ADHD Explained: Symptoms, Types, Testing, Diagnosis, and Treatment for Adults

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention, impulsivity, and regulation of activity levels. It presents differently in different people, particularly between men and women, and across the three main ADHD types.

TL;DR

  • ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and includes both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms.

  • ADHD in women symptoms are often missed due to masking or internalised presentations.

  • There are three ADHD types: inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive, and combined.

  • ADD and ADHD are often used interchangeably, but ADD refers to inattentive-type ADHD.

  • ADHD testing for adults involves clinical interviews, questionnaires, and if possible input from historical documents (eg report cards) and friends or family.

  • Treatment for ADHD includes behavioural strategies, psychological therapy, lifestyle support, and sometimes medication.

  • The difference between ADHD and autism is that ADHD involves attention and activity regulation vs autism's main features of social communication difficulties and heightened sensory needs.


What Is ADHD and ADD?

ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. It includes symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. The term ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) was used historically to describe what is now known as the inattentive type of ADHD. While ADD is no longer an official diagnosis, many adults still use the term when referring to difficulties focusing without hyperactivity.

ADHD Types

There are three recognised types of ADHD:

  • ADHD Inattentive Type: Difficulty sustaining attention, forgetfulness, disorganisation.

  • ADHD Hyperactive-Impulsive Type: Excessive movement, interrupting, restlessness.

  • ADHD Combined Type: Features of both inattentiveness and hyperactivity-impulsivity.


ADHD Symptoms in Women

ADHD in women often goes undiagnosed due to subtler symptoms. Women may repress or mask their symptoms and blame themselves for their challenges, leading to anxiety, low self-esteem, or perfectionism. Common signs include:

  • Chronic disorganisation

  • Emotion regulation difficulties

  • Daydreaming or mental drifting

  • Trouble initiating or completing tasks

  • Overwhelm in daily routines


Diagnosis for ADHD: How to Get Diagnosed

Wondering how to get ADHD diagnosed as an adult? ADHD testing for adults typically includes:

  • Clinical interview with a psychologist or psychiatrist

  • Review of developmental and academic history

  • Use of standardised ADHD questionnaires

  • Input from observers (family, partners, teachers vis old school reports)

Getting diagnosed with ADHD can be a turning point. It helps explain long-standing struggles with attention, procrastination, and motivation, and opens the door to targeted support.

Treatment for ADHD

Effective ADHD treatment involves a multimodal approach. This may include:

  • Education about how ADHD affects the brain

  • Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) to build structure and self-esteem

  • Executive functioning coaching

  • Mindfulness and emotional regulation training

  • Medication (e.g. stimulants such as methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine)


ADD vs ADHD: Is There a Difference?

ADD and ADHD are not separate conditions. ADD is an outdated term that typically referred to what we now call ADHD Inattentive Type. The official term used in diagnostic manuals is ADHD.

Difference Between ADHD and Autism

While ADHD and autism can co-occur, they are distinct conditions. The key differences include:

  • ADHD is primarily about focus, attention, and impulse control.

  • Autism involves challenges with social communication, repetitive behaviours, and sensory processing.

  • People with ADHD tend to seek novelty; people with autism often prefer routine.

Local ADHD Testing and Support in Sydney

At Equilibrium Psychology, we offer ADHD testing for adults using structured interviews, validated questionnaires, and collateral information.

Our centrally located Sydney CBD clinic is just 3 minutes from Wynyard Station and easily accessible from areas like Surry Hills, Ultimo, Pyrmont, and Barangaroo among others.

Telehealth is also available Australia-wide.

Why Choose Equilibrium Psychology?

Founded by Clinical Psychologist Gemma Cribb almost 20 years ago, our experienced team of over 20 AHPRA registered Clinical Psychologists (and Angel the Therapy Dog!) offer neurodiversity-affirming care.

We provide:

  • Adult ADHD assessments and diagnosis

  • Therapy for ADHD, anxiety, self-esteem and life structure

  • Psychologists experienced in ADHD in women and late diagnosis

  • Medicare rebates with GP referrals

  • No waitlists

  • Telehealth is also available Australia-wide.


Next Steps

Ready to explore an ADHD diagnosis or get support?

👉 Send an enquiry online, or

📞 Call our friendly team on (02) 9262 6156 to talk about ADHD testing and treatment options.


*Last updated: July 2025*

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Gemille Cribb