7 Ways to Find Out If You Have ADHD

If you’ve been diagnosed with ADHD, you likely have a lot of questions about what it means for you and how to live with your condition. Whether you’re a parent looking to help your child or an adult who’s worried about what might be happening to you, there are several things you can do to find out if you have adhd and get the care you need.

1. The Symptoms Have Been There For at Least 6 Months

In order to be diagnosed with adhd, the symptoms must have been there for a minimum of 6 months and have caused significant impairment in at least two major settings of life. This includes school, work, and relationships.

2. You Have Been Through Some Major Events in Your Life

You may have had a life event that has led to the development of your symptoms, such as a divorce or death of a loved one. You could also have had a major medical condition or psychological disorder that has triggered your symptoms, such as anxiety or depression.

3. You Have Been Through Some Training And Support

If you’re concerned that your symptoms might be linked to ADHD, talk to a mental health professional about treatment options. Your doctor can give you information about ADHD-specific treatments, including medication and behavioral therapy.

4. You Are Being Honest About Your Diagnosis

If your impulsivity, restlessness or inattention are causing problems with your life, it’s important to be honest about it. It’s much easier to talk about it openly than to hide it in the shadows.

5. You Are Using Medication to Treat Your Symptoms

Most people with ADHD take prescription medications to control their inattentiveness or hyperactivity. They might also be prescribed anti-depressants or other mood-enhancing medications to help them manage their feelings and behaviors better.

6. You Are Taking Your Medication on Time and in the Right Amount

If you are diagnosed with ADHD, it’s important to follow your physician’s instructions for taking your medications. It’s especially important to take your medication at the same times each day as recommended by the physician, and to avoid skipping doses or combining medications without a doctor’s permission.

7. You Are Seeing A Specialist

If the signs of ADHD have been affecting your daily life, it’s a good idea to talk with a professional about it. Your doctor or therapist will ask you a series of questions and evaluate your symptoms to see if you qualify for treatment.

The assessment process for adult ADHD differs from a diagnosis of childhood ADHD, and it requires a more careful evaluation. A doctor who specializes in diagnosing adult ADHD will spend at least an hour examining your symptoms and asking you a series of questions about your life. The practitioner will also use questionnaires and interviews to learn more about your past, present and future, and to determine if other conditions might be causing your symptoms.

If you think that you or your family might have ADHD, seek treatment as soon as possible. This is the only way to ensure that your symptoms are treated before they wreak havoc on your life.