How to Get the Best ADHD Assessment for Adults
The best way to receive an accurate diagnosis is to take an expert ADHD assessment. Self-assessment tools are useful, but they can't replace a consultation and evaluation by a qualified expert.
An ADHD assessment should include a review to determine if you suffer from other mental health issues that could be coexisting or resemble ADHD symptoms. You should also consider if your symptoms started before the age of 12. The process may include additional neuropsychological or psychological testing.
Self-Assessment Tool
A self-assessment questionnaire that focuses on specific signs and traits. These tools are often used in clinical studies, research studies and on health websites to assist people test for ADHD. Certain self-assessments are brief and provide clear results at the end of the test. Some are longer and require participation from important people in the life of the person. These tests can be used to determine if someone should take the time to get an ADHD assessment.
There are many online ADHD screening tests and assessments However, they have not been scientifically validated or standardized. It is not recommended to use these tests without consulting medical professionals, since they could lead to inaccurate diagnoses. It could also result in unnecessary specialist referrals for ADHD assessments of individuals who are unlikely to have the disorder. This can result in a waste of healthcare funds and cause stress to the person referred, and lead to long wait periods for an in-depth interview.
The World Health Organisation and the Workgroup on Adult ADHD have created a short questionnaire known as the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale Screener (ASRS). The ASRS is a six-item questionnaire that examines the experiences of people who have the most common ADHD symptoms. A score of 4 or higher on this screener indicates that a person would benefit from further clinical analysis by a physician.
Other self-assessments that are more comprehensive include the Conners Abbreviated Symptom Questionnaire and the CBCL-AP. Both scales have been found to have high diagnostic accuracy and have moderate specificity and sensitivity. It is important to keep in mind that none of these tests can substitute for a thorough evaluation conducted by a psychologist or psychiatrist.
Women's ADHD symptoms differ slightly from those of men and this is the reason why some self-assessments are designed for women with specific issues. These tools for women can help people decide if they would like to seek an expert ADHD diagnosis.
Diagnosis
In many cases, the primary medical doctor will refer the patient to an ADHD-specialist psychiatrist or neurologist. A specialist will usually interview the patient to determine how the symptoms impact daily functioning. The doctor will request the patient to fill out a symptom list or behavior rating scale. They will also review the patient's medical and mental health experiences from childhood until the present. The doctor may also examine other disorders that could be akin to ADHD like depression and anxiety.
When assessing adults, it's more important to take into account the functional impairment of the adult rather than the number or severity of symptoms. People suffering from ADHD are often unable to meet work, school and expectations in relationships. It's a good idea to share the facts with those who supervise you at work, teachers at school and family members to ensure that they can get a complete picture of the challenges you face daily. Patients may be uncomfortable bringing up these issues, but it's critical to speak up in order to receive the assistance you require.
speaking of or psychiatrist who is skilled in ADHD may begin by interviewing the child and using the DSM-5 symptom checklist specifically designed to identify children. The clinician will ask about the patient's psychiatric, emotional and social history and also how ADHD symptoms affect daily functioning. A lot of doctors ask the patient's spouse or other close friends about their perceptions of the patient's behavior and if they notice any signs of ADHD. This type of personal insight can reveal information that cannot be gleaned from ratings or questionnaires.
A psychologist trained in cognitive behavior therapy may diagnose ADHD in certain instances. However, a psychologist does not have the authority to prescribe medication, which is usually provided by a psychiatrist or neurologists. A therapist who has been trained in ADHD can assist the patient to learn how to manage symptoms. These include money and time management, organizational strategies, and time management. These treatments are available in person or through the internet, such as Frida.
Treatment
A thorough evaluation of ADHD in adults must include an interview to diagnose the condition as well as information from other sources like an intimate partner or close family member. The physician may suggest to have the patient complete one or more of the standardized ADHD ratings scales. These tests are based on research and examine the behavior of people suffering from ADHD against those without it. They help determine if a problem exists. Certain clinical psychologists also administer cognitive tests to diagnose ADHD or other problems such as an anxiety disorder or a learning disorder.
The clinician will also evaluate the patient's symptoms and how they interfere with daily functioning in school, at work or in relationships. The patient may find it difficult to keep on top of appointments, bills or organize thoughts and possessions. Additionally many adults suffer from low self-esteem and resentment toward chronic patterns of academic failure or job loss, as well as relationship conflict. A mental health professional might recommend individual therapy or a program that helps the patient learn to cope and manage their ADHD symptoms.
If the clinician suspects that a medical condition like thyroid issues or seizures is the cause of ADHD symptoms, they'll conduct a physical examination. The doctor will also inquire with the patient about their previous health issues and whether they have suffered any injuries or accidents. A thorough history will enable the doctor to determine whether a person has been diagnosed with ADHD or any other psychiatric or neurological issues, like anxiety or depression.
Many adults have shaky or blurry memories of their childhood, and they may not remember that they were diagnosed with ADHD as children. The clinician will ask anyone who is important in the person's lives like family members, spouse, or employer, to provide a more precise assessment. This will allow the clinician to obtain an independent view of the person's behavior and also to avoid the potential for a bias in the assessment.
A complete ADHD evaluation should include a neuropsychological or psychological assessment. These tests measure the person's working memory, intelligence and other cognitive abilities. These tests can help the therapist determine if ADHD contributes to the individual's difficulties with learning, working or dealing with.
Support
Many adults who have not been diagnosed with ADHD struggle to perform at work or school. They may have difficulties keeping track of daily tasks, arranging their belongings and recalling important information. They may also have difficulties in their relationships or find it difficult to keep appointments.
The first step to receive a diagnosis of ADHD is speaking with the primary care physician. He or she can provide referral options or recommend an expert in mental health to conduct an evaluation. Certain psychiatrists or graduate psychology programs as well as private therapists are trained in the evaluation of the psychological aspects of ADHD.
During the examination, the mental health professional will utilize standard ratings scales for ADHD symptoms in order to determine if an adult meets the diagnostic criteria for the condition. There are a variety of ratings scales are available and include the Barkley Adult ADHD Rating Scales and the Conners' Classroom Assessment of Attention and Hyperactivity Disorder Self-Report (CAARS). A mental health professional could also utilize cognitive tests in addition to these rating scales in order to assess the executive functioning abilities of an adult spatial and visual skills, and working memory.
If the mental health professional determines that a patient is suffering from ADHD they will discuss treatment options with them. There are a variety of strategies to treat ADHD symptoms, such as therapy, medication and lifestyle adjustments. Many people with ADHD have reported improved performance by taking psychostimulants, stimulant drugs that improve focus and alertness. Many adults also benefit from non-stimulant drugs which reduce depression or anxiety as well as therapy that includes mindfulness techniques and coaching.
The diagnosis of ADHD can be difficult and stressful, but with the right help those with the condition can learn to manage their symptoms and live life that is fulfilling. It's essential to be open with your doctor and not hide anything out of shame or fear. It is also beneficial to inform your supervisors, colleagues and teachers that you suffer from ADHD. They might be more understanding if they know about your difficulties and can offer accommodations such as additional time to complete assignments.