What are the different types of ADHD (and how to treat them)?
Clinically reviewed by Dr. Chris Mosunic, PhD, RD, CDCES, MBA
Learn about the three types of ADHD and the signs and symptoms for each. Plus, 10 mindful tips to help you manage the different varieties of ADHD.
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental condition that affects children and adults. It can have a variety of symptoms, including patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that are more severe or frequent than typical behaviors for a person's age. These symptoms can interfere with daily life, affecting academic achievement, work performance, and social relationships. Understanding the different types of ADHD and the specific signs and symptoms associated with each type can help you seek appropriate management and support.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a condition that impacts the brain's executive functions, affecting the ability to regulate attention, control impulses, and manage activity levels. It's one of the most common neurodevelopmental differences experienced by children, and it can persist into adulthood for many people. The symptoms of ADHD, like inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, can vary.
This condition can significantly affect a person's ability to succeed in school, maintain employment, and build and sustain personal relationships, so a diagnosis —even later in life — is often helpful. This involves a thorough evaluation that considers a range of symptoms and behaviors over time, and it often requires input from several sources, including family members, teachers, and healthcare providers.
The exact cause of ADHD remains unclear, but research suggests a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurological factors. Treatment for ADHD can involve medication, behavioral therapy, education, and support. Mindfulness exercises can also be beneficial.
It’s important to remember that people diagnosed with ADHD don’t need to be “cured.” Many people live (and thrive) with ADHD, and neurological and behavioral differences should be celebrated, embraced, and understood.
What are the different types of ADHD?
Understanding the different types of ADHD can help experts tailor treatments and support for each person. There are three main types of ADHD, each defined by its main symptoms.
1. Hyperactive-impulsive
People with this type of ADHD primarily show hyperactive and impulsive behavior. This can include a constant need for movement, an inability to stay still, and acting on impulse, which can lead to difficulty in social and academic settings. People who have this type may struggle when required to sit quietly or wait their turn, and find it more difficult to consider the consequences of their actions.
2. Inattentive
Previously known as attention deficit disorder (ADD), this type of ADHD is characterized by significant difficulties with attention and concentration. People who have this type may struggle to stay focused, follow detailed instructions, or complete tasks. This can result in challenges with organization, forgetfulness, and distraction. Such symptoms often lead to academic struggles or issues at work.
3. Combined
The combined type of ADHD is the most common form of ADHD. It occurs when people have symptoms of both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity. This means they experience a mix of challenges, like difficulty focusing, being easily distracted, and displaying hyperactivity and impulsive behavior.
Hyperactive-impulsive type of ADHD: signs and symptoms
The hyperactive-impulsive type of ADHD is characterized by a consistent display of excessive energy and impulsive actions. People who have this type may exhibit the following signs:
Excessive fidgeting and squirming: They may have an uncontrollable urge to move and struggle to stay still. This can be particularly noticeable in settings where sitting quietly is expected, such as in classrooms or during meals.
Difficulty remaining seated: People with this type of ADHD may stand up, run around, or climb even when it’s inappropriate or unsafe to do so.
Excessive talking: They may interrupt often and speak at inappropriate times.
Impatience: Waiting for their turn in games or group situations can be difficult for those with hyper-impulsive ADHD.
Difficulty with quiet activities: Engaging in activities quietly, such as reading, doing homework, or even meditation can be challenging.
Acting without consideration of consequences: Impulsivity can lead to risky behaviors, impulsive decisions, or socially inappropriate actions.
Inattentive type of ADHD: signs and symptoms
The inattentive type of ADHD focuses on challenges primarily related to attention and concentration. People who have this type may display the following signs and symptoms:
Easily distracted: Minor distractions that others might easily ignore, such as background noises or unrelated thoughts, can significantly disrupt focus during work, reading, or leisure activities.
Forgetfulness in daily activities: They may forget to complete tasks, lose things regularly, or overlook details.
Difficulty organizing tasks and activities: Managing time effectively and meeting deadlines can be overwhelming. This can result in incomplete tasks and procrastination.
Avoidance of tasks requiring sustained mental effort: Activities that demand focused mental engagement, such as homework, extensive reading, or detailed projects can cause feelings of avoidance due to the substantial effort required to maintain focus.
Difficulty following through on instructions: People with this type may not finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace because of difficulties in maintaining attention.
Combined type of ADHD: signs and symptoms
The combined type of ADHD is the most common form of the disorder and involves symptoms of both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity. It can bring a wide range of challenges that can affect every aspect of life, from academic performance and work productivity to social interactions and self-esteem. The diverse symptoms need a nuanced approach to diagnosis and management.
Presence of both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms: This combination can lead to challenges in managing daily tasks and maintaining relationships.
Struggles with organization and time management: Trouble organizing tasks, prioritizing responsibilities, and managing time effectively can result in missed deadlines, forgotten appointments, and feelings of overwhelm.
Difficulty staying focused and sitting still: They may struggle to remain seated and concentrate on tasks for extended periods of time, especially around bedtime.
Impulsive behaviors and decision making: Making decisions without considering the consequences, from interrupting conversations to engaging in risky behaviors.
Frequent shifts in attention: People who have this type may struggle with finishing tasks due to their tendency to be distracted by new and potentially more stimulating activities.
Challenges in social interactions: The combination of impulsivity and difficulty in maintaining attention can affect social relationships. Interrupting others, having trouble listening to conversations, or struggling with social cues can lead to misunderstandings and conflicts.
Variable performance in academic or work settings: Changes in attention and impulse control can lead to inconsistent performance. A person might excel in areas of interest but struggle significantly elsewhere.
How to manage different types of ADHD: 10 mindful tips
Managing the different types of ADHD requires a thoughtful and personalized approach, taking into account the unique challenges of each type. Mindfulness, alongside other strategies, can help manage symptoms effectively. It’s important to remember that what helps one person manage their ADHD may not work for another. Patience, perseverance, and a willingness to explore different strategies can help find the most effective ways to navigate ADHD.
1. Establish a structured routine
Consistency can help provide a predictable environment that reduces the need for constant decision-making. A structured daily routine can help manage time effectively, reducing forgetfulness, and improving task completion.
💙 Build a new routine by incorporating four different strengths of ADHD with the help of the The Good That’s Already Here meditation.
2. Break tasks into smaller steps
Large tasks can be overwhelming and hard to start for someone with ADHD. Breaking tasks into smaller, more digestible steps can help maintain focus and provide a clear path forward.
3. Use tools for organization
ADHD is often marked by forgetfulness. Planners, apps, and alarms can be helpful tools in keeping you focused and helping you stay on track.
💙 Struggling with juggling everything that’s on your to-do list or on your mind? Listen to Jeff Warren’s Freestyle Focus, a meditation that you can do wherever, whenever, and become more organized.
4. Practice mindfulness and meditation
Mindfulness exercises can enhance focus, reduce impulsivity, and promote calm. Regular meditation can help improve attention span and emotional regulation, making it easier to manage ADHD symptoms.
💙 Learn to roll with your emotions instead of stopping them in Feeling All the Feels, a mindfulness meditation specifically made for people with ADHD.
5. Exercise regularly
Physical activity can be beneficial for brain health and help improve concentration, mood, and energy levels. It can also provide a healthy outlet for excess energy, particularly for those with the hyperactive-impulsive type of ADHD.
💙 Shake out the excess energy with Mel Mah by Working Out the Wiggles, a guided exercise that’s fun (and helpful) for both kids and adults with extra energy.
6. Create a quiet and clutter-free workspace
A dedicated, clutter-free workspace can bring focus to work and study, helping to minimize distractions.
7. Seek professional guidance
A therapist or healthcare provider can provide personalized strategies and support, including exploring medication options and behavioral therapy.
8. Practice relaxation techniques
Techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, and progressive muscle relaxation can help manage stress and anxiety, which often accompany ADHD. These practices promote relaxation and can improve overall wellbeing.
💙 Practice progressive muscle relaxation in order to Create Rest and Relaxation during this 3-minute session.
9. Set realistic goals
Achievable, short-term goals can help build confidence and motivation. Recognize and celebrate progress, no matter how small, to maintain motivation and a positive outlook.
💙 Get unstuck in your relationship with goal-setting and learn how to Be Kind to the Mind to make space for realistic goals to be discovered.
10. Build a supportive network
Connecting with others who understand the challenges of ADHD can provide emotional support, encouragement, and practical advice. Support groups, both in-person and online, can be valuable resources, as can your trusted friends and family.
💙 Discover how being open and honest about your diagnosis can build stronger bonds with your friends and family with the help of this short story, On Vulnerability.
Types of ADHD FAQs
What are the 7 ADHD types?
While the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) recognizes only three primary types of ADHD (inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive, and combined), some discussions in the ADHD community and among professionals may refer to subtypes or presentations that highlight specific symptom patterns or severity. However, these are not officially classified types within the DSM-5.
What are the 3 types of ADHD?
The three types of ADHD recognized by the DSM-5 are:
Inattentive: Characterized by significant difficulties with attention, such as distractibility, forgetfulness, and difficulty organizing tasks, people with this type may struggle to follow instructions or pay close attention to details.
Hyperactive-impulsive: Excessive hyperactivity and impulsivity, including fidgeting, interrupting, and acting without much consideration for consequences, those with this type may have a hard time sitting still and waiting their turn.
Combined: People who meet the criteria for both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity exhibit a mix of symptoms from both categories, making this the most common type of ADHD.
What is non-hyper ADHD?
Non-hyper ADHD refers to the inattentive type of ADHD, in which the primary challenges are related to attention and concentration rather than hyperactivity or impulsivity. People with this type may struggle with maintaining focus, organizing tasks, and following through on instructions, without the hyperactive behaviors associated with other forms of ADHD.
Is ADD just ADHD without hyperactivity?
The term ADD was used in the past to describe what is now known as the primarily inattentive type of ADHD. The renaming to ADHD and the inclusion of types was part of an effort to more accurately reflect the range of symptoms people may experience. ADD is now considered an outdated term, and ADHD without hyperactivity refers to the inattentive type, which focuses on challenges primarily related to attention and concentration without the presence of significant hyperactive or impulsive behaviors.
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