ADHD

ADHD, or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, can manifest in various ways, and its symptoms can vary significantly from person to person. However, there are three primary subtypes of ADHD, each characterized by its predominant symptoms. Let’s take a look at them!

1. Predominantly Inattentive Presentation: Individuals with this subtype often have difficulty sustaining attention, organizing tasks, and completing assignments or projects. They may frequently lose things, be forgetful in daily activities, and have trouble following through on instructions or conversations. Inattentive symptoms may include:

• Difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities

• Making careless mistakes in schoolwork or other activities

• Being easily distracted by extraneous stimuli

• Difficulty following through on instructions and failing to finish tasks

• Avoiding or disliking tasks that require sustained mental effort

• Frequently losing items necessary for tasks and activities

• Forgetfulness in daily activities

1. Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation: Individuals with this subtype often display hyperactive and impulsive behaviors. They may have trouble sitting still, waiting their turn, and controlling their impulses. These individuals may get in trouble at school a lot, due to hyperactivity and impulsivity. Hyperactive-impulsive symptoms may include:

• Fidgeting or squirming in their seats

• Often leaving their seat in situations where remaining seated is expected

• Running or climbing excessively in inappropriate situations

• Difficulty engaging in leisure activities quietly

• Talking excessively

• Interrupting or intruding on others' conversations or activities

• Difficulty waiting their turn

1. Combined Presentation: This subtype involves a combination of both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms. Individuals with this presentation may exhibit symptoms from both categories, making it the most common subtype.

In addition to these primary symptoms, individuals with ADHD may also experience associated difficulties, such as:

• Impaired executive functioning, including difficulties with planning, organizing, and prioritizing tasks.

• Impulsivity, leading to challenges in self-control and decision-making.

• Emotional dysregulation, including mood swings, irritability, and difficulty managing emotions. This symptom can often get diagnosed.

• Poor time management and difficulty with time perception.

• Problems with working memory, affecting the ability to hold and manipulate information in mind for short periods.

It's important to note that while these symptoms provide a general overview, ADHD can present differently in each individual, and not all symptoms may be present. Additionally, other conditions can have symptoms similar to those of ADHD. So, as you’re googling you or your child’s symptoms (admittedly, I do it too), remember there’s a lot of overlap with other mental health conditions that can be worked out by a mental health professional.

So, how do I know if I or my kiddo needs therapy? Trust your gut! If you’re questioning it and reading this blog, then it’s probably time to reach out. We offer a free 30 minute phone consultation with a therapist to discuss your needs and they’ll be able to offer direction. Reach out to one of our therapists at Pineapple Counseling in Flower Mound, TX and Southlake, TX today!