ADHD vs ADD – What is the Difference?

What is the difference between ADHD and ADD?

ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder) and ADD (attention-deficit disorder) are often used interchangeably to describe a neurodevelopmental disorder that mainly affects an individual’s ability to concentrate.

No longer diagnosed as ADD, mental health professionals now use the term ADHD. In this article, we cover when and why ADD was changed to ADHD, the differences between both disorders, the symptoms of those who have ADHD, and more.

What is ADHD?

ADHD, or attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, is a brain disorder that may impact a person’s functioning or development.

It can interfere with an individual’s ability to concentrate, and they can become easily distracted. Other common symptoms can include being hyperactive, and impulsive in decision-making and actions.

This can lead to difficulties in learning institutions, workplaces, and at home, as individuals may struggle with basic skills such as organisation, time management, diligence, and staying on task.

The most recent data shows that 1 in 20 Australians is affected by ADHD. Most prevalent in boys, studies suggest women and adults are underdiagnosed as the symptoms of ADHD can present in a more muted way that can go undetected. They are less likely to present with hyperactive symptoms – and so without the disruptive behaviours, they often fall under the radar.

What is ADD?

ADD, or attention-deficit disorder is the prior term for ADHD, a condition that affects a person’s ability to focus.

In 1987, ADD was renamed to ADHD, reflecting a broader understanding of the condition, encompassing both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms. This change aligns with international diagnostic manuals, ensuring consistency in terminology and diagnosis.

ADD is still a commonly used term, typically to discuss those who have inattentive ADHD, as the acronym does not include hyperactivity. However, this term is considered outdated – ADHD is the correct diagnostic term according to current medical standards.

Why is ADD not used anymore?

The diagnosis was updated due to an improved understanding of the condition. ADD is no longer the used terminology because ADHD was found to better reflect the understanding that hyperactivity is often a component of this disorder.

ADD was replaced by ADHD in 1987 in the revised third edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-III-R). The manual is used as a reference for psychological diagnoses and contains the evolution of ADHD dating back to the 1960s.

Are ADD and ADHD the same thing?

Yes, ADD and ADHD are the same thing. ADD (attention-deficit disorder) is an outdated term for what is now known as ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder).

Even if someone with ADHD may not present with hyperactivity, they will still be diagnosed with ADHD.

Prior to 1987, the condition was referred to as ADD and was split into two diagnostic categories.

ADD with hyperactivity
ADD without hyperactivity

Now ADHD is the current terminology for the condition and can be split into three subtypes.

ADHD with predominantly inattentive presentation
ADHD with predominantly hyperactive-impulsive presentation
ADHD combined presentation

Combined presentation refers to someone who shows significant symptoms of both hyperactive-impulsive and inattentive ADHD presentations.

ADHD should be diagnosed by a health care professional and symptoms can be managed through the help of a licensed psychologist.

Can ADHD develop later in life?

ADHD develops in childhood, but some people may only get diagnosed as adults. It’s not uncommon for symptoms to be missed or misattributed to other conditions during childhood and adolescence. ADHD is a lifelong condition and as awareness about this disorder increases, many adults are now seeking the diagnosis and treatment that they did not get when they were younger.

ADHD in adults commonly presents as:

Disorganisation – This applies to various aspects of their life, which can result in issues such as a messy house, forgetting appointments etc.
Trouble maintaining relationships – This may be due to getting bored easily, talking over people, or not paying attention to the other person’s questions or stories.
Inability to focus – This can especially impact an adult’s work life as they often overlook details, don’t complete tasks, don’t listen and retain instructions, and are easily distracted.

Is it possible to have ADHD without hyperactivity?

Yes, ADHD without hyperactivity exists – it is referred to as the inattentive presentation of ADHD. It is less diagnosed in children, because without the hyperactivity, it is harder to initially identify.

The differences in symptoms between those with and without hyperactive ADHD are:

Hyperactive ADHD:

unwarranted amount of talking
interjecting into conversations
continuously fidgeting
unable to concentrate on tasks
minor or no awareness of danger
excessive and unnecessary physical movement
unable to sit still, especially in low-activity situations
incapable of waiting their turn
acting without thinking

Inattentive ADHD:

makes thoughtless easily avoidable mistakes
has trouble organising tasks
constantly changing activities, can’t just focus on one
can’t stick to tasks that are considered dull or time-consuming
short attention span and easily side-tracked
struggles to listen to or perform instructions
forgetful and consistently losing things

New Vision Psychology provides ADHD diagnosis and treatment

New Vision Psychology is a leading psychology practice in Sydney that provides comprehensive screening, diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. If you or someone you know thinks that they might have ADHD, visit this page or get in touch with us at 1300 001 778 to learn about what we can do for you.