Do you know what type of ADHD you have? There are three types of ADHD: inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive, and combined. In this blog post, we will discuss each type of ADHD and what symptoms to look for. If you think that you or your child may have ADHD, it is important to get diagnosed by a professional. There are many treatments available for ADHD that can help improve your quality of life!
Contents
Defining ADHD
ADHD is a mental disorder that is characterized by problems with focus, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness. ADHD can affect both children and adults, but it is most commonly diagnosed in childhood. This is often because the symptoms of ADHD are more noticeable in children than they are in adults.
The condition is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. It is also thought that ADHD may be linked to other mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression. Moreover, studies suggest that ADHD affects more boys than girls.
However, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of how ADHD affects people. The symptoms and severity of the condition vary from person to person. In some cases, ADHD may only cause minor difficulties, while in others it can have a major impact on a person’s life.
So, it is essential to understand the different types of ADHD and how they can affect people.
Types Of ADHD
Types of ADHD can be broadly classified into three categories, namely:
Inattentive ADHD
This is the foremost and most common type of ADHD. It is also popularly known as ADD. As the name suggests, people suffering from this type exhibit inattentive and impulsive behavior. More often, they are unable to focus on a particular task and get easily distracted. There are several signs that you may be experiencing in the inattentive type, such as;
- Get distracted easily
- Have trouble focusing on a task
- Make careless mistakes
- Be disorganized
- Get bored easily and don’t seem to listen
- Trouble following tasks and instructions
Hyperactive-Impulsive ADHD
In this type, people not only have trouble paying attention but are also highly impulsive. They tend to be in constant motion and find it hard to stay still. People with hyperactive-impulsive ADHD may;
- Fidget or squirm all the time
- Talk excessively
- Be impatient
- Blurt out answers
- Have trouble taking turns
- Interrupt others constantly
So, these are the three types of ADHD that you should know about. If you or your loved ones are exhibiting any of the above-mentioned symptoms, do not hesitate to consult a doctor.
Combined ADHD Type
This is the most common type of ADHD, accounting for 60-70% of all diagnosed cases. It is characterized by inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Most people with ADHD have a combination of all major two types of symptoms. It is believed that the condition usually occurs due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. And it affects boys more often than girls.
The symptoms of ADHD changes over time and eventually the type of ADHD a person has may also change. For example, a child with primarily inattentive ADHD may grow into an adult who experiences more symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity. So, this combination type of ADHD is often diagnosed in adults.
If you’re an adult with symptoms of ADHD, it’s important to seek out a mental health professional for an evaluation. Many people with the condition don’t realize they have it until they are adults.
What Causes ADHD?
The types of ADHD are not caused by any one thing. In fact, the causes of ADHD are not fully understood. However, some believe that ADHD is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Also, there are other factors too that may play a role in causing ADHD, such as:
- Family history of ADHD or other mental health disorders
- Exposure to toxins, such as lead
- Alcohol or drug abuse during pregnancy
- Smoking during pregnancy
- Premature birth
The causes of ADHD can be different for each person. If you or your child has been diagnosed with ADHD, it’s important to talk to your doctor about what may have caused it. Because the causes of ADHD are not fully understood, there is no one-size-fits-all treatment for the disorder.
Moreover, ADHD is a complex disorder, and it can look different in different people. So, the causes of the condition can be different for each person. The most important thing is to get the right diagnosis and treatment. If you or your child has ADHD, there are many resources available to help you manage the condition.
How Is It Diagnosed?
The diagnosis of ADHD is based on a set of criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). It is a manual used by mental health professionals to diagnose mental disorders. It is important to note that there is not a single test that can diagnose ADHD.
Instead, a comprehensive evaluation is conducted by a mental health professional, such as:
- a psychologist,
- psychiatrist, or
- licensed clinical social worker.
This evaluation usually includes a clinical interview, review of medical records, and questionnaires completed by the parents or guardians, teachers, and sometimes the individual with ADHD.
In addition, some mental health professionals may also administer psychological tests to assess symptoms of ADHD. The behavior and symptoms must be presented for the last 6 months. Also, the symptoms must be present in more than one setting, such as at home and at school.
The symptoms must also interfere with functioning in at least two areas of life, such as school or work, and social or family life. An early diagnosis can be helpful in managing the symptoms and preventing long-term difficulties. If you think your child may have ADHD, it is important to consult with a mental health professional.
How To Treat The Types Of ADHD?
The treatment of ADHD is essential when you have a diagnosis. As diagnosis is the primary step in the treatment process, you will be able to better understand what type of ADHD you have. This, in turn, will help your doctor prescribe the best treatment option for you.
However, there are some the treatment options that might be helpful, these include;
Medication
Medication is prescribed when the symptoms of ADHD are severe. And are not responding to any other forms of treatment. The most common type of medication prescribed for ADHD is stimulants. These work by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. Which helps to improve focus and concentration. Moreover, there are other medications as well, these include;
- Non-stimulants
- Antidepressants
- Tricyclic antidepressants
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors
- SNRIs
However, before considering any medication, it is essential to discuss it with your doctor. As some of these medications might have side effects. In addition, discuss with your doctor about necessary things before starting these medications, such as:
- Your medical history
- Allergies
- Current medications
- vitamins, and herbal supplements
After a discussion about these things, your doctor will be able to better understand your condition of ADHD. And accordingly, prescribe the best treatment option for you.
Therapy
The option of therapy is widely considered due to its non-invasive and often successful results. Although not a cure, therapy can help lessen the symptoms of ADHD. And allow the individual to lead a more productive life. There are many different types of therapy available, such as;
- Behavioral,
- Cognitive-behavioral,
- Psychoeducation,
- Parent training/education,
- And social skills training.
The most important factor in choosing therapy is finding one that works for you. If you feel like you are not making progress with one type of therapy, do not be afraid to switch to another. You can consider getting a free consultation from Mantra Care for more help in choosing the right type of therapy for you.
Moreover, the combination of therapy and medication has shown to be the most successful in treating ADHD. If you are on medication, do not stop taking it without first consulting with your doctor. Therapy can help you learn how to best manage your ADHD. But, it is important to remember that everyone is different. What works for one person may not work for another. So, discuss all options with your doctor before making any decisions.
Other Helpful Tips
Medication and therapy are essential, there are other ways that can help your child cope with ADHD. These tips include;
- Encouraging your child to get regular exercise. Physical activity can help relieve some of the symptoms of ADHD.
- Helping them stick to a routine. Having a set schedule for homework, chores, and activities can help them stay focused and organized.
- Limiting screen time. Too much time spent on screens can worsen symptoms of ADHD.
- Encouraging healthy eating habits. A nutritious diet can help improve focus and energy levels.
- Listening to and supporting your child. Showing them that you understand and are there for them can make a big difference in their coping with ADHD.
- Avoid harsh criticisms instead of providing positive reinforcement. This can help build their self-esteem and confidence.
If you think your child may have ADHD, it’s important to talk to their doctor. They can diagnose the condition and create a treatment plan that’s right for your child. With the right support, children with ADHD can succeed in school and in life.
These treatment options are not a cure for ADHD, but they can help your child manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. If you have any concerns about your child’s behavior, talk to their doctor. They can help you decide if your child has ADHD and what the best treatment options are.
You can contact Mantra Care, a leading provider of mental health services, for more information about ADHD and other mental health conditions. We offer a variety of treatment options that can help your child cope with their symptoms and improve their quality of life. Contact us and book your free consultation today to learn more.
Conclusion
To conclude, types of ADHD can be classified into three main categories: inattentive type, hyperactive-impulsive type, and combined type. It is important to be aware of the different types of ADHD. So that you can better understand the symptoms and how to manage them. The condition is often misunderstood and as a result, people with ADHD can go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed.
Moreover, there is a lot of misinformation about ADHD. So, it is important to get accurate information from reliable sources. If you or someone you know has symptoms of ADHD, please see a qualified mental health professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. The soon you get help, the better.
For more information, please contact MantraCare. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by difficulty in paying attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. If you have any queries regarding Online ADHD Counseling experienced therapists at MantraCare can help: Book a trial ADHD therapy session
