The Hidden Signs of ADHD
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most broadly recognized diagnoses among the general population, thanks to the disruption it is most well known for causing in elementary school classrooms. However, this reputation has done ADHD– and those who experience it– little benefit. The reputation now so often precedes the diagnosis that the subtler forms and signs of ADHD are often missed entirely, despite the fact that their effects are still very much felt.
So why does this occur, and how do we prevent it?
ADHD has three subtypes: inattentive/distracted, impulsive/hyperactive, and mixed presentation. The impulsive/hyperactive presentation is the one most commonly diagnosed in young boys due to the visibility of its symptoms. Restlessness and trouble sitting still, disruptive behaviors, difficulty in structured environments like classrooms, and impulse control are all considered hallmarks of not just the hyperactive subtype, but ADHD overall, and so those who present with mixed or inattentive subtypes are often overlooked. The symptoms associated with these subtypes are so often missed because they do not call as much attention to themselves. These become the hidden signs of ADHD, despite the fact that their prevalence is just as high as the hyperactive presentation– if not higher.
If your child is struggling with any of the below symptoms, they may be experiencing one of these less visible subtypes of ADHD, and could benefit from ADHD strategies tailored to their experiences.
Difficulty focusing during conversations, classes, or other activities that require long term or intense focus
Making simple, careless mistakes with homework, classwork, chores, or other activities that require attention. This can sometimes come across are carelessness, laziness, or struggling with follow-through
Forgetfulness, particularly with instructions, tasks, or quick conversations that may make them seem ‘flaky’ or ‘spacey’
Frequently misplaced items or disorganization
Clumsiness, including dropping things, walking into door jams, frequently stubbing toes, or other forms of injury that can be caused by missing things in the environment
Missing or overlooking details
Distractibility by external stimuli
While these symptoms are often missed, they are no less disruptive in a teen’s functioning. Teens with the mixed or inattentive subtype will also often feel shame around these experiences because they don’t understand why they are like this, or why they can’t force themselves to be different. ADHD focused therapy not only offers them relief and an explanation for them so they don’t need to be as hard on themselves, but also provides tools, tips, and tricks to not only help them succeed, but to help them lead their best, happiest lives.