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

You’re not alone — many adults suspecting ADHD wonder the same thing. Here’s a clear, practical path to getting a proper evaluation, what to expect, and some places to look for help.

1. Start with a screening

• Fill out a quick self-screen first: the Adult ADHD Self‑Report Scale (ASRS v1.1) is commonly used. If you’d like, I can paste the ASRS questions for you to try now.
• Screening doesn’t equal diagnosis, but it helps determine whether a full evaluation is warranted.

1. See a clinician who can diagnose ADHD

• Primary care provider (PCP): a good first step — they can rule out medical causes (thyroid problems, sleep apnea, medication side effects), check substance use, and refer you.
• Mental‑health specialists: psychiatrists (can prescribe medication) or clinical psychologists/neuropsychologists (can do in‑depth testing and differential diagnosis). Ask that whoever you see has experience diagnosing adult ADHD.

1. What a full diagnostic evaluation typically includes

• Detailed clinical interview about current symptoms, functional impairment (work, relationships), and childhood behavior (ADHD requires symptoms present before age 12 per DSM‑5).
• Standardized rating scales (ASRS, Conners’ Adult ADHD Rating Scales).
• Collateral history if possible (family member, partner, school records).
• Screening for other conditions (anxiety, depression, substance use, sleep disorders, learning disabilities).
• Sometimes neuropsychological testing if the diagnosis is unclear or there are complicated cognitive issues.

1. Practical things to bring or prepare

• Examples of how symptoms impair daily life (work performance, missed deadlines, difficulty organizing).
• Childhood information (report cards, teacher comments, or a short summary of childhood behavior).
• Current medication list and substance use history.
• Completed ASRS or other forms if you did a screening.

1. What happens after diagnosis

• Treatment can include medication (stimulants and nonstimulants), cognitive behavioral therapy for ADHD, coaching, and workplace/school accommodations. Medication requires ongoing follow-up; stimulants are controlled substances and prescribers must follow regulations.
• Your clinician should discuss risks, benefits, and follow‑up plans.

1. If you have trouble accessing in‑person specialists

• Telepsychiatry and teletherapy can shorten wait times. Reputable options:
  • Brightside Health — offers psychiatry and therapy with experience in mood disorders and ADHD; helpful if you want coordinated telecare.
  • Teladoc / Doctor on Demand — national telemedicine platforms that offer psychiatry visits; good if you want a quicker psychiatric consult.
  • Zocdoc — useful to find and book local psychiatrists/psychologists quickly and read patient reviews.
  • Psychology Today directory — large therapist/psychologist directory where you can filter by clinicians who list ADHD expertise.
• Note: Availability and prescribing rules (especially for stimulant medications) vary by state/country.

1. Trusted information and support organizations

• CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention‑Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) — reliable education and local chapter support groups.
• ADDA (Attention Deficit Disorder Association) — resources specifically for adults with ADHD.
• ADDitude magazine/website — lots of practical articles and strategies (not a diagnostic service).

1. Warnings and tips

• Avoid services that only offer an online questionnaire and immediately prescribe without a clinician interview — a proper diagnosis requires thorough assessment.
• If you’re having thoughts of harming yourself or severe impairment, contact emergency services or a crisis line right away.

If you want, I can:

• Paste the ASRS screener now for you to try, or
• Help find ADHD clinicians/telehealth options near you (tell me your country/state or if you prefer telehealth).