Over 366 million adults globally experience symptoms of Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).[1] Despite this significant number, studies indicate that fewer than 20% of adults with ADHD receive a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.[2] This lack of diagnosis can create substantial hurdles in daily life, as living with undiagnosed ADHD can feel like constantly swimming against the tide.
Without the right support, undiagnosed ADHD can lead to persistent difficulties such as poor concentration, forgetfulness, and impulsive behaviors. These challenges extend beyond daily frustrations, potentially impacting crucial aspects of life, from career stagnation to strained relationships and the inability to complete essential tasks.
For many adults with ADHD, receiving a diagnosis and starting treatment can be truly transformative. While there isn’t a single, definitive test for ADHD, working closely with a healthcare professional and following a structured approach can significantly increase the chances of obtaining an accurate diagnosis.
If you suspect you might be experiencing symptoms of adult ADHD, it’s important to seek evaluation from a qualified medical professional. Don’t delay in getting your concerns addressed.
Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process of getting tested for ADHD.
1. Self-Reflection: Recognizing Potential ADHD Signs
Identifying ADHD symptoms in adults can be more nuanced than in children, as they often present in less obvious ways. It’s crucial to become familiar with the typical signs of adult ADHD to begin your self-assessment.
The symptoms of adult ADHD are broadly categorized into two main areas: inattention, and hyperactivity-impulsivity.
Symptoms of inattention may include:[3]
- Frequent careless errors and overlooking crucial details in work or daily tasks.
- Difficulty maintaining focus during work, reading, or leisure activities.
- Starting tasks but struggling to follow through and complete them, including chores, work projects, or school assignments.
- Avoidance of tasks that require sustained mental effort and concentration.
- Mind often seems elsewhere; easily distracted by unrelated thoughts.
- Difficulty staying focused during conversations, appearing not to listen even when directly addressed.
- Regularly losing essential items like keys, wallets, phones, or important documents.
- Poor time management skills, consistently running late or missing deadlines.
- Struggling with organization, managing sequential tasks, and keeping things in order.
- Difficulty following detailed instructions, even when they are clearly presented.
- Frequently missing deadlines and commitments in personal or professional life.
ADHD also manifests through symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity, such as:[3]
- Restlessness and moving around excessively, especially in situations where remaining seated is expected, like meetings or lectures.
- Tendency to interrupt or take over in other people’s activities, conversations, or games.
- Difficulty waiting for their turn in conversations or lines.
- Feeling unable to stay still for extended periods, needing to move or fidget.
- Fidgeting, tapping hands or feet, or squirming in seat.
- Impatience and difficulty waiting their turn in lines or conversations.
- Persistent feeling of inner restlessness or unease.
- Talking excessively, often without realizing it might be inappropriate for the setting.
Begin by honestly reflecting on your daily life and the challenges you consistently encounter. Consider if these difficulties align with the symptoms commonly associated with ADHD. This self-assessment is the first step in understanding whether ADHD might be a factor in your experiences.
2. Understanding DSM-5 ADHD Diagnostic Criteria
Beyond just recognizing symptoms, it’s important to understand the formal criteria used to diagnose ADHD. These are outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5), the authoritative guide for mental health diagnoses. Familiarizing yourself with these criteria can provide a clearer picture of whether your symptoms might meet the threshold for an ADHD diagnosis.
The DSM-5 outlines specific criteria that must be met for an ADHD diagnosis:[3]
- Symptom Threshold: Adults must exhibit at least five symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity-impulsivity. For children, the requirement is six symptoms.
- 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. This doesn’t mean you had to be diagnosed before 12, but the symptoms should have been noticeable in childhood.
- Cross-Situational Impairment: Symptoms must cause impairment in two or more settings (e.g., work, school, home, social situations). ADHD should affect multiple areas of your life, not just one isolated context.
- Significant Impairment: Symptoms must significantly interfere with the quality of your social, academic, or occupational functioning. They should demonstrably make life harder.
- Exclusion Criteria: Symptoms should not be better explained by another mental health condition. It’s important to rule out other potential causes of similar symptoms.
It’s normal to experience some ADHD-like symptoms occasionally. However, a diagnosis of ADHD requires these symptoms to be persistent, impairing, and to meet the specific criteria outlined in the DSM-5. Understanding these criteria helps contextualize your self-assessment and prepares you for discussions with healthcare professionals.
Alt text: Adult researching ADHD symptoms and diagnostic criteria online on a laptop, highlighting the importance of informed self-assessment before seeking professional diagnosis.
3. Symptom Checklists and the Importance of Professional Evaluation
After gaining a solid understanding of adult ADHD and the DSM-5 criteria, you can take a more structured approach to evaluating your symptoms. Utilizing symptom checklists can be a helpful step in this process.
Consider taking an online ADHD test designed for adults. Many reputable organizations offer self-screening questionnaires, often symptom checklists, that can help you further explore ADHD symptoms and provide an initial gauge of whether your experiences align with ADHD.
These online ADHD tests can be a useful starting point for self-reflection. They are not diagnostic tools but can highlight areas of concern and help you articulate your symptoms when you seek professional help. Popular options include the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) Symptom Checklist.
It is crucial to remember that these self-assessments are not a substitute for a professional diagnosis. Online tests can provide valuable insights, but they are not designed to provide a definitive answer. A comprehensive ADHD evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional is essential to rule out other conditions and to accurately diagnose ADHD. Self-diagnosis based solely on online tests is not recommended and can be misleading.
4. Consulting Your Primary Care Physician as a First Step
Following your self-evaluation and symptom checklists, if you find that your symptoms suggest the possibility of ADHD, the next crucial step is to seek professional medical advice for a formal diagnosis. A good starting point for many is to consult with their primary care physician (PCP).
Reaching out to a healthcare professional you already trust, such as your family doctor or general practitioner, can be a comfortable and efficient first step. Many primary care physicians are qualified to diagnose ADHD, particularly in adults. They can conduct initial assessments, discuss your symptoms, and consider your medical history.
Some PCPs are also equipped to prescribe initial ADHD medications and monitor your response to treatment. This can be convenient for ongoing care if your case is relatively straightforward.
However, in many cases, especially if your PCP suspects co-occurring conditions or if your symptoms are complex, they may refer you to a specialist experienced in adult ADHD. Specialists include psychologists, psychiatrists, and neurologists who have in-depth knowledge of ADHD and related conditions.
Referral to a specialist is more likely if your doctor believes your ADHD might be accompanied by other mental health conditions such as anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, or learning disabilities. These co-existing conditions are common in adults with ADHD and require expert assessment and integrated treatment plans.
5. Finding the Right Specialist for ADHD Diagnosis
Different types of healthcare professionals are qualified to diagnose and treat ADHD. Each specialist brings a unique perspective and skillset to the diagnostic process and ongoing management. Understanding these differences is crucial in choosing the right professional to meet your specific needs.
Here are some key specialists to consider:
- Psychologist: Psychologists are experts in diagnosing conditions affecting cognition, emotions, and behavior. They use psychological testing and clinical interviews to assess ADHD. While psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are highly skilled in providing evidence-based therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other forms of talk therapy. These therapies are essential for managing ADHD symptoms and developing coping strategies.
- Psychiatrist: Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions, including ADHD. They can prescribe medications, develop comprehensive ADHD management plans, and monitor medication effectiveness and side effects. Psychiatrists often combine medication management with therapy or coordinate care with therapists. However, seeing a psychiatrist may sometimes be more expensive than seeing a psychologist, and appointment availability can vary.
- Neurologist: Neurologists specialize in conditions affecting the brain and nervous system. While not always the first choice for ADHD diagnosis, neurologists can be valuable in ruling out other neurological conditions that might mimic or co-exist with ADHD. In some cases, a neurologist’s perspective can be helpful, particularly if there are concerns about neurological factors contributing to your symptoms. However, psychiatrists and psychologists are typically more focused on the behavioral and cognitive aspects of ADHD and are often more directly involved in ADHD treatment and therapy.
- Family Doctor/Primary Care Physician (PCP): As mentioned earlier, your family doctor can be a convenient starting point. Some PCPs are comfortable diagnosing and prescribing medications for ADHD, especially in straightforward cases. However, they may have less specialized knowledge of adult ADHD than psychiatrists or psychologists. For complex cases or co-occurring conditions, referral to a specialist is generally recommended.
Alt text: Image depicting a therapy session with a psychologist, emphasizing the role of psychologists in diagnosing and treating ADHD through talk therapy and behavioral interventions.
Take time to research the roles of these different professionals in ADHD diagnosis and treatment. Consider what is most important to you – medication management, therapy, or a combination – when making your choice.
Once you have a clearer idea of the type of specialist you prefer, there are several ways to find a qualified healthcare professional experienced in adult ADHD:
- Online Directories: Utilize online directories from professional organizations and mental health platforms. Search for specialists by location, specialty (psychologist, psychiatrist, neurologist), and focus area (ADHD). Many directories allow you to filter by insurance and other criteria.
- ADHD Support Organizations: Contact national or local organizations dedicated to supporting adults with ADHD, such as the Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA) or Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD). These organizations often have referral services or lists of professionals specializing in ADHD.
- Personal Recommendations: Ask trusted friends, family members, or colleagues if they know of any reputable ADHD specialists. Personal recommendations can be valuable, though always verify credentials and ensure the specialist is a good fit for your needs.
- Referral from Your PCP: Ask your primary care physician for a referral to a specialist. This is often the most direct route, especially if your insurance requires a referral for specialist visits.
When you have identified potential specialists, it’s crucial to verify their qualifications. Don’t hesitate to ask about their experience specifically diagnosing and treating adult ADHD. Inquire about their diagnostic methods and treatment approaches. Finding a specialist with whom you feel comfortable and who understands your concerns is essential for a successful diagnostic and treatment journey.
6. Undergoing a Comprehensive ADHD Evaluation
After selecting a specialist, the next step is to undergo a comprehensive ADHD evaluation. It’s important to understand that there is no single, simple test to definitively diagnose ADHD. Instead, diagnosis relies on a detailed, multi-faceted assessment process.
A thorough ADHD evaluation typically includes several components:
- Clinical Interview and History: Your doctor will conduct a detailed interview to gather information about your medical history, developmental history (including childhood symptoms), educational background, work experience, social relationships, and family life. They will ask about your current symptoms, how long you’ve experienced them, and how they impact different areas of your life. This interview is crucial for understanding the context of your symptoms and ruling out other potential causes.
- Behavioral Rating Scales: Your specialist will likely use standardized behavioral rating scales designed for adults with ADHD. These are questionnaires that you and sometimes someone who knows you well (like a partner or close family member) will complete. These scales help quantify your symptoms and provide objective data to support the diagnostic process. Examples include the Conners’ Adult ADHD Rating Scales (CAARS) and the Brown Adult ADHD Rating Scale (BADDS).
- Diagnostic Interview: This is a structured interview where your doctor will ask specific questions related to the DSM-5 ADHD criteria. They will explore the nature, severity, and duration of your symptoms to determine if they meet the diagnostic threshold.
- Childhood Symptom Assessment: Because ADHD is considered a neurodevelopmental condition with childhood onset, gathering information about your symptoms and functioning in childhood is important. This might involve interviewing a parent, sibling, or other individual who knew you well as a child, or reviewing past school records if available.
- Physical Examination (Sometimes): While ADHD is not diagnosed through a physical exam, your doctor may conduct a basic physical exam to rule out any underlying medical conditions that could be contributing to your symptoms or to assess your overall health before starting any medication.
- 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. Your evaluation will include screening for these co-occurring conditions, as they can impact diagnosis and treatment planning.
Once all components of the evaluation are complete, your doctor will review the results with you. They will explain their diagnostic conclusions and, if ADHD is diagnosed, discuss treatment options and develop a personalized management plan tailored to your needs. If ADHD is not diagnosed, they can discuss other potential explanations for your symptoms and recommend appropriate next steps.
Alt text: Doctor reviewing test results and discussing diagnosis with an adult patient in a consultation room, highlighting the collaborative nature of the ADHD diagnostic process.
7. Exploring ADHD Treatment Options
If you receive an ADHD diagnosis, the next crucial step is to learn about available treatment options and work with your doctor to develop a personalized treatment plan. Effective ADHD management typically involves a combination of approaches, tailored to individual needs and preferences.
Commonly recommended treatment options for adult ADHD include:
- Medications: Medication is often a cornerstone of ADHD treatment for adults. Stimulant medications are frequently the first-line treatment due to their effectiveness and relatively well-established safety profile for many adults. They work by improving neurotransmitter activity in the brain areas responsible for attention and impulse control. Non-stimulant medications are also available and can be effective, particularly for individuals who don’t respond well to stimulants or have contraindications. Medications can significantly improve core ADHD symptoms, enhancing focus, reducing impulsivity, and improving organization. [4]
- Psychotherapy (Talk Therapy): Psychotherapy, particularly Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), is highly beneficial for adults with ADHD. CBT helps individuals develop practical strategies to manage ADHD symptoms in daily life. It focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors, improving organizational skills, time management, and emotional regulation. Research shows CBT can reduce ADHD symptoms and improve executive function. It can also help address co-occurring conditions like anxiety and depression. [5] Other forms of therapy, such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and mindfulness-based therapies, can also be helpful.
- ADHD Coaching: ADHD coaches provide personalized support and guidance to help individuals develop practical skills and strategies to manage ADHD challenges. Coaches work with clients on goal setting, prioritization, time management, organization, and improving self-esteem. Coaching is action-oriented and focuses on building structures and routines to minimize the impact of ADHD on daily functioning.
- Lifestyle Modifications and Support Groups: In addition to professional treatments, lifestyle adjustments can significantly support ADHD management. These include regular exercise, a healthy diet, sufficient sleep, stress management techniques, and structured routines. ADHD support groups, both in-person and online, provide a valuable community for sharing experiences, advice, and emotional support. Connecting with others who understand ADHD can reduce feelings of isolation and provide practical coping strategies.
Working collaboratively with your doctor to find the right combination of treatment approaches is essential. A comprehensive management plan can lead to significant improvements in focus, organizational abilities, time management, and overall performance in work, school, and personal life. By effectively managing ADHD, you can gain greater control and unlock your full potential.
The Transformative Power of Accurate Diagnosis
Taking proactive steps to understand your symptoms and seek professional evaluation is the first step towards positive change. An accurate ADHD diagnosis can be life-changing, opening doors to effective treatments and strategies that can significantly improve your quality of life.
To further explore your symptoms, consider utilizing resources like ADDA’s ADHD test for adults. This self-assessment tool can help you identify potential ADHD indicators and guide you in making informed decisions about seeking professional help.
The ultimate goal of ADHD diagnosis and treatment is to empower you to thrive in your daily activities and achieve your full potential. Adults with ADHD can accomplish remarkable things. Effective treatment makes the path to success smoother and more attainable. Reaching out to a healthcare professional you trust is the crucial first step on this transformative journey. Building a supportive community, like ADDA+, can further enhance your understanding and resilience as you navigate life with ADHD.
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
