The Difference Between ADD and ADHD in Adults?

All About ADD & ADHD in Adults

Whether you are an adult or a child, you are most likely interested in learning what the difference between ADD and ADHD is. While ADHD symptoms may seem like a sign of inferiority, this condition does not degrade intelligence, and you can find a niche or achieve success in certain areas. The key is finding your strengths and identifying where they will make you most effective.

What is ADD in Adults?

The diagnosis of ADD in adulthood is rarely a complete surprise, but it may carry mixed emotions. However, a family physician can diagnose the disorder and start treatment. Family physicians often suspect ADD but often miss a diagnosis. Family physicians can diagnose and treat ADD by suspecting it, confirming the diagnosis, and initiating an individualized treatment plan. Family physicians can also refer patients with ADD to mental health services, such as psychiatrists or psychologists while providing continuity of care.

One of the primary characteristics of ADD is that it makes it difficult to focus. It can also make it difficult to listen properly during a conversation. People with ADD may find that their minds wander while they listen, making them miss important information and frustrating the other person. This behavior may also affect their ability to develop relationships, as people who do not have ADD will often consider it rude. Some symptoms of ADD include difficulty in organizing daily activities, restlessness, and mood swings.

What is ADHD in Adults?

When an adult is diagnosed with ADHD, the symptoms can be far more disruptive and frustrating. Symptoms of adult ADHD may include last-minute demands, inability to focus, inattention, and disorganization. As with childhood ADHD, symptoms of adult ADHD may not be noticeable until they become more severe, and they can result in many negative labels and consequences. Adults with ADHD often struggle with managing their careers and personal lives, and may even skip important doctor appointments or medical instructions.

Because adults are prone to hiding symptoms of ADHD, getting a proper diagnosis is not easy. ADHD diagnosis is based on observation and sometimes cannot be achieved by concrete means. Often, an adult seeking a diagnosis may already have the condition. The symptoms of ADHD vary widely with age, with younger children displaying hyperactivity while adults may display restlessness and irritability. As with children, medication dosages and frequency may need to be adjusted as needed.

What is Inattentive ADHD in Adults?

If you are an adult who suffers from inattentive ADHD, you’re not alone. Almost four percent of kids suffer from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and it’s even more common among adults. Symptoms of ADHD range from unfinished projects to noisy kids. Sometimes adults with ADHD have trouble sitting still or even start things off by jumping first. Other symptoms are spacey, quiet, or withdrawn.

Inattentive ADHD is more common in boys than in girls, and treatment is critical at any age. Medication can tackle the underlying attention problems while working to develop coping strategies. Of course, not everyone can or wants to take medication. In these cases, therapy can be beneficial. Some people find that sleep and therapy are effective for inattentive ADHD. Despite its severity, it’s important to remember that the best way to deal with inattentive ADHD is through a combination of these approaches.

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What is Hyperactive-Impulsive ADHD in Adults?

What is the difference between the other two types of ADHD? The primary difference between the two subtypes is their severity. Hyperactive-Impulsive ADHD is a more severe form of the condition than the other two. The symptoms of hyperactive-impulsive ADHD in adults are not very different from those of inattentive ADHD. Both subtypes are characterized by impulsivity and hyperactivity.

When diagnosed with this condition, people with this subtype of ADHD have a hard time winding down and are easily distracted. The person with this form of ADHD has a difficult time staying focused and may have to repeat instructions several times to get it right. The symptoms are more prominent in children than adults, and they may interfere with a person’s relationships and work life. They may even experience poor driving records.

What is Combined Type ADHD in Adults?

Combined Type ADHD in adults exhibits two sets of symptoms. People with this condition are easily distracted by extraneous stimuli and are inattentive in most activities. They may forget to do tasks, such as chores or running errands. They may also forget to keep appointments or pay bills. A healthcare provider may recommend a combination of stimulant medications and behavioral adaptations. A healthcare provider may recommend the training to help parents engage their children with ADHD and request behavioral accommodations at school.

Children with the predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type of ADHD may appear impulsive and fidgety. In addition, they may be easily distracted by external stimuli and lose things. People with combined Type ADHD must exhibit symptoms of both types of ADHD. They must also exhibit at least six of the symptoms to be diagnosed. Adults with a combined form of ADHD may exhibit symptoms of both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity.

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