Each type of ADHD has different treatment symptoms, and presents slightly differently in children and adults.
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a mental health condition that affects how people pay attention and control their impulses. The condition has become better understood in recent years,
but most people don’t know that there are actually three types of ADHD:
inattentive type, hyperactive-impulsive type, and combined type.
Keep reading to learn about what the three types of ADHD mean, how they manifest in day-to-day life, and the best treatment options for each.
What do the 3 types of ADHD mean?
The three types of ADHD provide a way to categorize the different patterns of symptoms that people with ADHD may exhibit and are primarily used to help clinicians diagnose and understand ADHD. Although the categories are distinct, many people display a combination of symptoms from different types, and the severity can vary between different people. Here’s a more detailed explanation of what each type means:
Inattentive type ADHD
Inattentive type ADHD, commonly known as inattentive ADHD, is an ADHD subtype primarily characterized by difficulties with attention and focus. People with inattentive-type ADHD often struggle to stay on task, follow through on instructions, and pay attention to details. They may appear forgetful or disorganized and have trouble completing assignments or tasks. This type is sometimes referred to as “ADD” (attention deficit disorder), but that classification is no longer commonly used.
Hyperactive-impulsive type ADHD
Hyperactive-impulsive type ADHD, commonly known as hyperactive ADHD, is characterized by hyperactivity and impulsivity. People with this type may be very active, fidgety, and have difficulty sitting still. They tend to act without thinking, interrupt others frequently and may have trouble waiting their turn. Impulsivity can lead to hasty decision-making and difficulties in self-control.
Combined type ADHD
Combined type ADHD, commonly known as combined ADHD, is the most common form of ADHD. This type involves a combination of symptoms from both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive types. People with combined-type ADHD experience challenges with attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. They may have difficulty focusing on tasks, be restless and fidgety, and act impulsively.
What do the 3 types of ADHD look like in daily life?
The three types of ADHD can manifest differently in daily life, impacting school performance, work, relationships, and daily routines. People with ADHD may struggle with time management, meeting deadlines, and following through on commitments. They might also find it challenging to maintain organized living spaces and can experience difficulties in social situations due to impulsivity or inattentiveness.
Here’s more details on how each type may look:
Inattentive type ADHD
Difficulty focusing on tasks or schoolwork.
Forgetfulness, such as forgetting to complete assignments, chores, or appointments.
Frequent careless mistakes in schoolwork or work projects.
Struggles with organization and time management.
Avoidance of tasks that require sustained mental effort.
Frequent loss of items like keys, books, or phones.
Difficulty following through on instructions and tasks.
Daydreaming and being easily distracted by external stimuli.
Hyperactive-impulsive type ADHD
Restlessness and difficulty sitting still, often fidgeting or tapping.
Impulsivity, such as blurting out answers or interrupting others.
Difficulty waiting one’s turn or being patient.
Talking excessively and often not listening to others.
Risky behaviors due to acting without thinking.
Difficulty with self-control and managing emotions.
Combined type ADHD
A combination of symptoms from both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive types.
Challenges in maintaining focus and attention on tasks.
Restlessness and difficulty remaining seated.
Impulsivity and difficulty with self-control.
Frequent forgetfulness and disorganization.
How do the 3 types of ADHD differ in child ADHD and adult ADHD?
The three types of ADHD can manifest differently in children and adults:
Predominantly inattentive presentation
Children: Difficulty paying attention to details and sustaining attention in tasks or play activities.
Adults: Trouble focusing on work requiring sustained mental effort and forgetfulness and difficulty following through on responsibilities.
Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive presentation
Children: Struggle with waiting turns and engaging in impulsive behaviors without considering consequences.
Adults: Difficulty staying still and challenges with patience. They might make quick decisions without careful thought.
Combined presentation
Children: Exhibit a mix of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity symptoms. This is the most common ADHD presentation in children.
Adults: Symptoms can change as people age, with reduced hyperactivity but continued inattention and impulsivity in adulthood. They may struggle with organization, time management, and impulsivity in both personal and professional settings.
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