADD/ADHD. With neurofeedback, individuals learn to train their brains to produce healthy brainwave patterns, activating areas that need greater stimulation and calming areas that are overactive.
3. Exercise apps
Aerobic exercise helps boost blood flow and dopamine in the brain, which has been shown to help with impulsivity, a common symptom seen in people with ADD/ADHD. Using any type of fitness app that enhances motivation to exercise or tracks fitness goals can be beneficial.
4. Diet trackers
Individuals with ADD/ADHD tend to function better when adhering to a diet that is higher in protein and healthy fats and lower in carbohydrates. However, the impulsivity that is common in this condition often makes people mindlessly reach for foods that exacerbate symptoms. Using any of a number of diet apps to track daily consumption may help these people be more mindful of what they eat and stick with their healthy eating plan.
5. Meditation apps
Studied extensively for decades, meditation can improve focus and helps balance the brains of those with ADD/ADHD. There are several apps that can help build a meditation practice, including Insight Timer, Headspace, and 10% Happier. Encourage those with ADD/ADHD to try a few different apps to find one they like best.
6. Calendar reminders, alerts, and notes apps
People with ADD/ADHD have a tendency to be late for appointments and typically have trouble with organization. Having sticky notes scattered everywhere or having a messy desk means people will likely have a hard time finding important documents and reminders. To help those with this condition stay on time and get organized, recommend online calendar apps and notes apps. Getting alerts on the phone or notifications on a computer screen about upcoming appointments and meetings can be so helpful on a daily basis. And using a notes app helps disorganized people keep everything in one place for easy retrieval.
Dr. Amar Chakrais a board-certified psychiatrist at Amen Clinics with a special interest in childhood and adult ADD/ADHD, as well as child and adolescent sports psychiatry, cross-cultural psychiatry, and early-onset psychosis.To make an appointment with Dr. Chakra or to make a referral, contact us at 888-288-9834 or on our websitehere. If you (or a loved one) have ADD/ADHD, you may struggle with focus and attention, be easily distracted, feel spacey, or be a procrastinator. At some times of the day or on certain days of the week, you may notice that your symptoms seem more pronounced. You probably chalk it up to stress or bad sleep, but in many cases, it could be what you’re eating that intensifies your ADD/ADHD symptoms and makes it harder to get things done. Food can have a powerful effect—either positive or negative—on cognitive function, emotions, and behavior. The right diet can decrease the amount of ADD/ADHD medication needed. The wrong diet can exacerbate ADD/ADHD symptoms.
Food can have a powerful effect—either positive or negative—on cognitive function, emotions, and behavior. The right diet can decrease the amount of ADD/ADHD medication needed. The wrong diet can exacerbate ADD/ADHD symptoms.
At Amen Clinics, dietary interventions are an important part of a treatment plan for ADD/ADHD, a common mental health condition that affects over 6 million kids and 4.4% of adults in the U.S. However, not all people with this condition are alike. The brain imaging work at Amen Clinics has identified 7 types of ADD/ADHD and it’s important to eat for your type. (You can take the Amen Clinics quiz to discover your ADD Type here.) When patients begin to eat for their ADD Type they tend to notice better mood stability, focus, energy, and stamina as well as less distractibility and fewer sugar cravings. You can too by following these tips.
Think higher protein, lower carbs for most ADD Types.
In general, most people with ADD/ADHD do better on a higher-protein, lower-carbohydrate diet that enhances focus. People with ADD/ADHD tend to have low levels of dopamine, so it’s a good idea to eat foods that tend to increase dopamine such as beef, poultry, fish, eggs, seeds (pumpkin and sesame), nuts (almonds and walnuts), cheese, protein powders, and green tea.
Special dietary recommendations for Type 3 Overfocused ADD.
The recommendation for a higher-protein, lower-carb diet isn’t the case for people with Type 3 Overfocused ADD. This ADD Type is associated with low serotonin, in addition to the low dopamine levels that are seen in the other types. The Overfocused ADD Type is often associated with excessive worry, moodiness, rigid thinking, and irritability. With this type, the problem isn’t that you can’t pay attention, it’s that you can’t stop paying attention, which means you get stuck on negative thoughts or behaviors. A higher-protein, lower-carb diet that improves focus may cause people with Overfocused ADD to focus even more on the things that bother them. Dietary interventions for this type need to include naturally increasing serotonin with smart carbs such as sweet potatoes, apples, blueberries, carrots, gluten-free steel-cut oatmeal, quinoa, and chickpeas.
Kick the caffeine habit.
A brain imaging study in Human Brain Mapping shows that caffeine decreases overall blood flow to the brain, which in turn will make ADD /ADHD symptoms worse over time in all 7 types. Based on over 30 years of clinical practice at Amen Clinics, caffeine decreases the effectiveness of medication and supplement treatments and increases the number of side effects people have from medication.
Rule out refined carbs: Simple carbohydrate foods zap concentration. Refined carbs are loaded with sugar or substances that are easily broken down into sugar in the body. They trigger a quick spike then a crash in blood sugar levels that leaves people feeling spacey, confused, tired, and inattentive. In addition, simple carbs spike serotonin levels in the brain, which make you feel temporarily happier and more relaxed. Sounds great, but serotonin can also give people a “don’t worry, be happy” attitude that drains motivation and drive. Not exactly the best mindset for work or school. Stick with smart carbs, such as those indicated above for people with the Overfocused ADD Type.
Focus on protein for breakfast.
When it comes to what we eat at mealtime, Americans have it all wrong. We tend to eat simple carbs in the morning and have more protein-based meals at night. But eating a typical breakfast of pancakes, waffles, muffins, bagels, or cereal can increase ADD/ADHD-like symptoms and set you up for a challenging day at the office or in the classroom. It’s better for people with ADD/ADHD to eat protein in the morning. Protein, found in meat, nuts, or eggs, boosts dopamine levels and helps us feel more driven, motivated, and focused. A better breakfast for most ADD Types would be hard-boiled eggs, nuts, chopped veggies, and fruit, or a protein drink like this Focus and Energy Smoothie.
Snack for success.
For many parents, the go-to after-school snack for their kids involves a few cookies and a soda—a nasty combo of refined carbs and caffeine. This is followed by a reminder to kids that it’s time to do their homework. In this all-too-common scenario, parents unintentionally sabotage their children’s ability to concentrate on their homework and complete it. Better snack options—for kids and adults—include an apple with almond butter or red bell peppers with hummus.
Avoid potential food allergens: A growing body of research shows that potential allergens—gluten, corn, soy, artificial dyes, sugar, artificial sweeteners, and dairy—may trigger ADD/ADHD-like symptoms in some people. Food additives and colorings, such as red dye 40, can cause hyperactivity in children with no history of the problem, according to a study in the prestigious journal The Lancet. Clinical practice at Amen Clinics suggests this may affect adult patients, too. In other research from the ADHD Research Centre in the Netherlands, 85% of children who followed an elimination diet showed an improvement of 50% or more and no longer met the criteria for ADHD.
ADD/ADHD 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. We are dedicated to using the most effective, least toxic solutions including dietary interventions, nutritional supplements, and more. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834or visit our contact page here.
