Introduction
It’s not unusual to occasionally feel distracted, forgetful, or overwhelmed. But if you often find yourself thinking, Why can’t I focus like everyone else? Why do I keep missing deadlines? Why do I feel so mentally chaotic? — it might be more than just a busy schedule.
Many adults are living with undiagnosed ADHD and don’t even realize it. If you’ve been wondering whether ADHD could explain the way your brain works, you’re already taking a great first step. Let’s walk through the signs and how to get answers.
Common Signs You Might Have Adult ADHD
Adult ADHD shows up differently than it does in children. You might not be hyperactive or disruptive, but instead, you might feel:
- Easily distracted, especially during conversations or work tasks
- Constantly forgetting appointments, items, or tasks
- Always running late or underestimating how long things take
- Difficulty starting or finishing projects
- Restlessness, even when sitting still
- Trouble managing money or keeping spaces organized
- Impulsive spending, decisions, or blurting out during conversations
- Mood swings, frustration, or emotional outbursts
- “Time blindness” — losing track of time or chronically procrastinating
- Trouble sleeping, even when you’re exhausted
Many adults with ADHD also experience anxiety, low self-esteem, or a constant feeling of being “behind” in life.
Why It’s Often Missed in Adults
ADHD in adults can be subtle. You may have developed coping mechanisms — like working late to make up for lost focus or relying heavily on calendars and alarms. These might mask the deeper issue. ADHD is often missed in women, especially, because symptoms may show up as emotional sensitivity, anxiety, or perfectionism.
It’s not about not trying hard enough — it’s about your brain needing a different approach.
Self-Assessment Tools
If you’re not sure whether your symptoms are related to ADHD, a self-screening questionnaire can help guide your thinking. Here are two tools you can use:
- CADDRA Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS v1.1):
Download from CADDRA - CAMH Adult ADHD Questionnaire:
Visit CAMH ADHD Resources
These aren’t diagnostic tools, but they can give you a clearer picture of whether to seek professional help.
How Diagnosis Works in Canada
- Talk to your family doctor – They can rule out other causes and refer you to a psychologist or psychiatrist.
- Formal assessment – This includes interviews, history review, and rating scales.
- Diagnosis – To be diagnosed with ADHD, symptoms must be persistent, present since childhood (even if unnoticed), and causing impairment in your life.
- Optional: Private route – If waitlists are long, you can pay for a private psychological assessment.
Actionable Plan: What To Do If You Think You Have ADHD
- Track your experiences – Note when and how symptoms affect your life.
- Use a self-assessment tool – This can help organize your thoughts.
- See your doctor – Bring your notes and concerns to your appointment.
- Get a referral – Ask for a specialist who understands adult ADHD.
- Don’t wait for a diagnosis to make changes – Start learning ADHD-friendly strategies now (see Blog Post #4).
Helpful Canadian Resources
- CADDAC – Adult ADHD Diagnosis Guide
- CAMH: ADHD Info & Referrals
- Psychology Today – Find a Canadian ADHD Therapist
- CADDRA ADHD Clinic Directory (Canada)