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

You’re not alone — many adults recognize signs of ADHD later in life. Here’s a clear, practical path to get evaluated and diagnosed, what to expect, and some resources and services you can try.

1. Do a quick self-check

• Try the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS-v1.1) — a short screening checklist that can help you decide whether to pursue a formal evaluation. It’s not a diagnosis, but useful to bring to an appointment.

1. Decide who to see

• Primary care provider (PCP): a good first step. They can do an initial screen, rule out medical causes (thyroid, anemia, sleep problems), start basic treatment or refer you.
• Psychiatrist (MD/DO): can diagnose and prescribe medications; recommended if symptoms are complex or medication is likely.
• Clinical psychologist or neuropsychologist (PhD/PsyD): can do a full diagnostic assessment and cognitive testing (useful if learning disabilities, memory issues, or unclear picture). Psychologists generally don’t prescribe meds.
• Nurse practitioners/physician assistants: many are qualified to diagnose and prescribe in primary care or specialty clinics.

1. What happens during an evaluation

• Clinical interview about current symptoms, childhood behavior, functioning at work/home, comorbidities (anxiety, depression, substance use).
• Standardized ADHD rating scales (e.g., ASRS, Conners).
• Collateral information — input from a partner, parent, or old school records helps confirm childhood onset.
• Medical review and possibly labs or sleep assessment to rule out other causes.
• Neuropsych testing only if diagnosis is unclear or you need detailed cognitive profiling.

1. Diagnostic criteria to know

• Clinicians use DSM-5 criteria: multiple symptoms present before adulthood (often childhood), symptoms in more than one setting, and clear functional impairment. A clinician integrates ratings, history, and testing.

1. Treatment options after diagnosis

• Medication: stimulants (methylphenidate, amphetamines) are often first-line; non-stimulant options include atomoxetine, bupropion, guanfacine. Which is right depends on your health, preferences, and other conditions.
• Therapy: CBT tailored for adult ADHD, skills training, executive-function coaching.
• Workplace/school accommodations and habit/organization strategies.

1. Practical steps to take now

• Gather evidence: copies of school records, old report cards, any prior evaluations, a list of your current medications and medical history, and any notes about symptoms at work/home.
• Bring a completed ASRS to your appointment.
• Be ready to give contact info for someone who can describe your behavior across time (partner, parent, close friend).

1. Costs, prescribing, and telehealth

• Insurance: many plans cover evaluations by in-network psychiatrists or psychologists; check with your insurer.
• Controlled substances and telemedicine: rules vary by state and provider; some telehealth services offer full evaluations and prescribing, others will require an in-person visit first.

1. Reputable resources and services (names and why)

• CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) — nonprofit with education, support groups, and a provider directory to find ADHD-literate clinicians.
• ADDitude magazine (additudemag.com) — practical articles, checklists, and clinician-recommended resources for adults.
• Done (getdone.com) — telehealth service focused on ADHD assessment and medication management; good if you want an online-first option and regular follow-up.
• ADHD Online (adhdonline.com) — offers structured online evaluations and coaching; useful if you prefer a fully remote pathway.
• Psychology Today provider directory — helpful to find local psychiatrists, psychologists, and neuropsychologists and read their specialties and insurance info.
• University neuropsychology clinics or major medical centers — good options if you need comprehensive testing or a second opinion.

1. When to get urgent help

• If you’re having thoughts of harming yourself or others, or severe functional decline (unable to work, care for yourself), contact emergency services or a crisis line immediately.

1. If you want, I can:

• Tell you what questions to ask a clinician
• Help draft a short script/email to your PCP requesting an ADHD evaluation
• Walk through the ASRS screening questions with you

If you want help now, tell me whether you’d prefer to start with your PCP or with a specialist/telehealth option and I’ll suggest a short message you can use to request an evaluation.