How does your ADHD subtype affect planning and thinking?

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a condition characterized by symptoms like inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. ADHD is often categorized into three distinct subtypes. Each subtype influences how individuals think and process information, impacting their planning and self-control abilities.

The first subtype is the Combined presentation of ADHD. This is diagnosed when someone shows both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity symptoms for six months or more. Individuals with this subtype struggle with focusing and are often overly active or impulsive.

On the other hand, the Predominantly Inattentive presentation is identified in people who mainly exhibit inattention without significant hyperactivity or impulsivity. This subtype affects concentration and the ability to stay on task but doesn't necessarily involve the restlessness or impulsivity seen in other forms.

Lastly, the Predominantly Hyperactive/Impulsive presentation occurs when a person primarily shows hyperactivity and impulsivity but does not struggle significantly with inattention. These individuals might find it hard to sit still or wait their turn but may not have the same difficulty focusing as the other subtypes.

Research reveals that these three ADHD subtypes – predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive, and combined – show distinct cognitive behaviors in neuropsychological tests. For example, the combined subtype might have more challenges with executive functions, which are higher-level thinking processes in your brain, like planning and inhibition control. These functions are essential for managing attention, which is closely linked to memory.

In a study comparing executive functioning between ADHD-C (combined) and ADHD-I (inattentive), it was found that there was no significant difference in general executive functions between these subtypes. However, ADHD-C individuals showed specific differences in tasks that require inhibition, like stopping an action or response.

In adults, a similar pattern emerges where the combined subtype performs worse on executive functioning, the higher level thought processes in your brain. The inattentive subtype performs worse on memory.

Functional MRI studies have shown that ADHD subtypes have distinct neural connectivity patterns. For example, the combined subtype offers unusual connectivity in areas associated with emotional processing and daydreaming, while the inattentive subtype demonstrates atypical connectivity in regions involved in attention.

In teens, different ADHD subtypes also display distinct cognitive performances. The inattentive subtype might perform poorly on tests like the Digit Span and Stroop Test, which assess memory and attention control. The combined subtype tends to perform poorly on the Digit Span and WCST tests, which measure working memory and planning. The hyperactive-impulsive subtype surprisingly does not show significant deficits in these tests.

For those with ADHD, managing time effectively can be challenging. Practical tips like learning to say no to avoid overscheduling, using timers and Post-It notes for focus, establishing routines, prioritizing tasks, delegating when possible, and breaking down big projects into smaller parts can help manage the symptoms of ADHD, particularly in planning and organization.

In conclusion, understanding the nuances of different ADHD subtypes is crucial for recognizing how they affect planning, thinking, and overall cognitive processing. This knowledge can aid in developing more tailored approaches for managing ADHD symptoms and improving the quality of life for those affected.