Inattentive ADHD and Anxiety in Adults
High levels of anxiety are common among adults with inattentive ADHD.
According to the website of the Anxiety Disorders Association of America, about 50 percent of adults with ADHD have co-existing anxiety disorders.
High anxiety levels can lead to numerous physical symptoms which adults with ADHD should be aware of.
Fidgeting, teeth-grinding, muscle twitches, headaches, and stomach aches are some of the most common effects.
When anxiety levels reach the point where the individual experiences chest pains and dizziness, panic attacks may occur as the individual confuses the physical symptoms of anxiety with the more serious symptoms of a heart attack or stroke.
Knowledge of these symptoms can help reduce the likelihood of suffering from such panic attacks.
For people with inattentive ADHD, who often tend to be introverts, anxiety may also take the form of avoidance.
Often people with inattentive ADHD will avoid taking on responsibilities or engaging in relationships if they think these will significantly add to their stress levels.
They also tend to shy away from confrontation, and will frequently keep their opinions to themselves or tell white lies to please others.
Adults with the "classic" impulsive/hyperactive form of ADHD are often very different in this regard, and may actually enjoy the drama associated with winding up other people and getting a strong reaction out of them.
High anxiety levels can complicate ADHD treatment.
Individuals with high levels of anxiety often have a poorer response to commonly prescribed stimulant medications such as Ritalin and may suffer from side effects like insomnia and palpitations when the medication wears off.
Conversely, medications which help with anxiety, such as some anti-depressants, may increase mental fogginess and fatigue at high doses.
When looking for medical help, adults with ADHD and anxiety disorders therefore need to be patient and persistent and make sure they find a mental health professional that has specific experience in treating adult ADHD.
Regular physical exercise is crucial for those with ADHD and anxiety since exercise can help both mental focus and anxiety.
At least 30 minutes of intense physical exercise, three times a week, is now regarded as the minimum amount for adults.
Improving sleep patterns can also help with both anxiety and mental focus.
Individuals with inattentive ADHD tend to have high sleep requirements and often need more sleep than those with ADHD combined type.
Getting to bed reasonably early, receiving enough morning light and ensuring you have a comfortable sleeping environment can all have a positive efect on mood, memory and concentration.
According to the website of the Anxiety Disorders Association of America, about 50 percent of adults with ADHD have co-existing anxiety disorders.
High anxiety levels can lead to numerous physical symptoms which adults with ADHD should be aware of.
Fidgeting, teeth-grinding, muscle twitches, headaches, and stomach aches are some of the most common effects.
When anxiety levels reach the point where the individual experiences chest pains and dizziness, panic attacks may occur as the individual confuses the physical symptoms of anxiety with the more serious symptoms of a heart attack or stroke.
Knowledge of these symptoms can help reduce the likelihood of suffering from such panic attacks.
For people with inattentive ADHD, who often tend to be introverts, anxiety may also take the form of avoidance.
Often people with inattentive ADHD will avoid taking on responsibilities or engaging in relationships if they think these will significantly add to their stress levels.
They also tend to shy away from confrontation, and will frequently keep their opinions to themselves or tell white lies to please others.
Adults with the "classic" impulsive/hyperactive form of ADHD are often very different in this regard, and may actually enjoy the drama associated with winding up other people and getting a strong reaction out of them.
High anxiety levels can complicate ADHD treatment.
Individuals with high levels of anxiety often have a poorer response to commonly prescribed stimulant medications such as Ritalin and may suffer from side effects like insomnia and palpitations when the medication wears off.
Conversely, medications which help with anxiety, such as some anti-depressants, may increase mental fogginess and fatigue at high doses.
When looking for medical help, adults with ADHD and anxiety disorders therefore need to be patient and persistent and make sure they find a mental health professional that has specific experience in treating adult ADHD.
Regular physical exercise is crucial for those with ADHD and anxiety since exercise can help both mental focus and anxiety.
At least 30 minutes of intense physical exercise, three times a week, is now regarded as the minimum amount for adults.
Improving sleep patterns can also help with both anxiety and mental focus.
Individuals with inattentive ADHD tend to have high sleep requirements and often need more sleep than those with ADHD combined type.
Getting to bed reasonably early, receiving enough morning light and ensuring you have a comfortable sleeping environment can all have a positive efect on mood, memory and concentration.
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