How to Get Diagnosed With ADHD?

If you’re wondering how to get diagnosed with ADHD, the process involves recognizing symptoms, consulting a qualified clinician, undergoing a comprehensive evaluation, and reviewing your results with a mental health professional like Dr. Catherine Samuel-Ojo at Mentis Clinic. Getting an accurate diagnosis is an essential first step toward improved well-being and greater self-understanding. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition affecting millions of people worldwide. Its symptoms—such as distractibility, impulsivity, and difficulty focusing—can impact many aspects of daily life, from school and work performance to relationships and self-esteem. Yet, because ADHD often goes unrecognized or misunderstood, many individuals never receive the support they need. This guide explains how to get diagnosed with ADHD, outlining each step and what to expect throughout the process.

Table of Contents

What Is Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)?

ADHD is a common neurodevelopmental disorder that typically begins in childhood and can persist into adulthood. It is characterized by patterns of inattention (difficulty focusing and forgetfulness), hyperactivity (excessive movement and restlessness), and impulsivity (acting without thinking). ADHD presents differently in each person and can range from mild to severe.

An accurate ADHD diagnosis is crucial for several reasons. It provides clarity about the challenges you’ve been facing and helps you access educational or workplace accommodations. Early diagnosis and intervention are associated with better long-term outcomes—including improved academic, occupational, and social functioning.

How ADHD Is Diagnosed

ADHD can be diagnosed by qualified healthcare professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, neurologists, pediatricians, or other mental health clinicians with experience in neurodevelopmental disorders. Our skilled provider, Dr. Samuel-Ojo, is trained to conduct thorough evaluations for ADHD in both children and adults.

Consider seeking an ADHD evaluation if you or your child:

Struggle with attention, organization, or completing tasks
Display impulsive behaviors or restlessness
Experience difficulties at school, work, or in relationships
Have been told you are “not living up to your potential”
Notice persistent symptoms that affect daily life

Recognizing these patterns—especially when they have been present since childhood—can indicate the need for a professional assessment.

Diagnosing Children and Adults with ADHD

While ADHD is often diagnosed during childhood, many adults realize they have the condition only after years of unexplained challenges. The diagnostic process is similar for both age groups, but with some key differences:

Children: Teachers and caregivers provide essential information about behavior in different settings.
Adults: The evaluation focuses more on self-report, work history, and developmental background, since school records or parental input may be limited.

ADHD Diagnostic Criteria

The DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition) outlines the official criteria for diagnosing ADHD. According to the DSM-5, ADHD is divided into three presentations:

Predominantly inattentive
Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive
Combined presentation

Symptoms must be persistent, inappropriate for developmental level, and present in two or more settings (e.g., home, school, work).

Children (up to age 16): At least six symptoms of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity.
Adolescents and adults (age 17+): At least five symptoms in either category.

Additional conditions for diagnosis include:

Symptoms must have been present before age 12.
Symptoms cause significant impairment in social, academic, or occupational functioning.
The symptoms are not better explained by another mental health or medical condition.

The ADHD Diagnosis Process: Step by Step

Recognize ADHD Symptoms in Yourself

The first step in how to get diagnosed with ADHD is to be honest about your symptoms. Common signs include:

Difficulty sustaining attention
Careless mistakes
Forgetfulness
Impulsivity
Fidgeting or restlessness
Trouble organizing tasks

Review the DSM-5 Criteria

Familiarize yourself with the DSM-5 symptom lists for inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity. Keeping track of which symptoms apply to you can help inform your assessment.

Rate Your Symptoms (But Avoid Self-Diagnosis)

Many people consult online rating scales or checklists. While these can offer insight, they are not a substitute for professional diagnosis. Use them as a starting point, not a conclusion.

Talk to Your Primary Care Physician

Discuss your symptoms with your primary care provider. They may rule out other medical causes and refer you to a mental health professional with expertise in ADHD evaluations.

Find a Qualified Mental Health Professional

Choose a clinician trained in ADHD assessment, such as Dr. Catherine Samuel-Ojo at Mentis Clinic. Specialized expertise is crucial for accurate diagnosis, especially since ADHD symptoms can overlap with other mental health conditions.

Complete a Comprehensive ADHD Evaluation

A thorough evaluation includes multiple components:

Patient Interview: The clinician will ask about your current symptoms, history, daily functioning, and any previous mental health challenges.
Interview With a Loved One: If possible, input from a family member, partner, or close friend can provide a valuable perspective—especially regarding behaviors you may not notice yourself.
Behavior Scales and Questionnaires: Standardized rating scales help quantify the frequency and severity of your symptoms. These may be completed by you and, if relevant, by teachers or family members.
Medical Examination: A physical exam or a review of your medical history can help rule out other causes of your symptoms, such as sleep disorders, thyroid problems, or adverse effects of medication.
Screening for Co-Existing Conditions: Many people with ADHD also have other mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, or learning disabilities. Screening for these is an essential part of the diagnostic process.

ADHD Screening: What to Expect

ADHD screening is a set of brief questions or checklists designed to identify people who may have symptoms consistent with ADHD. It’s not a definitive diagnosis, but an initial step to determine whether a full evaluation is warranted.
Screening tools typically ask about:

Frequency of inattentive or hyperactive behaviors
Impact on daily functioning
Onset and duration of symptoms

There are several standardized tools, such as the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) and the Vanderbilt Assessment Scales, which are used for children. Clinicians may adapt these tools based on your age, gender, and unique circumstances.

Online ADHD screenings can offer a convenient way to reflect on your symptoms and may guide you toward seeking professional help. However, only a qualified clinician can provide a formal diagnosis. For an in-depth assessment, consider the ADHD Assessment offered by Mentis Clinic.

The length of an ADHD evaluation varies, but typically includes one or more appointments. A thorough assessment often lasts 60 to 90 minutes, though more complex cases may require additional sessions.

To prepare for your ADHD screening:

Reflect on your symptoms and when they began
Gather relevant school, work, or medical records
Ask family members to share observations about your behavior
Write down questions or concerns to discuss with your clinician

Expect a combination of interviews, self-report questionnaires, and possibly input from someone who knows you well. The clinician will also ask about your developmental, medical, and mental health history.

After the screening and complete evaluation, your clinician will review the findings, determine whether you meet diagnostic criteria, and develop a personalized care plan. Results are typically shared during a follow-up appointment, where your clinician explains the diagnosis, addresses any questions you may have, and outlines the next steps. At Mentis Clinic, you’ll receive clear, empathetic feedback and guidance to help you move forward.

Getting Diagnosed With ADHD Online: The Virtual Assessment Advantage

Telehealth and online assessments have revolutionized how to get diagnosed with ADHD. Virtual evaluations offer:

Convenience—complete assessments from the comfort of home
Flexibility—schedule appointments outside traditional office hours
Accessibility—reach qualified professionals regardless of location
Privacy—receive care in a setting that feels safe and confidential

At Mentis Clinic, Dr. Catherine Samuel-Ojo provides streamlined virtual ADHD assessments that combine clinical expertise, evidence-based screening tools, and compassionate care. The process is designed to be fast, thorough, and empowering, delivering clear answers and actionable recommendations.

Is It Easy to Have Adult ADHD Diagnosed?

Although awareness of ADHD in adults has grown, getting evaluated is not always straightforward. Many adults first turn to an ADHD symptom checklist online, which can provide a helpful starting point, but is never enough on its own. The proper diagnosis of ADHD requires a comprehensive evaluation by a trained clinician who can distinguish ADHD symptoms from those of other conditions, such as anxiety, depression, or sleep disorders. Because adults often develop coping strategies that mask their difficulties, identifying ADHD can take careful questioning, developmental history, and collateral input. This means that while the process is accessible, it requires professional expertise to ensure accuracy.

Mentis Clinic Ensures an Accurate Diagnosis Using Complementary Health Approaches

At Mentis Clinic, ADHD evaluations are thorough, evidence-based, and designed to capture the full complexity of each individual’s experience. Our clinicians integrate multiple tools—including standardized behavior rating scales, clinical interviews, and medical reviews—to ensure no detail is overlooked. By combining these structured assessments with a holistic perspective, our clinic can identify whether ADHD is present and determine if other conditions may be contributing to the symptoms. This complementary approach provides patients with a precise and reliable diagnosis, giving them the confidence to move forward with an informed treatment plan tailored to their needs.

Conclusion

Getting an accurate ADHD diagnosis is the foundation for finding effective ways to manage the condition and improve daily functioning. According to the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5), ADHD is a well-defined disorder that can coexist with autism spectrum disorders, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and substance abuse. This makes it even more crucial to seek guidance from trained healthcare providers who can accurately distinguish ADHD from other conditions and ensure the appropriate care plan is in place.

Once correctly diagnosed, individuals can access a range of strategies to treat ADHD and reduce symptoms, including therapy, medication, and structured support systems. Helpful interventions may include stress management techniques, parenting skills training for families, or working with ADHD coaches to develop practical tools for organization and focus. With the proper support, people with ADHD can better understand their challenges, build on their strengths, and move toward a more balanced and fulfilling life.

About the Author

Dr. Faisal Shaikh, FRCPsych

Dr. Shaikh is a senior and experienced Consultant Psychiatrist with over 21 years’ experience in psychiatry both in the NHS and private sector.

Take the First Step Towards Mental Clarity & Focus

By Dr. Faisal Shaikh, FRCPsych

Apr 06 2025

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