Types of ADHD

Healthcare providers generally diagnose ADHD using four presentation types.

Inattentive Presentation

People with this type often struggle with staying focused, completing tasks, and organizing materials or schedules. They may appear forgetful or easily distracted but may not show signs of hyperactivity.

Hyperactive Impulsive Presentation

This type involves difficulty sitting still, excessive talking, acting without thinking, and interrupting others. People with this presentation may have fewer challenges with attention but show more outward restlessness.

Combined Presentation

This is the most common type. Individuals show significant symptoms of both inattention and hyperactivity or impulsivity.

Unspecified Presentation

This diagnosis is used when symptoms are severe and disruptive but do not neatly fit the criteria for the other categories.

Understanding the type of ADHD helps guide treatment and support strategies.

Symptoms and What They Look Like

ADHD symptoms fall into two broad groups: inattention and hyperactivity or impulsivity. Many children occasionally display these behaviors, but ADHD symptoms are more frequent, more intense, and affect daily functioning across multiple settings.

Inattention Symptoms

• Avoids tasks that require sustained focus
• Makes frequent mistakes
• Forgets daily responsibilities
• Easily distracted by surroundings or internal thoughts
• Struggles to organize belongings or steps in a task
• Loses items like school papers or toys
• Appears to daydream when spoken to
• Starts tasks but does not finish them

Hyperactivity and Impulsivity Symptoms

• Fidgets or taps hands and feet
• Difficulty staying seated
• Struggles to play quietly
• Interrupts conversations or activities
• Acts without considering consequences
• Runs or climbs when expected to stay still
• Seems constantly in motion
• Talks excessively or blurts out answers

These behaviors can be challenging for children and families, but understanding them is the first step toward effective support.

What Causes ADHD

Research shows that ADHD is genetic. Many children with ADHD have a biological parent or sibling with the condition. ADHD is considered a form of neurodivergence, meaning the brain develops and functions differently.

Scientists continue to study how ADHD affects the brain. Current research suggests that the frontal lobe, which is responsible for planning, organizing, and managing attention, functions differently in individuals with ADHD. This makes directed attention more difficult and energy intensive.

On the other hand, people with ADHD often excel at automatic attention, which allows them to hyperfocus on activities they enjoy. This can lead to exceptional creativity, problem solving, and mastery of skills.

Potential Complications Without Support

Untreated ADHD can affect emotional well-being, academic performance, and social relationships. Without proper support, individuals may experience low self-esteem, difficulty keeping up in school, challenges with friendships, increased risk of substance use, accidents, or difficulty maintaining employment.

Early recognition and support can significantly improve long-term outcomes.

Does ADHD Go Away?

ADHD is a lifelong condition, but symptoms can change over time. Some individuals experience fewer impairments as they grow older, especially with effective treatment and coping strategies. Others continue to experience symptoms into adulthood.

The goal of treatment is not to cure ADHD but to help individuals manage symptoms and build on their strengths.

How ADHD Is Treated

Behavioral Interventions

Behavioral approaches help children build practical skills and improve daily functioning.

Parent training teaches caregivers how to create predictable routines, encourage positive behaviors, respond calmly and consistently, and break tasks into manageable steps.

Social skills groups help children practice sharing, taking turns, managing emotions, and communicating effectively in a supportive environment.

Medication

Medication can help improve attention, reduce impulsivity, and support emotional regulation. Providers monitor each child closely and adjust treatment as needed.

For children ages four to five, behavioral interventions are recommended before medication. For older children, adolescents, and adults, a combination of medication and behavioral strategies is often most effective.

Other Therapies

Traditional talk therapy or play therapy may not treat ADHD directly, but they can be helpful when co-occurring conditions such as anxiety or depression are present.

When to Talk to a Healthcare Provider

If you notice symptoms of ADHD in your child or in yourself, it is important to speak with a qualified healthcare provider. A provider can evaluate symptoms, rule out other conditions, and recommend appropriate next steps.

Routine well checks are also an opportunity to discuss developmental or behavioral concerns.

A Note From Conscientia Health

ADHD is a brain difference, not a deficit. Every child and adult with ADHD has a unique experience. Symptoms may look different from one person to another and may change over time.

What matters most is understanding, support, and access to compassionate care.

If you believe you or your child may have ADHD, you are not alone. Our team is here to answer your questions, guide you through the evaluation process, and help you understand the best ways to support your family’s well-being.