Understanding the 7 Types of ADD:
Dr. Daniel Amen, a psychiatrist specializing in brain health, identified seven types of ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) based on brain imaging studies. These types go beyond the traditional understanding of ADHD as just hyperactive or inattentive. Each type has different symptoms and
The 7 Types of ADD:
Classic ADD
- Symptoms: Inattention, distractibility, impulsivity, hyperactivity, restlessness.
- Brain Pattern: Decreased activity in the prefrontal cortex when focusing.
- Treatment: Stimulant medications (e.g., Ritalin, Adderall), exercise, protein-rich diet.
Inattentive ADD
- Symptoms: Easily distracted, disorganized, forgetful, trouble following through.
- Brain Pattern: Reduced activity in the prefrontal cortex.
- Treatment: Stimulants, diet, coaching for structure and organization.
Over-Focused ADD
Symptoms: Trouble shifting attention, obsessive thoughts, difficulty with flexibility, opposition to change.
- Brain Pattern: Overactivity in the anterior cingulate gyrus.
- Treatment: Strategies to increase dopamine and serotonin (e.g., exercise, meditation, supplements).
Temporal Lobe ADD
- Symptoms: Irritability, mood swings, memory problems, aggression, temper outbursts.
- Brain Pattern: Dysfunction in the temporal lobes.
- Treatment: Anticonvulsants, psychotherapy, relaxation techniques.
Limbic ADD
Symptoms: Persistent sadness, low energy, low self-esteem, negativity, but without full clinical depression.
- Brain Pattern: Overactivity in the limbic system.
- Treatment: Boosting dopamine (e.g., exercise, bright light therapy), targeted medications.
Ring of Fire ADD
- Symptoms: Extreme moodiness, overreaction, anxiety, sensitivity to sounds and lights, oppositional behavior.
- Brain Pattern: Hyperactivity across the brain.
- Treatment: Elimination diets (to remove food sensitivities), calming supplements (e.g., GABA, magnesium), lifestyle adjustments.
Anxious ADD
- Symptoms: Inattention combined with chronic anxiety, physical stress symptoms, fearfulness, tension.
- Brain Pattern: Overactivity in the basal ganglia.
- Treatment: Relaxation strategies, GABA-promoting foods, supplements, and sometimes anti-anxiety medication.
Each type responds differently to treatments, which is why a personalized approach is key. Dr. Amen emphasizes brain imaging and lifestyle modifications alongside medication and therapy.
Shervan K Shahhian
LIBERTY PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION 