Is Hyperactivity Always Present in ADHD?

PostedAugust 21, 2025

UpdatedSeptember 5, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Victoria Rowe, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

No, hyperactivity is not always present in ADHD. While hyperactivity is a common symptom of ADHD, many individuals experience ADHD without hyperactivity, particularly in cases of inattentive ADHD. This type of ADHD, often called non-hyperactive ADHD, is characterised mainly by attention difficulties, forgetfulness, and disorganisation rather than the overt impulsivity and restlessness seen in hyperactive types of ADHD. Understanding this variation is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment, especially in adult ADHD where hyperactivity may not be as prominent.

Inattentive ADHD: A Different Manifestation of ADHD

Inattentive ADHD is more prevalent in females and adults, and it often goes unrecognised or misdiagnosed because it lacks the obvious signs of hyperactivity. Individuals with this type of ADHD struggle with maintaining focus, completing tasks, and staying organised, but they do not exhibit the disruptive behaviours typical of hyperactivity. Symptoms include easily losing focus on tasks, frequent forgetfulness, and difficulty following through on instructions. These symptoms can be just as impairing as those seen in hyperactive ADHD, but they tend to be more subtle.

How ADHD Manifests Without Hyperactivity

This is how ADHD without hyperactivity can present itself in individuals:

Inattention and Disorganisation

Individuals with inattentive ADHD often have trouble staying focused, leading to incomplete tasks, missed details, and disorganisation. This can affect academic performance, work responsibilities, and daily life, causing frustration and difficulties with productivity, even without hyperactive behaviours.

Forgetfulness and Daydreaming

People with non-hyperactive ADHD may frequently forget appointments, deadlines, or important details. They may also appear to be “spacing out” or daydreaming, as they struggle to concentrate on the present moment. These issues can lead to misunderstandings in social and professional environments, where others may perceive the individual as disengaged or lazy, rather than recognising the underlying attention issues.

Difficulty Following Through on Tasks

Tasks may be started but never finished, as the individual with inattentive ADHD often has trouble following through on projects or assignments. This can lead to chronic unfinished projects or disorganised environments, impacting both personal and professional lives.

Adult ADHD: When Hyperactivity Is Less Obvious

In adult ADHD, hyperactivity tends to be less pronounced, and the symptoms of inattention and disorganisation often become more prominent. Adults with ADHD may not exhibit the physical restlessness seen in children, but they may still struggle with time management, organisation, and focus, often leading to difficulties in work or personal relationships.

For personal consultations on ADHD without hyperactivity, visit providers like ADHD Certify. For a deeper dive into inattentive ADHD, non-hyperactive ADHD, and adult ADHD, read our complete guide to Hyperactivity.

Victoria Rowe, MSc

Author

Victoria Rowe is a health psychologist with a Master’s in Health Psychology and a BS in Applied Psychology. She has experience as a school psychologist, conducting behavioural assessments, developing individualized education plans (IEPs), and supporting children’s mental health. Dr. Rowe has contributed to peer-reviewed research on mental health, including studies on anxiety disorders and the impact of COVID-19 on healthcare systems. Skilled in SPSS, Minitab, and academic writing, she is committed to advancing psychological knowledge and promoting well-being through evidence-based practice.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.