Do you have ADD or ADHD? If so, do you know which of the
7 types you have? There is a way to know for sure.
Here are the signs and symptoms of ADD Type 5 (also known as
Limbic ADD):
Core Symptoms of ADD
Though each of the ADD subtypes has its own set of symptoms, they all share the same core symptoms.
- A short attention span for regular, routine, everyday tasks (homework, chores, etc.)
- Distractibility
- Organization problems (like having a messy room, always running late, etc.)
- Procrastination
- Forgetfulness
- Problems with follow-through
- Poor impulse control (saying or doing something before thinking it through)
ADD Type 5 Symptoms
In addition to the core symptoms, the unique characteristics of Type 5 Limbic ADD include:
- Moodiness
- Frequent irritability
- Tendency for social isolation
- Frequent feelings of helplessness and worthlessness
- Loss of interest in things
- Sleep changes (too much or too little)
- Chronic low-grade sadness or negativity (“glass half empty” syndrome)
- May or may not be hyperactive
ADD Quick Facts
- The limbic system can affect motivation, drive, and the bonding mechanism that enables a person to connect emotionally with others.
- Main symptoms of Limbic ADD include low self-esteem, chronic mood problems, decreased interest in activities previously considered fun, feelings of hopelessness, and being easily distracted.
- Limbic ADD is frequently misdiagnosed as depression. However, when individuals with Limbic ADD are given antidepressants it can increase their moodiness and negative symptoms.
- High-stress levels are a major trigger for depression in Type 5 individuals.
- People with Limbic ADD often suffer from low energy, short attention spans, and get stuck on negative thoughts and guilty feelings.
- Stimulant medications alone frequently make people with Limbic ADD more negative and moody.
Implementing these six tips will help you manage the symptoms of ADD Type 5:
Boost Your Mood With Food:
A balanced diet of high-quality proteins,
healthy fats, and fewer carbohydrates will help reduce negative symptoms and balance your mood.
A healthy diet can also be paired with supplements, like DL-phenylalanine and SAMe, to boost and stabilize the mood.
Avoid Absolutes:
Alleviating the symptoms of Limbic ADD includes learning how to structure your thoughts and actions. For example, an “all or nothing” approach automatically sets you up for failure which, in turn, will cause emotional distress.
Get Back to the Essentials:
Create strategies that will allow you to
calm yourself down when you are triggered. Essential oils, such as lavender, bergamot, grapefruit, and peppermint, can help boost your mood.
Collect Happy Memories:
Build a library of positive memories from happy experiences in your life. Sad people tend to dwell on negative memories. When you’re suffering from the negative symptoms of Type 5 ADD, you can bring yourself to a better place by collecting and reflecting on happy memories.
Build Strong Relationships:
One way to curb negative thinking patterns is to
surround yourself with people who encourage positive cognitive processes and support conversational bonding. Build strong relationships with them and with those closest to you.
Get a Customized Solution:
Like many other mental health conditions, ADD is not just a
single and simple disorder; therefore, treatment is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Each of the seven types of ADD requires a different treatment plan. What works for one person with ADD may not work for another—or could even make the symptoms worse!
ADD is a neurobiological disorder with serious psychological and social consequences.
Amen Clinics is here to help you understand your brain and provide treatment options that address more than just symptoms.
Want more information? Download Amen Clinics’ free
Getting to Know the 7 ADD Types eBook.
Healing ADD starts with knowing if you have it and then finding out
which type you have. We’ve helped tens of thousands of people with ADD from all over the world. If you suspect that you or a loved one might have ADD, don’t wait to get help. Call us today at 888-288-9834 or visit us online to
schedule a visit.
