How is Inattentive ADHD Different from Other Types of ADHD? 

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) doesn’t appear the same in everyone. There are three main ADHD types: inattentive, hyperactive, and combined. Each type of ADHD occurs in a different way, affecting behaviour, attention, and energy levels. These variations cause ADHD symptoms to be overlooked, particularly in females and girls, whose symptoms do not match the “hyperactive” stereotype. 
 
With the different types of ADHD, parents, teachers, and individuals are better able to grasp the condition and receive appropriate assistance. This article is a description of how inattentive ADHD is distinct from the other two: combined ADHD and hyperactive ADHD, using real-life situations and advice on diagnosis and treatment.

 Understanding the 3 Types of ADHD 

Inattentive ADHD 

Daydreaming, forgetfulness, and “checking out” mentally characterize Inattentive ADHD. Individuals with this subtype find it difficult to remain organised, complete tasks, or maintain focus, particularly if the activity is not interesting. This subtype of ADHD is often overlooked in females and women, who are unlikely to exhibit disruptive behaviour but are still significantly impaired. 

Hyperactive ADHD 

Hyperactive ADHD appears as restlessness, fidgeting, and impulsiveness. This type of ADHD is often characterised by the inability to listen to others, talking out of turn, or difficulty staying seated. It is most often diagnosed in young boys because the physical nature of the symptoms is more noticeable. 

Combined ADHD 

Combined ADHD consists of inattentive as well as hyperactive symptoms. Someone can be distractible and forgetful, but also impulsive or restless. Combined ADHD is the most frequently diagnosed ADHD type, particularly in clinical environments where more than one symptom is evaluated.

Key Differences Between ADHD Types 

Core Symptom Profiles 

• Inattentive: distracted, forgetful, mentally disconnected 
• Hyperactive: impulsive, hyperactive, interrupts others 
• Combined: mix of both inattentive and hyperactive type

Every presentation contains a distinct set of ADHD symptoms, recognising these can guide more accurate diagnosis and management.  

Age of Diagnosis and Gender Trends 

• Inattentive ADHD in women is commonly miscategorized as anxiety, depression, or lack of motivation. ADHD Symptoms in women are quieter and more internal that’s why they tend to be diagnosed later, if at all, which is part of the issue of feeling misunderstood or unsupported. 
• Hyperactive ADHD is diagnosed earlier, especially in boys because of disruptive classroom behavior. 

How ADHD Types Affect Daily Life 

At School or Work 

Inattentive: forgets directions, has difficulty meeting deadlines, appears disconnected 

Hyperactive: interrupts others, distracts others, rushes through activities. 

Combined: both attention and behaviour cause problems with follow-through and performance 

In Relationships and Home Life 

Living with ADHD affects more than school or the workplace, it permeates relationships as well. 
Those with inattentive traits may forget appointments or appear emotionally unavailable. Hyperactive behaviors will be likely to cause frustration or heated outbursts of anger. 
Women can mask symptoms to appear organised or unflappable, complicating diagnosis and self-awareness even further. Diagnosis of the different types of ADHD is essential to understanding these behaviors.

Can ADHD Types Change Over Time? 

Yes, ADHD does not always remain the same throughout a person’s lifetime. A child who demonstrates clear hyperactive tendencies might emerge as more inattentive by adulthood because of environmental and expectation changes. Although a person’s ADHD type may change, the root types of ADHD continue to direct treatment and diagnosis. Realising this transformation can aid self-management and support. 

How ADHD Types Are Diagnosed and Treated 

Diagnosis 

ADHD is diagnosed by clinical interviews, behavioral questionnaires, and symptom checklists. However, ADHD symptoms in women are still often overlooked or misinterpreted. In the UK, NHS diagnosis for free is available, but waiting times are lengthy, often over six months, and delays are location specific. 
If you would rather be tested earlier, there are private tests available. ADHD Certify is one of the top UK providers offering adult and child ADHD tests by skilled clinicians. 

Treatment Approaches 

Treatment varies based on the severity and type of symptoms. Treatment options include behavioral therapy, coaching, and medication like stimulants or non-stimulants. In treating different ADHD types, personalisation is essential; one person may respond to one treatment, but not another. 

Final Thoughts

ADHD is a manageable condition, particularly if the specific type is understood and treated. Being aware of whether a person has inattentive ADHD, hyperactive ADHD, or combined ADHD can shape successful strategies at school, work, and home. If you or the person you care about presents signs, don’t delay, early evaluation can have a lasting impact. 
And for women and girls who’ve wondered for years why things seem more difficult than they need to be, learning about your ADHD symptoms may be the key to clarity and help.