Overfocused ADD: Everything You Need to Know About It

Overfocused ADD is a type of ADHD characterized by frequent dysregulation of the anterior cingulate gyrus (part of the brain’s limbic system). The disorder makes it hard for patients to shift their attention between tasks. The common signs of Overfocused ADD include excessive worrying, argumentativeness, and hyperfocus. Patients suffering from overfocused ADD have also shown signs of obsessiveness, inability to adapt to task shifts, and inflexibility in cognitive thinking. The American Psychiatric Association doesn’t officially recognize the different types of theorized ADD, including Overfocused ADD, as separate disorders or diagnoses. But, it’s essential to understand them and know how to deal with their symptoms.

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This article offers a comprehensive look at Overfocused ADD, its symptoms, effects, and treatment options.

Overfocused ADD Symptoms in Adults

The overfocused ADD symptoms in adults don’t vary too much from what children suffering from this brain disorder undergo. However, adults may not get excessively emotional as it often occurs with children.

Some of the changes to look out for if you or your loved one suffers from overfocused ADD include:

• Rigidity in thinking
• Inflexibility in shifting focus
• High resistance to environmental changes
• Excessive worrying
• Feeling stuck in the negative thinking loop
• Missing schedules and failing to tackle some tasks

The hyperfocus traits may also manifest in your relationships, especially initially. While it’s normal for people to focus on their partners’ needs in a new relationship, those with Overfocused ADD often take this trait to the extreme. You may also find yourself diving wholly into your work or hobby and facing a challenge when you try to do different things.

Some of the changes to look out for in kids include:

• Excessively captivated in an art, toy, or video game.
• Missing schedules and failing to tackle some tasks.
• Throwing inconsolable tantrums, especially if you go against their interests.
• Holding powerful grudges against people reprimanding them for minor things.
• Being irritable when corrected slightly.
• You may notice a student who keeps erasing and redoing their work in class. But, they feel pretty upset if you confront them about the behavior.

Mostly, over-focused ADD kids are highly emotional. Thus, they may take a simple “it’s enough” the opposite way and throw tantrums since their brains don’t appreciate shifting gears.

What Are the Impacts of Overfocused ADD?

Hyperfocus ADHD may bring devastating effects for both adults and kids. For instance, you may find it hard to succeed in tasks that require intense mental effort and flexibility. Also, Overfocused ADD symptoms make it difficult to keep schedules, leading to challenges in keeping up with work demands. In extremities, this disorder may lead to job loss or cause poor performance for kids in school. Not treating Overfocused ADD on time may destroy your relationships at home, in school, or at the office.

If you feel Overfocused ADD is bothering you, please get in touch with licensed health experts at Mangoclinic before it’s too late!

Can ADD Be Mistaken for OCD?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) exhibits characteristics similar to those of Overfocused ADD. For instance, some Overfocused ADD patients may experience hyperactivity while others don’t. Thus, people sometimes mistake ADD for OCD.

The similarity makes it hard to self-diagnose. If you suspect that you or your loved one may be struggling with ADD, it’s better to seek professional help.