What Should I Do If I Suspect I Have ADHD?

PostedOctober 7, 2025

UpdatedOctober 7, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Victoria Rowe, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

If you suspect you have ADHD, taking the right steps to get an official diagnosis is crucial for understanding and managing your symptoms. Whether you have noticed challenges with focus, time management, or impulsivity, addressing suspected adult ADHD early can help you develop strategies to improve your daily life.

Start with Self-Screening

The first step is to self-screen for ADHD. Many online questionnaires and self-assessment tools are available to help identify common symptoms of ADHD in adults. While these tools can provide some insight, they are not diagnostic and should not be used as a substitute for professional evaluation. Self-screening enables you to gain awareness of your symptoms and can be a helpful first step before seeking formal support.

Seek a Professional Evaluation

If your self-assessment points to ADHD, the next step is to schedule a professional evaluation. This typically involves meeting with a psychologist, psychiatrist, or other qualified mental health professional who can conduct a thorough assessment. The evaluation may include interviews, questionnaires, and behavioural assessments to rule out other potential conditions and confirm whether ADHD is the underlying cause of your symptoms.

Understand the Diagnosis Process

During the evaluation, the professional will gather information about your childhood and adult symptoms, since ADHD is a lifelong condition. They will also assess how your symptoms affect daily functioning, such as at work, in relationships, or in personal tasks. If diagnosed, they will work with you to develop a treatment plan, which may include therapy, medication, or lifestyle strategies.

Next Steps and Treatment Options

Once diagnosed, the next steps involve creating a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Treatment often combines medication, such as stimulants or non-stimulants, with behavioural strategies like cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and organisational support.

If you suspect adult ADHD, do not wait to seek help. Early diagnosis and treatment can greatly improve your quality of life.

For more guidance on the assessment and treatment of suspected adult ADHD, visit providers like ADHD Certify for expert consultations and support.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to ADHD in adults.

Victoria Rowe, MSc

Author

Victoria Rowe is a health psychologist with a Master’s in Health Psychology and a BS in Applied Psychology. She has experience as a school psychologist, conducting behavioural assessments, developing individualized education plans (IEPs), and supporting children’s mental health. Dr. Rowe has contributed to peer-reviewed research on mental health, including studies on anxiety disorders and the impact of COVID-19 on healthcare systems. Skilled in SPSS, Minitab, and academic writing, she is committed to advancing psychological knowledge and promoting well-being through evidence-based practice.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.