ADHD without hyperactivity, also known as inattentive type ADHD or formerly known as ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder), is characterized primarily by difficulties with attention, focus, and organization, rather than hyperactivity and impulsivity. While some symptoms of inattentive type ADHD are well-known, there are several lesser-discussed or less obvious symptoms that can also impact individuals with this type of ADHD. Some of these less talked about symptoms include:
Daydreaming and Mind Wandering: People with inattentive ADHD often experience excessive daydreaming or find their minds wandering off-task frequently. They may struggle to stay engaged in activities that don't hold their attention.
Forgetfulness: Forgetfulness is a common symptom of inattentive ADHD. This can include forgetting appointments, deadlines, or important tasks, as well as frequently misplacing or losing items.
Time Management Difficulties: Individuals with inattentive ADHD may have trouble estimating time accurately and often struggle to manage their time effectively, leading to chronic lateness and difficulty completing tasks within deadlines.
Difficulty with Organization: Organizational skills can be challenging for people with inattentive ADHD. They may struggle to keep their physical space tidy or have difficulty organizing their thoughts and ideas.
Difficulty Starting or Finishing Tasks: Initiating tasks and projects can be difficult for individuals with inattentive ADHD. They may also have trouble following through on tasks to completion.
Reading and Comprehension Issues: Some individuals with inattentive ADHD may have difficulties with reading comprehension, especially when the material is not inherently interesting to them.
Emotional Sensitivity: People with inattentive ADHD may be more emotionally sensitive and prone to feeling overwhelmed or easily frustrated by daily challenges.
Poor Listening Skills: They might have difficulty sustaining attention during conversations, leading to missed details and misunderstandings.
Procrastination: Individuals with inattentive ADHD may struggle with procrastination, especially for tasks they find dull or uninteresting.
Impaired Working Memory: Working memory refers to the ability to hold and manipulate information in mind for short periods. People with inattentive ADHD may have challenges with working memory, affecting their ability to follow multistep instructions or recall important information.
Low Self-Esteem: Adults with inattentive ADHD may develop low self-esteem due to repeated difficulties in meeting personal and professional expectations, and they may struggle to understand why they can't perform tasks as effortlessly as others seem to.
It's essential to remember that not all individuals with inattentive ADHD will experience all of these symptoms, and the severity can vary from person to person. Additionally, these symptoms can overlap with other conditions or factors, so a comprehensive evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional is crucial for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.