Atypical Presentation of ADHD Symptoms Sleep disturbances (has trouble with sleep initiation, sleep deprived, can't wake up easily, etc.) Weak executive function (poor recall of information, internalizing language, controlling emotions, problem-solving, etc.)
Three Possible ADHD Presentations
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) lists three presentations of ADHD—Predominantly Inattentive, Hyperactive-Impulsive, and Combined.
This, the most common type of ADHD, is characterized by impulsive and hyperactive behaviors as well as inattention and distractibility. ADHD, impulsive/hyperactive type. This, the least common type of ADHD, is characterized by impulsive and hyperactive behaviors without inattention and distractibility.
ADHD, Predominantly Inattentive Presentation is a neurobehavioral disorder that is characterized primarily by inattentive concentration or a deficit of sustained attention, such as procrastination, hesitation, and forgetfulness.
Type 6: Ring Of Fire ADHD
People with Ring of Fire ADHD typically show patterns of high brain activity and have trouble “shutting off” their minds, which can make thoughts and emotions overwhelming. Stimulant medications alone may make ADHD symptoms significantly worse.
This framework focuses on building essential skills for parents and children to navigate the complexities of ADHD together. In this post, we'll explore the five C's—self-control, compassion, collaboration, consistency, and celebration—and discover how they can foster a nurturing environment for your child's success.
Experts now consider ADHD to be on a spectrum, as each person can experience varying levels of symptom severity. There are also different types of ADHD, which cause different types of symptoms. When diagnosing ADHD, a doctor will use set criteria to determine the type and severity of ADHD.
The symptoms may peak in severity when the child is seven to eight years of age, after which they often begin to decline. By the adolescent years, the hyperactive symptoms may be less noticeable, although ADHD can continue to be present.
ADHD is a condition that both children and adults can have. The symptoms include an inability to focus, being easily distracted, hyperactivity, poor organization skills, and impulsiveness. Not everyone who has ADHD has all these symptoms. They vary from person to person and tend to change with age.
As the child grows, he still experiences difficulties with attention and executive function but the symptoms of hyperactivity seem to fade away or become more internalized. The presentation then changes as the child grows into a teenager or young adult, from predominately hyperactive to predominately inattentive.
Jesse explained that the ADHD brain gets productive once it has found momentum, so he tries to hack his brain to get to that state by fueling his tasks with the 4 Cs of motivation (Captivate, Create, Compete, Complete). He starts with the one that seems the most fun.
Yet, what is often left out from medical training is the frequent occurrence of atypical presentations of illness in older adults. These presentations are termed atypical because they lack the usual signs and symptoms characterizing a particular condition or diagnosis.
The reality is that many people diagnosed with either ADHD or autism have overlapping or similar symptoms. In addition, people with both disorders can have difficulties that may not be listed as traditional symptoms but that can impact daily life.
Neurotypicals misinterpret this as being callous, narcissistic, uncaring, or socially inept. Taken together, the vulnerability of a person with ADHD to the negative feedback of others, and the lack of ability to observe oneself in the moment, make a witch's brew.
"The ADHD brain has the potential to be a polymath, because they have so many wide interests. They can be pretty resilient, they can be extremely creative, and they can be obsessively focused.
High-functioning ADHD isn't a formal diagnosis. It's a phrase used to describe people living with ADHD who see little to no major impact on daily life. Just because you've reached great success or have found ways to work around ADHD symptoms doesn't mean ADHD might not be affecting you.
The rarest type of ADHD diagnosed is the hyperactive-impulsive type with no indication of inattentive or distracted behavior, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine.
ADHD, predominantly impulsive/hyperactive: This is the least common type. The person will show signs of hyperactivity and the need to move constantly and display impulsive behavior. They do not show signs of getting distracted or inattention.
Adults with ADHD may find it difficult to focus and prioritize, leading to missed deadlines and forgotten meetings or social plans. The inability to control impulses can range from impatience waiting in line or driving in traffic to mood swings and outbursts of anger. Adult ADHD symptoms may include: Impulsiveness.
People with ADHD of the inattentive type have trouble paying attention to details, are easily distracted, often have trouble organizing or finishing tasks and often forget routine chores (such as paying bills on time or returning phone calls).
Untreated ADHD in adults can lead to mental health disorders like anxiety and depression. This is because ADHD symptoms can lead to focus, concentration, and impulsivity problems. When these problems are not managed effectively, they can lead to feelings of frustration, irritability, and low self-esteem.
Appears distracted, even when spoken to directly. Difficulty following instructions. Failure to finish tasks like schoolwork, chores, etc. Avoidance of activities that require prolonged mental effort.