How to Get the Best ADHD Assessment for Adults
The best way to receive an accurate diagnosis is by taking a professional ADHD assessment. Self-assessment tools are helpful, but they cannot substitute for a consultation and assessment by a qualified specialist.
A proper ADHD evaluation should be able to identify other mental health issues that may coexist with or mimic symptoms of ADHD and should consider whether your symptoms began before age 12 years old. The process could also include additional neuropsychological or psychological tests.
Self-Assessment Tool
A self-assessment tool is a form of assessment that analyzes particular traits or symptoms. These tools are typically used in research studies, in clinics and by health websites to assist people screen for ADHD. Some self-assessments can be quite brief and provide thoughtful results at the end of the test, whereas others are more comprehensive and require participation from significant people in the person's life (such as family members or spouses). These tests can be used to determine whether someone should take the time to get an ADHD assessment.
There are numerous online ADHD screening tests and questionnaires, but the majority of them haven't been validated or standardised. Utilizing these tests without the assistance of a medical professional is not advised as they can lead to incorrect diagnoses. It can also result in unnecessary specialist referrals for ADHD assessments of individuals who aren't likely to be suffering from the disorder. This could waste healthcare resources, cause stress for the person being referred to, and result in long wait for an in-depth examination.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Workgroup on Adult ADHD created an easy survey dubbed the Adult ADHD Self Report Scale Screener. The ASRS is an 6-item survey that examines the experiences of adults suffering from the most prevalent ADHD symptoms. This test is useful in the determination of whether an individual requires an additional clinical examination.
Other self-assessments that are more thorough include the Conners Abbreviated Symptom Questionnaire and the CBCL-AP. Both of these scales have been shown to have high diagnostic accuracy and have moderate specificity and sensitivity. However it is crucial to keep in mind that any of these tests can't substitute for a thorough examination by a certified psychologist or psychiatrist.
Women's experiences with ADHD symptoms differ slightly than those experienced by men This is the reason why many of the self-assessments that are available have been designed specifically for women's behavioural challenges. These specific tools for women are a useful way to help people determine if they should seek a professional diagnosis of their ADHD.
Diagnosis
In most cases, the initial step to be diagnosed is to speak with an primary care physician who might refer the patient to a psychiatrist or neurologist who specializes in ADHD. A specialist will typically interview the patient to determine how their symptoms affect daily functioning. The physician may ask the patient to complete a symptom checklist or behavior rating scale, and will likely go over the medical and psychiatric histories from childhood until the present. The doctor might also think about whether other disorders that resemble ADHD could be contributing to the patient's symptoms, including anxiety and depression.
When assessing adults, it is more important to consider the functional impairment of the adult than the number or severity of symptoms. People suffering from ADHD struggle to meet expectations at school, work and in relationships. It's recommended to tell your bosses at work as well as your teachers at school, and your family about the challenges you encounter every day. It isn't easy for patients to talk about such problems. However, it is essential to do this to get the help they require.
A psychiatrist or neurologist who is specialized in ADHD may begin by interviewing the child using an DSM-5 symptom checklist that is specifically designed to help diagnose children. The clinician will also ask about the patient's personal emotional and psychiatric history, and the extent to which ADHD symptoms impact daily functioning. A lot of doctors will also inquire about the patient's partner or other close family members about their observations and if they notice any signs of ADHD. These personal observations can reveal details that are not available from ratings or questionnaires.
In some instances, a psychologist who is trained in cognitive behavior therapy may be able to give an ADHD diagnosis. A psychologist is not able to prescribe medication. This is usually performed by a psychiatrist or neurologist. A therapist specially trained in treating ADHD can teach the patient techniques that can help manage symptoms, for example, managing time and money and methods for organizing. These therapies are available in person or via telemental health services, like Frida.
Treatment
A thorough evaluation of ADHD in adults must comprise an interview to diagnose the condition and information from independent sources such a spouse or close relative. The doctor may ask the person to fill out one or more of the standardized ADHD rating scales. These questionnaires use research to examine the behavior of people with ADHD to the behavior of those who do not have it and assist in determining whether there is a problem. Some clinical psychologists will also conduct cognitive tests to diagnose ADHD or other disorders such as a learning disorder or anxiety disorder.
The physician will also look at the patient's symptoms and determine if they interfere with daily functioning at work, in school or in relationships. For instance, a patient might be struggling to keep track of bills and appointments or organizing their thoughts and belongings. Additionally, many adult patients have low self-esteem and resentment toward chronic patterns of academic failure, job loss and relationship conflict. A mental health professional might recommend individual therapy or a program that helps the patient learn to manage and manage their ADHD symptoms.
If the doctor suspects that a medical issue like thyroid issues or seizures, that are responsible for the ADHD symptoms the doctor will conduct a physical exam. He will also ask the patient about their previous health issues and if they have suffered any accidents or injuries. A thorough medical history will allow the clinician to determine if a person has been diagnosed with ADHD or any other psychiatric and neurological problems, such as anxiety or depression.
Many adults have a poor or weak recall of their childhood, and might forget that they were diagnosed as ADHD children. The clinician will seek out someone who is significant in the person's lives such as a spouse, a family member, or employer, to give a more accurate assessment. This is a great method to gain an objective view of the person and avoid bias.
A complete ADHD evaluation should also include a psychological or neuropsychological assessment. These tests measure the level of working memory and intelligence in addition to other cognitive abilities. These tests can help the therapist determine whether ADHD contributes to the person's difficulties in working, learning or coping.
Support
Adults with undiagnosed ADHD frequently struggle to perform well at work or at school. They may have problems keeping track of their daily tasks, arranging their belongings and retaining important information. They might also have issues in their relationships or find it difficult to keep appointments.
The first step to get a diagnosis of ADHD is talking to a primary care provider. He or she can provide suggestions for referrals or suggest a mental health professional for an assessment. Certain psychiatrists, graduate programs in psychology and private therapy professionals are trained in the psychological evaluation of ADHD.
During the assessment the mental health professional will use standard ratings scales for ADHD symptoms to determine if an adult is meeting the diagnostic criteria for the condition. There are a variety of ratings scales are available, including the Barkley Adult ADHD Rating Scales and the Conners' Classroom Assessment of Attention and Hyperactivity Disorder Self-Report (CAARS). In assessment of adult adhd to these ratings scales a mental health professional will generally utilize cognitive tests to evaluate an adult's working memory, executive functioning abilities and spatial and visual abilities.
If a mental health professional determines an individual suffers from ADHD the professional will discuss the treatment options with the patient. There are many ways to treat ADHD symptoms, including therapy, medication and lifestyle modifications. Many adults suffering from ADHD report improved functioning through the use of psychostimulants, stimulant medicines which improve alertness and focus. Some adults may also benefit from nonstimulant medicines to reduce anxiety or depression and therapy that includes mindfulness techniques and coaching.
It can be a difficult and upsetting experience to be given a diagnosis for ADHD. However with the right help and guidance, people with ADHD can manage their symptoms, and live a full life. It's essential to be open with your doctor and don't hide anything out of fear or shame. It's also helpful to tell your supervisors, colleagues and teachers that you suffer from ADHD. They may be more understanding if they are aware about your issues and provide you with accommodations, like extra time to complete assignments.