Navigating ADHD: Inattentive vs. Hyperactive Symptoms
Despite some common misconceptions, ADHD is not a “one-size-fits-all” disorder. We’ve already discussed some of the stereotypes and symptoms.
Still, it’s important to note that understanding different types of ADHD can make it easier to get the correct diagnosis and change your management efforts.
ADHD can present itself as inattentive, hyperactive, or a combination of the two.
Inattentive ADHD makes it challenging to stay organized, complete tasks, or maintain focus for extended periods.
Hyperactive ADHD presents itself through excessive energy and restlessness. It can also cause you to act on impulse without thinking things through.
Let’s take a closer look at inattentive vs. hyperactive ADHD symptoms and why understanding these differences can be beneficial.
What Does Inattentive ADHD Look Like?
Inattentive ADHD is characterized by several common symptoms.
You may struggle to pay attention to details, leading to frequent careless mistakes.
As stated above, it can impact how well you’re able to stay organized and even focused on certain things.
This type of ADHD can also cause you to become easily distracted and forgetful.
People with inattentive ADHD are often more likely to lose things, and they tend to avoid tasks that require too much mental effort.
As you might expect, these symptoms can take a toll on several areas of life. They can affect your academic performance, your career, and even your relationships.
Daily tasks can become difficult when you lack focus and organization.
Of course, feeling like you’re “failing” in these areas is likely to affect your mental well-being, too, causing problems like low self-esteem or even anxiety or depression.
What Does Hyperactive ADHD Look Like?
Hyperactive ADHD (sometimes known as impulsive ADHD) is often associated with children who have the disorder. However, it presents itself in adulthood, too, even though adults might display it differently.
People with hyperactive ADHD tend to fidget and feel restless more often than not.
You may talk excessively, blurt out things during conversations, or even interrupt others.
Hyperactive ADHD can also cause you to do things without thinking them through, leading to impulsive behaviors that could potentially be damaging or dangerous.
These symptoms can create many challenges in social situations for children and adults.
You might find it hard to maintain healthy relationships because people often feel frustrated when they are talked over or interrupted.
This can be especially challenging for children in school who are trying to form healthy peer relationships.
Unfortunately, the impulsivity of hyperactive ADHD is a bigger problem, putting you at risk of getting injured or getting into accidents.
The Impact On Your Life
Remember that ADHD symptoms can fall under either of these categories, or you might experience a combination of the two. In fact, combined-type ADHD is the most common presentation.
However, getting the right diagnosis can help you and your doctors determine the best approach for treatment.
ADHD isn’t a cookie-cutter disorder, and it’s important to make sure you understand how your symptoms present so you can focus your efforts on treating them properly.
That treatment often comes from medications and lifestyle changes.
Everything from a balanced diet to physical exercise and sufficient sleep can make it easier to manage ADHD symptoms. But, one of the best ways to not only understand but manage your disorder is with therapy for ADHD.
Therapy can help you develop actionable skills to address some of the challenges associated with this disorder.
If you or your child have been exhibiting any of these symptoms, working with a qualified therapist can make it easier to learn and practice symptom management.
If you’re ready to take that step, please don’t hesitate to contact our office today.
Evaluations for Adults with ADHD
If you’ve been wondering whether ADHD could be part of your story, getting a clear evaluation is the first step toward relief and confidence.
At SoCal Child Psychology in La Jolla, we provide comprehensive ADHD evaluations for adults across San Diego.
Our assessments help you better understand your strengths, challenges, and the supports that can make daily life easier.
Whether you’re navigating work, relationships, or school demands, an accurate diagnosis can open the door to effective strategies. Contact us today to learn more about ADHD testing for adults in San Diego and how we can help you move forward with clarity.