What is ADHD? Understanding the Basics, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most commonly diagnosed neurodevelopmental conditions in the U.S., affecting approximately 11.4% of children and 6% of adults, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Despite growing awareness, ADHD is often misunderstood, misdiagnosed, or overlooked, particularly in adults. Here, we break down what ADHD actually is, how it’s diagnosed, how it may present in adults, and when it may be time to consider psychological testing.
What Does ADHD Stand For?
ADHD stands for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. It’s a clinical diagnosis defined by a persistent pattern of inattention, hyperactivity, and/or impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development. There are three general presentations:
Predominantly Inattentive Type. An individual meets the clinical cutoff for ADHD on inattentive symptoms, but not for hyperactive/impulsive symptoms
Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type. An individual meets the clinical cutoff for ADHD on hyperactive/impulsive symptoms, but not for inattentive symptoms
Combined Type. An individual meets the clinical cutoff for ADHD on both inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive symptoms
Diagnostic Criteria for ADHD
ADHD is diagnosed using criteria from the DSM-5. This helps clinicians identify patterns of inattention or hyperactivity-impulsivity that go beyond what’s typical for someone’s age. To receive a diagnosis, symptoms must be present in multiple settings—like home, work, or school—and must interfere with daily functioning. Importantly, these signs should have appeared before age 12 and persisted for at least six months. While children typically need six or more symptoms for diagnosis, adults may only need five. Clinicians also consider whether the behaviors stem from ADHD or another condition, ensuring a thoughtful and accurate evaluation.
Children and teens with ADHD may have a hard time paying close attention to details, which can lead to frequent mistakes on schoolwork or chores. They might struggle to stay focused during class, homework, or even while playing. Some kids seem constantly “on the move,” running or climbing when it’s not appropriate, or finding it difficult to play quietly. Tasks that require mental effort—like reading or studying—might feel overwhelming, and they may avoid them altogether. It’s also common to misplace school supplies, get distracted by sounds or sights that others ignore, or forget daily routines like packing a backpack or completing homework. These behaviors aren’t just part of growing up—they may be signs of ADHD, especially if they show up in multiple settings and start impacting everyday life at home or school.
What ADHD Can Look Like in Adults
While ADHD is often diagnosed in childhood, it doesn't go away in adulthood—it just tends to look different. Adults with ADHD may not exhibit overt hyperactivity, but they often struggle with internal restlessness, time management, focus, and emotional regulation. Common signs include:
Chronic disorganization and poor time management
Starting multiple projects but finding trouble finishing them
Procrastination and difficulty prioritizing tasks
Impulsive decision-making or trouble with money management
Emotional reactivity and difficulty handling stress
Forgetting appointments or misplacing items frequently
Difficulty following through on plans or long-term goals
ADHD in adults is often mistaken for laziness, irresponsibility, or other negative personality traits. Unmanaged, it can interfere with relationships, education, careers, and self-esteem. Because its symptoms can overlap with those of other issues, many adults with ADHD go undiagnosed for years.
What Else Could Explain ADHD-Like Symptoms?
ADHD shares symptoms with several other psychological and medical conditions, sometimes leading to misdiagnosis. It’s important to consider other explanations for inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity before jumping to conclusions. These may include:
Anxiety disorders: Excessive worry can cause distractibility and restlessness.
Depression: Often characterized by low energy, memory issues, and poor concentration.
Sleep disorders: Lack of restful sleep can mimic inattention and irritability.
Learning disorders: Undiagnosed learning difficulties may present as inattention.
Bipolar disorder: Impulsivity and distractibility can appear during manic episodes.
Autism Spectrum Disorder: Rigidity, social challenges, and focus issues are often seen in both Autism and ADHD.
Medical disorders: Issues with thyroid, seizures, history of concussions, and hearing/vision difficulties should be evaluated for impact.
Additionally, stress, trauma, poor diet, and substance use can all temporarily affect attention and behavior.
When Should You Seek Psychological Testing?
If you or someone you know suspects they might have ADHD, psychological testing can offer insight and clarity. Here are some signs it might be time to seek a professional evaluation:
Your symptoms have been persistent since childhood and interfere with daily functioning.
You’ve tried strategies for organization and focus, but still struggle significantly.
You experience difficulties in multiple areas of life (work, school, relationships).
Other potential conditions have been ruled out or treated, but the symptoms remain.
You want a formal diagnosis for treatment options, academic/work accommodations, or personal understanding.
Psychological testing at Manas Cor Psych typically includes clinical interviews, behavior rating scales, cognitive assessments, and sometimes input from close friends or family. You can learn more about that here. Remember, the goal of psychological testing is not just to determine whether you meet criteria for ADHD, but also to explore other possible contributing factors.
Final Thoughts
ADHD is a complex, lifelong condition that can significantly impact quality of life if left unrecognized or untreated. While it’s often associated with childhood, it can persist into adulthood, where it often manifests in more subtle ways.
If you feel as though you may have undiagnosed ADHD, psychological testing in Washington, DC can be a huge step toward understanding what’s going on and finding strategies that work for you. Taking that first step toward clarity can lead to greater self-understanding, effective treatment, and a path to thriving—not just coping—with your unique brain
If you're considering testing, please visit our psychological testing page to learn more about the services we offer.
Still wondering if it’s ADHD? Psychological Testing Can Help You Find Out.
If you’ve been wondering whether ADHD could be part of your story, you’re not alone. At Manas Cor Psych, we offer comprehensive psychological testing and ADHD evaluations in Washington, DC to help you get the clarity you’ve been searching for. Our thoughtful, evidence-based process is designed to uncover what’s really going on, whether that’s ADHD, something else, or a mix of factors.
Reach out to us here for any questions you may have.
Explore our blog posts for more insights into testing and therapy.
Understanding your brain is the first step to working with it, not against it.
Other Services we offer in Washington, DC
In addition to psychological testing and assessment, we also provide individual therapy for adolescents and adults. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship challenges, or the lingering effects of past experiences, therapy can offer a supportive space to process, reflect, and grow. Whether you’re beginning therapy for the first time or returning to this work after a break, we’re here to meet you where you are.
