Instructions

Should I talk to my doctor about being evaluated for ADHD?

1. Read the CDC website thoroughly: https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/diagnosis.html

2. Symptom Lists: Using the DSM-5 symptoms from the CDC website, make 2 lists (see
“List Examples” below):
a. Symptoms present before age 12 (with examples)
b. Current symptoms present (with examples)

3. Additional Conditions: Copy/paste examples from your lists into this section

4. Doctor Visit: Bring your lists to your doctor and say:

“I think I may have ADHD and I want to talk to you about getting tested. I looked at the
DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for ADHD on the CDC website. I made a list of symptoms I
currently have and a list of symptoms I experienced as a child. Here are my lists.”

5. Extra Credit: Check out CHADD.org for awesome info on ADHD

IMPORTANT: ADHD has MANY similar symptoms to other conditions. If you believe you have
ADHD based on the DSM-5 Symptoms list, it’s possible you might actually have a different
condition that presents similarly to ADHD. Meeting the criteria just means you should definitely
talk to your doctor! It does NOT mean you have ADHD.

List Examples
● Is often easily distracted
○ I was frequently distracted by small noises from the hallway, a kid in the
classroom fidgeting, something happening outside, etc. that other students were
easily able to tune out.
○ I missed hot lunch frequently because I didn’t hear my group number called
● Often fidgets with or taps hands or feet, or squirms in seat.
○ Constant foot tapping
○ Excessively fidgets with hair
○ Excessive nail biting/skin picking

Worksheet on Next Page

Symptoms Present BEFORE Age 12:
● Symptom 1
○ Example 1:
○ Example 2:
● Symptom 2...

CURRENT Symptoms Present:

● Symptom 1
○ Example 1:
○ Example 2:
● Symptom 2…

Additional Conditions:
Several symptoms are present in two or more settings, (such as at home, school or work;
with friends or relatives; in other activities).

● Setting 1 (i.e. Home)

○ Copy/paste applicable examples from “CURRENT Symptoms Present” list

● Setting 2...

There is clear evidence that the symptoms interfere with, or reduce the quality of: social,
school, or work functioning.

● Social (this can be relationships with family, too)

○ Copy/paste applicable examples from “CURRENT Symptoms Present” list

● School (remove if N/A)

○ Example…

● Work (remove if N/A)

○ Example...

Helpful Responses to Prevent Discrimination on Next Page

If your doctor says… here are some helpful responses
If you want to explain why you’re reading from a paper:
“[Adults/women/POC/fill-in-the-blank] are often discriminated against when seeking an ADHD
Diagnosis. I came across a resource with responses to common reasons for discrimination.”

● “You’re too smart to have ADHD,” “You’re successful, you don’t have ADHD”
○ Response: “Intelligence and success are not a part of the DSM-5 diagnostic
criteria for ADHD. There are MANY smart and successful people who have
ADHD.”

● “Adult ADHD isn’t real” or “ADHD is for kids”

○ “According to the DSM-5, adults can have ADHD.”
○ You can also add if you want: “There are decades of peer-reviewed research
published in medical journals proving adult ADHD is real.”

● “ADHD is for boys” or “ADHD is more common in boys”

○ “Gender is not a DSM-5 diagnostic criterion for ADHD.”

● “Someone with ADHD wouldn’t be organized enough to complete this worksheet”

○ “This worksheet was designed for people with undiagnosed ADHD to help them
be organized.”
○ If it applies: “Me completing this worksheet is evidence of the DSM-5 diagnostic
criteria ‘Often has trouble organizing tasks and activities’ because:
■ I completely neglected [insert tasks (laundry/dishes/homework/etc)] while
filling it out
■ I was late for [activity] because I lost track of time while filling it out
■ I waited until the last minute to fill it out so I did my best but I know I
missed things
○ If you believe you’re Hyperactive type ADHD: “My ability to complete it has
nothing to do with the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for Hyperactive type ADHD.”

● If they continue to push a point and ask for more evidence even though you
already debunked it
○ “This isn’t a part of the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria. Can we move on, please?”