ADD vs. ADHD

The primary features of ADHD are inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. However, the symptoms and presentation of ADHD can vary among individuals, leading to different subtypes:

• Predominantly Inattentive Presentation (formerly known as ADD): This subtype is characterised by significant difficulties with attention and focus, but without prominent hyperactivity or impulsivity. Individuals with this presentation may have trouble sustaining attention, organising tasks, following through on instructions, and often seem forgetful or distractible.
• Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation: This subtype is characterised by significant hyperactivity and impulsivity without prominent inattention. Individuals with this presentation may be fidgety, have difficulty staying seated, talk excessively, act without thinking, and have trouble waiting their turn.
• Combined Presentation: This is the most common subtype, where individuals exhibit symptoms of both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity.

The removal of the term “ADD” reflects the understanding that attention difficulties and hyperactivity/impulsivity are often interconnected, and that the condition should be viewed as a spectrum rather than distinct disorders.