Top Questions You May Have After an Initial ADHD Diagnosis
Adults, parents, and even teachers often turn to Google first when they’re overwhelmed, confused, or newly diagnosed with ADHD. Below are the most searched ADHD questions with simple answers, helpful resources, and how ADHD coaching can support both adults and children.
Do I Have ADHD?
Adults often Google this when everyday life feels chaotic.
Common adult ADHD symptoms include:
Procrastination
Distractibility
Overwhelm
Poor time management
Emotional sensitivity
Trouble finishing tasks.
Here is a helpful resource from ADD.org: ADDA Self-Test – https://add.org/adhd-test/
What are the Signs of ADHD in Adults?
Adult ADHD doesn’t always look like hyperactivity. It often shows up as:
• Executive dysfunction
• Difficulty organizing
• Inconsistent focus
• Mental restlessness
Resource: CHADD Symptoms Overview – https://chadd.org
Am I Experiencing ADHD or Anxiety?
ADHD and anxiety often look similar, which is why many people confuse the two. But they come from very different places. Both ADHD and anxiety can cause trouble focusing, restlessness, procrastination, sleep issues, feeling overwhelmed, and being stuck.
Additionally, ADHD can create forgetfulness, disorganization, trouble starting or finishing tasks, time blindness, and mind jumping between thoughts and tasks. On the other hand, anxiety is driven more by fear and worry. This can show as overthinking, worrying about mistakes, worrying about time or not enough time, worrying about what others may think of you, tension and stress, avoidance, difficulty relaxing, and racing thoughts.
As time goes on, for an adult, if their ADHD is not treated or understood, it can create more anxiety, more overwhelm, and continuing feelings of being broken. For example, when ADHD isn’t diagnosed, everyday challenges pile up, missed deadlines occur, disorganization ensues, you may feel behind, experience low self-esteem, and fear of failure. The constant stress often creates anxiety, especially when someone blames themselves instead of recognizing an ADHD pattern.
A diagnosis following a proper evaluation can bring clarity, create validation, and help explain the why behind your actions and thoughts. Many people feel immediate relief once they understand the real cause of their struggles, once their puzzle pieces can slide together, and it makes more sense.
How Is Adult ADHD Diagnosed?
ADHD for adults is often diagnosed by having an evaluation completed by a medical professional. ADHD evaluations for adults are usually done by a psychiatrist, psychologist, neurologist, or trained clinician.
ADHD evaluations typically include interviews, rating scales, developmental history, and ruling out other conditions.
What Does an ADHD Diagnosis Mean for Me?
Many adults feel relief, validation, or grief for years of struggling without answers. All reactions are normal.
What is the Best ADHD Treatment for Adults?
When it comes to ADHD treatment for adults, most evidence supports a combination approach, which can include the following:
Medication (optional)
Executive function strategies
Lifestyle changes
Mindfulness or CBT
A helpful resource: ADDitude Medication Chart – https://additudemag.com/adhd-medications-chart/
How Can I Manage ADHD Without Medication?
You don’t always have to resort to managing your ADHD with medication. Some of the top non-medication supports include:
• ADHD coaching
• Structured routines
• Calendars and alarms
• Organization systems
• Accountability
How Do I Tell My Family or Employer That I Have ADHD?
When it comes to telling your family or employer that you have ADHD, share only what feels comfortable. Accommodations at work are optional but available. Most larger companies or corporations may have accommodations already within their guidelines. If you have a Human Resource department or an EAP ( Employee Assistance Program), check with them first. Many companies are now realizing that if they assist their employees, they will have a better outcome. If they don’t have accommodations in place, you could request one. Here are a few examples: having a few more breaks to allow for movement, a standing desk, more flexible hours, visual aids, quiet spaces, noise-canceling headphones, instructions or meeting notes written out, etc. Many larger corporations are also using executive function coaches as a resource for their employees. The stigma is fading slowly, and companies are realizing that if they help their employees and their employees can benefit from these accommodations, it’s a win-win for both parties.
Ready to Get Support For Your ADHD?
If you’re navigating a new ADHD diagnosis, you don’t have to figure it out alone.
As an ADHD & Executive Function Coach based in Bradley Beach, NJ, I help people build structure, confidence, and real-life strategies that work.
I coach throughout New Jersey, Monmouth County, and nationwide via Zoom.
Want to schedule a consult or ask a question?
Reach out anytime — I’d love to support you.
