Inattentive ADHD and the other types of ADHD
There are 3 types, and inattentive is the quiet one. It’s ADHD that’s mostly about attention: distracted, forgetful, losing things. But your type isn’t fixed. It can change as you grow up.
On this page
What are the 3 types of ADHD?
ADHD has two groups of signs: one about attention, one about energy and acting fast. The NHS calls them inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive.
NICE says a diagnosis should meet the rules in DSM-5 or ICD-11, two diagnosis manuals. DSM-5 sorts ADHD into 3 types by which signs you have most.
| Type | Also called | What stands out |
|---|---|---|
| Predominantly inattentive | Inattentive ADHD, ADHD without hyperactivity (once ADD without hyperactivity) | Easily distracted, forgetful, losing things, hard to finish tasks. |
| Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive | Hyperactive ADHD | Restless, lots of energy, very talkative, interrupting, quick decisions. |
| Combined | Combined ADHD | Enough signs of both groups. |
Sources: NHS; Epstein 2013; NICE NG87
The NHS says most people with ADHD have symptoms of both groups. Some only show signs of one.
ADD is an old name. A 1980 edition of the manual called it attention deficit disorder, with or without hyperactivity. A later edition renamed it ADHD.
Which row sounds most like you? Note it, with a real example.
What are inattentive ADHD symptoms?
Mostly quiet ones. You drift off, forget and lose things, but you may not fidget or interrupt. Here’s how they look at each age.
| Sign | In a child | In an adult |
|---|---|---|
| Distracted | Easily distracted. | Easily distracted. |
| Forgetful | Forgets everyday tasks, like brushing teeth or putting on socks. | Forgetful. |
| Instructions | Finds it hard to listen or to follow instructions. | Finds it hard to follow instructions or finish tasks. |
| Organising | Trouble organising tasks. | Finds it hard to organise their time. |
| Losing things | Loses school things, like pencils and books. | Often loses things, like a wallet, mobile or keys. |
Sources: NHS children; NHS adults; RCPsych
The Royal College of Psychiatrists adds careless mistakes and avoiding tasks that need long mental effort. Many people learn to hide their signs, which it says can be very tiring.
Quiet signs are easy to miss. The NHS says inattentive symptoms can be harder to recognise, which may be why ADHD is spotted less often in women. See ADHD symptoms in women.
Small children are often distracted. Being distracted doesn’t mean ADHD on its own, especially under 5. It could be tiredness, worry or stress.
Write down two real examples for each sign that fits.
Can your type of ADHD change?
Yes. That’s why DSM-5 now calls them presentations, not types. Your presentation shows your signs now, and it may change.
How ADHD signs often shift with age
- 1
Childhood
Hyperactive and impulsive signs are more common.
- 2
Teens and adults
Inattentive signs tend to become more of an issue.
- 3
Later on
Many children with combined ADHD later fit inattentive, as hyperactive signs often fade.
Sources: RCPsych; Epstein 2013
Think of it as a photo, not a film. A child who was all energy at 8 may be the quiet, forgetful adult at 30. It’s still ADHD.
A review of 546 studies found all three types shift a lot over time. It called them handy shorthand, not separate forms of ADHD.
So what about 7 types? The NHS and NICE don’t list seven, and DSM-5 has three. None of them uses numbered labels like “type 2”.
Describe your signs, not a label, when you see a GP.
How is ADHD diagnosed in the UK?
How an adult gets an ADHD diagnosis
- 1
GP
Asks how your symptoms affect your life, and may check for autism, Tourette’s or anxiety.
- 2
Referral
Your GP may refer you to an ADHD specialist. You may wait months or years.
- 3
Assessment
Your history since childhood, school, work and family. They may talk to someone who knows you.
- 4
Diagnosis
Signs that cause at least moderate problems, in 2 or more parts of life.
Signs usually start before 12. DSM-5 needs fewer signs from older teens and adults: 5, not 6, in either group.
NICE says a diagnosis shouldn’t rest on a questionnaire alone. A trained specialist makes it after a full assessment.
In England, ask your GP about Right to Choose. It may find a clinic with a shorter wait.
What helps with inattentive ADHD?
NHS steps that can help with ADHD
- Keep a regular bedtime in a quiet, dark bedroom.
- Avoid screens, caffeine, sugar and alcohol close to bedtime.
- Eat a balanced diet at regular mealtimes.
- Make time for physical activities you enjoy.
- Ask for written instructions as well as spoken ones, at work or college.
- Ask for a quiet work space, or help to plan and structure your tasks.
Source: NHS: ADHD in adults
Exercise eases anxiety and low mood. Those can make ADHD symptoms worse. The Royal College of Psychiatrists says it hasn’t been shown to ease inattention itself.
Medicines, such as methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine, must be started and checked by an ADHD specialist. Talking therapies like CBT, which helps you change thoughts and habits, may also be offered.
Never stop or change a prescribed medicine without your prescriber. Struggling to sleep? See ADHD and sleep.
When to speak to a GP
Book an appointment if:
- Your symptoms are affecting your studies, work or relationships.
- You were diagnosed as a child and need help for your symptoms now. Ask about a referral.
- You’re worried about your child, and support at home and school isn’t helping. Speak to a GP or the school’s special needs lead (SENCO).
- You feel anxious or low. People with ADHD may be more likely to have anxiety and depression.
Feel like ending your life? Call Samaritans on 116 123 or NHS 111. If you’ve seriously harmed yourself, or feel you may be about to, call 999 or go to A&E.
Low mood that changes with your cycle? See PMDD and ADHD.
Foggy for other reasons? See blood tests for brain fog.