ADHD suspected: Is it worth seeking a diagnosis

[oxymomon]

I am 41 years old, and have recently been told by a colleague that they suspect I have ADHD. I believe their intentions to be good, as they themselves recently received an adult diagnosis. They said that it presents differently in women and that they have seen signs in me. I've since researched and now suspect I may have ADHD, although I also think I've learned how to mask over the years.
Is it worth seeking a diagnosis at this stage in life? Or do I just carry on masking and trying to fit in?

I can’t see the harm in seeking a diagnosis, if you think it will help you. Are there aspects of your life (social, work, relationships) where you struggle? A diagnosis might help you understand yourself better and how to approach areas that you want to improve. My DSS is looking to do the same.

If you feel like it's impacting your life or work then it's worth pursuing a diagnosis if you would want to take meds. If you wouldn't want to take meds then a self diagnosis is enough and you can research coping mechanisms (although meds are more helpful).

I’m in exactly the same boat. I wouldn’t know where to start with getting a diagnosis as an adult female. I mask very well but I am increasingly erratic and chaotic and my mental health and self esteem along with relationships are suffering. Would I have to go private rather than the NHS? I wouldn’t know what to say or where to start

I was diagnosed at 43. Successful, well-paying executive job, own home, objectively good life. But I've found the diagnosis lifechanging: it's given me so much insight into the reasons I do things, and made me examine how I could do things better. And I find Ritalin extremely useful for keeping me on track and helping me get through my to-do list at work. I absolutely see benefits. I say go for it, and give medication a trial.

I am also wondering the same.
I can not function at all and my life is chaos. I am put off by pursuing a diagnosis as I was under CMHT for years anyway, and they never picked anything up ADHD wise. I just assume I will be told I am a lazy waste of space.

For those who have gone to their GP.... what do you say?

I’m in the same boat as OP, suspect ADHD (well masked, probably misdiagnosed in earlier years as anxiety). Just wondering if you have found any negative side effects to Ritalin. Do you take it every day or as needed?

The only side effect I notice is a very slight dry mouth. There is also an obvious impact on appetite, but I just make sure I take it after I've eaten. My psychiatrist recommends at least one-two medication-free days a week. I didn't take it at all when I wasn't at work over Christmas. I just take it on work days and occasionally on a weekend if I need to stay on track with something like cleaning out the pantry! It's metabolised very quickly and doesn't have a cumulative effect, so there's no real consequence to only taking it as needed.

Wow that sounds so useful, I like the idea of not having to take it every single day. Makes me think it might be worth pursuing a diagnosis. Thanks