When people think about ADHD, they imagine a restless child. In contrast, this isn’t the only side of ADHD. There are three types of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): Inattentive, Hyperactive/Impulsive, and Combined.
In this read, we’ll study the least talked-about but most recognizable type of ADHD, the Hyperactive/Impulsive Type. This type is often linked to a stereotype, “in constant motion.” We will study its symptoms, causes, and how it is diagnosed, managed, and treated. Moreover, we’ll also share research insights, clear myths, and highlight practical strategies that help cope.
Did you know
What Is Hyperactive/Impulsive ADHD?
The Hyperactive/Impulsive type of ADHD is associated with constant motion, talking, and acting before thinking. Mostly found in children, but adults can also carry some childhood ADHD symptoms. But for adults with age, the element of hyperactivity becomes irrelevant, but the severity of persistent symptoms increases.
Key Symptoms of Hyperactive/Impulsive ADHD
People experience ADHD Hyperactive/Impulsive differently. There is no single test or screening tool that can diagnose ADHD straight away. Therefore, the coordinated and professional assistance of certified psychiatrists and psychologists is mandatory for accurate evaluation and diagnosis.
Here are some core symptoms people with the Hyperactive/Impulsive subtype often experience:
Physical / Overt Symptoms
These are adhd hyperactive symptoms you can often see:
- Fidgeting, tapping hands or feet, squirming (unable to sit still)
- Trouble staying engaged in quiet activities
- Often appear to be “on the go”
- Talks excessively
Impulsivity Symptoms
These are some of the symptoms of acting before thinking:
- Blurts out answers before the question is even finished
- Difficulty in waiting for their turn
- They might interrupt or intrude on others’ activities or conversations
Causes and Risk Factors
Like other ADHD types, scientists don’t know the exact cause of ADHD. CDC states that ADHD affects an estimated 6.0% of adults in the USA. These are some of the factors that increase the risk of Hyperactive/Impulsive ADHD.
Studies found that ADHD is also associated with the structure of prefrontal cortex (PFC) circuits in the brain, especially in the right hemisphere. They are important in regulating attention, behavior, and emotion.
Genetics is another factor; if a parent has ADHD, then there is a higher risk that the offspring might have it.
A 2016 study found that children who are exposed to higher levels of lead (a chemical element) are at a greater risk of ADHD.
Expert Insights
Hyperactive-Impulsive ADHD is noticed first because its symptoms are visible. In contrast, inattentive symptoms can be quietly overlooked for years.
How Do You Know If It’s Hyperactive-Impulsive ADHD?
Being hyperactive or impulsive occasionally is considered normal. But when these behaviors are frequent and cause disruption in more than one area of life, then it might be ADHD.
The board-certified provider of Capital Psychiatry Group uses DSM-5 criteria to diagnose ADHD through telepsychiatry sessions.
DSM-5 Diagnostic Criteria
These are the important points that should be considered while differentiating hyperactive and impulsive traits from the Impulsive/Hyperactive ADHD subtype.
- Symptoms are present before age 12
- Symptoms are present in two or more settings ( not only at home)
- They must cause a clinically significant impact on the patient’s social, academic, or occupational functioning
- For teens under 17, six or more symptoms must be present.
- For ages 17 & older, five or more symptoms must be present.
Don’t Mistake It, Get Clarity with CPG
Constant hyperactive or impulsive behavior could be a sign of ADHD. CPG professional evaluation is the first step toward understanding your behavior and finding the right support and treatment.
Treatment Options for Impulsive/Hyperactive-ADHD
The Impulsive/Hyperactive ADHD treatment plan includes medication and therapy. The licensed psychiatrist or psychologist of CPG recommends a combination of both for the most effective results.
Medication
Stimulants are one of the most commonly used medications for ADHD that balance brain chemicals that control attention and self-control. This type of medication includes:
- Methylphenidate (brand names: Ritalin, Concerta)
- Amphetamine salts (brand names: Adderall, Vyvanse)
Non-stimulants are the alternatives for people who don’t respond well to stimulants or can’t take them.
- Atomoxetine (Strattera)
- Guanfacine (Intuniv)
- Clonidine (Kapvay)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT is one of the most effective talk therapies for ADHD; in fact, it is the current gold standard of psychotherapy. In the case of ADHD, it helps people recognize their impulsive thinking (“I have to say this right now” or “I can’t stop moving”) and swap them with workable strategies that reduce stress.
Behavioral Therapy for Children
Behavior therapy is effective for children. It teaches children positive habits and works easily. Here, parents and teachers set clear rules for children and use simple reward systems (like stickers or points) to maintain and develop healthy routines.
Over time, these small changes help kids build self-control.
Studies found that medication and behavior therapy combined treatment is most effective.
Lifestyle & Coping Strategies
Healthy changes in lifestyle and coping strategies help reduce stress and make impulsive/hyperactive ADHD symptoms easier to manage. These are the lifestyle changes & coping strategies that can help:
- Proper sleep and enough rest improve focus and reduce impulsivity.
- Swimming, walking, and other physical activities improve mood.
- A balanced nutritional diet is important as it induces positive effects on cognition, feelings, and behavior.
- You can use timers or planner apps to focus and manage tasks more efficiently.
- Visual reminders like sticky notes are helpful. They keep easy-to-forget tasks in mind.
- Breathing exercises are effective in calming racing thoughts.
- While working on longer tasks, take short breaks.
Why Choose Capital Psychiatry Group?
The board-certified providers of Capital Psychiatry Group understand how this subtype affects your daily life. Our treatment plan is according to the patient’s condition and the severity of symptoms.
Here is why people in New Jersey trust us for ADHD Hyperactive/Impulsive treatment:
- All insurance accepted
- Board-certified psychiatrists & psychologists
- Same-day appointments
- HIPAA-compliant telepsychiatry
- Behavioral therapy for children
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Evidence-based clinical evaluation
- Personalized treatment plans
Capital Psychiatry Group’s mission is to provide consistent and evidence-based treatment for Hyperactive /Impulsive Type ADHD.
Takeaways
Impulsive-Hyperactive ADHD has its own challenges apart from other ADHD types, and it is manageable. Early diagnosis is key because it opens the door to effective treatments.
Capital Psychiatry Group makes it easier for you to manage ADHD. Our online psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists can help you recognize what type of ADHD you’re struggling with. We create a personalized treatment plan according to your needs and schedule.
How we reviewed this article:
CPG experts follow strict sourcing standards, using peer-reviewed research, academic institutions, and trusted medical journals. Only reliable, evidence-based sources are cited to maintain accuracy
and integrity.
- https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db499.htm
- https://www.nimh.nih.gov/news/science-updates/2007/brain-matures-a-few-years-late-in-adhd-but-follows-normal-pattern
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- https://www.aafp.org/dam/AAFP/documents/patient_care/adhd_toolkit/adhd19-assessment-table1.pdf?ref=clarityxdna.com
- https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/73/wr/mm7340a1.htm
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2894421/
- https://www.cdc.gov/adhd/causes/index.html
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- https_//www.cdc.gov/adhd/treatment/index.html
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- https://www.additudemag.com/nutrition-harmonizes-adhd-brain/
- https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/adhd-what-you-need-to-know
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