Do I Have ADHD? Understanding the Criteria for Diagnosis

For many adults, ADHD goes undiagnosed for years, especially if they developed workarounds or coping mechanisms to mask their struggles. When I first started exploring the possibility that I had ADHD, I wasn’t sure if my experiences “counted.” But as I dove into the diagnostic criteria, I realized how much of my daily life had been shaped by these challenges.

To qualify for an ADHD diagnosis, an adult must meet at least five of the nine symptoms in either the inattentive category or the hyperactive/impulsive category. In this post, I’ll focus on the inattentive type, breaking down each symptom and how it has shown up in my own life.

The Nine Symptoms of Inattention

    1.    Fails to pay attention to details or makes careless mistakes

I find myself making careless mistakes often—sometimes that means double-booking clients or missing small but important details in instructions. It’s frustrating to know I’m capable but still trip up on things that seem simple for others.

    2.    Has difficulty sustaining attention

This can look like losing my train of thought mid-conversation or realizing that I’ve mentally “checked out” during a meeting. I might be staring at someone, nodding along, but internally, my brain has wandered elsewhere.

    3.    Does not seem to listen when spoken to directly

Unfortunately, this shows up most with my husband. I pay close attention at work and with friends, but when he’s talking to me, I often find my thoughts drifting—sometimes ruminating about something else or getting distracted by my own inner dialogue.

    4.    Does not follow through on instructions or fails to finish tasks

In the past, I’ve felt flaky when I made plans with a friend, only to cancel at the last minute because I felt too overwhelmed to go. Even when I want to follow through, the execution feels impossible sometimes.

    5.    Has difficulty organizing tasks and activities

For me, this shows up as difficulty prioritizing—what makes sense to focus on next? I often gravitate toward easier, less important tasks while procrastinating on bigger, more urgent responsibilities.

    6.    Avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort

This is where procrastination thrives. I’ll avoid difficult tasks by scrolling on my phone, watching TV, or doing “fake productivity” tasks that feel useful but don’t move the needle.

    7.    Loses things frequently

I could tell you so many stories, but one of the worst was almost losing my phone in Ireland. We were at a restaurant, and when we got back to our vacation rental (an hour and a half away), I realized my phone was missing. After retracing my steps, I discovered I had left it in the bathroom on a changing table—completely forgotten.

    8.    Is easily distracted by extraneous stimuli

Loud noises, background chatter, or a car driving by can completely derail my train of thought. If I’m walking and talking with a friend, a sudden loud noise can make me lose my place in the conversation entirely.

    9.    Is often forgetful in daily activities

I have forgotten to pick up my kids more times than I care to admit. I’ve been late to appointments, scrambled to remember deadlines, and relied heavily on my husband for executive functioning tasks like paying bills, scheduling, and making sure the household runs smoothly. At the time, I didn’t realize how much I depended on him out of necessity—it was just the only way things got done.

So, Do I Have ADHD?

Looking at this list, I can confidently say I meet seven or eight of the criteria for ADHD, inattentive type. Recognizing this has been both validating and eye-opening. It’s helped me understand that my struggles aren’t just personal failings—they’re part of how my brain is wired. And with that knowledge, I can work on strategies that actually support the way my brain works rather than constantly trying to force myself into a mold that doesn’t fit.

If any of this resonates with you, it might be worth exploring ADHD further. Whether that means reading more, talking to a doctor, or just giving yourself more grace, self-awareness is the first step toward building a life that works for you.

Though doing your own research and educating yourself is a vital part of this process, support is also vital. We would love to support you, consider booking a free consultation, I promise it’s easy and worth it!.