"My brain is all over the place. So ADHD of me!"
"My ADD kicks in when I have to clean—one minute I’m organizing, the next I’m watching YouTube."
"I can’t sit still, I swear I have ADHD."

Sound familiar? While ADHD has become a common phrase in everyday conversation, it's important to remember that it's a real neurodevelopmental condition - not just a casual way to describe being distracted or disorganized. ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) affects millions of children and adults, impacting their ability to focus, manage impulses, and handle daily tasks.

ADD vs ADHD: A Brief History

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) often cause confusion. To understand why we use these different terms, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM) — which is the guide mental health professionals use — went through several revisions. Here's how the terminology has changed over time:

• 1980: The term "ADD" was introduced

• 1987: The name changed to "ADHD" to better describe the condition

• 1994: Three distinct types were identified

• 2013: These "types" became known as "presentations" to reflect how symptoms can change over time
   

This evolution in terminology reflects our growing understanding of how ADHD works and affects people differently. Think of it like how our understanding of any medical condition improves with research and observation.

Bottom line? While ADD has been officially replaced by ADHD in medical settings, both terms remain in everyday conversation. Much like how we still use familiar phrases even as technology changes, people often use both ADD and ADHD when talking about attention difficulties.

ADHD Types: Understanding Different Presentations

According to the 5th edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), ADHD appears in three distinct ways. These are called "presentations" rather than "types" because symptoms can shift over time - much like how a person's needs and challenges may change as they move through different life stages.

1. ADHD Inattentive Presentation
Also known as predominantly inattentive ADHD, this type is often mistaken for being absentminded rather than a sign of ADHD. Common signs include:

• Drifting off during conversations

• Misplacing daily essentials (phone, keys, coffee you just made)

• Struggling to remember appointments or complete tasks

2. ADHD Hyperactive Presentation

This presentation is also known as predominantly hyperactive ADHD and is more outwardly noticeable, often characterized by:

• Speaking quickly and enthusiastically (sometimes interrupting other people)

• Fidgeting or moving constantly

• Making decisions first without thinking

3. ADHD Combined Presentation

This involves a mix of both inattentive ADHD and hyperactive-impulsive traits. Someone with this presentation might:

• Start organizing their desk, get distracted halfway through, and end up rearranging the entire room instead

• Forget what they were saying mid-sentence while also tapping their foot to three different rhythms

• Have trouble sitting through meetings but also miss half the content because they're lost in thought

No matter which ADHD presentation resonates with you, remember that ADHD isn’t a flaw—it’s simply a different way of thinking and processing the world. Understanding your brain’s unique rhythm can help you find strategies that work for you, whether through structure, support, or professional guidance.

ADHD Symptoms Across Different Ages

Living with ADHD involves more than just attention or activity challenges—it affects how the brain processes information and manages daily tasks. These challenges can affect people throughout their life in different ways.

ADHD in Children: Beyond Normal Childhood Energy

ADHD in children often becomes most apparent when they enter school, where structured environments require sustained attention and self-control. While all children occasionally struggle with listening or sitting still, those with ADHD show consistent patterns that impact their learning and daily activities. Recognizing the signs of ADHD in kids early can help provide the right support.

Common ADHD Symptoms in Kids

Attention Difficulties

• Frequently needing instructions repeated

• Having trouble following multi-step directions

• Regularly misplacing school materials

• Difficulty staying focused on homework or tasks

Activity and Movement

• Finding it challenging to stay seated during lessons

• Fidgeting or moving during quiet activities

• Having trouble adjusting their activity level to match the situation

• Seeming to always be "on the move"

Impulse Management

• Speaking out of turn during class discussions

• Struggling with waiting their turn

• Making quick decisions without considering consequences

• Finding it hard to pause and think before acting

Research shows these ADHD symptoms in kids manifest differently in each child.¹ Some children might be quiet daydreamers, while others show more active behaviors. Many display a combination of these traits.

Remember: Children with ADHD aren't choosing to be challenging—they're facing real difficulties with brain functions that affect their behavior. Our goal isn't to change their personality, but to help them develop strategies to succeed while embracing their unique strengths. If you’re looking for professional support, our clinics in Las Vegas, Reno, Scottsdale, and Tucson offer comprehensive ADHD evaluations and personalized care.

ADHD in Adults: Unpacking Adult ADHD

While many associate ADHD with childhood, this condition continues into adulthood for many people.² The symptoms often evolve and present differently in daily life, leading some to realize they have ADHD in adulthood only after years of unexplained challenges. If you've ever struggled with focus, organization, or time management, recognizing the signs of ADHD in adults can be the first step toward meaningful solutions.

How Adult ADHD Typically Presents

Time Management Challenges

• Consistently underestimating how long tasks will take

• Using multiple organizational systems but still struggling with schedules

• Finding that simple tasks often expand into longer projects

• Frequently running late despite best efforts

Project Management

• Beginning projects with intense initial motivation

• Accumulating unfinished projects over time

• Having difficulty maintaining focus on current tasks

• Struggling to prioritize between multiple projects

Focus and Attention

• Finding it difficult to maintain attention during meetings

• Getting easily sidetracked during important tasks

• Moving from one task to another without completion

• Having trouble returning to tasks after interruptions

Many adults experience a moment of clarity when receiving an adult ADHD diagnosis later in life. Understanding that their challenges have a name—and more importantly, solutions—can be life-changing. Research shows that ADHD in adults can significantly impact work, relationships, and daily functioning, but with the right strategies, improvement is possible.

ADHD Treatment for Adults

If you relate to these adult ADHD symptoms, know that support is available. Whether you're newly diagnosed or have been managing ADHD in adulthood for years, our specialists offer personalized approaches to help you navigate daily life. ADHD treatment for adults can include therapy, medication, coaching, and lifestyle adjustments tailored to your unique needs.

Take the Next Step

A late diagnosis simply means you now have access to tools and strategies that can make life more manageable. If you’re ready to take control of your ADHD, our ADHD specialists are here to help.

ADHD in Women and Girls: Noticing the Less Visible Signs

ADHD in women often goes undiagnosed because their symptoms present differently from what many expect ADHD to look like. While some children might show obvious hyperactivity, many girls with ADHD appear quiet and well-behaved while struggling internally. Research reveals a significant diagnostic gap—doctors are three times more likely to identify ADHD in men than in women.³ As a result, many ADHD symptoms in women go unnoticed, leading to delayed recognition and support.

Common Ways ADHD Presents in Women

Internal Experiences

• Experiencing multiple streams of thoughts simultaneously

• Managing racing thoughts while maintaining a calm exterior

• Intense focus on interesting topics while losing track of time and basic needs

Masking and Compensating

• Creating detailed organization systems to manage daily tasks

• Developing elaborate planning strategies that require significant effort

• Maintaining an appearance of capability while struggling with basic tasks

• Working hard to meet others' expectations despite internal challenges

Emotional Patterns

• Higher rates of anxiety and depression

• Experiencing emotions more intensely than peers

• Finding it difficult to regulate emotional responses

• Feeling overwhelmed by daily responsibilities

Daily Life Challenges

• Maintaining an organized appearance while struggling with internal chaos

• Relying on deadline pressure to complete tasks

• Expending excessive energy on routine activities

• Often feeling different from peers without understanding why

Many women don't receive an ADHD diagnosis until later in life, sometimes only after years of struggling with unexplained challenges. The signs of ADHD in women can be more subtle, often involving emotional regulation difficulties, perfectionism, and social masking rather than overt hyperactivity. Because ADHD symptoms in women are less outwardly disruptive, they are frequently mistaken for anxiety or mood disorders.

This delayed recognition can lead to years of developing complex coping mechanisms that mask the underlying condition. Understanding ADHD symptoms in adult women is essential for proper diagnosis and support, helping women navigate life with strategies tailored to their unique experiences.

Comprehensive Guide to ADHD Testing and Treatment

Understanding you might have ADHD is an important first step. If you're seeking answers about attention and focus challenges, our experienced team can help you find clarity and develop effective solutions. A professional ADHD diagnosis ensures you receive the right support and treatment tailored to your needs.

Professional ADHD Assessment: Your Path to Mental Wellbeing

The American Academy of Pediatrics emphasizes that a professional diagnosis is essential for effective ADHD treatment. But who can diagnose ADHD? A combination of medical and mental health professionals—including psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, psychologists, and primary care providers—can evaluate symptoms and recommend a personalized care plan. Whether you're exploring an adult ADHD diagnosis or seeking answers for a child, our team is here to guide you.

Schedule Your ADHD Assessment Today

Your ADHD Care Team

Different specialists work together to provide comprehensive ADHD diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care:

Primary Care Physicians

• Conduct initial screenings and make referrals

• Coordinate with specialists

• Provide ongoing care management
   

Psychiatrists & Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners

• Specialize in ADHD treatment for adults and children

• Develop personalized medication plans

• Monitor treatment effectiveness
   

Meet Our Team

Psychologists

• Perform detailed ADHD diagnosis evaluations

• Provide evidence-based therapy

• Teach practical coping strategies for daily life

Neurologists

• Evaluate complex symptoms

• Address overlapping conditions

• Provide specialized treatment when needed

The ADHD Testing Process

A comprehensive ADHD diagnosis includes several key components:

Screening

A comprehensive screening typically involves:

• Brief questionnaires evaluating common ADHD symptoms

• Standard online assessment tools to identify patterns

• Initial consultations with healthcare professionals

• Collection of observations from family members, teachers, or colleagues

Clinical Interview

• Detailed discussion about symptoms - how they affect your life, when they started, and what makes them better or worse

• Thorough review of your medical history, including any previous treatments or diagnoses

• Comprehensive assessment of how ADHD symptoms impact your daily activities at home, work, or school

Standardized Assessments

• Evidence-based questionnaires that have been tested and validated with thousands of people

• Behavior rating scales completed by family members or teachers to understand symptoms across different settings

• In-depth cognitive testing to measure attention, memory, and problem-solving abilities

Comprehensive Evaluation

• Computer-based attention tests that measure your response patterns to different types of stimuli

• Performance assessments that look at how you handle various tasks in real-time situations

• Detailed evaluation of how you function in different environments, from structured settings to free time

Evidence-Based ADHD Treatment Options

Current evidence⁴ supports a multi-modal approach to ADHD treatment that includes both medical and behavioral strategies.

Medication Management

Research in The Lancet Psychiatry⁵ shows that medication can be highly effective:

Stimulant Medications

• Success rate: 70-80% of patients

• Options include:

  • Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta)

  • Amphetamines (Adderall, Vyvanse)

Non-Stimulant Alternatives

• Alternative treatment options

• Medications such as:

  • Atomoxetine (Strattera)

  • Guanfacine (Intuniv)

  • Clonidine (Kapvay)

Comprehensive Support Strategies

The American Journal of Psychiatry⁶ recommends combining treatments for the best results:

Therapeutic Support

• Individual therapy

• ADHD coaching

• Behavioral strategies

Lifestyle Optimization (A Natural Treatment for ADHD)⁷

• Regular physical activity

• Consistent sleep schedules

• Balanced nutrition

• Stress management techniques

Complementary Approaches *(Alternative & Online ADHD Treatment Options)

• Mindfulness practices⁸

• Neurofeedback training

• Movement therapy

• ADHD online treatment programs for added flexibility⁹

Find the Right ADHD Treatment Center for You

If you're looking for an ADHD treatment center that provides personalized, evidence-based care, we offer expert evaluations and tailored treatment plans. We also provide online ADHD treatment options for those seeking remote support.
 

Visit our Las Vegas clinic

Book an appointment at our Reno office
 

Check out our experts in Scottsdale
 

Schedule for an evaluation in Tucson

Take the Next Step in Your ADHD Journey

Our specialized team understands that each person's experience with ADHD is unique. Whether you're seeking an adult ADHD diagnosis or exploring natural treatment for ADHD, we’re here to help you develop strategies that work for your specific needs.

Ready to Get Started?

📞 Call 725-444-8400 to schedule your initial consultation
📝 Complete our online assessment form

Let us help you transform your ADHD challenges into opportunities for growth and success.