ADHD is often categorized into three main types, each with distinct symptoms and challenges. Let’s break them down:
1. Predominantly Inattentive Type
Do these sound familiar?
- You often miss details or make careless mistakes at work or in daily tasks.
- You find it hard to stay focused on tasks, even if they are interesting or important.
- You struggle to follow through with instructions and often leave tasks incomplete.
- Organization feels nearly impossible, and your space or schedule is often chaotic.
- You tend to lose things frequently, like keys, your phone, or important documents.
What it feels like: Living with inattentive ADHD can feel like you're constantly behind, even when you're trying your hardest to keep up. Deadlines slip through your fingers, and to-do lists seem endless. This type often goes undiagnosed because the signs aren’t always disruptive to others, but the internal struggle is very real.
How we can help:
- Coaching: We'll work together to personalized systems for managing tasks and goals.
- Therapy: We’ll explore underlying emotions, such as guilt or shame, that may come with procrastination.
- Mindfulness Strategies: Learn how to stay present and grounded to increase focus.
2. Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type
Does this describe you?
- You feel the need to constantly move, whether tapping your foot, pacing, or fidgeting.
- You often speak out of turn, finish others’ sentences, or interrupt conversations.
- You struggle to wait patiently, whether in lines or during meetings.
- Your impulsive actions—like making decisions quickly without considering consequences—sometimes get you into trouble.
- You find it hard to sit still, even in situations where it’s expected, such as at work or social events.
What it feels like: Hyperactive-Impulsive ADHD can feel like you’re driven by a motor you can’t turn off. You want to calm down, slow your thoughts, or sit still, but something inside you says “go.” This constant need for stimulation may strain relationships and lead to impulsive decisions, often followed by regret.
How we can help:
- Therapy: We’ll focus on developing impulse control strategies to avoid risky behavior.
- Physical Outlets: Structured physical activities can channel that energy positively.
- Group Support: Learn techniques that work for others to manage impulses and stay focused on your goals.
3. Combined Type
Can you relate to these?
- You feel like a blend of both: easily distracted and disorganized but also restless and impulsive.
- You might forget appointments or assignments while simultaneously feeling like you’re constantly on the move.
- You find it hard to complete tasks or projects because your attention is all over the place.
- You often feel misunderstood, and your relationships may be strained due to forgetfulness, impulsivity, or difficulty communicating clearly.
What it feels like: Combined Type ADHD can feel like a rollercoaster of experiences. One moment you’re losing focus during an important task, and the next, you’re jumping into something new on impulse. The result is a lot of unfinished tasks and feelings of frustration. It can be confusing because you may identify with both inattentive and hyperactive symptoms.
How we can help:
- Customized Support: We’ll develop a plan that integrates strategies from both inattentive and hyperactive treatment approaches.
- Routine Building: Together, we can create daily routines that help you balance both energy and focus.
- Emotional Support: Our therapy will address the emotional impact of living with ADHD, so you don’t feel alone or misunderstood.
|