ADHD isn't one-size-fits-all. The DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual) recognizes three distinct presentations of ADHD, each with different symptom patterns. Understanding your subtype can help you find the most effective strategies and treatments.
Note: The term "ADD" (Attention Deficit Disorder) is no longer officially used. What was called ADD is now classified as "ADHD, Predominantly Inattentive Presentation."
Quick Comparison
| Subtype | Main Symptoms | Often Seen In | Commonly Missed? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inattentive | Distraction, forgetfulness, disorganization | Women, adults | Yes - often |
| Hyperactive-Impulsive | Restlessness, impulsivity, excessive talking | Children, boys | Rarely |
| Combined | Both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity | Most common overall | Sometimes |
1. Predominantly Inattentive Presentation
People with this presentation struggle primarily with focus, attention, and organization. They may appear spacey, forgetful, or "in their own world." This type is often underdiagnosed, especially in women and girls.
Key Characteristics:
- • Difficulty sustaining attention on tasks or activities
- • Makes careless mistakes due to lack of attention to detail
- • Often loses things necessary for tasks (phone, keys, documents)
- • Easily distracted by unrelated thoughts or stimuli
- • Struggles with organization and time management
- • Avoids tasks requiring sustained mental effort
- • Forgets daily activities and appointments
- • Appears not to listen when spoken to directly
✅ Strengths
- • Deep thinking and reflection
- • Creative problem-solving
- • Ability to hyperfocus on interesting topics
- • Often calm and easy-going demeanor
❌ Challenges
- • Meeting deadlines and managing time
- • Keeping track of belongings
- • Following multi-step instructions
- • Maintaining organized spaces
2. Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation
This presentation is characterized by excessive physical activity, restlessness, and impulsive behaviors. It's the most "visible" form of ADHD and is more commonly diagnosed in childhood, particularly in boys.
Key Characteristics:
- • Fidgets, squirms, or can't sit still
- • Feels restless or driven by a motor
- • Talks excessively and has difficulty with quiet activities
- • Interrupts others or blurts out answers
- • Difficulty waiting their turn
- • Acts without thinking about consequences
- • May engage in risky behaviors
- • Impatient with slow-paced activities
✅ Strengths
- • High energy and enthusiasm
- • Quick decision-making
- • Thrives in fast-paced environments
- • Natural leadership qualities
❌ Challenges
- • Sitting through long meetings or tasks
- • Controlling impulses and reactions
- • Maintaining relationships (interrupting)
- • Financial management (impulsive spending)
3. Combined Presentation
This is the most common presentation, affecting about 70% of people with ADHD. Individuals meet the criteria for both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity, though the balance may vary.
Key Characteristics:
- • Shows 6+ symptoms of inattention AND 6+ symptoms of hyperactivity-impulsivity
- • May have different dominant symptoms in different situations
- • Often experiences the full range of ADHD challenges
- • Symptoms may shift over time (hyperactivity often decreases with age)
Important: Your presentation can change over time. Many adults who had hyperactive symptoms as children develop a more inattentive presentation as they age, as hyperactivity often becomes internalized.
How Common is Each Subtype?
Find Out Your ADHD Presentation
Our ASRS v1.1 screening test can help identify which symptoms are most prominent for you, including inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity scores.
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