ADHD vs. ADD: Understanding the Differences
If you’ve ever found yourself wondering whether you have ADHD or ADD—or what the difference even is—you’re far from alone. These two terms often get used interchangeably, but they don’t mean exactly the same thing. And understanding the distinction can make a big difference, especially if you’re seeking support, treatment, or simply trying to understand your brain a little better.
Whether you’re newly exploring neurodivergence or finally putting a name to something you’ve lived with for years, this breakdown will walk you through the key differences between ADHD and ADD, how the terminology has evolved, and why it matters.
First: What is ADHD?
ADHD stands for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. It’s a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how the brain regulates things like attention, impulse control, memory, and emotional regulation. ADHD isn’t about a lack of intelligence or willpower—it’s about how the brain processes information, transitions between tasks, and manages stimulation.
Contrary to common stereotypes, ADHD isn’t just about being hyperactive or bouncing off the walls. In fact, ADHD can show up in multiple ways, depending on the individual.
The current diagnostic framework recognizes three presentations of ADHD:
1. Inattentive Presentation
This includes symptoms like:
- Difficulty focusing or sustaining attention
- Being easily distracted
- Frequently losing things
- Trouble following through on tasks or instructions
- Mental fatigue or “zoning out”
People with this presentation often appear quiet or spaced out, rather than outwardly hyperactive. This form of ADHD is more likely to go undiagnosed—particularly in women and girls—because the symptoms are less disruptive externally.
2. Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation
This includes:
- Fidgeting, restlessness, or trouble sitting still
- Impulsive decision-making
- Interrupting others
- Talking excessively or rapidly
- A general sense of being “on the go” or needing to move
This is the more traditionally recognized version of ADHD, and it’s often easier to identify in childhood.
3. Combined Presentation
As the name suggests, this presentation includes a combination of inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms. The most commonly diagnosed type in both children and adults.
So… Where Does ADD Fit In?
ADD stands for Attention Deficit Disorder—a term that used to be used to describe individuals who had trouble focusing but didn’t display hyperactive or impulsive behaviors.
However, in 1994, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) updated the terminology. ADD was officially retired as a diagnosis and replaced with ADHD, which now includes all three types.
In other words, ADD hasn’t disappeared—but it’s no longer considered a separate condition. It now falls under the umbrella of ADHD, specifically as the Inattentive Presentation.
So, when someone says they “have ADD,” what they typically mean is that they experience ADHD symptoms related to attention, focus, and mental organization—but not hyperactivity.
Why This Distinction Matters
The difference between ADHD and ADD isn’t just semantics—it affects how people are diagnosed, treated, and supported. Understanding your specific presentation of ADHD can help you:
- Advocate for the right support. Whether you’re seeking coaching, therapy, or workplace accommodations, having an accurate understanding of your symptoms makes a difference.
- Avoid unnecessary shame or self-blame. Many people with inattentive ADHD struggle with chronic overwhelm, underperformance, or low self-esteem, often because their challenges are dismissed as laziness or lack of effort. Recognizing ADHD for what it is can be a powerful first step toward self-compassion.
- Tailor your strategies. What works for someone with hyperactive tendencies might not be effective for someone whose primary challenge is sustaining focus. ADHD isn’t one-size-fits-all—and your approach to managing it shouldn’t be either.
Adult ADHD: It’s More Common Than You Think
ADHD doesn’t just affect children. In fact, many adults—especially women—go undiagnosed for years. This is particularly true for those with inattentive symptoms, which often fly under the radar in school settings and are masked by high performance or perfectionism.
Common signs of adult ADHD include:
- Difficulty with organization and time management
- Forgetting important dates, tasks, or conversations
- Starting projects but struggling to finish them
- Feeling overwhelmed by routines or everyday demands
- Emotional sensitivity or difficulty regulating feelings
- Trouble relaxing or “switching off” your mind
These symptoms can be frustrating, especially when you’re doing your best to keep up—but they are also manageable with the right tools, strategies, and support.
The Importance of Getting the Right Support
Whether you identify more with inattentive traits or resonate with the full spectrum of ADHD symptoms, what matters most is understanding your own experience. Labels can be helpful, but they’re just the beginning.
If you’ve felt misunderstood, dismissed, or stuck trying to “fix” yourself with productivity hacks that never stick, it might be time to try something different.
That’s where ADHD coaching comes in.
How ADHD Coaching Can Help
At ADHD Seta, we offer coaching designed specifically for adults navigating ADHD. Our work focuses on helping you build systems that honor your brain’s unique wiring—without shame, overwhelm, or unrealistic expectations.
We work with clients who are:
- High-achieving but burned out
- Full of ideas but stuck in follow-through
- Tired of one-size-fits-all productivity advice
- Ready to stop masking and start understanding themselves
Whether you were recently diagnosed or have known for years that something felt “off,” coaching can help you reconnect with your strengths, build confidence, and create sustainable strategies for real life—not just the one in your planner.
In Summary: ADD vs. ADHD
Here’s what you really need to know:
- ADD is an outdated term that’s now classified under ADHD.
- ADHD includes three types: inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive, and combined.
- Your specific experience of ADHD matters—and understanding it can unlock powerful support and transformation.
- You’re not lazy, broken, or doing it wrong. Your brain is just wired differently—and that’s okay.
Ready to Work With Your Brain?
If this article felt like someone put your experience into words, we’d love to support you.
At ADHD Seta, we help adults navigate the real-life challenges of ADHD with clarity, care, and actionable tools. Our goal is to help you create a life that feels more aligned, less chaotic, and way more possible.
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