Adult ADHD

10 questions to ask your doctor about adult ADHD

By the age of 25, the NHS estimates that nearly two-thirds of people diagnosed with ADHD in childhood still have some symptoms, and around 15% have a full range of symptoms, which affect their daily lives.

There is no definitive list of adult ADHD symptoms to diagnose ADHD and the symptoms may be more subtle. The way in which inattentiveness, hyperactivity and impulsiveness affect adults is very different from the way they affect children. For example, adults tend to be less hyperactive yet more inattentive.

If you had adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder ( ADHD), make sure you ask your doctors the following questions:

1. What can I expect to happen if I go to a psychologist or psychiatrist for treatment for adult ADHD?
2. What treatments are best for adults with ADHD? What are the possible side effects of different ADHD medications?
3. Aside from adult ADHD medications, what else can I do? What about exercise and diet?
4. Are there any herbal supplements or over-the-counter drugs to take or avoid?
5. Where can I find emotional support for my family and for me?
6. Will adult ADHD treatment stigmatise me?
7. How long must adult ADHD treatments continue?
8. Are ADHD stimulant drugs absolutely necessary?
9. How do I explain my diagnosis of adult ADHD to friends and family?
10. Are there any clinical trials I can participate in for adult ADHD?