ADD vs ADHD: Key Differences, Symptoms, and Effective Treatments

Learn the key differences between ADD and ADHD, their symptoms across age groups, and the most effective treatment options for lasting support.

By Grand Rising Staff

September 29, 2025

Thank you! Your submission has been received!

Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Many people wonder about the difference between ADD and ADHD. Put simply, ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) is an older term once used to describe individuals who mainly struggle with inattention but do not show hyperactive behaviors.

ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), on the other hand, covers both inattentive symptoms and hyperactivity/impulsivity.

Today, ADD is no longer a separate diagnosis; it is classified under the broader umbrella of ADHD. In this article, we’ll explore the key differences, common symptoms, and effective treatment options for managing these conditions.

Key Takeaways

ADD is now a subtype of ADHD, primarily characterized by inattentiveness without hyperactivity, whereas ADHD includes both inattentiveness and hyperactivity.
ADHD is classified into three types: Predominantly Inattentive Type, Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type, and Combined Presentation, each requiring different management strategies.
Diagnosing ADHD involves a comprehensive evaluation to ensure symptoms are present across multiple settings and lead to significant impairment, utilizing criteria from the DSM-5.

Understanding Attention Deficit Disorders

The terminology for attention deficit disorders has changed a lot over the years. At first, the term Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) was used for people mainly showing inattentiveness without hyperactivity. But as understanding grew, the term shifted to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)¹ to include both inattentiveness and hyperactivity.

This shift reflects the complexity and multifaceted nature of neurodevelopmental disorders.

Today, what was previously known as ADD is classified as a subtype of ADHD, specifically the Predominantly Inattentive Type. The primary distinction between ADD and ADHD lies in the presence of hyperactivity.

Types of ADHD

ADHD is currently classified into three specific presentations: Predominantly Inattentive Type, Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type, and Combined Presentation². Each type presents unique challenges and requires different strategies for management.

‍

Predominantly Inattentive Type ADHD

Predominantly Inattentive Type ADHD, often referred to as inattentive ADHD, is characterized by symptoms such as inattention, distractibility, and poor working memory.

Individuals with this type may frequently experience poor focus during tasks, misplace items, and struggle with organization, making them easily distracted. These inattentive symptoms can significantly impact academic and occupational performance, often leading to misunderstandings about their behavior and trouble paying attention.

Interestingly, more women and girls are most commonly diagnosed with this type of ADHD³. The symptoms, including daydreaming, disinterest, and forgetfulness, often go unnoticed or are mistaken for mood disorders, leading to many cases remaining undiagnosed, especially in girls. This highlights the importance of increasing awareness and understanding of inattentive ADHD.

Challenges for individuals with predominantly inattentive ADHD include avoiding tasks that require sustained mental effort and dealing with the persistent issues that affect social interactions and success in school. Providing the right support and interventions can significantly improve their quality of life and help them achieve their potential.

Hyperactive-Impulsive ADHD

Hyperactive-Impulsive ADHD is marked by behaviors such as constant movement, excessive fidgeting, and impulsivity. Individuals with this type often struggle with trouble waiting, interrupting others, and acting without considering consequences.

These hyperactive and impulsive behaviors, including hyperactive or impulsive behaviors, are typically more pronounced in younger children, making it easier to diagnose in early childhood.

This type of ADHD can lead to behavior problems in school and social settings, underscoring the need for early intervention to manage symptoms effectively.

Combined Presentation ADHD

Combined Presentation ADHD features symptoms from both the inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive categories. This means that individuals may experience difficulties with focus and attention as well as hyperactivity and impulsivity.

Individuals with this type face a broader range of challenges, from difficulty paying attention to managing impulsive behaviors and hyperactivity. This combination can make daily life particularly challenging, requiring a multifaceted approach to treatment for combined type adhd.

Understanding this type of ADHD is crucial for developing comprehensive treatment plans that address the full spectrum of symptoms.

Diagnosing ADHD

Diagnosing ADHD involves a thorough and multi-step process, as there is no single test that can confirm the disorder. Healthcare providers rely on a combination of observations, medical evaluations, and input from parents, teachers, and the individual.

Symptoms must be present in two or more settings, such as home and school, to ensure that they are not situational. An ADHD diagnosis requires careful consideration of these factors to diagnose ADHD.

The diagnostic criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5)⁴ require:

Symptoms to be present for at least six symptoms
Symptoms to cause significant impairment in social, academic, or occupational functioning
For children, six or more symptoms are needed
For adults, five or more symptoms suffice, according to the statistical manual of mental disorders.

These criteria ensure a consistent and thorough approach to diagnosing ADHD, as outlined by the American Psychiatric Association.

A comprehensive evaluation often includes ruling out other potential causes for the symptoms, such as medical conditions or other mental disorders and psychiatric conditions related to mental health.

Symptoms Across Different Age Groups

ADHD symptoms can vary significantly depending on age. In younger children, common signs include constant fidgeting, running or climbing in inappropriate situations, difficulty waiting their turn, and excessive talking. These behaviors typically stand out compared to peers.

As children grow into adolescence, hyperactivity may lessen, but inattention and impulsivity become more prominent. Teens with ADHD may struggle with academic demands, forgetfulness, disorganization, and risk of substance use⁵.

These challenges highlight the importance of academic and behavioral support during this stage.

In adulthood, ADHD often presents as restlessness, distractibility, and difficulty managing responsibilities rather than overt hyperactivity.

Many adults experience low stress tolerance, irritability, poor time management, and struggles in relationships or careers. Symptoms are often only recognized when responsibilities increase, making adult diagnosis and treatment equally essential.

Effective Treatments for ADHD

Effective treatments for ADHD⁶ typically involve a combination of:

Medication⁷, including stimulants like amphetamine and non-stimulants like atomoxetine, which can help manage symptoms though their effectiveness may vary and require adjustments.
Behavioral therapy which is especially recommended in combination with medication for children aged six and older.
Lifestyle adjustments.

Behavior therapy aims to strengthen positive behaviors and reduce problematic ones, playing a critical role in managing ADHD symptoms. Education about ADHD and strategies for behavior management are key components, helping individuals and their families cope better with the disorder.

Improving lifestyle habits, such as maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, and sufficient sleep, can also mitigate ADHD symptoms. Additionally, mindfulness meditation has been shown to lower impulsivity and improve focus, providing a holistic approach to treatment.

Living with ADHD

Living with ADHD requires practical strategies to manage daily challenges that affect daily life. Individuals with inattentive ADHD often appear forgetful and may struggle with tasks such as running errands or returning calls.

It is essential to pay attention to setting time limits on tasks and creating manageable to-do lists, which can help maintain focus and productivity, especially for those who experience trouble focusing.

Parents can play a crucial role in managing a child’s ADHD symptoms by using timers or alarms to enhance time management and creating specific areas for commonly misplaced items to maintain organization, just like other parents. Collaborative efforts among parents, healthcare providers, and schools can significantly enhance treatment outcomes.

Regularly organizing workspaces and using color-coded systems can improve productivity in professional settings. These strategies, combined with support from a compassionate healthcare professional, can make staying organized with ADHD more manageable and less stressful.

Grand Rising Behavioral Health: Personalized ADHD and Mental Health Treatment

Living with ADHD can make daily life feel overwhelming, but the right support makes all the difference. At Grand Rising Behavioral Health, our structured outpatient programs for adults provide a safe, consistent space for healing and growth, with ongoing support to help clients maintain progress long after treatment begins.

Our levels of care, including PHP, IOP, and OP, integrate evidence-based therapies such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, and trauma-informed approaches.

Every mental health treatment plan is tailored to each client’s unique needs, addressing not only symptoms but also the underlying causes that drive challenges.

Whether you are managing ADHD-related difficulties, processing trauma, or working through setbacks in life, our focus is on dignity, respect, and practical skill-building that supports real-world success.

Why Our Setting and Team Make the Difference

Recovery is not only about therapy, it’s also about feeling safe, understood, and supported.

At Grand Rising Behavioral Health, we’ve created a welcoming, private environment designed to reduce the stress of a hospital-like setting. Our warm, comfortable spaces and flexible scheduling make it easier to focus fully on healing while balancing daily life.

Equally important is our team. Our licensed clinicians, medical providers, and mental health specialists bring both expertise and compassion to every session. We specialize in helping adults with ADHD, mood disorders, trauma, grief, and co-occurring conditions, always meeting clients with respect, empathy, and care.

Your journey to healing doesn’t have to wait. At Grand Rising Behavioral Health, you’ll find care that feels personal, supportive, and empowering.

Reach out today to schedule your confidential consultation and take the first step toward lasting recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main differences between ADD and ADHD?

The main difference is that ADD focuses on inattentiveness alone, whereas ADHD includes hyperactivity and impulsivity. Today, ADHD is the overarching term that covers both conditions.

How is ADHD diagnosed?

ADHD is diagnosed through a comprehensive evaluation that includes feedback from parents and teachers, medical assessments, and observation of symptoms across various settings for a minimum of six months. This multifaceted approach ensures an accurate understanding of the individual's behavior.

What are the effective treatments for ADHD?

Effective treatments for ADHD encompass medications (both stimulants and non-stimulants), behavior therapy, lifestyle changes, and mindfulness practices. These combined approaches can significantly improve symptoms and functioning.

How do ADHD symptoms vary with age?

ADHD symptoms vary with age; children often exhibit hyperactivity and impulsivity, adolescents may present with inattention and risky behaviors, while adults typically face restlessness and challenges with focus. Understanding these changes is crucial for effective management at different life stages.

What practical strategies can help manage ADHD symptoms?

Effective strategies for managing ADHD symptoms include setting time limits on tasks, creating organized to-do lists, and utilizing timers or alarms to enhance time management. Implementing these methods can significantly improve focus and productivity.

Conclusion

Understanding ADHD is the first step towards managing it effectively. By recognizing the different types of ADHD and their symptoms, we can better support individuals at various stages of their lives.

Living with ADHD can be challenging, but with the right support and practical strategies, individuals can lead fulfilling lives.

Knowledge, compassion, and collaboration are key to transforming the lives of those affected by ADHD, helping them thrive despite the challenges they face.

‍