One of the more challenging aspects of my my work as a psychiatrist is when patients with good intentions come in to the office with a self-diagnosis of ADHD.  They are completely convinced after answering an online questionnaire!

Although these lists are helpful for self awareness and taking an inventory of one’s behavioral patterns and thoughts, they must in no way be confused with the process of diagnosis. Diagnosis criteria in medicine and psychiatry utilizes guidelines for medical history taking as well as a physical and mental status examination by a trained clinician with years of experience.

The danger of checklist medical diagnosis are considerable. Inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity as core symptoms of ADHD could be caused or related to many other conditions including hormonal, structural, stress and mood related conditions. So do a thorough job finding a skilled physician, and allow her to assess your symptoms within the context of her training and experience.