ADD vs ADHD Explained. ADHD vs ADD Causes. ADD vs ADHD Adults Risk Factors. ADD vs ADHD in Adults Treatment & ADD vs ADHD Symptoms.

Understanding ADD vs ADHD Symptoms

While diagnosis criteria remain the same regardless of age, adults may face different challenges than children when managing their condition.

Adults with undiagnosed or untreated ADHD may struggle with work productivity, relationships, time management skills, or financial issues due to difficulties concentrating and staying organized. It’s essential for adults who have been diagnosed with either form of ADHD to receive proper treatment and support to manage their symptoms.

The signs and symptoms of ADHD and ADD in adults can be similar, but some key differences exist. People with ADHD tend to be more prone to impulsive behavior, procrastination, and risk-taking than those with ADD, who are more likely to be inattentive, “space out,” or become easily distracted. People with ADD often have difficulty focusing on tasks that require sustained attention, while ADHD adults may have trouble transitioning from one job to another.

Adults with ADHD also may feel restless and have difficulty staying still, while those with ADD may move slowly and have problems getting started on tasks. ADHD adults can have difficulty listening to others or following instructions, while those with ADD may have trouble organizing, remembering details, and managing their time. Both can lead to disorganization, making it hard to keep up with work, school, relationships, and home responsibilities.

ADHD vs ADD Diagnosis

ADHD is a disorder that is diagnosed clinically and does not have any specific laboratory or radiologic tests. Neuropsychological tests are not as sensitive for diagnosing the condition; hence, the disorder should be diagnosed based on the patient’s history.

The evaluation of the patient with ADHD is usually done with different rating scales and multiple informants, who may include teachers, guardians, and parents. A clinician must look for other disorders that may cause a person’s symptoms. It should not be diagnosed in the context of symptoms from another condition, for example, a psychotic episode or manic episode.

ADHD includes combined, inattentive, and hyperactive-impulsive type presentations, whereas ADD is limited to the inattentive presentation of this condition. The critical similarity between the two is that both require difficulty staying focused and sustaining concentration over time.

So, how do therapists differentiate ADHD vs ADD? They examine the primary differences from the varied symptoms exhibited. ADHD is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders of childhood. It is usually first diagnosed in childhood and often lasts into adulthood.

ADHD is the official medical term for the condition, regardless of whether a patient demonstrates symptoms of hyperactivity. ADD is a now-outdated term typically used to describe inattentive-type ADHD, which has symptoms including disorganization, lack of focus, and forgetfulness. The term ADD first appeared in the third edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-3), a reference manual that helps mental health professionals diagnose mental health conditions.

For adult ADD vs ADHD, experts separated the condition into two subtypes:

• ADD with hyperactivity.
• ADD without hyperactivity.

When the American Psychiatric Association (APA) released a revised edition in 1987, they combined these two subtypes (ADD vs ADHD meaning) into one condition as ADHD.

ADD vs ADHD Test

Try our interactive online quiz designed to assess and provide insights into attention deficit disorder (ADD), helping you better understand your cognitive patterns, attentional focus, and potential challenges.

Engage with our user-friendly assessment to uncover valuable information about your attentional functioning and receive personalized recommendations for navigating your daily tasks and activities more effectively.

Nevertheless, the best way to diagnose ADHD and ADD is to speak to a doctor or mental health professional. A professional can assess your symptoms and behavior and provide a diagnosis and treatment plan. Specific medical tests, such as a neuropsychological assessment or neurodevelopmental disorder screening test, can help diagnose and treat ADD and ADHD.

Learn More:

• Do I Have ADD Quiz? Take Our Free ADD Quiz To Find Out
• What is Inattentive ADHD? Types, Symptoms, & Inattentive ADHD Treatment
• Free ADHD Quiz. Do I Have ADHD Quiz? Online ADHD Quiz for Adults.
• Is ADHD Genetic? What You Need To Know
• Object Permanence ADHD, Adult Challenges and How To Cope
• ADHD Masking, Symptoms, Examples, & Treatment
• Best ADHD Medication for Adults With Anxiety
• How To Find ADHD Doctors Near Me? Effective ADHD Therapy Options.
• Is ADHD a Mental Illness? Understanding the Symptoms
• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), ADHD Treatments, Causes, Symptoms, Effects & Medications

Finding Help For ADD and ADHD

Attention-deficit disorder (ADD) vs attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects one’s focus on schoolwork, social interactions, and regular activities like getting dressed or working. Learn the symptoms of ADHD and how to get help with ADHD treatment. Mood disorders, anxiety disorders, personality disorders, and dissociative disorders can all show similar signs to ADD or ADHD.

Mental health rehabilitation can be beneficial in addressing and managing the challenges associated with ADHD, providing tailored strategies and support for individuals to improve their overall well-being and functioning.

Inattentive ADHD Symptoms 

Inattentive ADHD is one of three categories of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) diagnosis. People with the ADHD inattentive type are often quieter, daydream a lot, easily get distracted and forget essential things, have a hard time staying focused, and may seem disorganized. Treatment for inattentive ADHD includes lifestyle changes, medication, cognitive behavioral therapy, coping strategies, and supportive resources.

Common symptoms of inattentive ADHD in women and men include the following:

• Difficulty paying attention.
• Forgetting things easily.
• Need help completing tasks.
• Disorganization.
• Procrastination.
• Difficulty focusing on one study for more than a few minutes.
• Difficulty multitasking.
• Difficulty following through on commitments.

ADD vs ADHD in females may exhibit more internalized symptoms, such as daydreaming or difficulty with organization, which can be overlooked compared to the more overt hyperactivity seen in men. These gender-specific variations highlight the importance of recognizing and addressing ADHD symptoms in a manner that considers the unique ways they may present in women and men.

Inattentive ADHD in Women

Women with inattentive ADHD may experience unique symptoms, such as difficulty managing relationships, emotions, and multitasking. Women with this type of ADHD may struggle to recognize patterns, make intuitive leaps, and deal with abstract ideas. Women with inattentive ADHD may also experience more stress daily, often exacerbating their symptoms and making them harder to manage. Treatment for inattentive ADHD in women includes lifestyle changes.

ADHD in adult women is often underdiagnosed, as there are differences in how female adults present with symptoms. Women with ADHD may experience more distraction than men, and the intrusive thinking associated with their ADHD may manifest more as rumination rather than impulsivity.

Primary ADHD and ADD Difference

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is characterized by difficulty concentrating, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Attention deficit disorder (ADD) is also characterized by difficulty with concentration but does not include hyperactivity or impulsivity.

With the introduction of the DSM-5 in 2013, both ADD and ADHD are now considered subtypes of a single condition.

ADD in Adult Men

ADHD in men is often characterized by difficulties in maintaining focus and attention, impulsive decision-making, and challenges with organization and time management.

Hyperactivity symptoms that may have been evident in childhood can manifest as a sense of restlessness or inner agitation in adulthood. These symptoms can impact various aspects of life, from work and relationships to overall well-being.

In adult men, ADHD can manifest through the following signs and symptoms:

• Challenges with sustained attention, making it difficult to focus on tasks.
• Impulsivity leads to hasty decisions and difficulty in self-regulation.
• Organizational difficulties affecting time management and task completion.
• Restlessness or inner agitation.
• Inconsistent performance and frequent procrastination.
• Difficulty in maintaining relationships due to communication and attentiveness issues.
• Increased risk of developing comorbid conditions such as anxiety and depression.
• Potential coping mechanisms like excessive caffeine consumption or high-risk behaviors.
• Varied employment history due to struggles with maintaining consistent work performance.
• Challenges in managing personal finances and responsibilities.

Understanding these distinctive characteristics is essential for accurate diagnosis and tailored interventions for ADHD in adult men.

30%

Inattentive ADHD, also known as ADHD predominantly inattentive presentation, is estimated to affect around 25% to 30% of individuals diagnosed with ADHD.

Source: NIMH

1 in 5

In 2020, nearly one in five US adults had a mental illness, including ADHD.

Source: NIMH

Top 5 Signs of ADHD in Adults

ADHD is not limited to childhood and can persist into adulthood, though it may present differently. Many individuals with undiagnosed or untreated ADHD experience symptoms that impact their adult lives, including work, relationships, and overall functioning.

 ADHD in adults can be more subtle and misinterpreted as another mental health condition, complicating its diagnosis. Recognizing signs of ADHD vs ADD is the first step toward real change. Knowing the facts empowers you to seek the professional help you may need to overcome challenges and thrive.

1. Difficulty Focusing

Adults with ADHD may lack control over what they focus on and have difficulty concentrating.

You may notice the following: 

• Easily distracted.
• Daydreaming.
• Zoning out during conversations.
• Overlooking instructions and details.
• Need to finish projects or tasks on time.

Another symptom of ADHD in adults is the tendency to hyperfocus on projects you find exciting and interesting. In this state, you may be unable to focus on other important tasks or people.

2. Misplacing Items

Storing, organizing, or keeping track of belongings can be troublesome for those with ADHD. This can involve:

• Misplacing everyday items (i.e., car keys or wallet) while the brain is on autopilot.
• Losing track of where an item is placed after a moment of inattention.
• Constantly retracing steps to find lost items.
• Storing things in the wrong places (i.e., work papers in your car, dirty dishes in the bedroom).

3. Always Running Late

Regularly running late due to poor time management, individuals with ADHD often run late for appointments, meetings, or social plans. The reasons often include the following:

• You can’t find the required items (car keys, wallet, meeting notes, etc.)
• You forget dates and times.
• You are underestimating the time you need to complete projects or tasks.
• You get distracted while preparing for an appointment or event.

4. Risky Behaviors

Research shows that adults with ADHD are likelier to engage in risk-taking behavior. By seeking help and support, you can proactively reduce your chances of involvement in these activities. These behaviors may involve the following:

• Starting arguments or fights.
• Overspending.
• Reckless driving.
• Substance use (alcohol or drugs).
• Risky sex-related decisions (i.e., unprotected sex).
• Gambling.
• Impulsive eating.

5. Lack of Listening Skills

Social interactions may feel like a challenge if you have ADHD. You may struggle with the following: 

• Waiting for your turn to speak.
• Staying on topic.
• Keeping track of the conversation.
• Using non-verbal cues to show active listening.
• Talking too fast.
• Speaking too much.
• Blurting out words that make others uncomfortable.
• Unable to read other people’s body language.

ADD vs ADHD Facilities

ADD vs ADHD treatment facilities need to support the family of those with ADD or ADHD disorders. Family-oriented therapies, such as couples therapy and family counseling, can help individuals and their loved ones develop healthy communication strategies that will lead to long-term recovery success.

It is also essential for an ADD vs ADHD rehab center to provide education about mental health and its effects on both the individual and their family members. With this information, families can better understand what the individual is going through and how they can best support them during treatment and afterward.

By offering comprehensive care tailored specifically for adults with ADD vs ADHD, mental health rehab centers can give individuals the best chance at achieving living fully again. The facility should have experienced staff knowledgeable about ADHD treatment and mental illness so they can adequately address different signs and symptoms and comorbidities.

The benefits of getting into an inpatient program for ADHD treatment include the following:

• Structured Environment: Inpatient rehab provides a highly structured setting that helps individuals with ADHD establish routines and develop better time management skills.
• Intensive Therapy: Inpatient programs offer intensive therapy and counseling sessions, allowing for focused attention on addressing ADHD symptoms and related challenges.
• Multidisciplinary Approach: Inpatient rehab often involves a team of specialists, including psychiatrists, psychologists, occupational therapists, and social workers, providing a holistic approach to treatment.

ADD vs ADHD Medication

ADHD is often treated with one of three types of ADD and anxiety medication, psychostimulants, antidepressants, or non-stimulant drugs.

Those with inattentive ADD may benefit from this medication for anxiety and ADD to help them focus and stay on target.

• Psychostimulants: Psychostimulants impact neurotransmitters in the brain, which may help ADD patients with anxiety feel more energized and attentive. The extended-release form is often recommended (instead of the immediate-release form). Psychostimulants include amphetamines such as Adderall (Adderall for ADD vs ADHD) and methylphenidates such as Ritalin and Concerta.
• Antidepressants: Antidepressants also affect neurotransmitters in the brain and may help improve mood and attention for those suffering from adult ADD and anxiety. Wellbutrin (bupropion) and Effexor are two common antidepressants for ADHD’s inattentive symptomatology (venlafaxine).
• Non-stimulant drugs: For some who experience undesirable stimulant side effects, ADD medicines can be beneficial. Anxiety or ADD medications include Strattera (atomoxetine) and Intuniv (guanfacine). Non-stimulants affect a neurotransmitter, norepinephrine, and may help regulate emotions and improve focus on specific tasks.

As with any medication, there are common side effects. Psychostimulants, antidepressants, and non-stimulants can cause dizziness, loss of appetite, upset stomach, and more. Be sure to talk to your doctor if you or someone you care about is experiencing unusual symptoms.

Behavioral Therapy for ADHD

Whether or not patients choose medication as a treatment option, most psychologists suggest that a behavior intervention plan should be developed to help teach loved ones adaptive behavior skills and reduce off-task and inattentive behaviors. Often, a combination of various methods is used, including:

• Behavior Therapy: A therapist usually meets with you and your loved one with ADHD. A session often involves the therapist facilitating a conversation with your loved one or even providing them with an activity to help them express their feelings. Your doctor or therapist might recommend family therapy so all family members can learn healthy ways to manage your loved one’s condition.
• Parent Training in Behavior Management: You will learn strategies such as talk therapy to allow your loved one to freely express their feelings and help them adopt healthy coping mechanisms to deal with challenging emotions.
• Behavioral Interventions at School: Your loved one may meet the criteria for extra assistance under the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Accommodations may include spare time on tests, additional breaks, changes to their environment, positive reinforcement, and assignments made specifically for your loved one.
• Behavioral Peer Interventions: With this approach, a therapist or trained professional will lead a group of individuals in activities that teach them how to interact constructively with their peers. Skills such as having conversations, coping with teasing, and making friends are taught. Loved ones may be trained to reinforce the lessons at home and school.

Best ADD Medication for Adults with Anxiety

The symptoms of ADHD and ADD overlap, but they are different conditions. A person with ADD does not have a problem with hyperactivity, only with paying attention. Current diagnostic criteria do not list ADD as a separate condition but group the symptoms under inattentive ADHD. People with ADHD and ADD can face difficulties in their daily life, both in childhood and as adults.

It can take some time to get a correct diagnosis, but once this is done, a doctor can help the person through lifestyle changes and possibly medication. If a person shows any of the above symptoms, which are holding back their progress at school or work or disrupting relationships, it is a good idea to seek medical help.

The benefits of ADHD medication can vary from person to person, and decisions about medication should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional.

The benefits of taking medications for ADD and ADHD are:

• Improved Focus.
• Reduced Impulsivity.
• Enhanced Executive Functioning.
• Better School/Work Performance.
• Positive Social Interactions.
• Boosted Self-Esteem.
• Decreased Anxiety.
• Improved Quality of Life.
• Easier Learning.
• Effective Coping.

• ADHD is often treated with stimulants that boost brain chemicals linked to focus and thinking. They can help with symptoms while you’re at school or work but can also make you less hungry or cause headaches or sleep problems.
• Some ADHD drugs don’t involve stimulants or have the same side effects. But they may not work as quickly. Your doctor might give you a combination of stimulants and non-stimulant drugs.
• Living with the symptoms of ADD vs ADHD in adults can be challenging, but you can take steps to manage both conditions. A mental health professional may prescribe stimulant and antidepressant medications. They may also recommend counseling or other therapies.