Is Inattentive ADHD the Same as ADD?

Yes,ADD and Inattentive ADHD are the same condition, but the terminology has changed. Formerly termed ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder), it is nowadays medically described as Inattentive ADHD, one of the three recognised types of ADHD. The umbrella term “ADHD” (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) now encompasses all the subtypes.

The better you understand this change, the easier it will be to interpret symptoms, diagnosis, and access to care. Whether you’re a parent, an adult considering self-diagnosis, or just confused by ADHD vs ADD terms, this guide lays out what’s changed and why it’s important.

What Is ADD and Why Don’t We Use That Term Anymore?

ADD was a term popular in the 1980s and 1990s to refer to those with attention problems and no evidence of hyperactivity. It was used to differentiate such cases from others with more active or restless behaviours.

But in the 1994 revision of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV), all of the presentations were grouped under one label: ADHD. Now, “ADD” is out of date in clinical terms, although it’s still common in everyday language.

This shift, ADHD versus ADD, serves to consolidate diagnosis and treatment and allows all individuals to have proper acknowledgment, no matter the type of symptom.

What Is Inattentive ADHD Today?

Inattentive ADHD is one of the three types of ADHD. It mainly consists of attention, memory, and mental focus problems and not hyperactivity.

Characteristics of Inattentive ADHD include:

Distractibility and forgetfulness

Difficulty with organisation and time management

Mental fatigue and slowness in the initiation of tasks

These characteristics are occasionally referred to as inattentive ADD symptoms, particularly in casual settings. The disorder is frequently missed in females and adults, who will often exhibit quietly instead of acting disruptively.

ADD vs Inattentive ADHD in Children and Adults

In Children

Inattentive ADHD children are often described as “quiet” or “off in their own world.” They often cannot hold instructions, lose their things, and just seem less interested in tasks requiring focus. These are common symptoms of both inattentive ADHD and ADD in children.

In Adults

Adults will have chronic disorganisation, procrastination, and forgetfulness. There are problems with emotional regulation, work performance, and responsibility in relationships. These tendencies fit with inattentive ADHD and ADD in adults.

Why the Name Change Matters

Using the proper term, Inattentive ADHD, assists:

Facilitate proper diagnosis and treatment access

Enhance education in schools, clinics, and workplaces

Reach individuals with the appropriate resources and connect communities

It also assists those looking online for information to locate relevant, current information.

Not Sure Which Type You Might Have?

If the characteristics outlined ring a bell, it might be worth investigating further.

You can take a free ADHD self-assessment to begin understanding your symptoms. There’s no pressure, just a simple next step.

Final Thoughts

To put it in a nutshell: ADD is the outdated term for what we currently refer to as Inattentive ADHD. The name might have altered, but the fundamental difficulties are the same and there is help available.

Need to know more? Look at our complete guide to what is Inattentive ADHD? or check out the Types of ADHD to learn more about how different symptoms express themselves.