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ADD vs. ADHD
Are you wondering the difference between ADD and ADHD?
ADD, Attention Deficit Disorder, is no longer used! It was the common term used but is now outdated. We now call it ADHD-Inattentive subtype.
The diagnostic manual (DSM) for both psychologists and therapists formally recognizes three subtypes: ADHD-Inattentive Type, ADHD-Hyperactive/Impulsive Type, and ADHD-Combined Type. But, did you know that many people recognize additional types? Read below to learn more:
➤ ADHD-Inattentive Type:
In order to receive a diagnosis of ADHD-Inattentive Type six or more symptoms of inattention for children up to age 16 years (different criteria for teens over that age and adults) must be present for at least 6 months and are inappropriate at a child’s developmental level. These criteria include:
- Often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, at work, or with other activities.
- Often has trouble holding attention on tasks or play activities.
- Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly.
- Often does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace (e.g., loses focus, side-tracked).
- Often has trouble organizing tasks and activities.
- Often avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to do tasks that require mental effort over a long period of time (such as schoolwork or homework).
- Often loses things necessary for tasks and activities (e.g. school materials, pencils, books, tools, wallets, keys, paperwork, eyeglasses, mobile telephones).
- Is often easily distracted
- Is often forgetful in daily activities.
➤ ADHD-Hyperactive/Impulsive type:
In order to receive a diagnosis of ADHD-Hyperactive/Impulsive type six or more symptoms of inattention for children up to age 16 years (different criteria for teens over that age and adults) must be present for at least 6 months and are inappropriate at a child’s developmental level. These criteria include:
- Often fidgets with or taps hands or feet, or squirms in seat.
- Often leaves seat in situations when remaining seated is expected.
- Often runs about or climbs in situations where it is not appropriate (adolescents or adults may be limited to feeling restless).
- Often unable to play or take part in leisure activities quietly.
- Often talks excessively.
- Often blurts out an answer before a question has been completed.
- Often has trouble waiting their turn.
- Often interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g., butts into conversations or games)
ADHD-Combined Type means a child meets criteria for both of the above
In addition to the requirements above:
- Several of the symptoms must have occurred before age 12
- Must present in two or more settings (such as school, home, sports, work, church, etc)
- There is clear evidence that the symptoms interfere or impact, or reduce the quality of life in school, social or work functioning.
- Symptoms are not better explained by another mental condition.
In addition to the formerly recognized above 3 types, many recognize that there are also Anxious types of ADHD, Depressive types of ADHD, as well as Over-Focused and Ring of Fire types of ADHD. These forms of ADHD have become popularized through Dr. Amen and our staff recognizes that these can be considered as subtypes to the traditional forms of ADHD- meaning that we recognize that not all ADHD fits perfectly into the categories provided by our Diagnostic Manual (DSM). So what are they?
This form of ADHD is viewed by our staff as a very common form; meaning, those with ADHD are very prone to also having anxiety. They not only have all the classic ADHD symptoms but also anxiety, nervousness, and battle overthinking, especially in social situations. We note that these kids are very impacted by Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria.
Those suspected to have depressive forms of ADHD experience all the classic ADHD symptoms but also experience low energy, feelings of helplessness or excessive guilt and low self-esteem. It is the opinion of our staff that many with ADHD begin with an anxious presentation and without proper diagnosis and treatment later turns into Depressive types. This is because of the overwhelming weight of feeling inadequate building over the years- thus creating a more depressive type presentation.
Those suspected to experience Over-Focused ADHD not only experience the core symptoms of ADHD-Inattentive type but also have trouble shifting attention, going from thought-to-thought or task-to-task as well as get stuck in negative though patterns or behaviors. Think of this as hyper-focusing and hyper-fixating on areas of interest, but beyond the typical level of those with ADHD.
This form of ADHD is viewed as the most ‘overwhelming’ form of ADHD. Kids viewed as having Ring of Fire are hyper-sensitive to noises, lights, and touch and can often have unpredictable and mean behavior. They also speak quickly and display both anxiety and fear about various settings. It is believed that for kids with Ring of Fire ADHD the entire brain is overactive. This causes a high level of anger, unpredictability and some resistance to therapy and/or medications.
Remember the above 4 ‘forms’ of ADHD are only theories and are not diagnostic in any manner- however, can often explain tendencies of ADHD that may not fit ‘perfectly’ into the 3 DSM recognized forms of ADHD.
If you are curious and want to learn more about the diagnosis of ADHD and how the forms of ADHD may impact your child, reach out. We are happy to help you determine the right paths and solutions for your family.