If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve been wondering if you have ADHD. Maybe you’ve seen posts online that hit a little too close. Maybe you’ve always felt different but never had the words for it. Or maybe you’ve been told your whole life that you’re just lazy, disorganized, or too much.
Getting a proper ADHD diagnosis can be a game changer. But the process isn’t always easy, especially for adults. There’s confusion, gatekeeping, long waitlists, and lots of misinformation.
This guide breaks down how to get diagnosed with ADHD, what to expect, where to start, and how to advocate for yourself along the way.
Step 1: Learn the Basics of ADHD
Before you start the process, it helps to understand what ADHD actually is.
ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Despite the name, it’s not just about hyperactivity or being distracted. ADHD affects executive function, your ability to focus, regulate emotions, plan, organize, remember, and start or finish tasks.
There are three types:
• Predominantly inattentive
• Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive
• Combined type
Symptoms can vary a lot depending on age, gender, and environment. In women and adults, it’s often underdiagnosed because it presents more internally through things like emotional overwhelm, anxiety, and mental restlessness.
Step 2: Track Your Symptoms
You don’t need to diagnose yourself, but having a clear picture of what you’re experiencing can help you speak to a professional more confidently.
Write down:
• The symptoms you notice (difficulty focusing, impulsivity, zoning out, emotional swings, etc.)
• How long they’ve been present (ADHD starts in childhood, even if it wasn’t obvious)
• How they affect your daily life (work, school, relationships, routines)
• Any family history of ADHD, if you know it
You can also take a free online ADHD screener like the ASRS (Adult Self-Report Scale) to get an idea of where you fall. These aren’t diagnostic tools, but they can guide your next steps.
Step 3: Decide Where You Want to Get Diagnosed
There are a few main options when it comes to getting evaluated.
1. Primary Care Doctor or General Practitioner
This is a good first stop. Some primary doctors are able to diagnose ADHD, especially in adults, and may refer you to a specialist if needed.
Bring your notes and be honest about how your symptoms impact your life. Be prepared to explain more than just “I can’t focus.” Talk about how it affects your routines, memory, relationships, and overall mental health.
2. Psychiatrist
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in mental health and can diagnose and prescribe medication. They’re often more experienced with ADHD in adults.
Downside? Appointments can be expensive or booked out for weeks or months, especially without insurance.
3. Psychologist or Neuropsychologist
These professionals do detailed testing and evaluations, especially for ADHD, learning disabilities, and cognitive function. These tests can include attention tasks, memory exercises, and behavior questionnaires.
They’re especially helpful for diagnosing ADHD when symptoms overlap with things like anxiety, depression, or trauma.
This is often the most thorough route, but also the most expensive.
4. Online ADHD Clinics
There are now online services that focus specifically on ADHD diagnosis and treatment. These are growing in popularity, especially in places with long waitlists for in-person care.
Popular platforms include:
• Done
• ADHD Online
• Klarity
• Cerebral
• HelloAhead
Make sure to research the platform, read reviews, and confirm they are licensed in your state or country. Some offer both diagnosis and medication management, while others only do assessments.
Step 4: Prepare for Your Appointment
Whether you go in-person or online, here’s how to show up prepared.
• Bring a list of your symptoms and how they show up in daily life
• Be honest and detailed about how it impacts you
• Share childhood behaviors if you can remember them or ask family for insight
• Bring previous evaluations or school reports if you have them
• Expect questions about anxiety, depression, and other conditions (ADHD often overlaps with them)
Try not to downplay what you’re experiencing. A lot of us have learned to mask or minimize our struggles. This is the time to be real about how hard it actually is.
Step 5: Understand What Happens Next
If you’re diagnosed, the provider might recommend:
• Medication (stimulants or non-stimulants)
• Therapy or ADHD coaching
• Lifestyle changes
• Support groups or online communities
• Behavioral strategies like time-blocking or mindfulness
You don’t have to say yes to everything at once. Take your time. Ask questions. Learn about the options.
And if you’re not diagnosed but still feel like something’s off, you can always get a second opinion. ADHD looks different in everyone, and no one test is perfect.
What If You Can’t Afford a Diagnosis?
Cost is a real barrier for a lot of people. If private diagnosis isn’t accessible right now, here are some options:
• University psychology clinics often offer low-cost testing
• Community health centers may have sliding scale mental health services
• Nonprofits or advocacy groups in your area might offer free evaluations
• Telehealth platforms can be more affordable than in-person care
• Join online ADHD communities where you can get support, resources, and lived-experience advice
Even if you can’t get an official diagnosis right away, you can still start managing your symptoms and learning strategies that help you.
