Many people still use the terms ADHD and ADD interchangeably, which can make things confusing when trying to understand symptoms or seek support.
You might hear ADD used to describe attention difficulties without hyperactivity, while ADHD is often associated with restlessness or impulsivity.
So what is the actual difference between ADHD and ADD?
In short, ADD is no longer a medical diagnosis. ADHD is the correct and current term used by clinicians today.
Are ADHD and ADD the Same Thing?
Yes, but with an important distinction. ADD was once used to describe attention difficulties without hyperactive behaviour.
Over time, clinical research showed that these presentations were part of the same condition rather than separate diagnoses. These inattentive traits are now recognised as part of ADHD and are often discussed when exploring how ADHD can present without hyperactivity. This shift in diagnosis is reflected in changes to clinical guidelines, including updates outlined in the DSM-5 classification of ADHD.
Today, ADHD is the umbrella term used to describe all presentations of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Why ADD Is No Longer Used
ADD was removed as a formal diagnosis in the late 1980s. Clinicians recognised that attention difficulties, impulsivity, and hyperactivity exist on a spectrum and often overlap.
Rather than separating ADD and ADHD, diagnostic criteria were updated to reflect different presentations of the same condition. This change helped improve accuracy and reduce misunderstanding around symptoms.
Although ADD is still widely used in everyday language, it does not appear in current diagnostic manuals. This shift in terminology also helps explain why ADHD can look very different across people and life stages, particularly when spotting ADHD in adults.
The Different Types of ADHD
ADHD is now understood as having three main presentations:
- Predominantly inattentive presentation: This may include difficulty sustaining attention, forgetfulness, and challenges with organisation. Inattentive ADHD is especially common in women, where symptoms may be more internalised and less easily recognised, as explored in what ADHD can look like in women.
- Predominantly hyperactive impulsive presentation: more commonly associated with restlessness, impulsive behaviour, and difficulty staying still.
- Combined presentation: a mix of inattentive and hyperactive impulsive traits.
All presentations fall under the diagnosis of ADHD, even if hyperactivity is not obvious.
How ADHD and ADD Are Commonly Confused
ADHD is often misunderstood because hyperactivity does not always look the same.
Some people experience internal restlessness rather than physical hyperactivity. Others struggle mainly with focus, memory, or mental fatigue.
These experiences are sometimes labelled as ADD, even though they are part of ADHD. These patterns are also closely linked to emotional regulation and anxiety, which is explored further in the link between ADHD and anxiety.
This confusion can lead to delayed recognition, particularly in adults and women, where symptoms may be less outwardly disruptive.
ADHD in Children and Adults
ADHD can present differently across life stages.
Children may show difficulties with attention, impulsivity, emotional regulation, or behaviour at school. Adults often describe challenges with focus, time management, decision making, and mental overwhelm.
When ADHD goes unrecognised, these difficulties can build over time and may contribute to low mood or anxiety, which is explored in whether untreated ADHD can cause depression and anxiety.
Because ADD is still commonly used to describe quieter or less visible symptoms, many adults question whether they have ADHD at all. In reality, inattentive ADHD is widely recognised and well documented.
When It Might Be Time to Seek Support
If attention difficulties, impulsivity, or organisational challenges are affecting daily life, relationships, or emotional wellbeing, it may be helpful to explore professional support.
Clarifying terminology can be the first step, but support often comes from understanding how ADHD presents for you or your child, rather than focusing on labels alone.
For some people, learning more about why to consider an ADHD diagnosis helps clarify whether assessment or support feels like the right next step.
How Neuroaffinity Can Help
At Neuroaffinity, ADHD is approached as a neurodevelopmental difference that affects people in varied ways.
We offer ADHD assessments, including child ADHD assessments and ADHD assessments for women, with care tailored to different life experiences and presentation styles.
Our clinicians offer ADHD assessments for adults, children, and women, with care tailored to different life experiences and presentation styles. The focus is on clarity, support, and helping people make sense of their strengths and challenges.
Key Takeaways
- ADD is no longer a formal diagnosis
- ADHD is the current term used to describe attention and hyperactivity differences
- Inattentive ADHD is often what people mean when they refer to ADD
- ADHD can present differently across age and gender
- Clear information can help guide next steps and support choices
Continuing Your Journey With Neuroaffinity
Learning the difference between ADHD and ADD can bring clarity, especially if attention difficulties have been present for some time.
If you feel ready to explore this further, Neuroaffinity offers supportive pathways through ADHD assessments, guidance, and resources designed to reflect real-life experiences.
Speaking with a specialist can help you decide what support feels right moving forward.
Talhah Malik
Dr Talhah Malik is a Consultant Forensic Psychiatrist specialising in ADHD and autism. He leads secure inpatient services, provides medico-legal assessments, and is passionate about evidence-based, person-centred care.
