How to Get the Best ADHD Assessment for Adults
The best method to obtain an accurate diagnosis is through a professional ADHD assessment. Self-assessment tools are helpful, but they cannot replace a consultation and evaluation by a qualified expert.
An ADHD assessment should include a review to see if you have other mental health issues that may coexist or mimic ADHD symptoms, and you should also be aware if your symptoms started before the age of 12. The process could also include additional psychological or neuropsychological testing.
Self-Assessment Tools
A self-assessment tool is a questionnaire that analyzes certain traits or symptoms. These tools are commonly used in research studies, in clinics and by health websites to help people test for ADHD. Some self-assessments can be quite short and yield thoughtful results at the end of the test, whereas others are more thorough 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 a variety of online ADHD screening tests and assessments however, the majority of them aren't scientifically verified or standardized. It is not recommended to use these tests without the help of an experienced healthcare professional as they could lead to incorrect diagnosis. It could also result in unnecessary specialist referrals for ADHD tests of those who aren't likely to be suffering from the disorder. This can waste healthcare resources, create distress for the person being referred to, and result in long wait times for an in-depth interview.
The World Health Organisation and the Workgroup on Adult ADHD have developed a brief survey referred to 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 prevalent ADHD symptoms. This screener is useful for the determination of whether an individual requires further clinical analysis.
Other more comprehensive self-assessments include the Conners Abbreviated Symptom Questionnaire and the CBCL-AP. These scales are both highly precise in diagnosing and have a moderate level of specificity and sensitivity. It is important to keep in mind that none of these tests can replace a thorough evaluation by a psychologist or psychiatrist.
Women's experiences with ADHD symptoms differ slightly than the experiences of men This is the reason why many of the self-assessments available have been designed specifically for women's behavioural challenges. These tools for women can help people decide if they would like to seek an expert ADHD diagnosis.
Diagnosis
In many cases, the first step in getting diagnosed is to talk with a primary care physician who may refer the patient to a psychiatrist or neurologist who specializes in ADHD. Typically, an expert will be required to talk with the patient to determine how his or her symptoms interfere with daily functioning. The clinician might ask the patient to complete the symptom checklist or rating scale, and will likely go over the medical and psychiatric histories from childhood to the present. The doctor might also think about whether other disorders that mimic ADHD might be contributing to the patient's symptoms, including anxiety and depression.
When assessing adults, it's more important to look at the functional impairment of the adult than the severity or number of symptoms. People with ADHD aren't able to meet their expectations at work, school and in relationships. It's generally a good idea to share the facts with people who supervise you at work, teachers at school, and your family members so that they are aware of the challenges you face daily. It isn't easy for patients to discuss such problems. However, it is essential to do this to get the help they require.
A neurologist or psychiatrist who is skilled in ADHD might begin by speaking with the child and using an DSM-5 checklist of symptoms that is specifically designed to identify children. The doctor will also inquire about the patient's social emotional and mental health history, and how his or her ADHD symptoms affect daily functioning. A majority of doctors will also ask the patient's spouse or other close family members about their observations and if they observe any signs of ADHD. Such personal insight can uncover information that is not gleaned from surveys or ratings.
A psychologist trained in cognitive behavioral therapy can diagnose ADHD in certain instances. However assessment adhd adults do not have the authority to prescribe medication, which is typically administered by a psychiatrist, or neurologists. A therapist trained in ADHD can help the patient develop strategies to manage their symptoms. These include money and time management, organizational strategies, and time management. These therapies are offered in person and via remote mental services like Frida.
Treatment
A thorough assessment of ADHD in adults must comprise an interview to diagnose the condition as well as information from other sources like the spouse or a close relative. The physician might ask the patient to complete one or more of the standardized ADHD rating scales. These tests are based on research and can compare the behaviors of people who suffer from ADHD to the behavior of those who do not have it and assist in determining if there is a problem. Based on the situation certain clinical psychologists might also conduct cognitive tests to determine if someone is suffering from ADHD or other disorders such as a learning impairment or anxiety disorder.
The clinician will also evaluate how the symptoms impact the patient's everyday functioning at work, school or in relationships. For instance, a patient might have trouble keeping the track of appointments and bills or arranging their belongings and thoughts. Many adult patients also suffer from low self-esteem, resentment or low self-esteem because of an ongoing pattern of academic failure, job losses and relationships conflicts. A mental health professional could recommend individual therapy or a program to assist the patient to cope and manage their ADHD symptoms.
If the doctor suspects that a medical issue such as thyroid problems or seizures, that are contributing to the ADHD symptoms the doctor will conduct an exam. He will ask about any previous health issues and if the patient has been injured or had an accident. A thorough medical history will allow the clinician to determine if the patient has been diagnosed with ADHD or other psychiatric and neurological problems, such as anxiety or depression.
Many adults have weak or blurry memories of their childhood and many forget that they were diagnosed with ADHD as children. In order to obtain a more accurate picture, the therapist will interview a person who is significant to the person's life, such as their spouse, family member or even their employer. This is a good way to get a more impartial view of the person and avoid bias.
A thorough ADHD assessment should also include a neuropsychological or psychological test. These tests assess a person's working memory and intelligence, among other cognitive abilities. The psychologist will use the results of these tests to determine whether ADHD contributes to the person's difficulties in learning working, or managing.
Support
Adults who are not diagnosed with ADHD frequently struggle to perform well at work or in school. They may have difficulty keeping track of daily tasks, arranging their belongings and recalling important information. They also might experience difficulties in their relationships or find it difficult to make and keep appointments.
The first step to receive a diagnosis of ADHD is talking to an primary care provider. The doctor will be able to offer recommendations for referrals or refer a mental health professional to conduct an evaluation. Some psychiatrists, graduate psychology programs and private therapists have special training in the psychological evaluation of ADHD.
During the examination, the mental health professional will utilize the standardised ratings scales used for ADHD symptoms in order to determine if a person meets the diagnostic criteria for the condition. There are a variety of different scales for rating, including the Barkley Adult ADHD Scales and Conners' Classroom Assessment of Attention Hyperactivity Disorder Self Report (CAARS). A mental health professional can also utilize cognitive tests in addition to these rating scales to assess the abilities of an adult's executive function spatial and visual skills and working memory.
If the mental health professional concludes that an individual suffers from ADHD the professional will discuss treatment options with the patient. There are many strategies for managing ADHD symptoms, which include medication, therapy and lifestyle modifications. Many people with ADHD have reported better functioning following the use of stimulant drugs, which increase concentration and alertness. Certain adults could also benefit from nonstimulant medications to help reduce depression or anxiety and therapy that incorporates mindfulness techniques and coaching.
It can be a stressful and traumatic experience to be given a diagnosis for ADHD. However with the right help and guidance, people suffering from ADHD can manage their symptoms, and lead fulfilling lives. The key is to be open with your healthcare provider and not be afraid to speak up due to shame or fear of judgment. It is also beneficial to inform your supervisors, colleagues and teachers that you suffer from ADHD. If they know about your challenges, they'll be more understanding and provide the appropriate accommodations, such as extra time for homework.