Undiagnosed ADHD in Adults: How to Get Tested for ADHD as an Adult

While many individuals are diagnosed with ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) in the adolescent years, many go undiagnosed into their adult years. This is especially true for women and high-functioning individuals. As these individuals with undiagnosed ADHD navigate life challenges and changes that come with adulthood, such as careers, financial planning, and parenting, symptoms may become more noticeable. Learning how to get tested for ADHD as an adult is the first step to finding a treatment plan that works for you. At Geo Psychological Testing, we offer ADHD testing for adults in The Woodlands and the Greater Houston Area.

Symptoms of ADHD in Adults 

ADHD can present as primarily inattentive symptoms, primarily hyperactive-impulsive symptoms, or a combo of both. ADHD in adults often looks different than ADHD in children. While childhood ADHD is often stereotyped as interrupting, difficulty sitting still, and impulsive behavior, ADHD in adults can be more internal symptoms. 

Inattentive Symptoms: 

• Trouble concentrating during meetings
• Zoning out during conversations
• Mind wandering while reading
• Cluttered workspace or home
• Difficulty keeping track of paperwork or digital files
• Poor time management & chronic lateness
• Procrastination until the last minute
• Frequently losing items
• Forgetting important dates, appointments, or returning calls/emails
• Starting multiple tasks, but having difficulty completing them/losing motivation

Hyperactivity-Impulsivity Symptoms: 

• Difficulty relaxing & feeling on edge
• Racing thoughts
• Fidgeting, tapping fingers, or feet 
• Frequently shifting in chair or needing to move during long tasks
• Impulse spending 
• Speaking before thinking and/or interrupting others 
• Difficulty or frustration when waiting
• Impatience during slow processes or traffic 
• Emotional impulsivity and intense emotional reactions
• Quick frustration or difficulty regulating moods

When It May Be Time to Get Tested for ADHD 

If you feel your symptoms are impacting your daily life, causing you to consistently feel overwhelmed with everyday responsibilities, or struggle with organization and time management, it may be worth getting tested for ADHD. You may also look into getting tested if your symptoms impact you professionally, academically, or cause you chronic stress due to unfinished tasks.

How to Get Tested for ADHD as an Adult 

• Find a Qualified Professional 

ADHD testing should be performed by a licensed mental health provider who is trained in ADHD evaluation. This includes psychologists, psychiatrists, and neuropsychologists.

• Schedule a Consultation 

During the consultation, you will discuss your symptoms, medical history, family history, and other screening questionnaires. 

• ADHD Evaluation and Testing 

The ADHD testing includes a combination of clinical interviews with your clinician, ADHD rating scales, neurocognitive testing, behavioral assessments, and additional tests to rule out other conditions such as anxiety, depression, or thyroid issues. The tests may assess attention spans, working memory, executive functioning, impulse control, emotional regulation, and more.

• Diagnosis and Report

After the testing, you will be provided with a report of the findings. This will include a diagnosis if the criteria are met, recommendations for further testing if needed, and treatment recommendations. 

Preparing for an ADHD Evaluation 

• Make a list of current symptoms and examples. Write down specific challenges and situations you experience to bring with you to your appointment. If possible, try to include examples from different areas of your life. 
• Bring your medical records and a list of medications with you. Certain conditions and medications can affect mood, attention, and energy levels. This will help your provider rule out any other cause for your symptoms. 
• Be open and honest about your challenges. We’re here to help you get to the bottom of your symptoms and provide clarity. While it may be uncomfortable to talk about some of your struggles, this isn’t about judgment; it’s about finding the treatment path that is right for you.

At Geo Psychological Testing, we offer ADHD testing for adults in The Woodlands and the Houston area. Getting the right support and understanding is the first step forward. To schedule, give us a call or contact us through our website here.