What Is Inattentive ADHD?

Many of us are familiar with the terms attention deficit disorder (ADD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), but did you know there's more than just one type of ADHD? One subset, inattentive ADHD, can often be overlooked because the outward signs aren't as obvious. This could leave some individuals with the condition completely unaware that they have it. 

Inattentive  ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder)

ADHD is divided into three subsets: hyperactivity/impulsivity, inattentiveness, and a combination of these. In general, thoughts of someone having ADHD often conjure stereotypical images. For example, you may envision a fidgety young boy unable to sit still, or a talkative teenage girl going on and on with her friends. While difficulty focusing and uncontrollable behaviors are synonymous with the hyperactive impulsive ADHD subtype, the ADHD inattentive type can be more difficult to grasp. That’s because many individuals who experience the predominantly inattentive type of ADHD show few or no symptoms and do not openly display signs of a mental health condition, such as impulsive symptoms.

It's thought that premature birth may increase an individual’s risk of developing ADHD. It may be possible that certain environmental toxins could also contribute to an increased risk of this disorder. Still, regardless of the cause of ADHD, it can be important to note that it can be successfully treated.

Noticeable symptoms

A form of hyperfocus can exist for those people with inattentive ADHD as well. They may focus so intently on a single task or emotion to the point that they cannot switch their mindset or attention to a different task or activity. They may have trouble paying attention to anything other than the task they’re focused on, which may lead to significant problems in some cases. The severity of this type can vary from mild to severe, and the rates at which it affects males versus females are still under review.

A common example

Although school is going okay, Brian has been getting in trouble at home lately because of what his therapist refers to as 'hyperfocus.' Brian loves playing video games, and when he puts on his headset and zones into the screen, it's like he can hear and see nothing else. He neglects his chores and is irritable when interrupted. Brian's parents think that he has a gaming addiction, but his doctor says it is ADHD-related and that he is living with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. 

Other ADHD symptoms: Careless mistakes, inattentive moments, and more

• Frequently daydreaming 
• Being easily distracted
• Trouble completing work assignments or schoolwork
• Finding it difficult to listen when spoken to 
• Losing focus during activities
• Forgetful of daily tasks
• Misplaces things often
• Struggling with jobs that require strong mental focus
• Trouble organizing tasks

Inattentive ADHD expression

This statistic highlights the growing risk women and girls face of experiencing other health issues when their inattentive ADHD goes undiagnosed. Cases of females with eating disorders, anxiety, and depression have been documented at higher rates for those with ADHD than those without. ADHD is also linked to other mental illnesses such as bipolar disorder, which can rarely occur in children but most commonly develops in adults. 

How attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is diagnosed

According to the American Psychiatric Association, symptoms of ADHD are typically identified in school-aged children. Being assessed for inattentive ADHD can be a complex process for a child. When a parent or individual is concerned about possible symptoms, the first step is to discuss the person's health with trained, certified medical practitioners. Observation of their symptoms is followed by medical examinations to rule out other potential health concerns that may or may not appear in conjunction with ADHD. This may include blood work, medical scans, and hearing and vision tests to check for abnormalities.

Questionnaires are then administered. Mental healthcare providers in the U.S. refer to the American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic manual to evaluate someone seeking a prognosis. The American Psychiatric Association or APA can be an excellent resource if you’re interested in learning more about ADHD.

The doctor or specialist bases their findings upon the most current Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V) to evaluate and assign a rating for the patient. The rating and questionnaire assess various factors. These include when a person's symptoms first manifested and how those symptoms affect mood, behavior, daily habits, and interactions. This is in addition to the practitioner interviewing family, friends, and others in close contact with the individual.

Primarily, younger children are examined upon the recommendation of a teacher or caregiver, as they generally have the most amount of contact with the child and take notice of the signs. Testing will also focus on the child's learning ability, memory, and other cognitive functions. After testing, a treatment plan may be more convenient.

Of those diagnosed with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, those with the inattentive type have been known to create coping methods to help themselves remain alert, be focused, and behave well. This means doctors must be thorough in their assessment before ruling on the person's condition and recommending possible treatment options. An inattentive adult, in particular, has likely developed various coping strategies, such as organizational skills, to help them get through day-to-day activities without treatment options like ADHD medications.

Seeking help

Behavioral therapy and therapeutic medicines are commonly prescribed to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder but also are beneficial in treating a comorbid condition or a mood disorder like depression or anxiety. If you suspect that you or your child may have ADHD, it can be best to talk to your healthcare provider about the primary symptoms you’ve noticed.

For those who desire a course of action without medication to treat ADHD, there are several forms of behavioral therapy that provide effective results. Counseling and therapy work well for children and adults alike, as do education and personalized alternative options. Working with an ADHD coach may be helpful as well.

Support options 

Traditional therapy can have its disadvantages for people experiencing symptoms of inattentive ADHD, though. After all, there are many steps to remember in order to make and keep an appointment for an in-person office visit. Online platforms like BetterHelp offer a viable alternative. With online counseling, individuals with ADHD can speak to a licensed therapist from the comfort of home and at a time that’s most convenient for them. 

Those who elect online therapy need not worry about its effectiveness, either. In 2022, researchers found that internet-based treatments are effective in reducing attention deficit and social impairment for individuals diagnosed with ADHD.