Can you be diagnosed with adhd as an adult if you were not as a child?

Yes, I think so.: There is no restriction to a doctor making the diagnosis on an adult who was not diagnosed before. Do you feel that the diagnosis is not accurate? That could be true. It's reasonable to seek a 2nd opinion - or more. Adhd is a fairly popular diagnosis these years, so people may see it where it is not really there. Ask another therapist. Good luck.

Yes: It can be complicated diagnosing adhd in adults who did not have that diagnosis as a child, but it certain does happen, especially so-called inattentive adhd. On the other hand, it is important to get a thorough assessment, because other disorders such as depression and anxiety that are more common in adults sometimes create symptoms that mimic adhd. Start with a good, thorough assessment.

Depends: If as a child you did not have symptoms of ADHD, especially inattentive type, it is very uncommon to develop adult ADHD, unless you have experienced a concussion or other brain trauma, have had a brain infection or are taking a medication that can cause the symptoms. A thorough medical evaluation and if necessary a neuropsychological assessment should give you the right diagnosis & treatment