If you’ve ever heard the terms ADD and ADHD used interchangeably, you’re not alone. Many people wonder whether they mean the same thing or if they refer to different conditions. While both relate to attention difficulties, there are important distinctions between them. In this post, we’ll break down the differences, clarify misconceptions, and explain why the terminology has evolved.
ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) was once commonly used to describe individuals who had trouble focusing but didn’t exhibit hyperactive or impulsive behaviors. However, this term is now outdated.
ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) is the official medical term used today. It includes different types of attention-related challenges, including both inattentive and hyperactive traits.
In 1980, the American Psychiatric Association introduced ADD in the DSM-III (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 3rd Edition) to describe attention difficulties without hyperactivity. But by 1987, the term was replaced with ADHD in the DSM-III-R (Revised Edition) to better account for the different ways the disorder presents itself. Since then, ADHD has remained the clinical term used in diagnosis and research.
Rather than using ADD and ADHD as separate terms, mental health professionals now diagnose individuals based on three recognized types of ADHD:
These types help clinicians better understand how ADHD affects an individual and guide treatment options.
Many people still use "ADD" when referring to inattentive ADHD, which can lead to confusion. While the term ADD is no longer used in medical settings, some individuals—especially those diagnosed before the terminology changed—may still identify with it.
Recognizing ADHD’s different presentations is important because:
✔ It helps tailor treatment – Someone with inattentive ADHD may benefit from different strategies than someone with hyperactive-impulsive traits.
✔ It reduces misunderstandings – Many assume ADHD always involves hyperactivity, but inattentive ADHD can be just as impairing.
✔ It improves awareness – Understanding the full scope of ADHD can help more people seek proper diagnosis and support.
ADHD is diagnosed based on behavioral symptoms that have persisted for at least six months and cause significant impairment in daily life. A thorough assessment by a mental health professional includes:
Clinical interviews
Behavioral rating scales
Input from teachers, parents, or employers
Treatment options include:
Behavioral therapy to develop coping strategies
Medication (such as stimulants or non-stimulants) to help manage symptoms
Lifestyle changes, including structured routines and mindfulness techniques
Because ADHD affects each person differently, an individualized approach works best.
ADD and ADHD aren’t separate conditions—ADHD is the correct term, with different presentations that account for inattentive, hyperactive, or combined symptoms. If you or someone you know struggles with attention, impulsivity, or organization, understanding the nuances of ADHD can be the first step toward effective support and management.
Do you suspect you have ADHD or are interested in learning more? Consulting with a mental health professional can provide clarity and guidance on the next steps.
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For many people, autism is something that is identified in childhood. However, an increasing number of adults are realizing that their lifelong challenges with social interactions, sensory sensitivities, or executive functioning might actually be signs of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). If you’ve ever wondered whether you might be autistic but never received a diagnosis as a child, this post will help you understand autism in adulthood, what the diagnostic process looks like, and why getting diagnosed later in life can be life-changing.
Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person thinks, communicates, and experiences the world. While it’s often diagnosed in childhood, many people—especially those who were able to “mask” their differences or who didn’t fit outdated stereotypes—grow up without ever realizing they are autistic.Autism presents differently in everyone, but common signs in adults include:
For many undiagnosed adults, these traits may have led to feelings of being "different," struggling with burnout, or masking their natural behaviors to fit societal expectations.
There are several reasons why autism might not be recognized until later in life:
If you suspect you might be autistic, seeking a formal diagnosis can be an important step toward self-understanding and support. Here’s what the process typically looks like:
Before seeking a diagnosis, many adults start by reading about autism, taking online screening tests (such as the Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ) test), or talking to others in the autistic community.
An autism diagnosis in adulthood is usually conducted by a psychologist, psychiatrist, or neuropsychologist with experience in assessing autism in adults. Since many professionals focus on diagnosing children, finding the right specialist may take time.
A comprehensive autism evaluation includes:
Clinical Interview – A discussion of your developmental history, social experiences, sensory preferences, and daily challenges.
Questionnaires – Standardized tests like the ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule) or RAADS-R (Ritvo Autism Asperger Diagnostic Scale – Revised).
Input from Family or Close Friends – If possible, childhood experiences and behaviors may be discussed.
If you are diagnosed with autism, the next step is exploring support strategies, self-acceptance, and accommodations that can help improve quality of life. Some adults seek therapy, workplace accommodations, or community support groups. Others simply feel validated knowing why they’ve always felt different.