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

You’re doing the right thing by asking. Here’s a practical, step-by-step guide to getting an adult ADHD diagnosis, what to expect, and some specific services and resources you can use.

1. Do a quick self-screen (optional)

• Take the Adult ADHD Self‑Report Scale (ASRS v1.1) 6‑question screener (search “ASRS v1.1 screener”). It’s a brief, validated checklist that can help you decide whether to pursue a full evaluation.

1. Decide which clinician to see

• Primary care provider (PCP): Good first step. They can rule out medical causes (thyroid, sleep, meds), give an initial assessment, and refer you.
• Psychiatrist: Best for medication assessment and managing stimulant or nonstimulant meds.
• Clinical psychologist or neuropsychologist: Best for comprehensive testing (cognitive testing, differential diagnosis) and behavioral therapy recommendations.
• ADHD specialist or clinic (multidisciplinary): Useful when you want coordinated assessment and follow-through.

1. How to find a clinician (services you can use)

• Zocdoc — quick way to find and book local psychiatrists, psychologists, and PCPs with patient reviews.
• Psychology Today therapist directory — large searchable database of clinical psychologists and therapists; profiles often list ADHD experience.
• CHADD (chadd.org) — national ADHD advocacy organization; has resources and local support-group listings and can help find knowledgeable professionals.
• ADDitude magazine (additudemag.com) — practical articles and lists of clinicians, tests, and coaching resources.
• ADHD Online — telehealth service focused on adult ADHD evaluations and treatment (can be convenient if you need remote options).
• Major academic centers (e.g., Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic) — many have adult ADHD clinics and neuropsychology teams for comprehensive evaluations.

1. What to bring or prepare for the appointment

• Symptom examples: specific, recent and past situations showing attention problems, impulsivity, or hyperactivity; how they interfere with work, relationships, daily life.
• Childhood history: school reports, report cards, teacher comments, old evaluations, or a written summary of childhood symptoms (DSM requires symptoms present before age 12).
• Medical history and current medications (including OTC and supplements).
• Substance use and sleep history.
• Family history of ADHD, mood disorders, or learning disabilities.
• Completed screening tools if you did them (ASRS results).

1. What the evaluation typically includes

• Clinical interview about current symptoms, childhood history, functioning in different settings, and rule-outs (sleep, mood/anxiety, substance use, medical issues).
• Standardized rating scales (ASRS, Conners, Barkley, etc.) and sometimes collateral reports from spouse/parent/employer.
• If needed, neuropsychological testing to measure attention, memory, executive function, and to rule in/out learning disorders or other causes. These are longer and more expensive but useful for complex cases.

1. Diagnosis criteria and differential diagnosis (brief)

• Clinician will use DSM‑5 criteria (symptoms present in multiple settings, onset in childhood, current impairment). Many other conditions can mimic or coexist with ADHD — anxiety, depression, sleep apnea, thyroid problems, substance use, and some learning disabilities — so an evaluation looks for those too.

1. Treatment planning

• If diagnosed, options include behavioral therapy (CBT for adult ADHD), ADHD coaching, workplace/accommodation strategies, and meds (stimulants are most effective for many adults; nonstimulant options exist). A psychiatrist or experienced PCP can prescribe and monitor medications.
• If you prefer non-pharmacologic treatment first, look for therapists experienced in adult ADHD (use Psychology Today or CHADD referral lists).

1. Practical considerations and cautions

• Stimulant medications are controlled substances in many places and require careful monitoring; some telehealth providers will not initiate stimulants without detailed in-person/longitudinal evaluation.
• If you feel at risk of harming yourself or others, seek immediate help — call emergency services or a crisis hotline (in the U.S., 988).
• Insurance: Check whether the clinician or testing is covered; neuropsych testing can be expensive and sometimes not covered.

1. Sample questions to ask a potential clinician

• “How many adult ADHD assessments have you done?”
• “Do you do or refer for neuropsych testing if needed?”
• “What is your approach to medication and follow-up?”
• “Do you have experience differentiating ADHD from anxiety/depression/ASD/learning disorders?”

If you want, tell me:

• where you live (city or country) and whether you prefer in-person or telehealth — I can suggest local clinics/providers or telehealth services in your area.