Inattentive ADHD: The Quiet Type

You may have heard the term ADD. Today, it is called ADHD, predominantly inattentive presentation. It is the type of ADHD most likely to go unnoticed, because it does not disrupt anyone except the person who has it.

The three presentations of ADHD

• Predominantly inattentive: Mostly trouble with attention, organization, and follow-through
• Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive: Mostly restlessness and impulsivity
• Combined: A mix of both

Your presentation can change over time. Many adults find that hyperactivity fades or turns into inner restlessness, while inattention stays.

Signs of inattentive ADHD

• Drifting off during conversations or reading
• Losing track of what you were doing
• Missing details and making careless mistakes
• Moving slowly through tasks or feeling "foggy"
• Struggling to start boring tasks
• Being called forgetful, spacey, or lazy

Kids with inattentive ADHD are often quiet and well-behaved. Teachers may think they are shy or not trying. Adults may be told they just need better habits. Many people blame themselves for years.

How it is treated

Treatment for inattentive ADHD is similar to other types:

• Medication. Both stimulant and non-stimulant medications can help with attention.
• Coaching. Helps build routines and systems for organization.
• Environment changes. Fewer distractions, written reminders, and visual schedules.
• Therapy. Helps with the frustration and self-doubt that often build up.

The bottom line

Quiet does not mean mild. If you have spent years feeling foggy, scattered, or behind, inattentive ADHD may be worth looking into.