Julie Answers: How do I know if I have ADHD?

Photo by Callie Gibson on Unsplash

Brian asked: I’m confident I have ADHD. But how can I be sure? I have trouble focusing on EVERYTHING. I’m constantly distracted by thoughts in my head. It’s hard for me to sit still, but the weird thing is I also get sleepy at random times. How can that make sense?

Hi Brian,

Before I give you some basic information about ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), I want to stress the importance of not making assumptions and trying to diagnose yourself, especially if these issues are creating problems in your day-to-day functioning. I suggest that you discuss your symptoms with your doctor or a therapist. Also, it is important for any provider to know your full history, especially any history of childhood trauma, as inability to concentrate can be a trauma-related symptom that appears similar to ADHD but requires a very different approach to treatment.

That being said, I know it can be helpful to learn all you can about a condition as you try to self-assess what is going on with you, so here are some facts:

ADHD manifests in different ways for different people. Some do not have difficulty sitting still, but do have trouble paying attention. Excessive need for movement or activity is not the issue for them, but they struggle when trying to focus on tasks, reading materials, and listening…