Lindsey Mack's Substack

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Lindsey Mack's Substack
50 Hidden Traits of Hyperactive/Impulsive ADHD in Adults

50 Hidden Traits of Hyperactive/Impulsive ADHD in Adults

Why Many Adults Don’t Realize They Have ADHD // Includes a 4-Page FREE Download

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Lindsey Mackereth
May 14, 2025
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Lindsey Mack's Substack
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50 Hidden Traits of Hyperactive/Impulsive ADHD in Adults
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Portrait of a nonbinary autistic person in a studio setting with a stim toy in their hand
Photo by Hiki App on Unsplash

ADHD Isn’t Always What You Think — Especially in Adults

When you hear “ADHD,” you might imagine a kid who can’t sit still — blurting out answers, bouncing in their seat, constantly in motion. But in adults, hyperactive and impulsive ADHD often shows up differently — and far more subtly.

Instead of physical chaos, it can look like:

  • A racing mind that won’t turn off

  • Saying things you regret (before you even realize you said them)

  • Restlessness that feels like you can never relax

  • Acting on impulse — whether it’s online shopping, job changes, or overcommitting

  • Getting emotionally overwhelmed in a snap

If any of this hits close to home, you’re not alone. And no — it’s not “just stress,” “just anxiety,” or “just your personality.” It could be ADHD.

Curious? I’ve created a free 4-page self-discovery guide with 50 often-missed traits of hyperactive/impulsive ADHD in adults. Download it below.

Download full list of 50 traits below!

What Is Hyperactive/Impulsive ADHD?

Hyperactive/Impulsive ADHD is a subtype of ADHD that involves high levels of internal or external energy, impulsivity, and difficulty with self-regulation. But it doesn't always mean bouncing off the walls.

In adulthood, the signs are often more subtle:

  • Constant fidgeting, tapping, or moving

  • Trouble sitting through meetings or long conversations

  • Interrupting or finishing people’s sentences

  • Making fast decisions — sometimes before you’ve thought them through

  • Intense emotions that rise quickly and feel hard to manage

  • Difficulty winding down or relaxing, even when you're exhausted

These behaviors are often misunderstood as impatience, rudeness, irresponsibility, or moodiness — when really, they’re symptoms of a neurodivergent brain struggling with regulation.


Why It’s So Often Missed in Adults

It’s Internalized

The hyperactivity becomes mental — a racing brain, inner tension, or constant multitasking. On the outside, you might look “productive” or “driven.” Inside? It’s nonstop.

Women & Nonbinary Folks Mask It

Many learn to channel impulsivity into people-pleasing, perfectionism, or caretaking. It looks like “being on top of it all” — until the burnout hits.

It Gets Misdiagnosed

Instead of ADHD, adults are often told they’re anxious, moody, disorganized, or emotionally reactive. The core issue — ADHD — gets overlooked.

Impulsivity is Hidden in Everyday Life

From interrupting to overcommitting, hyperactive/impulsive ADHD can hide in plain sight — especially when you've developed coping strategies to manage it… until you can’t anymore.


Ready to Explore What ADHD Really Looks Like?

I created a 4-page guide with 50 signs of hyperactive/impulsive ADHD in adults — written to help you:

✅ Spot real-world signs of ADHD most people miss
✅ Recognize emotional and behavioral patterns beyond the stereotypes
✅ Reflect on your own experiences with honesty and compassion

This guide isn’t a diagnosis — but it is a powerful first step toward self-awareness, clarity, and getting support that actually fits your brain.

👉 Download your free 4-Page Hyperactive/Impulsive ADHD Traits Guide below and start connecting the dots.

You deserve to understand your mind — not shame it.

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