What’s the Difference Between ADD and ADHD?

October 31, 2024

In this article

ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) and ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) are two terms you might have heard before. While they’re often used interchangeably, they refer to different types of attention-related issues. Knowing the difference can help you understand the symptoms and find the right therapy.

What Do ADD and ADHD Mean?

ADD and ADHD are both attention disorders, but they highlight different symptoms. ADD usually refers to issues with focus and attention, but without the hyperactive behaviours. ADHD, however, is the official term used today and covers both inattentive and hyperactive behaviours. Even if someone doesn’t show hyperactivity, the diagnosis is still ADHD^[1].

As explained by Health Direct^[2], ADHD has three types:

Inattentive type (what we used to call ADD)
Hyperactive-impulsive type
Combined type (a mix of both).

ADD vs ADHD Symptoms

Even though ADD and ADHD are both attention disorders, their symptoms can look different.

ADD Symptoms:

Trouble paying attention for long periods
Forgetting daily tasks like appointments or chores
Easily distracted
Difficulty following through on tasks

People with ADD may seem like they’re daydreaming or “lost in thought,” but they don’t show the physical restlessness seen in ADHD^[3].

ADHD Symptoms:

Fidgeting and squirming
Constant talking or interrupting others
Difficulty staying seated
Impulsive actions, like speaking out of turn or making quick decisions

ADHD symptoms are often easier to notice because the hyperactivity can be quite visible. Kids with ADHD might struggle more in school, where sitting still and paying attention is key^[1].

What Causes ADD and ADHD?

ADD and ADHD don’t have a single known cause, but researchers believe it’s a combination of factors. It’s common for these conditions to run in families, meaning genetics play a big role. Environmental factors like prenatal exposure to tobacco smoke or alcohol can also increase the likelihood of developing ADHD. Additionally, there are differences in brain activity in areas that control attention and self-control^[2].

For more insights into how ADHD affects brain function, visit our page on ADHD and Executive Function.

How is ADD or ADHD Diagnosed?

Getting diagnosed with ADD or ADHD involves a series of steps that look at behaviour in different environments, such as home, school, or work. Here’s what the process might include:

Interviews: A healthcare professional will talk to you (and sometimes your family) about your symptoms and how long you’ve experienced them.
Behaviour Checklists: These are simple forms that help measure the frequency and severity of ADHD-related behaviours.
Medical History: To rule out other issues, a detailed medical history is taken to check for other possible causes of inattention or hyperactivity^[3]

At Neurofit Brain Centre, while we don’t diagnose ADHD, we do offer therapies designed to help manage its symptoms after diagnosis. To learn more about how we can help, check out our Brain Training for ADHD page.

Therapy Options for ADD and ADHD

Therapy for ADD and ADHD usually involves a combination of approaches. Here are some common ways to manage the condition:

Medication: Stimulants like Ritalin or Adderall are often prescribed to help increase focus by boosting certain chemicals in the brain. These medications can help people with ADHD control impulsive behaviour and improve their attention span (Health Direct).
Behaviour Therapy: Therapy helps individuals develop coping strategies for managing time, organising tasks, and controlling emotions. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is one method that’s been shown to help with ADHD symptoms in both children and adults.

At Neurofit Brain Centre, we take a brain-based approach. Our therapies are designed to strengthen areas of the brain that might be underactive in people with ADHD. By using neuroplasticity exercises, we help the brain form new pathways, improving attention and overall function.

ADD and ADHD in Adults

While ADHD is often seen as a childhood condition, many adults live with it as well. In fact, about 60% of kids diagnosed with ADHD continue to have symptoms as adults[3].

In adults, ADHD symptoms might look different. Here are some signs to watch out for:

Difficulty staying organised at work
Forgetting appointments or important tasks
Impulsiveness in decision-making
Trouble managing time effectively

Adults can benefit from medication, therapy, and brain-based therapies to improve their focus and executive functioning. Our team at Neurofit Brain Centre offers tailored programs designed to help adults with ADHD strengthen their cognitive skills. Learn more about our approach on Brain Training for ADHD.

How Neurofit Brain Centre Can Help

At Neurofit Brain Centre, we focus on improving brain function through personalised, non-invasive therapies. Our approach targets underdeveloped areas of the brain to improve attention, focus, and executive function. Whether you’re a parent seeking help for your child or an adult managing ADHD, our brain training programs can help you take control of your symptoms.

Book an assessment today to explore how we can help you or your child improve focus and manage ADHD symptoms more effectively.

Disclaimer

All information is general and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Neurofit Brain Centre can consult with you to confirm if a particular therapy approach is right for you.