Am I Your Type? Subtypes of ADHD

Each one of us is a unique individual, so when it comes to ADHD, no single diagnosis or treatment fits everyone. In fact, there are different flavors of ADHD—subtle differences that distinguish cases into subtypes.

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Wondering about what type of ADHD you have? Here’s some guidance..

1. Inattentive Type
If you have most of the symptoms listed below and very few of the symptoms of hyperactive-impulsive ADHD (see the list following this one), you likely have the inattentive type.

• Overlooking or missing details, making careless mistakes at work, or during other activities
• Having problems sustaining attention in tasks, including conversations, lectures, or lengthy readings
• Seeming not to listen when spoken to directly
• Not following through on instructions and failing to finish chores, or duties in the workplace or starting tasks but quickly losing focus and getting easily sidetracked
• Having problems organizing tasks and activities, such as what to do in sequence, keeping materials and belongings in order, having messy work and poor time management, and failing to meet deadlines
• Avoiding or disliking tasks that require sustained mental effort, such as preparing reports, completing forms or reviewing lengthy papers
• Losing things necessary for tasks or activities, such as books, tools, wallets, keys, paperwork, eyeglasses, and cell phones
• Being easily distracted by unrelated thoughts or stimuli
• Being forgetful in daily activities, such as chores, errands, returning calls, and keeping appointments

2. Hyperactive-Impulsive Type
If you have most of the symptoms in the list below and very few of the symptoms of inattentive type above, you likely have hyperactive-impulsive ADHD.

• Fidgeting and squirming in your seat
• Leaving your seat in a situation where staying seated is expected, such as in the office
• Running or dashing around or climbing in situations where it is inappropriate or often feeling restless
• Being unable to engage in hobbies quietly
• Being constantly in motion or “on the go,” or acting as if “driven by a motor”
• Talking nonstop
• Blurting out an answer before a question has been completed
• Finishing other people’s sentences, or speaking without waiting for a turn in conversation
• Having trouble waiting your turn
• Interrupting or intruding on others, for example in conversations, games, or activities

3. Combined Type
If you have a good number of symptoms in both lists, you might have the combined type of ADHD. In fact, this is the most common subtype.

Managing Your Type

In managing your ADHD, a combination of medication and behavioral therapy will likely provide the best results. Depending on your symptoms and any other medical conditions you may have, your psychiatrist might prescribe stimulants, non-stimulants, or antidepressants.

Therapy can help you identify what you would like to change and create strategies for modifying and achieving your goals. At Cloud Counseling, I find that Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) can help people with any of the three types of ADHD. Nothing's off limits!