To know if you have ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder), you should look for a persistent pattern of symptoms related to inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with your daily functioning in areas such as work, school, or relationships. Key signs include:
- Difficulty concentrating or paying attention, especially for long periods or on detailed tasks.
- Trouble organizing tasks, following instructions, or completing projects.
- Being easily distracted or forgetful.
- Fidgeting, restlessness, or feeling an internal urge to keep moving.
- Impulsive behaviors, such as acting without thinking about consequences or interrupting others.
- Difficulty controlling emotions, such as frequent frustration, mood swings, or irritability.
- Symptoms must have been present since childhood, even if undiagnosed at the time.
- These symptoms affect your life significantly and are not better explained by other conditions like anxiety or depression
Diagnosis involves a clinical assessment by a healthcare professional, often including interviews about your current symptoms and childhood behavior, use of rating scales, and ruling out other conditions. There is no single test for ADHD. The professional will check if you meet the diagnostic criteria, which typically require at least five symptoms of inattention and/or hyperactivity- impulsivity for adults, persisting for six months or more
. If you suspect you have ADHD, you can start by taking a self-screening questionnaire such as the Adult Self-Report Scale (ASRS) and then consult a doctor or mental health specialist for a thorough evaluation and possible diagnosis
. Getting diagnosed early allows you to access treatments and strategies that can help manage symptoms effectively.
