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Should I update my doctor if symptoms change over time? 

Author: Harriet Winslow, BSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Yes, it is important to inform your doctor of any ADHD symptom changes, even if they seem small. ADHD does not always stay the same throughout life. Stress, age, hormones, or life circumstances can all affect how symptoms show up. Letting your doctor know ensures that your care stays relevant and effective. 

ADHD symptom changes may include things like increased forgetfulness, mood shifts, trouble sleeping, or problems with focus that were previously under control. This is where ongoing monitoring ADHD becomes valuable. It helps your doctor track patterns and adjust your support accordingly, whether through medication, therapy, or practical tools. 

You should also mention if symptoms improve. Positive changes matter too. They can help inform treatment updates ADHD and guide decisions about what to keep, remove, or build on in your care plan. 

How It Helps 

Keeps care responsive 

Updating your doctor about ADHD symptom changes helps ensure you are not stuck with a plan that no longer fits. 

Tracks patterns over time 

Ongoing monitoring ADHD gives your doctor a clearer view of how your condition behaves in real life, beyond single appointments. 

Supports flexible treatment 

When treatment updates ADHD are based on current information, they are more likely to meet your needs and goals. 

Your symptoms are allowed to change. And your care should change with them. Keep your doctor in the loop. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert advice tailored to your needs.    

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to How to talk to doctors or get assessed

Harriet Winslow, BSc - My patient advice author - mypatientadvice.co.uk
Harriet Winslow, BSc
Author

Harriet Winslow is a clinical psychologist with a Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience in behaviour therapy and developmental disorders. She has worked with children and adolescents with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), learning disabilities, and behavioural challenges, providing individual and group therapy using evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT. Dr. Winslow has developed and implemented personalised treatment plans, conducted formal and informal assessments, and delivered crisis intervention for clients in need of urgent mental health care. Her expertise spans assessment, treatment planning, and behavioural intervention for both neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions.

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, author and a reviewer for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk
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.