How Do I Ask My Doctor If I Have ADHD?

Never-ending to-do lists and seemingly limitless responsibilities are all a part of the adult experience. While getting occasionally overwhelmed is sadly normal, the inability to focus, manage time, or complete tasks is not! If you feel like those descriptors are you in a nutshell, then you might be one of the 8 to 9 million individuals who struggle with ADHD. 

If that’s the case, you deserve to get the help you need as soon as possible! Talking to your doctor about a self-diagnosis can feel intimidating, but it’s essential to gaining assistance. Here’s a list of helpful things to remember when discussing ADHD with your doctor.

Stay on Subject.

When scheduling your appointment, make sure to note that it’s specifically to discuss ADHD. Don’t casually mention it at the end of a routine physical. The best way to advocate for yourself is to realize that your ADHD symptoms are important enough to warrant the time and effort of a full doctor’s visit.

Be Specific.

Before your appointment, make a list of all the ways you feel your potential ADHD has affected your life. Make sure to use specific examples to portray the impact of your executive dysfunction fully.

Be Honest.

It’s hard to fight our innate tendency to portray ourselves in the best light possible, even to a doctor. You might consider some of your ADHD symptoms as negative attributes instead of the side effects of a disorder you’re battling. Telling the truth about the extent ADHD has affected your life is essential to be correctly diagnosed.

Additionally, if you’ve tried ADHD medication that wasn’t prescribed to you in the past and noticed it soothed your symptoms, be upfront with your doctor about it. The more information they have, the better they can help you.

Be Aware of All Your Options

Some doctors are quick to prescribe medication right off the bat, but if medicine isn’t your thing, ask your doctor about alternate options. Always make sure you have a doctor that will work with you to find the right medication or alternative for you.

Remember that getting diagnosed is the first step towards getting the help you deserve. Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself, ask questions, and get to know every option you have for assistance.