Diagnosing ADHD in adults is not a cut and dry task. Sometimes, adults recognize the ADHD symptoms in themselves. Othertimes, ADHD symptoms come to light after their child is diagnosed with ADHD.

Are you concerned you might have adult ADHD? Learn about...

• the common symptoms of AD/HD in adults
• how professionals evaluate adults for possible AD/HD
• what to expect when consulting a professional for an AD/HD evaluation

Individuals wishing to seek an evaluation for AD/HD should use this information and resource sheet as a set of guidelines for what to expect from the clinician conducting the evaluation.

What is AD/HD?

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (AD/HD) is a neurobiological condition that affects an estimated 3-7 percent of the population. In most cases, AD/HD is thought to be inherited, and tends to run in some families more than others. AD/HD is a lifespan condition that affects children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. It affects both males and females, and people of all races and cultural backgrounds.

Some common symptoms and problems of living with AD/HD include:

• Poor attention; excessive distractibility
• Physical restlessness or hyperactivity
• Excessive impulsivity; saying or doing things without thinking
• Excessive and chronic procrastination
• Difficulty getting started on tasks
• Difficulty completing tasks
• Frequently losing things
• Poor organization, planning, and time management skills
• Excessive forgetfulness

AD/HD is thought to be a biological condition, most often inherited, that affects certain types of brain functioning. There is no cure for AD/HD. When properly diagnosed and treated, AD/HD can be well managed, leading to increased satisfaction in life and significant improvements in daily functioning. Many individuals with AD/HD lead highly successful and happy lives. An accurate diagnosis is the first step in learning to effectively manage AD/HD.

How is AD/HD diagnosed?

There is no single medical, physical, or genetic test for AD/HD. However, a diagnostic evaluation can be provided by a qualified mental health care professional or physician who gathers information from multiple sources. These include AD/HD symptom checklists, standardized behavior rating scales, a detailed history of past and current functioning, and information obtained from family members or significant others who know the person well. AD/HD cannot be diagnosed accurately just from brief office observations, or just by talking to the person. The person may not always exhibit the symptoms of AD/HD in the office, and the diagnostician needs to take a thorough history of the individual's life. A diagnosis of AD/HD must include consideration of the possible presence of co-occurring conditions.

Clinical guidelines for diagnosis of AD/HD are provided in the American Psychiatric Association diagnostic manual commonly referred to as the DSM-IV-TR (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision). These established guidelines are widely used in research and clinical practice. During an evaluation, the clinician will try to determine the extent to which these symptoms apply to the individual now and since childhood. The DSM-IV-TR symptoms for AD/HD are listed below:

Adult ADHD: Symptoms of Inattention

• Often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, work, or other activities
• Often has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities
• Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly
• Often does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace (not due to opposite
• Often has difficulty organizing tasks and activities
• Often avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort
• Often loses things necessary for tasks or activities
• Is often easily distracted by extraneous stimuli
• Is often forgetful in daily activities