Hyperactive Symptoms

Hyperactive ADD is often characterized by …

  • Constant physical activity
  • Excessive talking
  • Frequent interrupting
  • Jumping from activity to activity
  • Low tolerance for delay or frustration
  • Poor time management

Some of the secondary signs of hyperactive ADD include…

  • Risk taking, need for speed and action
  • Oppositional or aggressive behavior
  • Very alert to changes around him or her
  • Very quick processing of information
  • Socially gregarious, even intrusive
  • High speed of thinking, problem solving
  • High motivation for learning (not homework!)

Untreated or minimally treated hyperactive ADD can also result in behavioral problems for hyperactive ADD children and adults. These include…

  • School suspensions
  • School failure
  • Auto accidents and traffic tickets
  • Frequent job changes
  • Frequent moves
  • Relationship tension, instability, lack of attachment
  • Alcohol or substance abuse
  • Later health issues, such as GI complaints
  • Anxiety and depression

Learn more about hyperactive treatment options

Inattentive (Non-hyperactive) Symptoms

Inattentive ADD is often characterized by …

  • Drifting attention, daydreaming
  • Careless mistakes
  • Poor listening to others
  • Easily distracted
  • Forgetful
  • Disorganized, often loses things

Some secondary signs of ADD for non-hyperactive ADD include…

  • Risk averse, prefers less speed and action
  • Avoidance of conflict, non-assertive
  • Not alert or attentive to changes or new input
  • Slow processing of information
  • Socially withdrawn, shy
  • Slower speed of thinking, problem solving
  • Lower motivation for learning (including homework!)

Untreated or minimally treated non-hyperactive ADD can also result in problems that result from inaction. These problems have been less well researched but likely include…

  • Underachievement at school
  • Difficulty getting a job, reluctance to change a job
  • Underemployment for intelligence and skills
  • Relationship issues, lack of communication, dependence
  • Depression

Learn more about inattentive treatment options