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Is Inattentive ADHD Underdiagnosed?

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Updated
ByMy Patient Advice
Author: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Yes, inattentive ADHD is underdiagnosed, especially in women, children, and adults. This subtype of ADHD exists without hyperactivity. As a result of that, it frequently goes undetected, both by people and medical professionals.

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Why Inattentive ADHD Often Goes Unnoticed

In contrast to hyperactive ADHD, Inattentive ADHD symptoms are more likely to be internal. They include poor concentration, forgetfulness, and mental wandering as opposed to external behaviours such as fidgeting or interrupting.

Symptoms of inattentive ADHD are easily confused with personality traits or other diagnoses:

In Children

Inattentive ADHD children can appear as daydreaming or lack motivation, particularly in girls or high-performing students who are good compensators.

In Adults

Inattentive ADHD adults have a tendency of being misdiagnosed. Most are diagnosed with anxiety or depression when actually, the underlying problem is undiagnosed ADHD.

Previously, clinicians emphasised hyperactive symptoms, and this has resulted in a gap in diagnosis.

Signs to Look Out For in inattentive ADHD

Here are some indicators to consider if you’re wondering if inattentive ADHD might be the cause of some difficulties. Based on the latest NHS guidance on ADHD symptoms (last reviewed 19 March 2025), these are the main signs to look out for:

  • Difficulty following through or completing tasks
  • Mind-wandering or being easily distracted
  • Frequently losing everyday items (e.g., keys, phones, papers)
  • Being forgetful and appearing disorganised, even after being reminded
  • Avoiding tasks that require sustained mental effort

If a couple of these sound familiar, it may be worth exploring an inattentive ADHD diagnose with a professional.

What You Can Do Next

The first step is recognising the signs. If you or someone you know fits the profile of inattentive ADHD described here, assessment can provide the key to treatment and strategies that can make daily life easier.

In the UK, NHS evaluation is possible but with long waiting times. Private ADHD evaluation provides a faster way but with expenses. Either method, the correct diagnosis is worth pursuing.

Take a free ADHD self assessment today. Finding reliable and trusted private ADHD assessors could be difficult. ADHD Certify has an excellently rated  list of clinicians that could help you in this next steps.

Take Your Free ADHD Screening Test
Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS
Author

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 author's privacy. 

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