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

You’re not alone — many adults suspect they have ADHD and want a clear, safe path to diagnosis. Here’s a practical step-by-step plan, what to expect, and a few specific resources/providers to try.

1. Do a quick self-screen

• Take the WHO Adult ADHD Self‑Report Scale (ASRS v1.1) online to see whether your symptoms line up with typical adult ADHD patterns. (This is a screening tool only, not a diagnosis.)

1. Decide who to see first

• Primary care provider (PCP): good first step to rule out medical causes (thyroid, sleep apnea, medication side effects) and get referrals.
• Psychiatrist (MD/DO): can diagnose and prescribe medication.
• Psychologist or neuropsychologist (PhD/PsyD): can do comprehensive testing and rule out other cognitive/learning issues; useful if your history is complex. Who can make the diagnosis: psychiatrists, psychologists (depending on state laws for prescribing), and some experienced primary care clinicians.

1. Prepare for the appointment — bring these

• Completed symptom checklist (ASRS).
• Childhood history: school report cards, teacher notes, or a brief timeline of symptoms since childhood (ADHD typically begins in childhood).
• Medication list and relevant medical records.
• If possible, a short statement from someone who’s known you long-term (family, partner) about your symptoms.

1. What the evaluation will include

• Clinical interview about current symptoms, impact on work/relationships, and developmental history.
• Use of standardized rating scales.
• Screening for other mental health conditions (anxiety, depression, substance use) and medical issues.
• Collateral information (someone else’s perspective) and sometimes cognitive testing (neuropsychological evaluation) if diagnosis is unclear or accommodations/documentation are needed.

1. Tests and ruling-out

• Expect basic medical screening (sometimes labs like TSH) and sleep assessment if relevant.
• Neuropsych testing is recommended if you need detailed cognitive profile, academic/work accommodations, or if ADHD is uncertain.

1. Treatment and follow-up

• If diagnosed, options include stimulant medications (methylphenidate/amphetamines), non‑stimulants (atomoxetine, bupropion), and psychotherapy — particularly ADHD-adapted CBT and coaching. Medication needs monitoring and follow-up.
• If you prefer nonpharmacologic support first, look for ADHD-focused therapists and coaches.

1. If you need accommodations

• Ask your clinician for a diagnostic report that includes functional impairment and recommended accommodations for work or school.

Specific resources and services to try

• CHADD (chadd.org) — national nonprofit with education, local support groups, and a provider directory focused on ADHD.
• ADDitude (additudemag.com) — practical articles, symptom checklists, and guides for adults.
• Psychology Today (psychologytoday.com) and Zocdoc (zocdoc.com) — searchable directories for local therapists, psychiatrists, and neuropsychologists with patient reviews and booking.
• ADDA (add.org) — Attention Deficit Disorder Association, adult-focused peer support and resources.
• Done (donefirst.com) — telehealth company that provides adult ADHD assessments and ongoing medication management (good if you want remote care; note: tele-prescribing of stimulants is regulated and varies by state).
• Talkiatry (talkiatry.com) — telepsychiatry service with psychiatrists experienced in ADHD diagnosis and treatment.
• ADHD Coaches Organization (adhdcoaches.org) — to find certified ADHD coaches if you want skill-based coaching.

A few cautions

• Online quizzes or direct-to-consumer prescription services that don’t take a full developmental history can lead to misdiagnosis; prefer clinicians who verify childhood history and assess comorbidities.
• Stimulant medications are controlled substances; reputable providers will do appropriate screening and monitoring.
• If you have thoughts of harming yourself or others, seek immediate help (call emergency services or your local crisis line).

Next practical step

• If you want, tell me your city or ZIP code and whether you prefer in-person or telehealth; I can suggest nearby psychiatrists/psychologists or telehealth options and give wording you can use when booking an appointment.