Key Takeaways
- ADD and ADHD are not separate disorders. ADD is an outdated term; today, all presentations fall under the ADHD diagnosis.
- There are three types of ADHD: inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive, and combined. Each presents with different symptom patterns.
- Accurate diagnosis requires a clinical evaluation. Many other conditions can mimic ADHD symptoms, so self-diagnosis isn’t reliable.
- Treatment is individualized. Most people benefit from a combination of medication, therapy, behavioral strategies, and lifestyle adjustments.
- ADHD can coexist with substance use disorders. Professional support helps address both simultaneously and improves long-term outcomes.
If you suspect that you have ADD or ADHD, you may not know what the difference is between these disorders. People often use the terms ADD and ADHD interchangeably, even though they have distinct clinical definitions. Mental health disorders can sometimes be referred to with different terms, which can make it difficult to understand what these terms actually mean. That is why it is strongly advised to always get a clinical diagnosis from a mental health professional, instead of trying to diagnose yourself.
Especially when it comes to disorders like ADD and ADHD, these are widely misunderstood, and you may not have the disorder that you think you do. You may also have questions about how these two diagnoses interact with more serious disorders such as addiction and substance abuse.
In this article, we discuss what ADD and ADHD are, plus how these conditions are diagnosed. We also explore the different treatment options available so you can get the professional help you need.
ADD vs ADHD: What Is the Difference?
ADD and ADHD are terms often used interchangeably, but they aren’t actually the same thing. ADD stands for attention deficit disorder, while ADHD stands for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Despite the fact that these sound like two separate conditions, they are actually used to describe the same disorder.
The older classification, known as attention deficit disorder (ADD), was used to describe patients with attention deficit symptoms, primarily inattention, distractibility, and poor working memory. ADD is now called ADHD.
You should also know that ADHD is not a singular condition; there are several different types of ADHD that are used to diagnose different collections of symptoms, as outlined in the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.
The general signs of ADHD usually include things like:
- Impulsivity: Spur-of-the-moment decisions, acting for the purpose of getting an immediate reward, interrupting people, and a lack of long-term thinking.
- Inattention: Disorganization, daydreaming, inability to pay attention, and difficulty focusing.
- Hyperactivity: Squirming, tapping, fidgeting, constant movement, and excessive talking.
Types of ADHD
Understanding the symptoms of ADHD is helpful when identifying that there is a problem. However, these do not completely explain the type of ADHD you may have.
Now that the general term of ADD has been abandoned for the more updated term of ADHD, it is easier to get a clear diagnosis. Here are the three types of ADHD that you may be diagnosed with:
1. ADHD Inattentive
Individuals with this presentation do not showcase hyperactive symptoms. In fact, this is shown in more reclusive and shy ways, which can make it very difficult to recognize. Symptoms of ADHD inattentive include things like trouble paying attention, procrastination, forgetfulness, disorganization, trouble listening, and losing things. Inattentive symptoms also include trouble focusing, making careless mistakes, and difficulty with tasks that require sustained mental effort. Inattentive ADHD can sometimes be mistaken for a mood disorder, especially in adults and females.
Keep in mind that you may also hear ADHD Inattentive Type called:
- Predominantly inattentive type ADHD
- Predominantly inattentive presentation
- Primarily inattentive ADHD
2. ADHD Hyperactive-Impulsive
ADHD hyperactive-impulsive usually results in the individual being incredibly energetic. They always seem to be on the go, are too loud, talk too much, interrupt others, fidget, and generally showcase unacceptable social behavior. Hyperactive impulsive symptoms include excessive talking, impulsive decisions, and constant fidgeting.
You may also hear ADHD Hyperactive-Impulsive called:
- Hyperactive impulsive ADHD
- Hyperactive impulsive type
- Predominantly hyperactive impulsive ADHD
- Predominantly hyperactive impulsive presentation
- Predominantly hyperactive type ADHD
3. ADHD Combined
The third type of ADHD you could be diagnosed with is a combination of ADHD inattentive and ADHD hyperactive-impulsive. This is also known as combined presentation or combined type ADHD.
Combined type ADHD occurs when individuals exhibit symptoms from both inattentive and hyperactive impulsive categories. They will often showcase a lot of energy and trouble sitting still, while also daydreaming often and having a difficult time paying attention.
How Are These Conditions Diagnosed?
One of the challenges with ADHD is that many people self-diagnose without seeking a clinical diagnosis from a professional. Although it can be useful to understand the signs and symptoms of ADHD, you still need to get a real diagnosis to confirm your suspicion. An accurate diagnosis is essential to distinguish ADHD from other mental health conditions and mental disorders, ensuring that the assessment is thorough and based on established criteria.
To get a proper ADHD diagnosis, you can go to a mental health professional or your primary care provider. They will be able to perform a medical, physical, or neurodevelopmental exam to determine if you fit the criteria of ADHD. ADHD is diagnosed using established guidelines, such as those in the DSM-5, and a comprehensive evaluation is necessary to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other mental disorders. This is important as they will also be able to pinpoint the specific type of ADHD you have, which will impact your treatment plan.
How is ADD and ADHD Treated?
The next step in addressing ADHD, once you have a diagnosis, is to seek treatment. There are several different types of treatment options available, and you should be prepared to try out different things until you find the right fit.
Treatment and management strategies are tailored to each individual to help manage symptoms and manage symptoms effectively, often combining medication, therapy, and lifestyle interventions. Everybody is different, and you may need one specific type of treatment, or you may need a combination.
Medication
Treating ADHD with medication can be a good option depending on the individual. However, it is a good idea to try other non-medication treatment options first to see if anything else works. If you do respond well to medication, it’s still a good idea to follow a treatment plan that involves other options to round it out.
A primary care physician or mental health professional will be able to examine your case and prescribe the right medication, whether that be stimulants, non-stimulants, or certain antidepressants.
Therapy
Individual therapy is a common treatment prescribed to those with ADHD. It is a useful treatment option, no matter the type of ADHD you have, and is also a good option for adults and children.
Having individual therapy sessions allows you to discuss how you are feeling and work through ways you can address your goals. You could also attend couples or family therapy, depending on your relationship dynamics and whether or not you need a more group-centered approach.
Behavior Therapy
Similar to traditional therapy, behavioral therapy is one of the best treatment options for ADHD, as it helps you learn about your disorder and develop skills to help you live with your diagnosis.
Behavioral therapy can include things like:
- Developing mood control
- Improving self-esteem
- Reducing impulsive behaviors
- Managing hyperactive behavior
- Improving time management and organization
- Developing problem-solving abilities
- Coping with past failures
- Maintaining relationships
Some options you have when looking into behavior therapy include things like evidence-based, physical, life skills, and mindfulness therapy. These are things that can be adjusted to fit your specific needs as well as your long-term goals.
The Coexistence of Substance Use Disorders and ADHD
Substance use disorders (SUDs) and ADHD often coexist, and many people are unaware of how common this overlap is. Untreated symptoms of ADHD, such as impulsivity, restlessness, trouble controlling emotions, and long-term stress, can increase a person’s likelihood of using drugs as a coping mechanism or self-medication. This can lead to patterns of misuse over time, especially when ADHD has gone unrecognized or unmanaged since childhood. In some cases, substance use may temporarily mask symptoms, making ADHD harder to identify without professional assessment.
This is why dual diagnosis treatment is so important. Instead of treating one while ignoring the other, dual diagnosis programs assess and treat substance use disorders and ADHD concurrently. This integrated approach helps clinicians understand how customize medication, and create a treatment plan for long-term stability.
Find Substance Abuse and Mental Health Treatment Resources at The Lakes Treatment Center
If you struggle with ADD or ADHD, there are many different types of treatment available to help you live a normal life. Although a diagnosis of ADHD can come with challenges, there are plenty of resources available to help you get better control of your mental health.
At The Lakes Treatment Center, we provide a variety of treatment options to help address ADHD. Our team of mental health professionals can help you navigate the complexities of these conditions and find the right treatment approach.
Are you ready to get professional mental health treatment? Contact us today at The Lakes Treatment Center to learn more about the different types of therapies and programs we provide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the traits of ADHD?
ADHD’s stereotypical traits often include children bouncing off walls, interrupting in class, and constantly fidgeting. A distinct subtype, hyperactive or impulsive ADHD, typically accompanies more severe symptoms. The hyperactivity component is what distinguishes ADHD from the inattentive type, formerly called ADD.
Keep in mindthat individuals with ADHD tend to exhibit symptoms that impact their daily life, both in childhood and as ADHD adults.
Q: How do I get an ADD or ADHD diagnosis?
ADHD symptoms exhibited must meet specific symptom criteria, such as having six or more symptoms in either category for at least six months, according to the DSM. Accurate diagnosis is important to distinguish ADHD from other mental health conditions and mental disorders.
Q: Is ADD the same as ADHD?
Yes. ADD is an outdated term once used to describe inattentive symptoms. Today, clinicians diagnose all presentations under ADHD, which includes inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive, and combined types.
Q: What treatment options are available for ADHD?
ADHD treatment may include stimulant or non-stimulant medication, individual therapy, behavioral therapy, skills training, lifestyle changes, and support for co-occurring conditions such as anxiety or substance use.
Q: Does ADHD increase the risk of addiction?
Untreated ADHD is associated with a higher risk of substance misuse, often due to impulsivity or attempts to self-medicate symptoms. Integrated treatment can reduce this risk and support recovery.
Q: Can ADHD be managed without medication?
Yes. Many individuals benefit from behavioral therapy, organizational coaching, lifestyle changes, and mindfulness-based interventions. However, some people need a combination of strategies, including medication, for symptom relief.
