Presentations, Symptoms, and Treatments

ADD and ADHD

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If ADD and ADHD make it hard to focus or carry out daily activities, Resilient Psychotherapy & Psychiatry can help. Contact us to learn about our tools to help you manage your symptoms.

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ADD and ADHD are commonly mistaken for one another.

Attention Deficit Disorder and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder are terms that are often used interchangeably; in fact, both fall under the umbrella of attention-deficit disorders, and the American Psychiatric Association has grouped both together since 1994. People with either condition may struggle with procrastination, difficulty completing routine tasks, and more, leading to difficulties in their personal and professional lives.

Despite their similarities, there are some key differences between the two. Understanding ADHD and ADD symptoms and signs can help you identify which type of ADHD could be affecting you. It can also help you to determine the best way to manage your condition.

The 3 Presentations of ADHD and ADD

 

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Under the DSM-5, there are three presentations of ADHD:

  • Predominantly Inattentive Presentation: This is what people commonly call ADD. If you have this type of ADHD, you may have struggle focusing, often find yourself distracted or daydreaming, and may have trouble completing tasks, among other symptoms.
  • Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation: This presentation of ADHD shows itself by the inability to sit still, fidgeting, and more. If you have this type of ADHD, you may also often show impulsive behaviors, such as interrupting others when speaking.
  • Combined Presentation: This presentation is a combination of the other two types of ADHD. If you have this type of ADHD, you likely show equal symptoms of the inattentive presentation and the hyperactive-impulsive presentation.

Sometimes, symptoms may not coincide with the criteria for a specific type of ADHD; in this situation, a healthcare provider will then diagnose the individual as having an unspecified ADHD presentation.

ADHD and ADD Symptoms

The symptoms of ADHD and ADD in adults can vary and may not always be as overt as those most often recognized in children. In adults, the symptoms of these conditions can manifest in ways that significantly impact daily life and overall functioning. ADHD and ADD symptoms can be split into two primary groups: inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive.

Inattentive Symptoms:
  • Trouble Organizing Tasks: You may find it difficult to prioritize your tasks or manage your workload effectively.
  • Poor Attention to Detail: You may find yourself making careless mistakes at work or overlooking important details.
  • Difficulty Following Through: You may have trouble completing tasks, especially those that require sustained effort.
  • Frequently Losing Items: You may misplace items often, such as your keys, phone, or important documents.
Hyperactive-Impulsive Symptoms:
  • Restlessness: You may feel an internal sense of restlessness; this can lead to foot tapping, fidgeting, or the urge to move constantly.
  • Excessive Talking: You may talk excessively, often without considering whether it is an appropriate time to speak.
  • Impulsivity: You may make decisions without thinking through consequences, interrupt others when speaking, or have trouble waiting your turn.

    • The way that ADHD or ADD affects you can change over time. Depending on your combination of symptoms, you could be misdiagnosed with another condition, or your symptoms could be missed entirely. For this reason, it can be beneficial to partner with a mental health professional who specializes in ADD and ADHD.

    How ADHD and ADD Are Treated

    Regardless of which presentation you are diagnosed with, ADHD can greatly impact your daily life if left untreated. A mental health professional with expertise in recognizing ADHD and ADD symptoms is needed for a diagnosis. There are specific criteria that providers consider during an evaluation, which can help them properly diagnose you and create a treatment plan to help improve your quality of life.

    There are many proven, effective techniques that can help you manage your symptoms. This includes therapy, coaching and skills training, mindfulness and relaxation techniques, medication management, and support groups. A mental health professional can help you determine the appropriate treatment route to help you manage your ADD or ADHD.

    To learn about our treatment options, please visit our ADHD Treatment page or contact us.

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    Find Relief From ADHD Symptoms

    ADHD does not have to rule your life. At Resilient Psychotherapy & Psychiatric Services, we have an in-depth understanding of adult ADHD and ADD symptoms and can provide options to help you overcome the challenges that you face. We can help you take back control to live your most successful personal and professional life.

    Please fill out the form below for more information about ADD and ADHD or to schedule an appointment with our providers. Our appointments are flexible and can take place at our office in Oklahoma City or online via a secure telehealth platform. You should receive confirmation that we received your form within 36 hours of submission. If you do not hear from us within this timeframe, please reach out.