Written By: Taylor Aiona, LCSW 118192
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California, I am seeing an increase in awareness about ADHD. Which is great! Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affects both children and adults. It comes in different forms. We may hear more about the Hyperactive type due to beliefs about ADHD. But there are two types: Inattentive Type and Hyperactive Type. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of ADHD can help you understand those who might be struggling with it. Maybe you’ll notice signs in yourself and seek support.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects how a person focuses, stays on task, and controls their impulses. We call this neuro-divergent. We hope that most are diagnosed in childhood, because that is the time when most are, but that’s not always the case. There are many adults walking about with undiagnosed ADHD. ADHD is divided into three types:
Inattentive Type
Hyperactive-Impulsive Type
Combined Type
Inattentive Type ADHD
People with Inattentive Type ADHD often seem to be daydreaming or “in their own world.” They might have trouble following through with tasks or paying attention to details. Here are some common signs:
Signs and Symptoms in Males
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Easily Distracted: Boys with inattentive ADHD might start a task but quickly get distracted by something else.
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Forgetfulness: They often forget daily activities, such as homework or chores.
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Disorganization: Their backpacks, desks, and rooms might be very messy.
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Trouble Following Instructions: They may not follow through with instructions or might seem like they aren’t listening.
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Careless Mistakes: They might make simple errors in schoolwork or other activities because they don’t pay close attention to details.
Signs and Symptoms in Females
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Daydreaming: Girls with inattentive ADHD might spend a lot of time daydreaming or seeming spaced out.
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Difficulty Staying Focused: They might have trouble staying on task, especially with things they find boring.
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Quiet and Shy: Girls are often quieter and might not cause disruptions, which makes their symptoms harder to notice.
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Trouble with Organization: Just like boys, girls might struggle to keep things organized.
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Slow Work Pace: They might take longer to complete tasks because they get easily distracted.
Hyperactive-Impulsive Type ADHD
People with Hyperactive-Impulsive Type ADHD are always on the go. They might act without thinking and have trouble sitting still. Here are the signs to look for:
Signs and Symptoms in Males
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Excessive Talking: Boys with hyperactive ADHD might talk a lot, even when it’s not appropriate.
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Fidgeting and Squirming: They often can’t sit still and might tap their feet or squirm in their seats.
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Interrupting Others: They might interrupt conversations or activities because they can’t wait their turn.
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Impulsivity: They might do things without thinking about the consequences, like climbing on things or running into the street.
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Trouble Waiting: Boys often have a hard time waiting in line or for their turn in games.
Signs and Symptoms in Females
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Excessive Talking: Girls with hyperactive ADHD might also talk a lot, often interrupting others.
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Fidgeting: They might fidget with their hands or feet and have trouble staying seated.
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Impulsive Actions: Girls might act without thinking, like blurting out answers in class.
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Emotional Outbursts: They might have strong emotional reactions and mood swings.
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Trouble Waiting Their Turn: Like boys, girls can also have difficulty waiting their turn in activities.
Differences in Presentation Between Males and Females
ADHD symptoms can look different in boys and girls. Boys are more likely to show hyperactive-impulsive symptoms, which are easier to spot. They might be labeled as “troublemakers” because of their disruptive behavior. Girls often have inattentive symptoms that are quieter and can be mistaken for laziness or shyness.
It’s important to note that hyperactive ADHD can present itself as internal hyperactivity. This may look like intense anxiety and emotional struggles.
Why do These Differences Matter?
Understanding these differences is important because girls are often underdiagnosed with ADHD. Many women are not diagnosed during childhood and learn bout their diagnosis later into adulthood. They might not get the help they need because their symptoms aren’t as noticeable until the emotional consequences of not being diagnosed become present. They may be now reaching out for support for high levels of anxiety and depression symptoms.
Boys tend to be diagnosed earlier because their behavior is more disruptive and harder to ignore.
Boys tend to be diagnosed earlier because their behavior is more disruptive and harder to ignore.
Getting Help
If you notice these signs in your child or yourself, it’s important to seek help. Undiagnosed and untreated ADHD can cause severe distress throughout ones life. ADHD can be managed with the right support. This may include therapy, medication, and strategies for staying organized and focused.
Talking to a Doctor
The first step is to talk to a doctor or a mental health professional. They can help determine if the symptoms are due to ADHD or another condition. A proper diagnosis is key to getting the right treatment.
Therapy
Therapy can help people with ADHD learn new ways to manage their symptoms. For children, this might involve working with parents and teachers to create a supportive environment. Adults can also benefit from therapy to develop strategies for staying organized and managing time.
Medication
Medication is another option for managing ADHD symptoms. Stimulant medications are commonly prescribed and can help improve focus and control impulsive behavior. Non-stimulant medications are also available and might be a better option for some people.
Supporting Someone with ADHD
If you know someone with ADHD, your support can make a big difference. Here’s how you can help:
Be Patient: Understand that managing ADHD is a challenge and be patient with their progress.
Offer Encouragement: Positive reinforcement can boost their confidence and motivation.
Help with Organization: Assist in creating organizational systems, like planners or to-do lists.
Be a Good Listener: Sometimes, just listening can help them feel understood and supported.
Learn About ADHD: Educate yourself about ADHD to better understand their experience and needs.
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of ADHD is the first step in getting the right support and treatment. With the right strategies and support, people with ADHD can thrive and lead successful, fulfilling lives. If you suspect that you or someone you know has ADHD, don’t hesitate to seek professional help.
