ADHD is divided into 3 subtypes:
- predominantly hyperactive/impulsive presentation
- predominantly inattentive presentation
- combined presentation
The predominantly hyperactive/impulsive presentation is characterized by the following symptoms or traits:
- Fidgets or taps with hands or feet or squirms in their seat
- Often leaves their seat in situations where remaining seated is expected, like in the classroom or workplace
- In children, often runs or climbs in situations where it is not appropriate
- In adults, often feeling restless
- Often unable to play or engage in leisure activities quietly
- Always “on the go” acting “as if driven by a motor”
- Often talks excessively
- Often blurts out an answer before a question has been completed
- Often has difficulty waiting his or her turn
- Often interrupts or intrudes on others
The predominantly inattentive presentation is characterized by the following symptoms or traits:
- Often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes
- Often has difficulty sustaining attention
- Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly
- Often does not follow through on instructions or fails to finish things (starts tasks but quickly loses focus and is easily side-tracked)
- Often has difficulty organizing tasks and activities
- Often avoids, dislikes or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort
- Often loses things
- Is often easily distracted by extraneous stimuli
- Is often forgetful in daily activities
The combined presentation is characterized by symptoms or traits of both hyperactivity/impulsivity and inattention.
