Let's talk about why ADHD without physical hyperactivity is called ADHD and not ADD.
So back in the 80s (when I was growing up) the diagnosis was just ADD.
But there were two types... ADD *with* hyperactivity and ADD without.
In 1987, the DSM renamed the disorder to ADHD and introduced 3 types... inattentive type, hyperactive/impulsive type, and combined type.
This has confused a lot of people... and I think the main reason is that most of us think of hyperactivity as physical.
But with inattentive type ADHD, the hyperactivity is all happening in the brain... it's all mental.
Inattentive type mainly impacts attention, focus, and mental organization... all of which are mostly invisible to others.
Which is why so many people my age made it to adulthood without a diagnosis.
And why so many children are flying under the radar now.
They're seen as lazy, disorganized, aloof... blamed for not trying hard enough... shamed when they can't meet expectations... and so much more.
Jun 3, 2025 13:12But, ADHD is a brain wiring disorder and has absolutely nothing to do with effort.
Once again because it's important...
ADHD has to do with BRAIN WIRING and NOT effort.
And people who have ADHD deserve empathy and compassion, not judgment and criticism. But most importantly... they deserve accommodations and support.
If you have ADHD, I'm curious what you think of all this. 🙂
And for everyone else, let me know if you found this helpful!
