In this episode, we take a step back from the rush to diagnose and explore why so many adults are reporting attention difficulties today — and how primary care providers can begin to thoughtfully assess for ADHD. We unpack sociocultural forces shaping the rise in self-diagnosis, discuss the limitations of adult-onset ADHD as a clinical entity, and offer a practical entry point for evaluating attentional complaints using tools like the ASRS and WURS. If you’ve been feeling unsure about how to approach adult ADHD in a busy primary care setting, this episode offers a clear and manageable starting point.

For access to the Show Notes as well as the downloadable clinical references and patients handouts associated with this episode, visit the Episode Page. There, if you sign up for a free membership, you'll find:

• Links to the ASRS and WURS screeners





• A quick-reference reviewing the key points on evaluating ADHD in aduls





• A table reviewing the differential for chief complaints of inattention





• A patient handout on "Why you might feel distracted" that helps patient understand other factors involved in their (in)attention





• A patient handout on "How to improve focus without medications" that works for those with and without ADHD

For a deep dive on managing antidepressants and treating depression in primary care, check out our Audio Course Managing Depression in Primary Care.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this episode, you'll be able to:

1. Recognize the sociocultural and environmental trends contributing to increased self-reported attentional difficulties in adults.





2. Describe key clinical considerations that may suggest a diagnosis of ADHD versus other contributing factors





3. Outline a basic approach for initiating an ADHD assessment in primary care, including the use of the ASRS and WURS screening tools