Do I have ADHD or am I just broken?Â
It is easy to wonder whether you have ADHD or if you are just struggling with emotional issues. ADHD is characterised by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that start in childhood and cause ongoing difficulties in daily life. In contrast, emotional struggles such as mood swings or low motivation may stem from various causes and tend to be less persistent or pervasive (NICE NG87: Diagnosis Criteria).
ADHD symptoms also include impulsivity, chronic disorganisation, and difficulties across multiple settings (e.g., at home, work, or school), whereas general emotional struggles may not consistently affect different areas of life (PMC 2025).
How ADHD is diagnosed: The NHS and NICE process
A formal ADHD diagnosis is a structured clinical process. Symptoms must be present before the age of 12, occur for at least 6 months, and cause significant impairment in two or more settings, such as work or school (NICE NG87: Diagnosis).
A diagnosis is made after a thorough clinical history, symptom checklists (like DSM-5 or ICD-10), and feedback from close contacts like family members, teachers, or colleagues.
Conditions that overlap with ADHD symptoms
Certain mental health conditions, like anxiety, depression, trauma, or autism, can overlap with ADHD, sometimes making diagnosis difficult. These co-occurring conditions can mimic symptoms such as inattention or emotional dysregulation (RCPsych: ADHD Problems).
It is essential to correctly diagnose ADHD to ensure proper treatment and avoid mislabeling or unnecessary treatment for unrelated emotional issues.
Steps for getting an ADHD diagnosis in the UK
The process starts with consulting a GP, who may refer you to a specialist. You will be asked to provide information on your symptoms and how they impact your life. You may also complete screening tools and questionnaires. Clinical assessments often involve interviews and reports from family or colleagues. If other conditions overlap with ADHD, follow-up assessments may be necessary
You may also choose ADHD Certify, a trusted online service that guides you through ADHD assessments and provides formal diagnostic reports to support you at school, work, and in everyday life.
What to do if you are unsure about ADHD
Even if your diagnosis is not clear, you can start by using healthy coping strategies: building structure, setting routines, prioritising sleep, and reducing stress. Evidence-based self-help tools, like CBT, can be helpful, and seeking support is key to managing symptoms effectively (Mayo Clinic: Coping Skills).
It is important to remember that having ADHD symptoms does not mean you are “broken.” With the right support, many individuals with ADHD lead successful lives.
