I think I have ADHD as an adult. How do I get diagnosed?

You’re not alone — many adults suspect they have ADHD but aren’t sure how to get an official diagnosis. Here’s a clear, practical path you can follow, what to expect, and some named resources to help.

1. Do a quick self-screen

• Take the WHO Adult ADHD Self‑Report Scale (ASRS v1.1) — a short, well‑validated screener you can find online. It won’t diagnose you but helps decide whether to pursue a full evaluation.

1. Decide what kind of evaluator you want

• Psychiatrist: can diagnose and prescribe medications (good if you think you’ll want medication).
• Clinical psychologist or neuropsychologist: does in‑depth testing and differential diagnosis (good if symptoms are complex, you want objective testing, or there are learning/brain-injury issues).
• Primary care doctor (PCP): can do an initial screen and refer; some PCPs diagnose and manage straightforward cases. Who to look up: use PsychologyToday.com or Zocdoc to find local psychiatrists/psychologists; for telehealth ADHD care try Done (DoneHealth) — they focus on adult ADHD evaluations and ongoing care. For peer information and local listings, check CHADD (Children & Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) and ADDA (Attention Deficit Disorder Association).

1. Prepare for the appointment (makes diagnosis faster and more accurate)

• Bring completed ASRS and any other rating scales (many clinics will send them ahead).
• Gather childhood evidence: report cards, teacher notes, old evaluations, or a parent/caregiver who can provide early-life history.
• Make a list of current symptoms, how they impair work/relationships/daily life, when they began, and any major life stressors.
• Note current/past psychiatric diagnoses, substance use, sleep issues, medical conditions, and medications.

1. What the evaluation will usually include

• Clinical interview covering childhood history, adult symptoms, and functional impairment.
• Collateral information if possible (partner, parent, old school records).
• Standardized symptom checklists (ASRS, BAARS, DIVA interview in some clinics).
• Screening for other causes (depression, anxiety, sleep apnea, thyroid problems, substance use). Your provider may order labs or refer for sleep testing if indicated.
• If needed, neuropsychological testing (multi-hour assessment) to clarify cognitive profile or rule out other causes.

1. Diagnostic criteria basics (what clinicians check)

• Symptoms began in childhood (DSM‑5: some symptoms present before age 12) and cause impairment in multiple settings.
• For adults the threshold of symptoms is lower than for children (DSM‑5 requires fewer symptoms for older teens/adults).
• Clinicians rule out other causes (mood disorders, anxiety, substance use, medical issues).

1. If you want medication

• A psychiatrist (or experienced PCP/telehealth service) usually evaluates first; many telehealth ADHD services (e.g., Done) offer diagnosis and medication management but will screen for substance misuse and may require video visits or local labs/urine drug screens.
• Stimulants (methylphenidate and amphetamine formulations) are the most effective treatments for many adults; nonstimulants (atomoxetine, guanfacine) or off‑label options may be used when stimulants aren’t suitable.

1. Cost, time, and alternatives

• Typical outpatient psychiatric/psychological evaluations: one or two visits for a clinical diagnosis; more extensive neuropsych testing can take several hours and cost $1,000–$3,500 (varies widely).
• If cost is a concern: look for university clinics, community mental health centers, sliding-scale therapists, or nonprofit organizations (CHADD has resources and support groups).
• Coaching, organizational therapy, and CBT for adult ADHD are useful adjuncts for skills-building (ADDA and ADHD Coaches Organization offer directories).

1. Red flags / when to seek urgent help

• If you have thoughts of harming yourself, severe functional decline, or significant substance misuse, contact emergency services or a crisis line immediately.

Next practical steps

• Take the ASRS self‑test (search “ASRS v1.1”).
• Decide whether you prefer telehealth or in‑person care.
• If you want a quick path to diagnosis and possible medication: check Done (telehealth ADHD clinic) or ask your PCP for a psychiatry referral.
• If you want in‑depth testing or a second opinion: search PsychologyToday or local university/neuropsychology clinics and book a clinical psychologist or neuropsychologist.

If you want, tell me your country or whether you prefer telehealth or in‑person care and I’ll suggest specific local or online providers and how to contact them.