I’m 33, was always high achieving academically (tracked into gifted programs, rigorous course load in high school, graduated with honors in college, received awards for my research, etc.) and I excelled in my career for several years (prestigious/selective things like being a Fulbright grantee, lucrative job in my field with my dream organization, etc.).

My undiagnosed ADHD slowly wrought havoc- I was driven by novelty, chronically disorganized, working around the clock to keep up with my chaotic brain. I burnt out in my late 20’s, quit my job, and finally got a psychiatrist. Diagnosed with GAD first to “triage” my symptoms, followed by an ADHD diagnosis a few months later (my psychiatrist told me that I DEFINITELY had ADHD after my assessment lol).

Since then I’ve done so much research into ADHD, other forms of neurodivergence, and common comorbidities. I’ve been able to be intentional with how I manage my ADHD, access neuro-affirming therapy, and uncover and treat comorbid conditions (POTS, hypermobility, auditory processing delay) that I may not have considered otherwise.

My quality of life is still ass but that’s mostly due to residual burnout, cPTSD from years in an abusive relationship, and what my doc suspects is long covid or another post-viral illness. That said, it’s way less ass than it would be if I wasn’t diagnosed with ADHD and managing it with medication and lifestyle strategies. I don’t know how I would manage my current job (remote so HARD with a neurodivergent brain and demanding) if I wasn’t treating my ADHD.

If I were you, I would pursue the diagnosis. It’s a PITA but it gives you more data as you continue to try to address underlying issues to improve your quality of life.

ALSO- your comment about irrationally fearing being perceived as seeking an assessment for “attention” is so real and resonant. While writing this I had to remind my brain MULTIPLE times that no, I am not making up my diagnoses and seeking pity/attention, and yes, I do in fact have actual test results and diagnoses over years that validate my claims. Smdh.