Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Quiz

Check your symptoms and
find possible causes with AI for free

Worried about your symptoms?

Start the test with our free AI Symptom Checker.

This will help us personalize your assessment.

Shiba

By starting the symptom checker, you agree to the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use

Forgetfulness

Disorganized speech

Increased irritability

Always fidgeting

Memory issues

Easily distracted

Trouble concentrating

Acting without thinking

Difficulty focusing

Unable to sit still

Disorganized thinking

Feeling uneasy and anxious

Not seeing your symptoms? No worries!

What is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)?

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition that is characterized by attention difficulty, hyperactivity, and inability to control one's behavior (impulsiveness). It often starts in childhood and can cause a child to struggle in school, at home, or in social relationships. It is more common in male children. The causes of ADHD remain unclear but risk factors include genetic factors, tobacco use during pregnancy, premature delivery, and low birth weight.

Typical Symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Diagnostic Questions for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Your doctor may ask these questions to check for this disease:

  • Have you been feeling unusually energetic lately?
  • Do you have difficulty concentrating?
  • Have you noticed or been told that you are acting strangely or differently?
  • Do you feel stressed or unhappy about going to work or school?
  • Recently, are you more confused than before?

Treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

There is no cure for ADHD, but various treatments such as medications, behavior therapy, counseling, and education services can help improve the child's symptoms and behavior.

Reviewed By:

Benjamin Kummer, MD

Benjamin Kummer, MD (Neurology)

Dr Kummer is Assistant Professor of Neurology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai (ISMMS), with joint appointment in Digital and Technology Partners (DTP) at the Mount Sinai Health System (MSHS) as Director of Clinical Informatics in Neurology. As a triple-board certified practicing stroke neurologist and informaticist, he has successfully improved clinical operations at the point of care by acting as a central liaison between clinical neurology faculty and DTP teams to implement targeted EHR configuration changes and workflows, as well as providing subject matter expertise on health information technology projects across MSHS. | Dr Kummer also has several years’ experience building and implementing several informatics tools, presenting scientific posters, and generating a body of peer-reviewed work in “clinical neuro-informatics” – i.e., the intersection of clinical neurology, digital health, and informatics – much of which is centered on digital/tele-health, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. He has spearheaded the Clinical Neuro-Informatics Center in the Department of Neurology at ISMMS, a new research institute that seeks to establish the field of clinical neuro-informatics and disseminate knowledge to the neurological community on the effects and benefits of clinical informatics tools at the point of care.

Shohei Harase, MD

Shohei Harase, MD (Neurology)

Dr. Harase spent his junior and senior high school years in Finland and the U.S. After graduating from the University of Washington (Bachelor of Science, Molecular and Cellular Biology), he worked for Apple Japan Inc. before entering the University of the Ryukyus School of Medicine. He completed his residency at Okinawa Prefectural Chubu Hospital, where he received the Best Resident Award in 2016 and 2017. In 2021, he joined the Department of Cerebrovascular Medicine at the National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center, specializing in hyperacute stroke.

From our team of 50+ doctors

Content updated on Oct 18, 2024

Following the Medical Content Editorial Policy

Was this page helpful?

Tell your friends about us.

We would love to help them too.

smily Shiba-inu looking

Think you might have
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)?

Try a symptom check test

How Ubie Can Help You

With a free 3-min quiz, powered by Ubie's AI and doctors, find possible causes of your symptoms.

This questionnaire is customized to your situation and symptoms, including the following personal information:

  • Biological Sex - helps us provide relevant suggestions for male vs. female conditions.

  • Age - adjusts our guidance based on any age-related health factors.

  • History - considers past illnesses, surgeries, family history, and lifestyle choices.

Your symptoms

Input your symptoms

Our AI

Our AI checks your symptoms

Your report

You get your personalized report

Your personal report will tell you

✔  When to see a doctor

✔︎  What causes your symptoms

✔︎  Treatment information etc.

People with similar symptoms also use Ubie's symptom checker to find possible causes

See full list

Symptoms Related to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Diseases Related to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

FAQs

Q.

Can Lion's Mane Fix ADHD Brain Fog? What to Know and How to Try It Safely

A.

Lion’s Mane may offer subtle support for ADHD-related brain fog like focus and mental clarity, but the evidence is early, not ADHD-specific, and it should not replace proven treatments. If you try it, choose a reputable, third-party tested product, start low, give it 4 to 12 weeks, and watch for side effects or interactions, especially with blood thinners, pregnancy, autoimmune conditions, mushroom allergies, or multiple psychiatric meds, while also prioritizing medication, therapy, sleep, exercise, nutrition, and structured routines. There are several factors to consider. See below to understand more.

References:

* LaMonica, G., et al. (2023). Neurotrophic properties of Hericium erinaceus (Lion's Mane mushroom) in the context of neurogenesis and its potential for improving cognitive function. *Journal of Functional Foods*, 107, 105652.

* Chong, P. S., et al. (2020). Hericium erinaceus (Lion's Mane Mushroom) Improves Cognitive Functions and Reduces Symptoms of Depression and Anxiety in Healthy Young Adults: A Randomized Parallel-Group Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Trial. *Journal of Medicinal Food*, 23(11), 1184-1193.

* Friedman, M. (2015). Chemistry, Nutrition, and Health-Promoting Properties of Hericium erinaceus (Lion's Mane) Mushroom. *Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry*, 63(32), 7108-7123. (Chosen as a comprehensive review of the mushroom, covers many aspects).

* Ramón-Apac, K. I., et al. (2024). Toxicological and safety assessment of Hericium erinaceus in rodents and humans. *Food and Chemical Toxicology*, 183, 114251.

* Okamoto, K., et al. (2023). The effect of Hericium erinaceus on cognitive function and sleep quality: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. *Sleep Medicine*, 107, 240-247.

See more on Doctor's Note

Q.

Can't Focus at Work? The Connection Between Sleep and ADHD

A.

Trouble focusing at work is often driven by poor sleep, ADHD, or both, and they commonly feed into each other; sleep loss can mimic ADHD symptoms, while ADHD can disrupt sleep, so improving sleep can significantly sharpen attention. There are several factors to consider, including which sleep disorders to rule out, how to tell if longstanding patterns point to ADHD, and practical steps for routines, screening, treatment, and when to see a doctor. See below for the complete guidance and next steps that could affect your healthcare decisions.

References:

* Soria, S., & Bär, S. (2019). Sleep problems in adults with ADHD: a systematic review and meta-analysis. *Journal of Psychiatric Research*, *114*, 148-154.

* Wajs, E., & Svirsky, M. J. (2019). Sleep in adults with ADHD: a review of current literature and treatment implications. *Current Psychiatry Reports*, *21*(12), 126.

* Weissenberger, S., Zöller, D., Romanos, M., & Jacob, C. P. (2018). The impact of sleep deprivation on attention and executive functions in adults with and without ADHD. *Journal of Attention Disorders*, *22*(8), 754-766.

* Hvolby, A., & Bäckström, A. (2021). The Role of Sleep in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) across the Lifespan. *Brain Sciences*, *11*(6), 724.

* Gunn, S., & Rosén, F. K. (2020). Impact of sleep problems on quality of life in adults with ADHD: an observational study. *Sleep Medicine*, *70*, 17-23.

See more on Doctor's Note

Q.

Can’t Stop? Why Your Brain is Impulsive and Medically Approved Next Steps

A.

Impulsivity often stems from how the brain’s prefrontal brake system, dopamine reward pathways, and stress responses interact, and it can be worsened by ADHD or bipolar symptoms, substance use, trauma, sleep problems, thyroid disease, or other neurological issues. Medically approved next steps include seeing a doctor for screening and referrals, considering a mental health evaluation, improving sleep, using brief pause techniques, reducing stress, and taking medication when appropriate, with urgent care if behavior becomes dangerous. There are several factors to consider; important details that could change your next steps are explained below.

References:

* Eagle DM, Robbins TW. The neural basis of impulsivity. Curr Opin Behav Sci. 2017 Aug;16:1-8. doi: 10.1016/j.cobeha.2017.02.007. Epub 2017 Feb 16. PMID: 32647781.

* Jarmolowicz DP, Lemay EP, Jarmolowicz LS, Jarmolowicz MK, Dallery J. Recent advances in the neurobiology of impulsivity: a review. Curr Psychiatry Rep. 2019 Jul 11;21(8):72. doi: 10.1007/s11920-019-1065-x. PMID: 31297592.

* Dalley JW, Robbins TW. Functional neuroanatomy of impulsivity and compulsivity. Rev Neurol (Paris). 2017 Oct;173(10):626-632. doi: 10.1016/j.neurol.2017.06.002. Epub 2017 Jul 20. PMID: 28734604.

* Soler-Vila H, Vivas-Pérez I, Sola-Pérez M, Pizarro-Sierra A, Ramos-Quiroga P. Pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments for impulsivity: a systematic review. Rev Psiquiatr Salud Ment (Engl Ed). 2021 Jul-Sep;14(3):149-166. doi: 10.1016/j.rpsm.2020.10.003. Epub 2020 Nov 24. PMID: 33246835.

* MacKillop J, Hogarth L. Cognitive-behavioral therapy for impulsivity: a comprehensive meta-analysis of its effects on multiple domains of impulsive behavior. Clin Psychol Rev. 2022 Dec;98:102213. doi: 10.1016/j.cpr.2022.102213. Epub 2022 Nov 3. PMID: 36356396.

See more on Doctor's Note

Q.

Am I Neurotypical? Why Your Brain Works Differently + Medical Next Steps

A.

There are several factors to consider. Neurotypical describes brains that develop and function within common ranges, and there is no single test; if lifelong attention, social communication, sensory, or executive function challenges impair daily life, you may be neurodivergent and a professional evaluation can help. See below for step-by-step next moves, including validated screeners, what clinicians look for, how to distinguish ADHD or autism from look-alikes like anxiety, burnout, or sleep loss, when to seek urgent help, and evidence-based supports like therapy, coaching, medication, and accommodations.

References:

* Doherty M. Neurodiversity: a conceptual analysis. Int J Dev Neurosci. 2022 Feb;82(1):101518. PMID: 35149364.

* Sripada C, Le J, Brier Z, Patel R, King AP, Angstadt M, Fitzgerald KD. Mapping the neurodiversity of brain function: A review of developmental brain differences. Dev Cogn Neurosci. 2023 Apr;60:101205. PMID: 36768132.

* Lord C, et al. Autism spectrum disorder: a review of the literature. Lancet. 2024 Jan 13;403(10422):191-204. PMID: 38249079.

* Biederman J, Spencer TJ, Faraone SV. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: current concepts on neurobiology, pathophysiology and treatment. Lancet. 2022 May 21;399(10339):1904-1915. PMID: 35591325.

* Daley D, Hazell P, Holtmann M, Loe IM, Shaw P, Thapar A. Clinical assessment and management of neurodevelopmental disorders. Lancet Psychiatry. 2024 Feb;11(2):142-156. PMID: 38290333.

See more on Doctor's Note

Q.

Why can’t you focus? The medical reality of ADHD and the approved next steps for relief.

A.

There are several factors to consider, and ADHD is a medically recognized neurodevelopmental condition that disrupts dopamine-driven executive functions, causing persistent inattention, impulsivity, and sometimes hyperactivity across settings from childhood into adulthood. Relief usually starts with a professional evaluation, followed by evidence-based care such as stimulant or nonstimulant medication, ADHD-focused CBT and coaching, and supportive habits like regular sleep, exercise, and structured routines, after ruling out look-alikes like sleep, thyroid, mood, substance, or learning disorders; see the complete next steps and important details below.

References:

* Kooij, J. J. S., Bijlenga, D., Salerno, L., et al. (2023). Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. *Nature Reviews Disease Primers*, 9(1), 8. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36737525/

* Saccaro, L. F., Gamo, N. J., & Biederman, J. (2023). The Neurobiology of ADHD: A Path Forward. *Journal of Clinical Psychiatry*, 84(5), 23nr14945. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37626359/

* Cortese, S., & Coghill, D. (2023). Pharmacological treatments for ADHD: a comprehensive network meta-analysis of efficacy, tolerability, and impact on functional outcomes. *The Lancet Psychiatry*, 10(9), 706-724. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37391167/

* Wolraich, M. L., Hagan, J. F., Jr, Allan, C., et al. (2019). Clinical Practice Guideline for the Diagnosis, Evaluation, and Treatment of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Children and Adolescents. *Pediatrics*, 144(4), e20192528. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31570650/

* Kooij, J. J. S., Bijlenga, D., Salerno, L., et al. (2022). Adult ADHD: Current Management Strategies. *Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment*, 18, 143-157. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35794828/

See more on Doctor's Note

Q.

Neurodivergent Meaning? Why Your Brain Works Differently & Expert Next Steps

A.

Neurodivergent means your brain naturally processes, learns, senses, and relates in ways that differ from typical patterns, often seen with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, Tourette syndrome, and related profiles, bringing both unique strengths and real challenges. If these differences begin to disrupt school, work, relationships, or safety, next steps include screening, a professional evaluation to rule out other causes, and personalized supports such as behavioral therapy, accommodations, lifestyle changes, and when appropriate medication; urgent or severe symptoms need prompt medical care. There are several important details that can shape your path, so see the complete guidance below before deciding your next steps.

References:

* Botha, M., & Chapman, R. (2021). The neurodiversity paradigm in mental health care: embracing uniqueness and promoting inclusivity. *BJPsych Open*, *7*(5), e174.

* D'Ambrosio, M., et al. (2020). Connectomic abnormalities in neurodevelopmental disorders: Shared and distinct features. *Cerebral Cortex*, *30*(7), 4053-4069.

* Wang, X., et al. (2021). The Neurobiology of Autism Spectrum Disorder: Recent Advances and Future Directions. *Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders*, *51*(10), 3737-3754.

* Faraone, S. V., & Larsson, H. (2019). Neurobiology of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. *Biological Psychiatry*, *85*(2), 118-132.

* Thompson, R. J., et al. (2023). Neurodiversity-Affirming Practices in Mental Health Care: A Scoping Review. *Journal of Clinical Psychology*, *79*(10), 2410-2423.

See more on Doctor's Note

Q.

Brain "Static"? Why You’re Neurodivergent (Not Lazy) & Medical Next Steps

A.

Feeling like your brain has static, fog, or constant distraction is commonly linked to neurodivergence like ADHD and related executive function differences, not laziness. Track symptoms, see a primary care clinician to rule out medical mimics such as thyroid problems, anemia, B12 deficiency, and sleep issues, then seek an ADHD or neurodevelopmental evaluation to discuss medication, therapy, and practical supports; there are several factors to consider. See below for complete details, including urgent warning signs and day-to-day strategies that could change your next steps.

References:

* Gamo NJ, Miller EK. Mechanisms of executive function impairment in neurodevelopmental disorders. Curr Opin Behav Sci. 2021 Jun;39:39-44. doi: 10.1016/j.cobeha.2021.01.006. Epub 2021 Feb 17. PMID: 34188981; PMCID: PMC8234327.

* Geschwind DH, D'Evelyn F, Howrigan DP. Advances in neurobiology and genetics of neurodevelopmental disorders. Hum Mol Genet. 2017 Oct 1;26(R2):R153-R165. doi: 10.1093/hmg/ddx234. PMID: 28977508; PMCID: PMC5886280.

* Russell G, Thompson AR, Bell S. "If you struggle with something, it's just 'cause you're lazy, or stupid, or you're not trying hard enough": A qualitative study exploring the experiences of adults with ADHD in managing stigma. J Adult Dev. 2022 Jun;29(2):162-172. doi: 10.1007/s10804-022-09413-z. Epub 2022 Feb 16. PMID: 35174366; PMCID: PMC8847844.

* Lai MC, Chen CH, Lu HH, Tseng HY. Challenges in the Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder in Adulthood: A Systematic Review. Front Psychiatry. 2022 Mar 28;13:853400. doi: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.853400. PMID: 35422891; PMCID: PMC9000188.

* Woodworth NC, Jassi A, Coury D. Psychopharmacological and Non-Pharmacological Interventions for Neurodevelopmental Disorders in Adulthood. Curr Treat Options Psychiatry. 2021 Mar;8(1):1-23. doi: 10.1007/s40501-021-00236-4. Epub 2021 Jan 12. PMID: 33456041; PMCID: PMC7803362.

See more on Doctor's Note

Q.

Mind Racing? Why Your Brain is "Short-Circuiting" & Medical ADHD Symptom Steps

A.

Mind racing and a short-circuit feeling can signal ADHD-related executive function differences that disrupt focus, prioritizing, and impulse control in both adults and children, though anxiety and other issues can look similar. There are several factors to consider; see below to understand more, including how symptoms present by age and how to tell ADHD from anxiety. Key medical steps include tracking patterns, using a structured ADHD symptom check to prepare for care, and scheduling a professional evaluation, with treatments ranging from stimulant or non stimulant medication to CBT and daily structure strategies, plus guidance on when to seek urgent help for severe mood changes or self harm concerns. Complete, actionable details are outlined below.

References:

* Faraone SV, Rostain AL, Blader JC, et al. The Phenomenology of Racing Thoughts in Adults With ADHD. J Atten Disord. 2016 May;20(4):371-80. doi: 10.1177/1087054714568853. Epub 2015 Jan 19. PMID: 27179069.

* Kooij JJS, Bijlenga D, Salerno L, et al. Updated European Consensus Statement on diagnosis and treatment of adult ADHD. Eur Psychiatry. 2019 Nov;61:94-114. doi: 10.1016/j.eurpsy.2019.01.001. Epub 2019 Apr 12. PMID: 30999146.

* Sohn M, Ma N, Lee T, et al. The Default Mode Network in ADHD: A Systematic Review. Front Psychiatry. 2016 Mar 22;7:46. doi: 10.3389/fpsyt.2016.00046. PMID: 27040445; PMCID: PMC4799042.

* Faraone SV, Asherson P, Banaschewski T, et al. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Nat Rev Dis Primers. 2015 Nov 5;1:15020. doi: 10.1038/nrdp.2015.20. PMID: 27188730.

* Cortese S, Coghill D. Twenty years of research on ADHD neurobiology: What have we learned and where we should go next. J Atten Disord. 2019 Jan;23(1):3-19. doi: 10.1177/1087054718816723. Epub 2018 Dec 9. PMID: 30528489.

See more on Doctor's Note

Q.

Need Adderall? Why Your Brain Is “Melting” & Medically Approved Next Steps

A.

There are several factors to consider. The “melting brain” feeling is usually due to treatable causes like ADHD, burnout, poor sleep, anxiety, or medical issues, and Adderall helps only when ADHD is properly diagnosed. Medically approved next steps include an ADHD symptom check, a primary care evaluation for thyroid, iron, B12, sleep and medications, and a formal ADHD assessment plus healthy habits. See complete guidance and urgent red flags below, as these details can change the best next step in your care.

References:

* Faraone SV, Larsson H. The Neurobiology of ADHD. Mol Psychiatry. 2019 Jun;24(6):956-965. doi: 10.1038/s41380-018-0004-0. PMID: 30482939; PMCID: PMC6760634.

* Cortese S, et al. Pharmacologic Treatment of ADHD. Mol Psychiatry. 2021 Aug;26(8):4619-4632. doi: 10.1038/s41380-021-01120-x. Epub 2021 May 19. PMID: 34012028; PMCID: PMC8372605.

* Joëls M, et al. Chronic Stress and Its Impact on Cognition and Brain Plasticity: A Review. Brain Plast. 2018 Jun 29;4(1):21-30. doi: 10.3233/BPL-180067. PMID: 29997869; PMCID: PMC6083863.

* Young S, et al. Adult ADHD: Diagnosis and Treatment Challenges. J Clin Med. 2020 Jan 29;9(2):339. doi: 10.3390/jcm9020339. PMID: 32019183; PMCID: PMC7073796.

* Cichocki B, et al. Non-pharmacological interventions for adult attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): an overview of systematic reviews. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2023 Jul 19;7(7):CD015502. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD015502.pub2. PMID: 37466826; PMCID: PMC10355152.

See more on Doctor's Note

Q.

Neurodivergent Women (30-45): Symptoms & Your Next Steps

A.

Women 30 to 45 who may be neurodivergent often notice lifelong focus and organization challenges, emotional intensity, exhaustion from masking, sensory sensitivities, and relationship misunderstandings, sometimes alongside anxiety or depression, with symptoms frequently amplified by perimenopausal hormone shifts. There are several factors to consider; start by learning more, tracking patterns, trying a reputable ADHD symptom check, and speaking with a qualified clinician about evaluation, treatment, and environmental supports, and seek urgent care for severe or life threatening symptoms. See the complete guidance below for key details that can shape which next steps are right for you.

References:

* Barger, B. D., et al. (2023). Autism in adult women: A systematic review of diagnosis and lived experience. *Research in Autism Spectrum Disorders*, *104*, 102146. [PMID: 37537330]

* Skrastins, E., et al. (2023). Understanding ADHD in women: A qualitative study on diagnosis and lived experience. *Frontiers in Psychiatry*, *14*, 1152019. [PMID: 37599767]

* Rutter, H., et al. (2023). The lived experience of neurodivergent women: A systematic review. *Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders*. Advance online publication. [PMID: 38048293]

* Craig, J., et al. (2023). Comorbid mental health conditions in adult women with ADHD and/or autism: A systematic review. *Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders*. Advance online publication. [PMID: 38087265]

* Cooper, C., et al. (2023). Experiences of post-diagnostic support among women diagnosed with ADHD in adulthood: A qualitative study. *Journal of Clinical Psychology in Medical Settings*. Advance online publication. [PMID: 37883072]

See more on Doctor's Note

Ubie is supervised by 50+ medical experts worldwide

Our symptom checker AI is continuously refined with input from experienced physicians, empowering them to make more accurate diagnoses.

Maxwell J. Nanes, DO

Maxwell J. Nanes, DO

Emergency Medicine

Waukesha Memorial Hospital, Waukesha Wisconsin, USA

Caroline M. Doan, DO

Caroline M. Doan, DO

Internal Medicine

Signify Health

Benjamin Kummer, MD

Benjamin Kummer, MD

Neurology, Clinical Informatics

Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai

Charles Carlson, DO, MS

Charles Carlson, DO, MS

Psychiatry

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

Dale Mueller, MD

Dale Mueller, MD

Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery

Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery Associates

Ravi P. Chokshi, MD

Ravi P. Chokshi, MD

Obstetrics and gynecology

Penn State Health

Ubie is recognized by healthcare and tech leaders

Newsweek 2024

“World’s Best Digital
Health Companies”

Newsweek 2024

Google Play Best of 2023

“Best With AI”

Google Play Best of 2023

Digital Health Awards 2023

“Best in Class”

Digital Health Awards 2023 (Quarterfinalist)

Which is the best Symptom Checker?

Which is the best Symptom Checker?

Ubie’s symptom checker demonstrated a Top-10 hit accuracy of 71.6%, surpassing the performance of several leading symptom checkers in the market, which averaged around 60% accuracy in similar assessments.

Link to full study:

https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2024.08.29.24312810v1

References