Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a severe behavioral disorder characterized by symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity of various levels. ADHD generally occurs in childhood. In fact, it is one of the most common conditions that occur in children. About 11% of children in the United States between the ages of 4 and 17 have ADHD. This means that approximately 6.4 million children go through this disorder. However, ADHD can also occur in adults.
ADHD has a broad spectrum, depending on the severity of symptoms in different individuals. Therefore, it does not look the same for everyone. There are three different subtypes of ADHD that are categorized based on the symptoms that patients present. Let’s dig deeper into what these subtypes of ADHD mean and how they can be distinguished from one another.
Subtypes of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
1. ADHD, inattentive and distracted type
This subtype of ADHD is primarily characterized by symptoms of inattention and distraction. The individual may also experience signs of hyperactivity. However, they are not hallmarks of the inattentional type ADHD. This type of ADHD is more commonly found in adults and women, according to research by Primary Care Companion.
People with ADHD in general:
- You miss obvious details and can be easily distracted,
- Having trouble concentrating on a task,
- get bored easily,
- Easily lose pens, erasers and other items,
- He doesn’t seem to listen to others,
- Moving slowly and seeming to daydream,
- Having trouble following instructions, and
- Processing of information is slower than others.
Read more: 7 ADHD Fidget Games to Increase Workplace Productivity
2. ADHD, impulsive/hyperactive type
According to Johns Hopkins University, this is the least common type of ADHD subtype. It is characterized by symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity. This type of ADHD is very recognizable and is often diagnosed in children and adults.
People with the impulsive type ADHD generally:
- fidget, feel upset,
- find it difficult to stay up or sit down,
- find it difficult to engage in quiet activities,
- constantly talking,
- act impatiently,
- They act on their role and are not afraid of the consequences of their actions, and
- Blow up inappropriate comments or answers.
3. ADHD, the common type
Having a common type of ADHD means having symptoms that are not exclusively in the inattentive or impulsive type of ADHD. In this type, the individual shows a mixture of the other two subtypes of ADHD.
A diagnosis of the combined type of ADHD requires that a child have six or more symptoms of both the inattentive type and the impulsive type of ADHD. Individuals 17 years of age or older need five or more symptoms to be diagnosed with the combined type of ADHD.
Read more: Asperger vs. ADHD: What are the similarities and differences?
Why is it important to know the different subtypes of ADHD
Knowledge is the truest form of power. This means that the more you know about what ADHD and its subtypes are, the more effective you will be able to help yourself or a loved one. This ultimately means that you will also be able to find the right resources and treatments that can help you.
Knowing what type of ADHD you have means that you will be able to distinguish between ADHD symptoms and traits that are part of your personality. People often have some form of ADHD, but spend years thinking it’s part of their personality. Understanding ADHD and its subtypes keeps you informed and guides you to find proactive solutions.
conclusion:
Most children with ADHD eventually recover and no longer have significant active symptoms by age 20. However, ADHD can extend into a lifelong condition for many people without treatment and resource problems. Early detection and appropriate professional help are the keys to proper recovery for ADHD patients.
Therapy is an effective tool to combat ADHD among individuals. Accessing treatment has become easier with the advent of online treatment platforms. To get acquainted with the most convenient and affordable online treatment platforms, click here.
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