ADHD in Adults - Symptoms of ADHD Go Underdiagnosed
Many people don't even recognize they have ADHD until the symptoms become severe enough to affect their work or home life. Many people believe that ADHD is underdiagnosed among adults because they don't seek treatment.
Our quiz isn't a diagnostic test, but it may suggest the need for further testing by a healthcare professional. The assessment should include interviews and standardized behavioral rating scales.
Symptoms
ADHD symptoms are not limited to children or teenagers. Adults are often misdiagnosed or undertreated due to stigmas associated with the disorder or the lack of access. A physician is required to diagnose, but an online screening tool can alert a patient to the possibility of a symptom. It can also connect them with the appropriate mental health professionals for further assessment.
Adults who exhibit symptoms of ADHD tend to think they are overreacting, or that the issue is not actually there. They may dismiss suggestions from family members or friends especially if they're well-educated and hold an official position at work. Some people are inflexible and refuse to accept that they have the condition, even though their school reports indicate that it began in the early years of childhood.
Adults who suffer from the symptoms of ADHD have a hard time following through on their commitments or plans, and they have a difficult time to stay organized. They also have a difficult time staying on track, both at home and at work. This can affect their finances and relationships. Inability to manage emotions, make decisions, and stick on their goals could lead to low self-esteem or feelings of guilt.
Some of the most prominent signs of ADHD for adults include difficulty staying focused, getting easily distracted, and making impulsive mistakes. Although everyone forgets something occasionally, regularly losing things, like keys, phones or utensils, can be an indicator of the disorder. Many people who suffer from ADHD also have difficulty relaxing or sleeping and can be restless or fidgety.
The questions in this screening tool are based off of the ASRS v1.1 version, which was designed to be used as a screening tool and an instrument for diagnosing adults with ADHD. Click That Link are designed to assess symptoms that overlap the DSM-IV ADHD criteria, as well those of other disorders such as bipolar disorder and anxiety. However, the questionnaire should not be used to diagnose or assess ADHD; it is only intended to provide insights into a person's situation and help them determine if they require further evaluation.
Diagnosis
ADHD in adults is often underdiagnosed which means that those suffering from the condition don't receive the assistance and support they require. The World Health Organization, in collaboration with the Workgroup on Adult ADHD, has created a self-screening tool called the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) to help tackle this issue. This test is designed to determine if you exhibit signs of adult ADHD. It utilizes the 18 DSM-V criteria to determine the presence of ADHD in adults.
Take this free ADHD test to learn more about your symptoms and whether you might have the condition. This test does not provide a diagnosis of ADHD. Only an expert in mental health can do so after evaluating your symptoms and behavior in detail. If you do well in this test, it may be a sign that you should see a mental health professional for an evaluation to diagnose adult ADHD.
This ADHD screening is for adults who are over 18 years old and only takes a few moments to complete. You will be asked 18 questions, and you will be awarded an overall score based on your answers. A score of 14 or more is a good indicator that you should speak with a professional regarding obtaining an assessment for ADHD.

This test is not an alternative to a formal evaluation by a mental health professional. A clinical psychologist or psychiatrist can provide the most accurate assessment and diagnosis of ADHD for adults. It is crucial to rule out any other mental health conditions like depression or anxiety, before making the assumption that ADHD may be the root of your problem.
4.4 percent of adults in the United States are living with undiagnosed ADHD. It is thought that many of them were affected as children and either learned to manage their symptoms or were not noticed. It is not common for ADHD symptoms to disappear completely, despite the fact that certain symptoms can diminish as you the advancing years. ADHD is a neurological issue, and it impacts the prefrontal cortex in the brain.
Treatment
Adults can be affected by the symptoms of ADHD. If not treated, these issues can cause strain in relationships and can interfere with school, work and home life. This is especially relevant for women, who may not receive a diagnosis due to the stigma surrounding ADHD for females. Many adults suffering from untreated ADHD also struggle with co-occurring issues like anxiety, substance use (due to impulsivity) and inadequate nutrition and diet. If diagnosed and treated, the challenges can be addressed.
An online ADHD screening test is a great place to begin but it's not a substitute for the need for an official diagnosis from an expert medical professional. A physical exam and an examination of medical history, and an in-depth interview regarding the behavior of the last six months are all necessary to make a correct diagnosis. It is important to identify any comorbidities, such as mood disorders, anxiety, or learning disabilities.
In addition to medications psychotherapy and self-management strategies can help those suffering from ADHD improve their lives. Improved sleep habits can improve concentration and focus and regular exercise can reduce the amount of energy and impulse control. A healthy diet can also enhance mood and focus.
There are a variety of ADHD medication options, including stimulants and non-stimulants. Stimulants have been shown to be effective in many studies to treat ADHD. They increase levels of serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine within the brain. Non-stimulants are less studied but are equally effective. Antidepressants such as Atomoxetine (which is a selective Norepinephrine Resuptake Inhibitor) and alpha-agonists such as bupropion are among them.
A correct diagnosis can help you manage ADHD and its effects at home, work and in relationships. It can also assist people to find more productive ways of managing their time and resources. This can help reduce the need for unhealthy ways of coping, such as emotional eating or overeating, as well as alcohol or drug use.
If you are concerned about your mental health, talk to a trusted partner, friend or family member. You can also ask for the recommendation of a certified mental health provider or doctor. This could be more convenient than finding a therapist with a certification on your own. You can also check out our Find a Therapist resource.
Support
A mental health professional can help you if you are struggling with adult ADHD symptoms. This will help you get a proper diagnosis and find the right treatment options for you. If you aren't able to access an in-person doctor, services like Frida can connect you to licensed counselors at a low cost and in the comfort of your home.
You can also test an online version of the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS). This test requires you to evaluate your own symptoms of adult ADHD on a scale that ranges from "never" up to "very often". You can also take the longer, more thorough ASRS test v1.1 that examines 18 symptoms of adult ADHD. This test is typically administered by a healthcare professional to collect data for research studies.
A good doctor can help you develop coping mechanisms and make suggestions on how to manage symptoms. You may also be directed to a specialist who will recommend medication, lifestyle changes and other interventions that are appropriate for you.
Your doctor will want to learn more about the symptoms you experienced when you were younger and how they have impacted your life. They may also be interested in learning about past difficulties that you've had, like problems with relationships or performance at work.
People with ADHD can struggle to keep jobs or maintain relationships because of their unpredictable and chaotic behavior. Therapy that concentrates on improving communication, conflict resolution and problem-solving skills can be helpful. Family therapy and classes for family members can help get everyone on the same page regarding your issues, struggles and strengths.
A program that can help you manage your symptoms is Inflow that employs cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques to help you recognize and cope with ADHD. It teaches you how to manage your symptoms, and you can track your progress. The app is compatible with iOS and Android devices. It costs an annual subscription, but gives up to 7 days of trial of charge.