The three types of ADHD

Awareness of ADHD is growing fast in Australia, and with it, more adults are starting to recognise signs in themselves, their children, or the people around them. What once seemed like forgetfulness, overthinking, or constant restlessness is now being understood as possible symptoms of ADHD.

Around 5% of children and 2.5% of adults in Australia experience symptoms of ADHD, yet up to 75% of cases go undiagnosed. This gap leaves many people navigating daily challenges without a clear explanation or the right support.

As understanding deepens, so does the need for clear, compassionate information about the different types of ADHD, how ADHD diagnosis works, and what treatment options are available. Let’s discuss all these things in this guide.

The three types of ADHD

ADHD is generally divided into three categories, each based on the kinds of symptoms that appear most often. 

• Inattentive type - trouble focusing, staying organised, remembering details, and avoiding distractions

• Hyperactive-impulsive type - constant restlessness, excessive talking, fidgeting, acting quickly without thinking, and finding it hard to wait

• Combined type - a mix of both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms

Understanding the inattentive type

Adults with inattentive ADHD may appear quiet but often struggle with attention, memory, and task completion.

They may frequently misplace items, miss deadlines, or forget appointments. These challenges are not about laziness. They're linked to differences in how the brain processes and organises information.

This type is more often missed in women and girls, partly because the signs can be internal rather than disruptive. In adult life, these patterns may be mislabelled as anxiety or low motivation. Some people experience ADHD paralysis, where a task feels impossible to start even though it's important. The result can be chronic stress, guilt, or burnout.

Understanding the hyperactive-impulsive type

People with this type often find it hard to stay still or wait their turn. In adults, this can appear as constant movement, trouble relaxing, or blurting out thoughts in conversations.

They might interrupt often, struggle with emotional outbursts, or make impulsive decisions.

In professional settings, these behaviours may be misunderstood as impatience or lack of professionalism. The physical signs (like tapping feet or shifting posture) can also come through body language, signalling internal restlessness that’s not always easy to explain.

While often associated with childhood ADHD, hyperactive-impulsive symptoms can persist into adulthood and cause difficulties in relationships, employment, or personal wellbeing if unrecognised.

Understanding the combined type

Combined type is the most common ADHD diagnosis in children and can continue into adult life. It includes symptoms from both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive types. People may find themselves easily distracted and forgetful, but also restless, reactive, or talkative.

Symptoms can shift depending on the setting. For example, a person may focus well in a fast-paced environment but struggle to concentrate in a quiet room. They may excel during high-pressure moments but collapse into ADHD paralysis when left to self-direct.

Combined type ADHD can be particularly challenging to manage without support, as it affects multiple aspects of functioning. But, with proper guidance, individuals can learn to identify their patterns and develop strategies that match their natural rhythm.

ADHD treatment options

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to ADHD treatment. What works well for one person might not for another. Treatment plans often involve a mix of psychological therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and environmental support.

Psychological therapies

• Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) helps with time management, task planning, emotional regulation, and reducing overthinking.

• ADHD coaching or structured support can be effective in building daily routines, prioritising tasks, and creating practical strategies for home or work life.

• For parents, especially those raising a toddler, therapy can include parent coaching, visual tools, and behavioural strategies.

Note that ADHD assessment and therapy costs in Australia vary. Some services are covered under Medicare with a referral and a mental health treatment plan from a GP. With Medicare, you can access psychology rebates to reduce out-of-pocket costs for eligible sessions.

ADHD medications

For many people with ADHD, medication plays an important role in managing symptoms. It can improve focus, reduce impulsivity, and support emotional regulation when used as part of a broader treatment plan.

There are two main types of ADHD medications:

• Stimulants, such as methylphenidate or dexamphetamine, are fast-acting and commonly prescribed.

• Non-stimulants, like atomoxetine, may be better suited for people who don’t respond well to stimulants or who experience unpleasant side effects.

Research shows that about 70 to 80 percent of people respond positively to ADHD medication, especially when combined with therapy, lifestyle changes, and practical support.

However, it's important to remember that these medications are controlled substances for a reason. Self-medicating with someone else’s prescription or using ADHD medication without proper supervision can be harmful and lead to serious physical or mental health risks

Medication should always be prescribed and carefully monitored by a qualified healthcare professional, such as a psychiatrist or GP, with regular reviews to adjust dosage or treatment as needed.

Lifestyle strategies

Even small changes in daily life can help reduce the sense of being overwhelmed and support long-term wellbeing. 

• Regular movement can improve focus and reduce internal restlessness.

• Consistent sleep routines help regulate energy and mood.

• Creating low-clutter, structured environments can support people prone to distraction or sensory overload.

Allotting time for grounding activities that work for you can help feel more in control and balanced.

Workplace and study support

For adults with ADHD, staying focused and organised at work can be challenging. With the right support, however, many people manage their workload more effectively and feel more in control of their day.

Disclosing an ADHD diagnosis is a personal decision. While not required, it can help you access reasonable adjustments or services like an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), which may offer confidential counselling or coaching.

Reasonable adjustments aim to reduce barriers and support your strengths. Some examples are:

• Flexible hours or extended deadlines for focus-heavy tasks

• Breaking larger projects into clear, manageable steps

• Providing written instructions or visual aids to support memory

• Quiet spaces or noise-cancelling headphones to limit distractions

• Regular check-ins with a manager to clarify goals and expectations

• Use of digital tools like reminders, planners, or task lists

Many Australian workplaces are becoming more supportive of neurodivergent employees. A conversation with your manager or HR can help identify adjustments that make your workday more manageable.

Where mental health comes in

Living with ADHD isn’t just about managing symptoms. It’s also about understanding yourself, embracing your differences, and finding environments where you can thrive.

People with ADHD often bring strengths like creativity, adaptability, and the ability to think in unique ways. At the same time, many experience self-doubt, burnout, or feeling misunderstood,  especially if their ADHD has gone unrecognised for years.

Support needs to reflect both the challenges and strengths. This could mean:

• Encouraging a strengths-based view that acknowledges what the person does well

• Providing therapy that respects neurodiversity, not just symptom reduction

• Educating families, workplaces, and communities about how ADHD affects attention, behaviour, emotions, and body language

Many people with ADHD also live with anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns. A holistic approach that treats these issues together is more effective than tackling them separately.

Final thoughts

ADHD is not a personal failing or a character flaw. It’s a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how people focus, process information, and respond to their environment. 

Understanding the different types of ADHD, and how they show up in children and adults, helps shift the focus from frustration to compassion. Whether you’re seeking an ADHD diagnosis, exploring treatment options, or just starting to connect the dots, support is available. You can speak with a GP or a psychologist, and you can start for free here on Talked.

Seeking to understand your ADHD is a beautiful first step to caring for yourself better. Start with a few simple steps, like reflecting on your behavioural or mental tendencies and challenges. And when you’re ready, reach out for professional ADHD support for safe, compassionate, and personalised guidance.