What Is ADHD Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type?
ADHD Predominately Hyperactive-Impulsive Type is an uncommon neurobehavioral disorder characterized by hyperactivity and impulsivity. Let’s explore what this means in greater detail:
- Hyperactivity: Continuous movement, fidgeting, tapping, or excessive talking.
- Impulsivity: Difficulty with self-control, acting before thinking, blurting out answers, interrupting, making hasty decisions, or a strong desire for immediate rewards.
- Restlessness: Difficulty sitting still for long periods.
Who Is Most Commonly Affected by ADHD Hyperactive Impulsive Type?
This type of ADHD does not present with any inattentive or distracted behaviors and, though uncommon, is most often seen and diagnosed in boys (over age 12) and men.
ADHD Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Causes
While the exact cause of ADHD Predominately Hyperactive-Impulsive (ADHD-HI) is currently unknown, research suggests it often runs in families (genetics) or is caused by the following:
- Exposure to toxins during pregnancy (e.g., smoking or alcohol)
- Premature birth.
- Low birth weight.
- Minor traumatic brain injuries.
- Abnormalities in the form and function of the prefrontal cortex (brain).
ADHD Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Symptoms
Symptoms of ADHD-HI may include one or more of the following hyperactive or impulsive symptoms:
Core Hyperactive Symptoms
- Excessive fidgeting, tapping, or talking.
- Inability to remain seated or still when expected (e.g., at work or school).
- Constantly moving, running, climbing.
- Inability to play quietly.
Core Impulsivity Symptoms
- Consistently interrupting or intruding into conversations or games.
- Inability to wait for one’s turn.
- Regularly answering questions before they are completely asked.
- Making hasty decisions and acting without thinking.
Diagnosis of ADHD Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type
A mental health professional will look for patterns of behaviors like fidgeting, leaving one’s seat often, excessive talking, blurting out answers, interrupting, and difficulty waiting turns to help diagnose ADHD-HI. These behaviors should be considered inappropriate for the person’s age and developmental level. Diagnosing ADHD Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type typically involves:
- A clinical interview.
- Information gathering from parents, teachers, and other relevant individuals.
- Standardized rating scales to assess symptoms.
- A ruling out of other potential causes and conditions (e.g., anxiety, depression, learning disabilities, etc.)
ADHD Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type Treatment
For those diagnosed with ADHD predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type presentation, effective treatment typically involves finding the right balance between medication and behavioral therapy:
- Medication to help manage impulsive behaviors.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help develop coping strategies.
- Family therapy to address family dynamics related to ADHD symptoms.
Living with ADHD Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type
Challenges in Daily Life
Living with ADHD-HI can lead to significant challenges in daily life, including:
- Physical restlessness: making staying still for extended periods very difficult.
- Verbal impulsivity: leading to frequent interruptions during conversations.
- Behavioral impulsivity: making it difficult to wait in line and follow rules.
- Social challenges: leading to feelings of being misunderstood or judged by others.
- Academic and professional difficulties: making it difficult to stay focused and meet deadlines.
- Emotional challenges: causing feelings of low self-esteem, frustration, and anxiety.
Effective Coping Strategies
Here are effective coping strategies that can help identify triggers and help you cope with ADHD-HI-related symptoms:
- Practice self-compassion to avoid shame and decrease negative emotions.
- Identify situational triggers and develop a plan to manage or avoid them effectively.
- Avoid, limit, or remove physical and emotional triggers to avoid unnecessary risk.
- Make it a point to think things through before making decisions.
- Regulate your emotions through exercise, self-care, and mindfulness practices like yoga or medication.
- Consider professional support to help manage your symptoms and make conscious, thoughtful choices.
Take Control of ADHD Symptoms with Beach House Center for Recovery
If you’re ready to take control of ADHD-HI, talk to one of our recovery consultants today. We look forward to discussing treatment options and showing how we support your journey to better focus and well-being.
