Can Daydreaming Be a Sign of Inattentive ADHD?

Yes, daydreaming can actually be a symptom of inattentive ADHD , particularly if it occurs regularly and compromises daily functioning. Inattentive ADHD is a type of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in which one experiences greater issues with attention, organisation, and sustaining focus than with hyperactivity.

Everyday daydreaming is fine, but ADHD and daydreaming do go hand in hand in a more disruptive style. People of this subtype will usually daydream in class, meetings, or tasks that are routine, losing track of time, or forgetting important information. These are normal ADHD symptoms and might be especially noticeable in school or when performing regular work.

Why People with Inattentive ADHD Tend to Daydream

Individuals who have inattentive ADHD tend to space out due to under arousal in the brain, boredom, or struggles with executive functioning. This can result in a pattern commonly referred to as zoning out ADHD or even being mistaken as a daydreaming disorder. Neuroscientific studies indicate that decreased activity of dopamine in the prefrontal cortex of the brain is responsible for this drifting attention. This makes it more difficult to remain present, particularly in environments that are low in stimulation, such as in quiet offices or classrooms. Individuals might seem nonchalant when actually, they feel over- or under-stimulated.
Unlike intentional daydreaming, these mind drifts are not planned. They are evidence of struggle with remaining mentally attentive, not deliberate distraction. This disengagement pattern can happen with both children and adults, making it more difficult to get things done, respond to instructions, or remain engaged in conversations

When to Seek Support or Assessment

So how do you know if daydreaming is only a harmless habit or something else?

Look for typical signs: often missing directions, having trouble completing tasks, or having trouble staying engaged in conversations or lessons.

Teachers and parents usually recognise these characteristics long before the person does, particularly in children who appear to be well-behaved but “spaced out”. Inattentive ADHD in adults can present itself in forgetfulness, time management difficulties, and mental exhaustion. If not treated, these symptoms can result in poor occupational performance, emotional distress, and low self-esteem.

Typical signs of ADHD in children could be daydreaming in class, appearing spaced out, or requiring repeated reminders.

If these habits are ongoing and disruptive, it is worth getting evaluated. Early detection can be a big deal.

Get a free ADHD self-assessment if daydreaming is disrupting daily life