Most pediatricians and psychiatrists diagnose ADHD based on a series of criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders (DSM-IV). According to the DSM-IV, there are three types of ADHD: inattentive type, hyperactive-impulsive type, and combined type. But did you know that there are more than three types of ADHD?
Psychiatrist Dr. Daniel Amen has handled hundreds of children and adults with ADHD and developed a special brain imaging technique called the SPECT test to help him find the cause of the condition. His work on SPECT imaging made him realize the full complexity of the disorder. Over the years, he noticed that there are six distinct SPECT patterns in his ADHD patients, and that each requires a specialized treatment. Based on these observations, Dr. Amen came up with the six types of ADHD.
Type 1: Classic ADHD
Classic ADHD describes the hyperactive-impulsive type with a little inattention. This is usually treated with omega-3 fatty acids, amino acids like L-tyrosine, and multiple vitamins.
Type 2: Inattentive ADHD
Inattentive ADHD is similar to the DSM-IV’s Inattentive Type – low energy, low motivation, always daydreaming, etc. This type is common in girls and is often diagnosed later in life. Like Classic ADHD, Inattentive ADHD can be treated with omega-3 fatty acids, amino acids, and vitamins.
Type 3: Overfocused ADHD
A child with Overfocused ADHD experiences typical ADHD symptoms as well as oppositional behavior, argumentative tendency, cognitive inflexibility, a need for sameness, or negative behavior. This type of ADHD is common in families with obsessive-compulsive tendencies or addiction problems. This can be treated with the amino acid L-tryptophan, St. John’s Wort, omega-3 fish oils, and vitamins.
Type 4: Temporal Lobe ADHD
A child with Temporal Lobe ADHD experiences typical ADHD symptoms as well as headaches, periods of anxiety, a short fuse, memory problems, dark thoughts, and difficulties learning to read. This type is common in families with a history of mood disorders and learning disorders. Treatment includes GABA for irritability, vitamins, and omega-3 fish oils. Sometimes, anti-seizure medication is given.
Type 5: Limbic ADHD
A child with Limbic ADHD experiences typical ADHD symptoms and low self-esteem, mild depression, poor social skills, irritability, insomnia, and poor appetite. Treatment includes omega-3 fatty acids, amino acids, St. John’s Wort, and vitamins.
Type 6: Ring of Fire ADHD
A child with Ring of Fire ADHD experiences typical ADHD symptoms as well as angry outbursts, extreme mood swings, excessive talking, fast thoughts, inflexibility, and sensitivity to light and sound. This ADHD type was called “Ring of Fire” because of the ring of overactivity seen in brain scans of affected children. Treatment includes vitamins, omega-3 fats, and amino acids.
While these six ADHD categories make it easier to identify appropriate treatments, try not to get too focused on what type of ADHD your child has. At the very core of it all, ADHD and its co-morbid disorders are caused by the same underlying problem – a functional disconnection syndrome. This means that the regions of the brain aren’t communicating with each other as well as they should. What’s important is finding the type of treatments that will best rehabilitate your child’s brain and address his or her unique constellation of symptoms.
If you’re interested in finding out more about Dr. Amen’s work, you can visit his website at amenclinics.com.