Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) vs Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Symptoms, Diagnosis, & Treatments

Symptoms of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Since ADD and ADHD are simply different manifestations of the same condition, there is considerable overlap in their presenting symptoms. The most widely recognized signs and symptoms of each are:

Types of ADHD

There are three different types of ADHD, depending on which types of symptoms are strongest in the individual:

• Predominantly Inattentive Presentation: It is hard for the individual to organize or finish a task, pay attention to details, or follow instructions or conversations. The person is easily distracted or forgets details of daily routines.
• Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation: The person fidgets and talks a lot. It is hard to sit still for long (e.g., for a meal or while doing homework). Smaller children may run, jump or climb constantly. The individual feels restless and has trouble with impulsivity. Someone impulsively interrupts others, grabs things from people, or speaks at inappropriate times. It is hard for the person to wait their turn or listen to directions. A person with impulsiveness may have more accidents and injuries than others.
• Combined Presentation: Symptoms of the above two types are equally present in the person.

When Does Normal Behavior Become Attention Deficit Disorder (ADHD)?

At some point in their lives, nearly everyone experiences symptoms that are similar to ADHD. You probably don’t have ADHD if your problems are new or have only happened rarely. To receive a diagnosis of ADHD, symptoms must be severe enough to impair daily functioning in more than one area of life. These bothersome symptoms have been around since they were young children.

Due to the similarities between ADHD symptoms and those of other conditions, such as anxiety and mood disorders, a correct diagnosis of ADHD in adults can be challenging. Additionally, many adults who have ADHD also suffer from other mental health disorders, such as depression or anxiety.

Does Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in adults look different?

Adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder may experience symptoms differently compared to children. While some symptoms may persist from childhood into adulthood, there are also unique challenges that adult ADD faces. Here are some key considerations:

• Recognition and Diagnosis: ADHD symptoms in adults can be overlooked or misattributed to other causes. Inattentive, less disruptive, and more internal symptoms may go unrecognized, especially in girls and women. This can result in a delayed diagnosis or individuals seeking support only when encountering difficulties in various areas.
• Improved Coping Skills: With age, individuals with ADHD may develop better-coping mechanisms and strategies to manage their symptoms. However, these skills may not be effectively utilized without proper diagnosis and treatment, leading to ongoing challenges.
• Impact of Responsibilities: ADHD and ADD in adults often have increased responsibilities in various domains of life, such as work, relationships, and finances. This can amplify the impact of ADHD symptoms. Difficulties with organization, time management, and impulsivity can have more significant consequences, affecting job performance, financial stability, and interpersonal relationships.
• Co-occurring Mental Health Conditions: Adults with ADHD may also experience co-occurring mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. These conditions can interact with ADHD symptoms, exacerbating challenges and affecting overall well-being.
• Environmental and Life Factors: Stressors and demands in adulthood, such as career pressures, financial obligations, and relationship dynamics, can contribute to changes in ADHD symptoms. Increased stress levels and demanding environments may make it more difficult to manage symptoms effectively.

ADD vs ADHD Disorders Statistics

When the American Psychiatric Association released a revised edition in 1987, they combined these two subtypes into one condition, ADHD. Adults can have ADHD too. Nearly 2.6 percent of adults globally have persistent ADHD from childhood, while about 6.7 percent of adults have symptoms of adult ADHD.

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How ADHD is Diagnosed, ADHD vs ADD Test

The following are typical steps in any assessment process:

• Clinical Interview: The healthcare provider will ask in-depth questions about the patient’s symptoms, medical history, and family history, among other things.
• Rating Scales and Questionnaires: ADHD symptoms can be measured with standardized rating scales and questionnaires. Individuals’ parents, teachers, and other influential people who have observed their behavior may also fill out these instruments.
• Diagnostic Criteria: The health care professional will compare the person’s symptoms and how well they are doing with the diagnostic criteria in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). Predominant inattentive, hyperactive/impulsive, and combined are the three subtypes of ADHD.
• Medical Exam: A physical exam may be done to rule out any underlying health problems that might be causing the symptoms.

WARNING: no online quiz or self-test can give you a firm diagnosis of ADHD or ADD. They could be useful for quick screening, but a proper diagnosis requires the expertise of a medical professional.

ADHD vs ADD Infographic

While predominantly inattentive ADHD is a subtype of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), the term attention deficit disorder (ADD), once used to describe it, is now regarded as archaic by medical professionals.

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Inattentive ADHD image link: https://welevelupwa.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Inattentive-ADHD-1024×1024.jpg

When to See a Doctor For Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Medication (ADD Medication)

Talk to your doctor about possible ADHD if any of the symptoms listed in the article are a persistent problem for you.ADHD can be diagnosed and treated by a wide range of medical professionals. Find a doctor who has experience treating adults for ADHD.

If you think you have Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and are considering using medication to treat it. We Level Up WA (Washington) is a good option to consider when the following symptoms warrant medical attention and ADD medication evaluation:

• Suppose inattention, hyperactivity, or impulsivity have been causing significant problems in your daily life, at work, with your relationships, or overall well-being. In that case, it may be time to consult a professional.
• If you’re having trouble at work or school, if your responsibilities are piling up, if your relationships are deteriorating, or if you’re falling short of your personal goals, it’s time to consider getting help for your ADHD.
• Suppose you have tried non-medication interventions like therapy or lifestyle changes for managing your ADHD symptoms in the past and have not seen significant improvement. In that case, your doctor may recommend trying medication.

Medication may be considered part of a comprehensive treatment plan for those who also suffer from co-occurring mental health conditions like anxiety or depression, which can have a multiplicative effect on the severity of ADHD symptoms.

ADHD and ADD Medication

Psychostimulants, antidepressants, and non-stimulant drugs are the three most common types of ADHD or ADD medication. This medication for anxiety and ADD has shown promise in helping people with inattentive ADD maintain focus and attention.

Psychostimulants: Psychostimulants impact neurotransmitters in the brain, which may help ADD patients with anxiety feel more energized and attentive. The extended-release form (rather than the immediate-release form) is typically advised. Amphétamines like Adderall (Adderall for ADD vs ADHD) and methylphenidates like Ritalin and Concerta are two examples of psychostimulants.

Antidepressants: Antidepressants also affect neurotransmitters in the brain, so they may help those with adult ADD and anxiety improve their mood and focus. Common antidepressants for ADHD inattentive symptoms include Wellbutrin (bupropion) and Effexor (venlafaxine).

Non-stimulant drugs: For some who experience undesirable stimulant side effects, ADD medicines can be beneficial. Strattera (atomoxetine) and Intuniv (guanfacine) are prescribed for anxiety and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, respectively. Norepinephrine is a neurotransmitter that non-stimulants may affect and is used for emotional regulation and task improvement.

Best ADD Medication for Adults with Anxiety

ADHD and ADD share some symptoms but are otherwise distinct disorders. Hyperactivity is not a symptom of attention deficit disorder (ADD). Modern diagnostic criteria lump ADD’s symptoms together with those of inattentive ADHD rather than listing ADD as a distinct disorder. Individuals diagnosed with ADHD or ADD may struggle in school and later in life.

Once a doctor has made an accurate diagnosis, treatment may include diet, exercise, and medication advice. Seeking medical attention is a good idea if any of the aforementioned symptoms prevent the individual from succeeding academically, professionally, or relationally.

Medication and therapy sessions are commonly used to treat adult ADHD and ADD. The best place to begin treatment will depend on the severity of your symptoms. Treating the underlying cause of a secondary mental health condition can help alleviate symptoms of the primary disorder.

Popular Attention Deficit Disorder FAQs