Discover the criteria for an adult ADHD diagnosis

Though ADHD is more widely discussed today, it remains a misunderstood condition, especially among adults. Many people struggle with symptoms but avoid seeking help, thinking their challenges aren't serious enough to warrant a diagnosis.

ADHD is still too often seen as a childhood condition, and myths about it persist: that it's just an excuse for procrastination; that it isn't a "real" medical issue; or that treatment options are too risky. Yet these misconceptions overlook the real, daily struggles of adults with ADHD. Understanding the truth about ADHD can help dispel these myths and pave the way for effective support and management.

The nature of ADHD symptoms — that they come and go depending on the situation — also contributes to misunderstandings surrounding the condition. A person with ADHD, for example, may be able to read for hours and absorb what is being read if the material is particularly enjoyable, but then seem to stop paying attention two minutes into a dinner conversation. This can cause those around you to question the legitimacy of your diagnosis and ADHD itself.

A careful review of symptoms is a big part of adult ADHD diagnosis. For people 17 and older, they might be classified as having inattention predominant, hyperactivity predominant, or combined type ADHD, depending on the number of specific symptoms they experience. Symptoms must be present for at least six months before an ADHD diagnosis can be made.

The symptoms come from two lists established in the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5).

These are the inattention symptoms:

• often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, at work, or with other activities
• often has trouble holding attention on 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 workplace duties (for example, loses focus, gets sidetracked)
• often has trouble organizing tasks and activities
• often avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to do tasks that require mental effort over a long period of time (such as schoolwork or homework)
• often loses things necessary for tasks and activities (such as school materials, pencils, books, tools, wallet, keys, paperwork, eyeglasses, cellphone)
• is often easily distracted
• is often forgetful in daily activities.

These are the hyperactivity and impulsivity symptoms:

• often fidgets with or taps hands or feet, or squirms in seat
• often leaves seat in situations when remaining seated is expected
• often runs about or climbs in situations where it is not appropriate (adolescents or adults may be limited to feeling restless)
• is often unable to play or take part in leisure activities quietly
• is often "on the go," acting as if "driven by a motor"
• often talks excessively
• often blurts out an answer before a question has been completed
• often has trouble waiting his or her turn
• often interrupts or intrudes on others (for example, butts into conversations or games).

For more information on finding an effective solution for you, check out Confronting Adult ADHD, a Special Health Report from Harvard Medical School. 

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