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Some questions to ask yourself if you think you have ADHD
ADHD is a developmental disorder that's associated with inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity, and can wreak havoc on people's day-to-day functioning.
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Andrea Piacquadio
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A recent survey found that 1 in 4 adult Americans suspect they have ADHD, but most haven't consulted a doctor about it.
You may have noticed an explosion of online influencers talking about ADHD — attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder — over the last several years. And you may have thought to yourself, "Hey, I can't pay attention either. Maybe I have ADHD."
If that's the case, you are not alone.
A recent survey from Ohio State University found that one in four adults think they have undiagnosed ADHD, a brain disorder that's associated with hyperactivity, lack of attention and impulsivity. It can wreak havoc on day-to-day functioning if it's not well-managed.
Experts joined AirTalk, LAist 89.3's daily news show, and shared what people should do if they think they have it.
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Why more people think they've gone undiagnosed
Experts speculate there are a lot of reasons contributing to the rise in self-diagnoses. There's our society's hustle culture and high expectation for productivity. Plus, we have more things pulling for our attention than ever, including social media, where it just so happens influencers are talking more about neurodiversity.
Read more: Want To Understand The Complexities Of Neurodiversity? Start Here
"It's really reduced the stigma surrounding ADHD...but we also know from some research that was published not that long ago that some of those videos, about 50% of the content, tend to be misleading," said Justin Barterian, a psychologist and clinical assistant professor of psychiatry and behavioral health at Ohio State University.
It could be something else...
It's important to realize that some behaviors that align with ADHD are just kind of ordinary.
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"Walking into a room and forgetting things, that can happen to the best of us," Barterian said. "Having a hard time juggling schedules in a busy family, soccer practice, basketball practice, missing an occasional appointment here and there. All of that is within the realm of normal."
Walking into a room and forgetting things. That can happen to the best of us.
— Justin Barterian, clinical assistant professor of psychiatry and behavioral health
Other conditions, like stress, depression and anxiety, can emulate similar symptoms. Often times, experts say, these conditions come along with ADHD in addition.
Questions to ask yourself
Susan Dillon Tschudi, an L.A. County-based licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) who assesses and treats adults with ADHD, said analyzing your history is key and suggested considering the following questions:
- Has inattention led to serious impairments in my life, like missing important assignment deadlines, problems at work or fractures in
relationships? - Taking a 360 overview look at my life — have these challenges affected me, even since childhood?
- Have I received negative feedback or criticism about these challenges throughout my life that've resulted in deep feelings of failure or shame?
Dig deeper
Tschudi said the first place she sends clients to is the website CHADD.org, which offers credible tools, resources and information.
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If you're still convinced you have ADHD after that, time to talk to a doctor. Barterian emphasized the importance of medication for treating ADHD, and that should only come with a clinical diagnosis.
"We know that medication, like stimulant medications, generally are the first line approach," he said. "We know that they're the most efficacious. They can lead to a lot of improvements for people."
Stories from listeners
"I always thought I was different. It unfortunately made me believe there was something wrong with me before all this ADHD stuff came to light. It took my children having the same difficulties for me to realize there was a legitimate problem." — Ken in West Adams
"I got diagnosed with ADHD when I was going through menopause. The symptoms intensified during that period. Looking back, I always had them. I initially thought I had a binge eating disorder and started seeing a psychiatrist for that, which soon turned into an ADHD diagnosis. It has been life changing." — Kris in Torrance
"I got diagnosed at the age of 30. There was a mourning period for me because I went 30 years without knowing, and I can't help but think what could have been." — Michelle in Buena Park
"I got sober eight years ago after I realized I was self-medicating. I'm 49. My psychiatrist and I think I have ADHD, but I haven't officially been diagnosed. I've been on a waitlist for two years. It's been so hard to get the official assessment." — Sean in Glendale
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Listen to the full conversation
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32:57
Survey: 25% of adults think they have undiagnosed ADHD
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But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
Thank you for your generous support and belief in the value of independent news.
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