Getting an ADHD Diagnosis: A Step-by-Step Guide for Adults

Over 366 million adults globally experience symptoms of Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Despite this significant number, studies indicate that fewer than 20% of adults with ADHD receive a proper diagnosis and treatment. This means a vast majority are navigating life with ADHD without the necessary support.

Living with undiagnosed ADHD can feel like constantly swimming against the tide. Everyday tasks become hurdles, and challenges like maintaining focus, remembering important details, and controlling impulsive behaviors can seem insurmountable. The consequences of undiagnosed ADHD extend beyond daily frustrations, impacting career progression, interpersonal relationships, and the ability to complete essential tasks. These accumulating difficulties underscore the life-altering potential of accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment for adults with ADHD.

While there isn’t a single, definitive test for ADHD, a thorough evaluation by a specialist, following a structured approach, significantly increases the likelihood of receiving an accurate diagnosis. If you recognize symptoms commonly associated with adult ADHD in yourself, it’s crucial to seek assessment from a qualified healthcare professional without delay.

Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process of getting tested for ADHD and understand what’s involved in Getting An Adhd Diagnosis as an adult.

1. Self-Reflection: Recognizing Potential ADHD Symptoms

Identifying ADHD symptoms in adults can be more nuanced than in children. Adult ADHD often presents with more internalized symptoms, making them less outwardly obvious. Understanding the key indicators is the first step in getting an ADHD diagnosis.

The symptoms of adult ADHD are generally categorized into two primary areas: inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity. Recognizing these signs of adult ADHD is crucial for initiating the diagnostic process.

Inattention Symptoms May Include:[3]

Frequently making careless mistakes and missing crucial details in work or daily activities.
Difficulty sustaining attention in tasks, whether at work, during lectures, or while reading lengthy articles.
Struggling to keep commitments due to poor organizational skills and failing to finish tasks, including work projects, chores, or school assignments.
Avoiding tasks that require sustained mental effort, such as preparing reports, completing forms, or reviewing lengthy documents.
Experiencing frequent mind-wandering and difficulty staying on track during conversations, lectures, or when reading.
Losing essential items needed for tasks or activities (e.g., keys, wallets, phones, paperwork).
Demonstrating poor time management, struggling to estimate time, meeting deadlines, and being frequently late.
Facing challenges in organizing tasks and activities, keeping materials and belongings in order, and managing sequential steps.
Difficulty following through on instructions and failing to complete work duties, chores, or personal obligations.

Hyperactivity and Impulsivity Symptoms May Include:[3]

Feeling restless or fidgety, often tapping hands or feet or squirming in a seat.
Difficulty remaining seated in situations where sitting is expected, such as in meetings, classrooms, or the office.
Feeling excessively restless and finding it hard to engage in quiet leisure activities.
Talking excessively, often dominating conversations and finding it difficult to listen to others.
Blurting out answers before questions have been completed or interrupting conversations.
Difficulty waiting their turn, whether in line, in conversation, or during activities.
Intruding on or taking over in situations, such as butting into conversations, games, or activities without invitation.

Begin by honestly reflecting on your daily life and the challenges you consistently encounter. Consider whether these difficulties align with the symptoms commonly associated with ADHD. This self-assessment is a vital starting point when considering getting an ADHD diagnosis.

2. Understanding DSM-5 ADHD Diagnostic Criteria

Beyond just recognizing symptoms, understanding the formal diagnostic criteria for ADHD is essential. These criteria are outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5), the standard guide used by healthcare professionals for diagnosing mental health conditions. Familiarizing yourself with the DSM-5 ADHD diagnostic criteria will give you a clearer picture of what constitutes an ADHD diagnosis.

The DSM-5 specifies the following criteria for an ADHD diagnosis:[3]

Symptom Threshold: Adults must exhibit at least five symptoms of inattention or five symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity (children require six symptoms in either category).
Symptom Duration: Symptoms must have been present for at least six months.
Age of Onset: Some symptoms must have been present before the age of 12 years, even if formal recognition or diagnosis occurred later in life.
Cross-Situational Impairment: Symptoms must be present in two or more settings (e.g., at work, at home, in social situations).
Significant Impairment: Symptoms must significantly interfere with, or reduce the quality of, social, academic, or occupational functioning.
Exclusion Criteria: Symptoms should not be better explained by another mental health disorder, such as anxiety disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders, or dissociative disorders.

It’s important to remember that experiencing some ADHD-like symptoms occasionally is a normal part of life. However, an ADHD diagnosis is only appropriate when these symptoms are persistent, meet the DSM-5 criteria, and demonstrably impact your overall quality of life. Understanding these criteria is a key step in pursuing getting an ADHD diagnosis.

Alt text: Adult researching ADHD symptoms online, illustrating the initial step in getting an ADHD diagnosis.

3. Symptom Checklists and Self-Assessments: Initial Screening (Not Self-Diagnosis)

After familiarizing yourself with adult ADHD symptoms and the DSM-5 criteria, the next step in understanding if you might have ADHD is to assess your symptoms more formally. Using symptom checklists and self-assessment tools can be a helpful way to gauge the likelihood of ADHD, but it’s critical to understand that these tools are for initial screening and not for self-diagnosis.

One common approach is to take an online ADHD test for adults. These tests often consist of symptom checklists based on the DSM-5 criteria. They can help you systematically review your symptoms and provide an initial indication of whether further professional evaluation is warranted.

These self-screening tools can be beneficial because they:

Increase Awareness: Help you become more aware of the specific symptoms associated with ADHD.
Provide Structure: Offer a structured way to think about and rate your symptoms.
Facilitate Discussion: Can be a useful starting point for discussions with healthcare professionals.

However, it’s crucial to recognize the limitations of online ADHD tests and self-assessments:

Not Diagnostic: These tests are not designed to provide a definitive diagnosis. They are screening tools only.
Accuracy Concerns: Online tests can vary in quality and may not be as accurate as a professional evaluation.
Potential for Misinterpretation: Results can be misinterpreted, leading to unnecessary anxiety or false reassurance.

Therefore, while online self-assessments can be a valuable preliminary step in exploring the possibility of ADHD and getting an ADHD diagnosis, they should always be followed up with a comprehensive evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional. A professional assessment is essential to rule out other conditions that may present with similar symptoms and to obtain an accurate diagnosis.

4. Consulting Your Primary Care Physician: Your First Medical Contact

Following a self-evaluation, if your symptoms suggest the possibility of ADHD, the next recommended step is to seek professional medical advice. A natural starting point for many is to consult with a healthcare professional you already know and trust, such as your family doctor or primary care physician. This is a crucial step in getting an ADHD diagnosis through established medical channels.

Primary care physicians play a vital role in healthcare and can often be the first point of contact for mental health concerns, including ADHD. Many general practitioners are indeed qualified to diagnose ADHD, especially in adults. Some family doctors are also comfortable with initiating ADHD treatment, including prescribing medication and monitoring treatment response.

Your primary care physician can assist you in several ways:

Initial Symptom Review: They can discuss your symptoms, medical history, and concerns regarding ADHD.
Preliminary Assessment: They may conduct a basic ADHD screening or assessment.
Referral to Specialists: If they determine a more specialized evaluation is needed, or if your case is complex (e.g., suspected co-occurring conditions), they can refer you to an expert in adult ADHD, such as a psychologist, psychiatrist, or neurologist.
Basic Treatment Initiation: In some cases, they may start initial ADHD treatment, particularly if the presentation is straightforward.

A referral to a specialist is often recommended when:

Diagnostic Uncertainty: The primary care physician is unsure about the diagnosis and prefers a specialist’s opinion.
Co-existing Conditions: There’s a suspicion of other mental health conditions alongside ADHD, such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or learning disabilities, which require specialized expertise.
Complex Treatment Needs: The patient requires more in-depth management, medication adjustments, or therapy that falls outside the scope of general practice.

Starting with your primary care physician is often a convenient and comfortable first step in the process of getting an ADHD diagnosis. They can guide you through the initial stages and direct you to the most appropriate specialist care if needed.

5. Finding a Qualified Specialist for ADHD Diagnosis

While your primary care physician can be a helpful starting point, for a definitive ADHD diagnosis and comprehensive treatment plan, consulting a specialist is often necessary. Different types of healthcare professionals are qualified to diagnose ADHD, each with their unique expertise. Understanding these specialties will help you choose the right professional for your needs in getting an ADHD diagnosis.

Here’s a breakdown of qualified professionals:

Psychologist: Psychologists are experts in diagnosing and treating conditions affecting thinking, emotions, and behavior. They use psychological testing and therapy to help individuals manage ADHD. Limitations: Psychologists typically cannot prescribe medication for ADHD. However, they are highly skilled in providing evidence-based therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and can offer crucial support in developing coping strategies and managing ADHD symptoms through behavioral and cognitive techniques.
Psychiatrist: Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in mental health. They are qualified to diagnose and treat ADHD, and importantly, they can prescribe medications. Psychiatrists can conduct comprehensive evaluations, develop medication management plans, monitor treatment effectiveness, and manage any medication side effects. Consideration: Psychiatrists’ fees can sometimes be higher than those of psychologists.
Neurologist: Neurologists specialize in disorders of the brain and nervous system. They can assess whether neurological conditions might be contributing to ADHD-like symptoms or co-exist with ADHD. Typical Role: While neurologists can diagnose ADHD, they are less commonly sought out for primary ADHD treatment and therapy compared to psychiatrists or psychologists. Their expertise is particularly valuable if there’s a suspicion of underlying neurological factors.
Family Doctor/Primary Care Physician: As mentioned earlier, your family doctor can diagnose and prescribe medication for ADHD in some cases, especially for straightforward presentations. Limitations: They may have less specialized knowledge of adult ADHD compared to psychologists or psychiatrists, particularly in complex cases or co-occurring conditions.

Alt text: Adult patient in a therapy session with a psychologist, representing a key professional for ADHD diagnosis and non-medication treatment.

To find a qualified healthcare professional specialized in ADHD and getting an ADHD diagnosis, consider these steps:

Online Directories: Use online directories for doctors and filter by specialty (psychology, psychiatry, neurology) and area of focus (ADHD, adult ADHD).
ADHD Support Organizations: Contact organizations like ADDA (Attention Deficit Disorder Association) or CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder). These organizations often have referral services or lists of professionals specializing in ADHD.
Personal Referrals: Ask trusted friends, family members, or your primary care physician for recommendations of ADHD specialists.
Insurance Provider: Check with your health insurance provider for a list of in-network specialists who can diagnose and treat ADHD.

When you’ve identified potential specialists, it’s essential to inquire about their qualifications and experience in diagnosing and treating adult ADHD specifically. Don’t hesitate to ask about their approach to evaluation and treatment methods. Choosing a specialist with whom you feel comfortable and can openly discuss your symptoms and concerns is crucial for a successful diagnostic process and ongoing management.

6. Undergoing a Comprehensive ADHD Evaluation

Once you have selected a qualified specialist, the next step in getting an ADHD diagnosis is to undergo a comprehensive ADHD evaluation. It’s important to understand that there is no single, quick test for ADHD. Diagnosis relies on a detailed, multi-faceted assessment process.

A comprehensive ADHD evaluation typically involves several components:

Clinical Interview and History: The specialist will conduct a thorough interview covering your medical history, developmental history (including childhood symptoms if possible), educational background, work history, social relationships, and family life. This helps to understand the context of your symptoms and rule out other potential causes.
Behavioral Rating Scales: You will likely be asked to complete standardized questionnaires or rating scales designed to assess ADHD symptoms in adults. These scales provide objective data about the frequency and severity of your symptoms. Sometimes, questionnaires for family members or partners may also be used to gather additional perspectives.
Diagnostic Interview: This is a structured interview where the specialist will ask specific questions about your current symptoms, how they impact your daily functioning, and how long you have been experiencing these difficulties. The interview is guided by the DSM-5 criteria for ADHD.
Informant Interview (Optional but Recommended): Ideally, the specialist will want to speak with someone who knew you well during your childhood, such as a parent, older sibling, or teacher. This is because ADHD is considered a neurodevelopmental disorder with childhood onset. Information from childhood can be invaluable in confirming the long-term presence of symptoms.
Physical Examination (To Rule Out Other Conditions): A physical exam may be conducted to exclude any underlying medical conditions that could be contributing to symptoms resembling ADHD.
Assessment for Co-existing Conditions: It’s common for adults with ADHD to also have other mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, learning disabilities, or substance use disorders. The evaluation will include screening for these co-occurring conditions, as they can influence diagnosis and treatment planning.

Alt text: Doctor reviewing test results with a patient during a consultation, representing the evaluation feedback stage in getting an ADHD diagnosis.

After completing all components of the evaluation, your specialist will analyze the collected information to determine if you meet the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for ADHD. They will then discuss the results of your ADHD evaluation with you, providing a clear diagnosis or explaining why a diagnosis was not made. If diagnosed with ADHD, you and your specialist will then collaborate to develop an individualized treatment and management plan. In some cases, if the diagnosis is complex or uncertain, your specialist may recommend a referral to another expert for a second opinion or further specialized assessment.

7. Exploring ADHD Treatment Options Post-Diagnosis

If you receive an ADHD diagnosis, the crucial next step is to learn about and consider your treatment options. Effective treatment is key to managing ADHD symptoms and improving your quality of life. Working closely with your healthcare provider to develop a personalized treatment plan is essential.

Common and effective treatment options for adult ADHD include:

Medications: Medication is often a cornerstone of ADHD treatment.
- Stimulant Medications: These are frequently the first-line treatment due to their effectiveness in managing ADHD symptoms for many adults. They work by increasing the availability of certain neurotransmitters in the brain. Stimulants are generally well-tolerated, but your doctor will monitor for any potential side effects.
- Non-Stimulant Medications: These are alternative medications for individuals who don’t respond well to stimulants or experience intolerable side effects. Non-stimulants work differently in the brain and can be used alone or in combination with stimulants to enhance treatment effectiveness.[4]
Psychotherapy (Talk Therapy): Psychotherapy, particularly Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), is highly beneficial for adults with ADHD.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps individuals understand the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It provides practical strategies to manage ADHD symptoms, improve executive functions (like organization, time management, and planning), and address co-existing conditions like anxiety and depression.[5] Various ADHD therapies are available, and your therapist can help you find the best fit.
ADHD Coaching: ADHD coaches specialize in helping individuals with ADHD develop practical skills and strategies to manage daily life challenges.
- Skills-Based Support: Coaches work with you to build structure and routines, improve time management, enhance organizational skills, set and achieve goals, and boost self-esteem. Coaching is action-oriented and focuses on implementing practical solutions in your daily life.
Support Groups: Joining an ADHD support group can provide invaluable peer support and a sense of community.
- Shared Experiences and Advice: Support groups offer a space to connect with others who understand the challenges of living with ADHD, share experiences, and learn coping strategies from peers.

Finding the right combination of treatments is a collaborative process between you and your healthcare provider. A well-tailored management plan can significantly improve focus, organizational abilities, time management, and overall performance at work, school, and in personal life. Effectively managing ADHD can transform challenges into strengths, allowing you to leverage your unique way of thinking and approaching life.

The Transformative Impact of Accurate ADHD Diagnosis

Taking an ADDA’s ADHD test for adults is a proactive step towards understanding your symptoms and whether they align with ADHD. This self-assessment can empower you to make informed decisions about seeking professional help and getting an ADHD diagnosis.

The ultimate goal of ADHD diagnosis and treatment is to enable you to function at your best in all areas of life. With the right support, individuals with ADHD can achieve their full potential and lead fulfilling lives. Getting treated for ADHD isn’t about changing who you are, but about smoothing the path to success and well-being.

Taking the first step by reaching out to a trusted healthcare professional is a sign of strength and self-awareness. Connecting with the ADHD community, such as through ADDA+, can further enhance your understanding and resilience on your ADHD journey. Remember, seeking help is a positive step towards a more focused, organized, and fulfilling life.

References

[1] Song, P., Zha, M., Yang, Q., Zhang, Y., Li, X., & Rudan, I. (2021). The prevalence of adult attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder: A global systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of global health, 11, 04009. https://doi.org/10.7189/jogh.11.04009

[2] Rivas-Vazquez, R. A., Diaz, S. G., Visser, M. M., & Rivas-Vazquez, A. A. (2023). Adult ADHD: Underdiagnosis of a Treatable Condition. Journal of health service psychology, 49(1), 11–19. https://doi.org/10.1007/s42843-023-00077-w

[3] Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. DSM-5 Changes: Implications for Child Serious Emotional Disturbance [Internet]. Rockville (MD): Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (US); 2016 Jun. Table 7, DSM-IV to DSM-5 Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Comparison. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519712/table/ch3.t3/

[4] Geffen, J., & Forster, K. (2018). Treatment of adult ADHD: a clinical perspective. Therapeutic advances in psychopharmacology, 8(1), 25–32. https://doi.org/10.1177/2045125317734977

[5] Anastopoulos, A. D., King, K. A., Besecker, L. H., O’Rourke, S. R., Bray, A. C., & Supple, A. J. (2018). Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for College Students With ADHD: Temporal Stability of Improvements in Functioning Following Active Treatment. Journal of Attention Disorders, 24(6), 108705471774993. https://doi.org/10.1177/1087054717749932