Types of ADHD: Symptoms by Subtype

Did you know there are different types of ADHD? ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is more than just hyperactivity or difficulty concentrating.

It is important to know which form you or your child has, because this determines how you can best deal with it.

In this blog post, you'll discover the different types of ADHD and learn to recognize the most important symptoms. You'll also get practical tips for reducing symptoms naturally.

First, let's look at the three types of ADHD.

Not so long ago, there were only two types of ADHD: ADD and ADHD. Now, the condition is simply called ADHD, and three types are distinguished. Each has its own characteristics:

These are the three types of ADHD:

1. ADHD-H - Hyperactive and impulsive.
2. ADHD-I - Primarily Inattentive (formerly ADD)
3. ADHD-C - A combination of both.

Of the three subtypes of ADHD, ADHD-I is the most common, followed by the hyperactive subtype (ADHD-H) and the combined subtype (ADHD-C).(1)

The same three types of ADHD can also occur in children. Symptoms are often more noticeable in children, which usually allows for a faster diagnosis.

In adults, the symptoms are sometimes less visible because they have learned to cope with them. This can result in challenges at work or in relationships, without them being aware that ADHD is the cause.

Recognizing ADHD is essential. Once you understand what's going on, you can find more effective strategies to cope with it.

This can range from therapies and medication to adjusting your lifestyle and environment. I'll tell you more about this later in this blog!

But it starts with recognizing the symptoms to determine which type of ADHD you or your child has.

Each type of ADHD has unique characteristics:

With ADHD-H you are mainly hyperactive and impulsive.

1. You often see this already at a young age:
2. Always on the move, difficulty sitting still
3. Talking a lot, difficulty filtering stimuli
4. Difficulty following rules and agreements
5. Starting things but not finishing them
6. Making impulsive decisions without thinking

ADHD-I, formerly called ADD, is often discovered later. You're less noticeable because you're not hyperactive.

These are the main ADD characteristics:

1. Difficulty concentrating, especially on boring tasks
2. Easily distracted by stimuli
3. Often daydreaming and lost in thoughts
4. Passive behavior and difficulty making decisions
5. Often combined with sensitivity to stimuli (HSP)

ADHD-C is a combination of hyperactivity and attention problems.

These are the most common characteristics of ADHD type C:

1. Trouble keeping your attention
2. Very busy and impulsive behavior
3. Daydreaming and not finishing things
4. Difficulty with structure and following rules
5. Easily distracted and losing things

Do you recognize these symptoms? Then it might be time to learn more about how to deal with them.

Many people receive medication and advice for more structure, but there are other ways to deal with ADHD, regardless of the type.

These 4 tips can help you naturally and safely cope better with the effects of ADHD on your daily life:

Exercise is healthy for everyone, but it has extra benefits for people with ADHD. It stimulates the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which helps improve your mood and concentration.

In addition, ADHD sufferers experience specific benefits from regular exercise:

1. Less impulsiveness - You have more control over your impulses.
2. Reduction of hyperactivity - Being able to get rid of your energy helps you feel calmer afterwards.
3. Better emotional balance - Exercise boosts your self-confidence and helps combat anxiety and depression.

Choose a form of exercise that suits you to keep it going longer!

There's growing evidence that our gut flora plays a significant role in ADHD. A healthy balance of bacteria in the gut can reduce symptoms because these bacteria influence the communication between the gut and the brain.

Sugars, fried foods, and highly processed products disrupt this balance, so it's wise to avoid them as much as possible. Instead, choose fresh, unprocessed products like vegetables, fruit, and homemade meals.

By eating a varied diet, you not only ensure healthy intestinal flora, but you also get enough micronutrients that contribute to a better balance of neurotransmitters.

Poor sleep often worsens ADHD symptoms. Sleep helps your brain balance hormones and neurotransmitters. Therefore, make sure you get regular, deep sleep.

Some tips:

1. Rest before bed - Do relaxing activities, such as listening to soothing music.
2. No screens an hour before bedtime - This will help you fall asleep faster.

A good night's sleep can make a big difference in how you feel during the day and how you manage your ADHD.

Concentration and focus are challenges with ADHD. Make sure your workspace is as quiet as possible:

1. Put your phone away - This prevents distraction from notifications.
2. Use noise-cancelling headphones - This blocks out disturbing noises.

Identify the stimuli that distract you most and try to avoid them as much as possible for better focus.

These are just a few examples. But there are many more adjustments you can make to naturally gain more control over your ADHD symptoms.

In our ADHD Lifestyle Step-by-Step Plan, you'll receive all the practical tips you need to turn ADHD or ADD into your strength. From more mindful eating and more exercise to using supplements and relaxing activities.