This overview draws insights from Dr. Daniel G. Amen’s book, “Healing ADD: The Breakthrough Program that Allows You to See and Heal the 7 Types of ADD.”
These types are not officially recognized by the medical community or described in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). Nevertheless, due to Dr. Amen’s expertise as a psychiatrist and nuclear brain imaging specialist, these 7 types of ADHD in adults are worth discussing.
What are the 7 types of ADHD?
- Classic ADD
- Inattentive ADD
- Over-focused ADD
- Temporal Lobe ADD
- Limbic ADD
- Ring of Fire ADD
- Anxious ADD
As Viviana Greco, PhD, states, “Dr. Amen’s approach can definitely help people better understand their unique challenges and may guide more tailored treatment strategies.”
Wait. Is it ADD or ADHD? Great question!
Until 1987, this mental health condition was known as attention-deficit disorder (ADD). Later on, it was renamed attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Today, the psychiatric community considers the term “ADD” outdated.
Nonetheless, Dr. Daniel G. Amen intentionally uses “ADD” to describe his 7 types, as he believes that hyperactivity isn’t necessarily a symptom of the disorder.
In this article, we’ll use both terms, ADD and ADHD, to talk about Dr. Amen’s classification and the 7 types of ADHD to ensure everyone understands the terminology.
A close look at ADHD types
“I suppose that I live with ADHD.”
Have you ever thought about something like that? If yes, you’ve probably already searched for the main ADHD symptoms, scrolled dozens of TikTok videos about its signs, and read stories of others who experience this disorder.
But why does it feel so confusing? While some symptoms feel completely relatable, others seem foreign to you. It’s like trying on an almost-fitting jacket, but something’s still off.
You might wonder, “Do I really have ADHD, or is there something more?” This may be because you have one of the 7 types of ADHD in adults.
We asked Viviana Greco, PhD, about the attitude of a medical community toward Dr. Amen’s classification, “It’s important to emphasize that this classification is not widely accepted in the scientific community. Most therapists rely on the DSM-5 criteria for diagnosing and treating ADHD, as this is the gold standard in practice. Nevertheless, there are some therapists and practitioners who incorporate Dr. Amen’s classification into their work.”
1. Classic ADD
This is what many people tend to think about when someone says “ADHD.” The main symptoms of classic ADD include:
- Inattention
- Hyperactivity
- Impulsivity
In one of the most widespread ADD types, inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity collide, making it challenging to stay on task, remain still, or think before acting. This form of ADD is not just common — it’s the most recognized and often misunderstood.
So, it’s essential to note the following symptoms and underlying challenges.
- Problems with organizing things and tasks
- Excessive talking
- Trouble listening
- Boundless energy
- Chronic low-level sadness
- Weak planning skills
Let’s think about Bart Simpson from The Simpsons. He shows impulsive behavior, lacks focus in school, and is constantly in need of excitement. His character often struggles with staying on task, following rules, and managing energy.
Of course, we can’t diagnose a fictional character and identify his ADHD type. But all of these behaviors, as well as difficulties in completing chores, can be indicative of classic ADD.
2. Inattentive ADD
Dr. Amen, in his book, states that this is the second most common type of ADD. While it doesn’t involve hyperactivity or impulsivity, inattention is what makes it unique.
The main symptoms of inattentive ADD are:
- Short attention span
- Frequent daydreaming
- Slow-moving
- Time management difficulties
People living with this type are usually introverted and quiet. Interestingly, because inattentive ADD may not cause extreme problems in daily functioning, many people find out about their condition in adulthood.
What are other symptoms that people with ADD inattentive type tend to experience? They usually:
- Have trouble focusing and get easily distracted
- Procrastinate
- Experience time management problems
- Tend to lose their possessions
- Find it difficult to pay attention when others talk
- Have poor attention to detail
In many cases, those with ADD inattentive type seem apathetic and move quite slowly, so others may think of them as unmotivated. However, chronic fatigue is another symptom of this disorder.
What about examples? Have you seen the animated sitcom Daria, with its main character, Daria Morgendorffer? She often displays symptoms such as difficulty focusing, being easily distracted, and appearing unmotivated.
Also, Daria tends to daydream and has problems with organization and time management. These signs align well with the characteristics of inattentive ADD.
3. Over-focused ADD
Do you often dwell on negative thoughts and find it hard to shift your focus away from them, even when you want to? It might be the first sign of an over-focused ADD type.
People living with it often experience:
- Difficulty shifting attention
- Worry too much
- Negative thinking loops
In terms of symptoms, over-focused ADD is pretty similar to the classic one. In addition, people living with this type also tend to get stuck on specific tasks, thought patterns, or behaviors, which can lead to excessive worrying.
Additional symptoms of this type of ADHD are:
- Hyperfixation
- Obsessive and compulsive behavior
- Inflexibility
- Holding grudges
- Feeling upset if something happens differently than they expected
- Maintaining their own opinions and ignoring others
Over-focused ADD may or may not include hyperactivity.
But stop for a minute — how can ADHD, which is known for making it hard to focus, also lead to hyper focus on certain things?
It sounds contrasting, but it’s actually a quirk of ADHD, particularly over-focused ADD.
While people with ADHD might struggle with shifting their attention or staying on task, they can also get incredibly soaked up in activities they find fascinating. It’s all about the unique ways their brains handle focus and distraction.
An example of a character with over-focused ADD is Sheldon Cooper from The Big Bang Theory. His strict sticking to routines and obsession with specific topics shows how over-focused ADD can manifest. Sheldon’s behavior vividly illustrates how someone can become hyper-focused and find it hard to be flexible and can’t handle changes.
4. Temporal lobe ADD
The fourth type Dr. Amen describes within 7 types of ADHD is temporal lobe ADD. It includes all the symptoms typical to the classic one, along with learning, memory, and behavioral problems.
The main symptoms of temporal lobe ADD are:
- Memory issues
- Emotional dysregulation
- Learning difficulties
Such people may be moody and have a short temper. In some cases, they may also behave violently and aggressively.
Other possible temporal lobe ADD signs also include:
- Mood fluctuating, including irritability
- Sensitivity and paranoia
- Episodes of confusion or feeling spaced out
- Unexplained feelings of panic or fear
- Visual issues, such as seeing unusual shadows
- Headaches or stomach pain without a clear cause
- Troubling or dark thoughts
A good example of a character who could have temporal lobe ADD is Dr. House from House, M.D. TV-series.
The character portrays mood fluctuations, from intense irritability to sudden bursts of aggression. His sharp wit often masks his internal turmoil, including confusion and hypersensitivity to those around him.
Known for his explosive temper, House shows the complex symptoms of a possible ADD diagnosis.
5. Limbic ADD
“Am I lazy or depressed?” If you face this question quite often, it might be the first sign of limbic ADD. Why? This type of ADD often involves such symptoms:
- Low energy
- Guilt complex
- Low self-esteem
Among the 7 types of ADHD, limbic ADD most severely affects the region of the brain responsible for the “fight or flight” response. In this case, controlling emotions and managing stressors might be difficult.
As a result, someone living with limbic ADD might experience additional symptoms, like:
- Persistent mild sadness (which feels like mild depression, but it isn’t it)
- Frequent mood fluctuations
- Feelings of hopelessness and helplessness
- Guilt complex
- Low self-esteem & self-loathing
- Lack of interest or enjoyment in activities
- Problems with falling asleep
- Social withdrawal or isolation
- Possible emotional instability
Is there someone who has symptoms similar to those in pop culture? BoJack Horseman might be a prime example.
Beneath his sarcastic wit and fame, BoJack battles a constant undercurrent of sadness and self-doubt. His chronic low energy and deep-seated feelings of hopelessness paint a vivid picture of limbic ADD.
BoJack’s tendency to isolate himself and his inability to find joy even in success captures the negativity that often accompanies this condition.
6. Ring of fire ADD
When talking about 7 types of ADHD in adults, it’s essential to highlight the symptoms of the ring of fire ADD. It might be the most intense and chaotic form, which often causes symptoms such as:
- Overwhelming thoughts and emotions
- Cyclic mood changes
- Sensitivity to noise, light, and clothing (which leads to frequent overstimulation)
Overall, ring of fire is all about unpredictable symptoms that stem from brain overactivity. This type combines classic symptoms of ADHD with additional patterns like anxiety and moodiness.
What else can a person with a ring of fire ADD experience? Well, here are some more signs.
- Impulsivity
- Irritability and quick temper
- Difficulty handling frustration
- Rigid and self-centered thought patterns
- Times of insensitivity towards others
- Excessive talkativeness
Who can we provide as an example of the ring of fire symptoms that were described by Dr. Amen in the “7 types of ADD”?
Homer Simpson exhibits some similar traits. His impulsivity is a key aspect of his personality, often leading him into chaotic situations without thinking.
Homer has a quick temper, especially when things don’t go his way. His self-centered thinking makes him stubborn and difficult to reason with. Moreover, Homer can often be insensitive to others’ feelings without realizing it.
7. Anxious ADD
What is the 7th type of ADHD, according to Dr. Amen? Well, it’s a bit similar to generalized anxiety disorder. Anxious ADD usually causes symptoms like:
- Pessimistic thoughts
- Frequent anxiety
- Physical aches
Of course, it involves the core symptoms of classic ADD as well. However, life for someone with anxious ADD is full of constant tension, stress, and worrying about everything. Thus, a person can experience such challenges as:
- Avoiding conflicts
- Fear of judgment
- Trouble sleeping
- Low self-confidence
- Always expecting the worst
- Freezing up in tense situations
- Nervousness when speaking in public
What can be more anxious than… Anxiety? Yes, Anxiety from Inside Out 2.
This character is the ultimate symbol of worry and stress. She is always on edge, constantly expecting the worst. Anxiety’s intense, never-ending apprehension shows what it’s like to struggle with overwhelming stress.
Can ADD types create a combination?
In a nutshell, yes. What’s more, combined types of ADHD are very common.
Let’s remember that ADHD isn’t an across-the-board condition. Many people live with a blend of symptoms from different types.
For instance, someone might experience the impulsivity and hyperactivity typical of classic ADD while also dealing with the anxiety and worry associated with anxious ADD.
A combination of the types can lead to a range of challenges. For example, someone with both over-focused ADD and temporal lobe ADD might experience both intense, obsessive focus on certain tasks and frequent mood fluctuations.
Another person with a mix of inattentive ADD and limbic ADD may have trouble staying focused and also deal with chronic low energy.
Why is this important? While you already know that the 7 different types of ADHD aren’t an official classification, understanding them can still be valuable when trying to improve your current state.
Is it possible to compare two classifications? Viviana Greco, PhD, answers, “Determining whether the DSM-5 classification or Dr. Amen’s classification is “better” is not straightforward. While Dr. Amen’s classification is not yet widely accepted within the community, it does capture aspects of ADHD that the DSM-5 does not fully address. His more personalized approach can offer valuable insights, potentially paving the way for treatment tailored to each individual’s unique situation.”
SPECT scans in Dr. Amen’s books & 7 types of ADHD
So, you already know what symptoms from the ADHD iceberg each type exhibits, but we’ve missed an important question.
Are these different types of ADHD based only on symptoms?
The answer is no. Dr. Amen used single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) imaging to understand the brain activity of different people. As a result, each type revealed distinct brain activity patterns.
What are they? Let’s find out briefly.
- Classic ADD involves decreased blood flow in the prefrontal cortex, cerebellum, and basal ganglia — parts of the brain responsible for impulse and movement control. This affects dopamine production, resulting in challenges with attention and motivation.
- Inattentive ADD is connected to reduced prefrontal cortex activity, which also plays a role in managing complex thoughts. Thus, people experience low dopamine levels and can find it difficult to focus.
- Over-focused ADD characterized by increased activity in the anterior cingulate gyrus, which is responsible for cognitive control. The brain shows incredibly fast brainwaves, leading to shifting attention challenges.
- Temporal lobe ADD involves reduced activity in the prefrontal cortex and temporal lobes (responsible for perception of sound, memory, and managing emotions). This affects memory processing and emotional regulation.
- Limbic ADD stems from increased activity in the limbic system (which plays a role in processing emotions) and decreased prefrontal cortex activity. This leads to mood fluctuations and low self-esteem.
- Ring of fire ADD is characterized by overactivity across the brain, creating a “ring of fire” effect on scans.
- Anxious ADD shows high activity in the basal ganglia and, contrasting with other ADD types, decreased activity in the prefrontal cortex. This contributes to heightened anxiety and stress responses.
Impressive, isn’t it? Now you know the answer to the question, “What are the 7 different types of ADHD?”
Do you feel symptoms that are similar to any of the types? Use Breeze to track the symptoms. Then, it might be helpful to contact a healthcare professional to check yourself and get the appropriate treatment, if necessary.
