ADHD, or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, is a mental health condition that affects how people focus their attention. It can lead to problems at work, in school, or in relationships.
The diagnosis of ADHD is made by a doctor or therapist who uses clinical assessments like rating scales and interviews. The doctor may also take a medical history and perform a physical exam.
Primarily Hyperactive-Impulsive Type
ADHD, also known as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, is a condition that causes trouble with paying attention. It can affect people of all ages, but it is most common in children and teens.
For adults, it can affect their daily life and relationships. They can forget to pay attention in class or at work, and they might make careless mistakes.
They may also have trouble with tasks that require concentration, such as long reading or conversations. They can also have a hard time remembering to say thank you or asking for permission.
In children, the hyperactive-impulsive type of ADHD is characterized by a need to move constantly and display impulsive behavior. This can include fidgeting with their hands and feet or shifting in their seat.
It can also include impulsive behaviors like interrupting other people’s conversations or risky behavior. Adults with this type of ADHD might feel the need to constantly move around and talk a lot, even though they have nothing worth saying.
It’s important to understand all three types of ADHD to be able to recognize them and get help as soon as possible. This will ensure that you or your child gets the treatment you need.
Primarily Inattentive Type
The Primarily Inattentive Type Of Adult ADHD, also known as inattentive ADD or simply ADD, is the most common type of attention deficit disorder (ADD). People with this type of ADHD have symptoms of inattention that affect their ability to concentrate and pay attention.
They may make careless mistakes, such as forgetting to turn in a report or leaving important information out on their desks. They also might lose track of time, causing them to miss doctor or dentist appointments or conferences they are scheduled to attend.
Other signs of this type of ADD include a difficult time following directions or staying focused during lectures or long reading. They also often have trouble keeping up with friends, family members, or colleagues.
Inattentive ADD can be difficult to diagnose, because many people with this condition have other mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression. Fortunately, treatment is available for this type of ADD and can help people manage their symptoms to live better.
A healthcare provider can diagnose this type of ADD by considering the person’s symptoms and using the criteria in the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) to determine whether they have ADHD. The diagnosis is based on persistent symptoms that are present before the person turns 12 years old and have caused problems in two or more settings, such as school/work, home, or other activities.
Primarily Combined Type
Adults with this type of ADHD often have trouble focusing on tasks and activities that take mental effort for long periods. They may forget important appointments or social plans, or fail to return phone calls and letters.
They may also struggle with organizational skills, such as keeping a schedule or organizing projects and assignments. They can also become easily distracted by extraneous stimuli, such as a passing car or loud music.
This subtype of ADHD is diagnosed when a person meets sufficient criteria for both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms. For example, a person needs to show six of the symptoms listed for each of these subtypes in multiple settings over time.
People with this type of ADHD are more likely to be male than female, and they tend to have higher rates of self-referral in adolescence or adulthood. They also have less symptom remission during adolescence or adulthood than people with inattentive ADHD.
Children and adults with this type of ADHD are often “on the go.” They may get up and move around frequently, even when they’re expected to remain seated. They may walk away from their classroom desk, sit in the back of a restaurant, or leave an assigned post at work. They might also blurt out answers or complete conversations before others are done talking.
Contact us today for more information. We’re here to help you!
