Do I Have ADHD? Understanding the Criteria for Diagnosis-Hyperactive/Impulsive Type

The Nine Symptoms of Hyperactivity and Impulsivity

To qualify for an ADHD diagnosis, adults must meet at least five of the nine symptoms in either the inattentive or hyperactive/impulsive category. In this post, I’ll focus on the hyperactive-impulsive type—and how it can quietly (or not-so-quietly) shape your day-to-day life.

1. Fidgets with or taps hands or feet, or squirms in seat
This may appear as tapping, shifting positions often, or feeling physically restless. Even if someone isn’t constantly moving, they may find it hard to sit still for extended periods without discomfort or a desire to move.

2. Leaves seat in situations when remaining seated is expected
An adult might find themselves getting up during long meetings, meals, or events—not out of defiance, but due to an internal urge to move or difficulty remaining seated.

3. Runs about or climbs in situations where it is inappropriate (or feels restless)
While running or climbing may not be typical in adults, this symptom often shows up as a strong sense of restlessness or a drive to stay constantly active—feeling uneasy during stillness or downtime.

4. Unable to play or engage in leisure activities quietly
Leisure time can be difficult to fully enjoy. Activities meant to be relaxing may feel boring, or there’s a tendency to multitask, interrupt, or seek stimulation even during “rest” periods.

5. Is often “on the go” or acts as if “driven by a motor”
Some adults feel like they can’t slow down, even when they want to. They may be described by others as always busy, unable to relax, or constantly needing to be doing something.

6. Talks excessively
This might show up as rapid speech, difficulty allowing silence in conversations, or a strong urge to talk through thoughts out loud, sometimes without realizing it.

7. Blurts out answers before questions have been completed
Interrupting others or finishing people’s sentences can be common. The impulse to respond quickly can override the ability to wait or fully listen, even in professional settings.

8. Has difficulty waiting their turn
Waiting in lines, sitting in traffic, or waiting during group discussions can be especially frustrating. There may be a strong sense of impatience or internal tension when required to wait.

9. Interrupts or intrudes on others
This could include speaking out of turn, joining conversations uninvited, or taking over tasks or spaces without realizing it. The impulse to engage or act can override social cues or boundaries.

What If You Relate to Some of These?

To meet criteria for ADHD, adults need to experience at least five of these symptoms, and they must be present in multiple areas of life (like work, relationships, or home). If someone relates to several symptoms from both this list and the inattentive list, they may meet criteria for combined type ADHD.

Recognizing these patterns can be the first step toward understanding your brain better—and learning how to support it with compassion and the right tools.

Interested in exploring more? Reach out for a consultation—we’d love to help.