Over 366 million adults globally experience symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).[1] Despite this significant number, research indicates that less than 20% of adults with ADHD receive a proper diagnosis and treatment for their condition.[2]
Living with undiagnosed ADHD can present considerable challenges, turning everyday life into a constant struggle. Individuals may grapple with difficulties in focus, memory, and impulse control, leading to frustrating daily experiences. Moreover, the long-term consequences of undiagnosed ADHD can be profound, potentially affecting career progression, interpersonal relationships, and the ability to complete essential tasks.
For many adults with ADHD, receiving a diagnosis and initiating treatment can be truly transformative. While there isn’t a single test to definitively diagnose ADHD, collaborating with a healthcare specialist and following a structured approach can significantly increase the likelihood of an accurate diagnosis.
If you suspect you might be experiencing symptoms of adult ADHD, it’s crucial to seek professional evaluation from a qualified medical expert without delay. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of getting tested for ADHD.
1. Recognize Potential ADHD Symptoms
Identifying ADHD symptoms in adults can be more complex than in children, as they often manifest in subtler ways. The signs of adult ADHD are broadly categorized into symptoms of inattention and symptoms of hyperactivity or impulsivity.
Symptoms of inattention to watch out for include:[3]
- Making careless errors and neglecting crucial details in work or daily tasks.
- Difficulty maintaining focus during work assignments, lectures, or reading lengthy articles.
- Failing to finish tasks such as household chores, school assignments, or workplace projects.
- Avoiding tasks that demand sustained mental effort like preparing reports or reviewing paperwork.
- Experiencing mind-wandering and unrelated thoughts that interrupt focus.
- Finding it hard to stay focused during conversations, even when directly addressed.
- Frequently misplacing essential items like keys, wallets, phones, or documents.
- Struggling with time management, often running late or missing deadlines.
- Difficulty organizing tasks and activities, leading to disarray and confusion.
- Failing to follow through on instructions and overlooking important steps.
- Frequently missing deadlines for work projects, personal appointments, or social obligations.
ADHD can also contribute to symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity, such as:[3]
- Feeling restless or fidgety, such as tapping hands or feet or squirming in a seat.
- Difficulty staying seated in situations where remaining seated is expected, like meetings or classrooms.
- Inappropriately intruding on or taking over what others are doing.
- Interrupting others frequently during conversations.
- Feeling internally restless and unable to relax for extended periods.
- Trouble waiting for their turn in lines or during conversations.
- Experiencing a constant feeling of inner restlessness.
- Talking excessively, often dominating conversations.
Begin by reflecting on your daily challenges and consider whether these difficulties might be related to symptoms commonly associated with ADHD.
2. Understand the DSM-5 ADHD Criteria
Beyond just recognizing symptoms, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5) provides specific criteria that are essential for an accurate ADHD diagnosis. The DSM-5 is a respected guide used by healthcare professionals to ensure consistent and reliable diagnoses of mental health conditions.
The DSM-5 ADHD diagnostic criteria include:[3]
- Experiencing at least five symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity and impulsivity (or both).
- Symptoms have been present for a minimum of six months and are ongoing.
- Several symptoms were present before the age of 12 years.
- Symptoms are evident in two or more settings (e.g., at home, work, or socially).
- Symptoms significantly impair functioning in social, academic, or occupational settings.
- Symptoms are not better explained by another mental disorder.
It’s important to note that while many individuals may occasionally experience symptoms similar to ADHD, a diagnosis requires these symptoms to meet the DSM-5 criteria and demonstrably affect an individual’s overall quality of life.
3. Take a Self-Assessment (With Caution)
After gaining a clearer understanding of adult ADHD and its symptoms, you can begin to evaluate your own experiences. Self-assessment tools, such as online ADHD tests for adults, can be a starting point. These tests typically consist of symptom checklists designed to help you recognize ADHD symptoms and provide an initial gauge of whether ADHD might be present.
However, it’s vital to understand that these self-assessments are not a substitute for a professional diagnosis. They are screening tools that can suggest the possibility of ADHD but are not definitive. A comprehensive ADHD evaluation by a qualified professional is necessary to accurately diagnose ADHD and rule out other conditions that may present similar symptoms.
Alt text: An adult researches ADHD diagnostic information online, highlighting the first step in seeking diagnosis.
4. Consult Your Primary Care Physician
If your self-assessment indicates potential ADHD symptoms, the next crucial step is to seek professional medical advice for a formal diagnosis. A comfortable starting point for many is to consult with a trusted healthcare provider, such as your primary care physician (PCP) or family doctor.
Many PCPs are equipped to diagnose ADHD and can initiate the diagnostic process. Some may also be qualified to prescribe medication and manage treatment, monitoring your response and adjusting plans as needed.
However, there are situations where a PCP might refer you to a specialist who focuses on adult ADHD. This is often the case if your doctor suspects that ADHD may be accompanied by other mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder, requiring more specialized expertise.
5. Seek a Qualified ADHD Specialist
Various healthcare professionals are qualified to diagnose ADHD, each with specific areas of expertise. Understanding these differences can help you choose the most appropriate specialist for your needs:
- Psychologist: Psychologists are trained to diagnose conditions affecting thinking, emotions, and behavior. While they cannot prescribe medication for ADHD, they are experts in providing therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT can be highly effective in helping individuals with ADHD develop coping strategies and modify unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors.
- Psychiatrist: Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions, including ADHD. They can prescribe medications and create comprehensive ADHD management plans. Psychiatrists also monitor medication effectiveness and manage any potential side effects. However, consulting a psychiatrist may be more expensive than seeing a psychologist.
- Neurologist: Neurologists specialize in disorders of the brain and nervous system. They can assess if neurological conditions are present alongside ADHD, which can be important in some complex cases. However, for primary ADHD diagnosis and treatment, individuals often prefer psychiatrists or psychologists due to their specialized focus on mental health and behavioral therapies.
- Family Doctor: As mentioned, your family doctor can often diagnose and prescribe initial medication for ADHD. However, they may have less specialized knowledge of adult ADHD compared to psychologists or psychiatrists, especially in managing complex cases or co-occurring conditions.
Alt text: A psychologist leads a therapy session, showing a potential treatment path after ADHD diagnosis.
Take the time to research and understand the roles of different healthcare providers in ADHD diagnosis and treatment. This will empower you to select a professional who best meets your specific needs and preferences.
Once you’ve researched your options, several methods can help you find a qualified healthcare professional:
- Online Directories: Utilize online directories of doctors, filtering by specialty and area of focus to find professionals specializing in ADHD.
- ADHD Organizations: Contact organizations that support adults with ADHD, such as ADDA, as they often have referral resources and lists of qualified professionals.
- Personal Referrals: Ask friends, family, or colleagues if they can recommend any ADHD specialists they have had positive experiences with.
- Doctor Referral: Request a referral from your primary care physician to an ADHD specialist, which can be a streamlined way to access specialized care.
When you connect with a potential specialist, ensure you understand their qualifications and experience in diagnosing and treating adult ADHD. Don’t hesitate to ask about their specific experience with adult ADHD and the methods they use for evaluation. Choosing a specialist you feel comfortable with is crucial for open communication about your symptoms and concerns, making the diagnostic process more effective.
6. Complete a Comprehensive ADHD Evaluation
After selecting a specialist who understands your needs, you will proceed with a comprehensive ADHD evaluation. It’s important to reiterate that there is no single, simple test for ADHD. Diagnosis relies on a thorough assessment, which typically includes several components:
- Screening for Co-existing Conditions: This involves discussing your medical history, work and educational background, social experiences, and family life to identify any other conditions that might be present alongside ADHD.
- Behavioral Rating Scales: These are standardized questionnaires designed for adult ADHD that gather objective information about your symptoms from your perspective and sometimes from others who know you well.
- Diagnostic Interview: Your doctor will conduct a detailed interview, asking specific questions about your symptoms, their impact on your daily life, and their history.
- Childhood History Interview: Ideally, an interview with someone who knew you well during childhood, such as a parent or teacher, can provide valuable historical context about when your symptoms began.
- Physical Examination: A physical exam helps rule out other medical conditions that could be causing or contributing to your symptoms.
Once all aspects of the evaluation are complete, your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you. If ADHD is diagnosed, you can then collaborate with them to develop a personalized management and treatment plan. Alternatively, they might refer you to another specialist who can provide specific treatment options tailored to your needs.
Alt text: Doctor consults with adult patient, reviewing test results and discussing next steps for ADHD management.
7. Explore ADHD Treatment Options
If you receive an ADHD diagnosis, understanding and exploring your treatment options is essential. Your doctor will guide you in choosing the most appropriate management strategies, which may include:
- Medications: Stimulant medications are often the first-line treatment for ADHD due to their effectiveness for many adults and generally good tolerability. Non-stimulant medications are also available and may be recommended if stimulants are not suitable or effective. Sometimes, a combination of both types of medication can be used to optimize treatment outcomes.[4]
- Talk Therapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a widely used therapeutic approach that can significantly improve ADHD symptoms and enhance executive functions such as organization, memory, and attention. Research also indicates CBT can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression that often co-occur with ADHD.[5]
- ADHD Coaching: An ADHD coach specializes in helping individuals develop practical strategies and structures to minimize the impact of ADHD on daily life. Coaching can focus on areas like goal setting, prioritization, time management, and improving self-esteem.
- ADHD Support Groups: Joining ADHD support groups offers a valuable opportunity to connect with others who share similar experiences, providing mutual support and advice.
Collaborating closely with your doctor to determine the most effective treatment approach is crucial. A well-designed management plan can lead to significant improvements in focus, organizational skills, time management, and overall performance at work or school. By effectively managing ADHD, you can harness your strengths and turn potential challenges into assets.
An Accurate Diagnosis Can Have a Transformative Impact
To take a proactive step in understanding your symptoms, consider using ADDA’s ADHD test for adults. This self-assessment questionnaire can help you identify symptoms that align with an ADHD diagnosis and guide you in making informed decisions about seeking professional help.
The ultimate goal of ADHD diagnosis and treatment is to empower you to function at your best in all aspects of your life. People with ADHD have the potential to achieve significant goals, and effective treatment simply streamlines the path to success, making it smoother and faster.
Taking the first step towards positive change involves reaching out to a healthcare professional you trust. Furthermore, engaging with the ADHD community can provide deeper insights and support. With resources like ADDA+, you can navigate your ADHD journey with greater confidence and resilience.
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
