How to Get the Best ADHD Assessment for Adults
A professional ADHD assessment is the most effective method to get an accurate diagnosis. Using self-assessment tools can be helpful, but they cannot replace a consultation and evaluation by a qualified specialist.
A thorough ADHD assessment should check for other mental health issues that can be present alongside or mimic symptoms of ADHD and also take into account whether your symptoms began before age 12 years old. Additional tests for neuropsychological or psychological testing might be required.
Self-Assessment Tools
Self-assessment is a form of assessment that focuses on specific signs and traits. These tools are commonly used in clinical studies, research studies and by health websites to help patients test for ADHD. Self-assessments may be short and offer thorough results at the conclusion of the test, whereas others are more comprehensive and require participation from significant people in the life (such as a spouse or family member). These tests can be used to determine if one should seek an ADHD assessment.
There are a variety of online ADHD screening tests and questionnaires but the majority of them haven't been tested or standardised. Utilizing these tests without the assistance of a health professional is not recommended since they can lead to incorrect diagnosis. It could also result in unneeded referrals of ADHD assessments for people who are not likely to be suffering. This could waste healthcare resources, cause stress for the individual referred, and lead to long waiting times for an in-depth interview.
The World Health Organisation and the Workgroup on Adult ADHD have generated a short survey known as the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale Screener (ASRS). The ASRS is a questionnaire of six items that assesses the experiences of adults with the most common symptoms of ADHD. This test is useful in determining if an individual needs more clinical analysis.
Other more comprehensive self assessments include the Conners abbreviated symptom survey and the CBCLAP. These scales are both highly precise in terms of diagnosis and have a moderate degree of specificity and sensitivity. However it is crucial to keep in mind that these tests will not replace the need for a thorough assessment by a trained psychologist or psychiatrist.
Women's ADHD symptoms differ slightly from men's and that's why certain self-assessments are designed for women with specific issues. These specific tools for women are helpful in helping people determine if they're likely to require an expert diagnosis of their ADHD.
Diagnosis
In many instances the primary doctor of care will refer the patient to an ADHD-specialist neurologist or psychiatrist. A specialist will usually interview the patient to determine how symptoms impact daily functioning. The physician might ask the patient to fill out the symptom checklist or rating scale, and also will likely review the medical and psychiatric history from childhood to the present. The doctor may also inquire whether other disorders that resemble 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 number or severity of symptoms. People suffering from ADHD have difficulty meeting expectations at school, work as well as in relationships. It's an excellent idea to discuss the facts with people who supervise you at work, your teachers at school, and your family members to ensure that they are aware of your daily difficulties. It can be difficult for patients to discuss such issues. However, it's important to do so to receive the assistance they require.
A psychiatrist or neurologist who specializes in ADHD can begin by interviewing the child, and then using a DSM-5 checklist of symptoms that is specifically designed to help diagnose children. The doctor will also inquire about the patient's social emotional and mental health history, as well as how their ADHD symptoms impact daily functioning. Many doctors will also ask the patient's partner or other close family members about their observations and if they observe any indications of ADHD. This kind of personal perspective can provide information that is not accessible through questionnaires or ratings.
A psychologist trained in cognitive behavior therapy may diagnose ADHD in certain cases. However, a psychologist does not have the authority to prescribe medication, which is typically provided by a psychiatrist or neurologist. A therapist who is trained in treating ADHD can help the patient learn techniques that can help manage symptoms, for example, managing money and time, as well as methods for organizing. These therapies are offered in person and through online services like Frida.
Treatment
A thorough assessment of ADHD in adults must include an interview for diagnosis and information from independent sources such the spouse or a close relative. The physician may ask the person to fill out one or more of the standardized ADHD rating scales. These tests are based on research and analyze the behavior of those with ADHD against those who are not. They can help determine if a problem exists. Based on the situation the psychologist may also conduct cognitive tests to help diagnose ADHD or other issues such as a learning impairment or anxiety disorder.
The clinician will also evaluate how the symptoms impact the patient's everyday functioning at school, work or in relationships. Patients may be unable to keep the track 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 could suggest individual therapy or a program that assists the patient learn to manage and cope with their ADHD symptoms.
If the doctor suspects that an illness like thyroid issues or seizures, are contributing to the ADHD symptoms then he will conduct an exam. The doctor will inquire about previous health issues and if the patient has been injured or suffered an accident. A careful history will help the clinician determine if the person was diagnosed in the past of ADHD or any other neurological or psychiatric issues such as bipolar, depression, or anxiety disorder.
Many adults have poor or blurry memories of their childhood and they may not remember that they were diagnosed with ADHD as children. The therapist will seek out someone who is important to the person's lives such as family members, spouse or even an employer, to give a more accurate assessment. This is an effective method of gaining an objective perspective of the individual and to avoid bias.
A complete ADHD evaluation should also include a psychological or neuropsychological assessment. These tests measure a person's working memory and intelligence among other cognitive abilities. These tests will help the clinician determine if ADHD is a factor in the person's problems with working, learning, or coping.
Support
Many adults who are not diagnosed with ADHD struggle to perform at school or work. They may have difficulty managing their daily tasks, organizing their belongings and retaining important information. They might also have issues in their relationships or find it difficult to keep appointments and make them.
The first step in getting a diagnosis of ADHD is to talk to the primary care physician. He or she can provide suggestions for referrals or recommend mental health professionals for an evaluation. Some psychiatrists, graduate programs in psychology and private therapists are trained in the psychological evaluation of ADHD.
During the examination, the mental health professional will use standardized ratings scales for ADHD symptoms in order to determine if an adult is meeting the diagnostic criteria for the condition. There are many different scales of rating which include the Barkley Adult ADHD Scales and Conners' Classroom Assessment of Attention Hyperactivity Disorder Self Report (CAARS). In addition to these ratings scales, mental health professionals generally utilize cognitive tests to evaluate the working memory of an adult ability, executive functioning capabilities and spatial and visual abilities.
If a mental health professional concludes that a patient has ADHD they will discuss possible treatment options with them. There are adhd help for adults of strategies to manage ADHD symptoms, including therapy, medication and lifestyle changes. Many adults suffering from ADHD have reported better functioning after taking stimulant medications which improve alertness and concentration. Many adults also benefit from non-stimulant medication which reduce depression or anxiety and also from therapy that incorporates coaching and mindfulness techniques.
It can be a stressful and upsetting experience to receive a diagnosis for ADHD. However, with the right support and guidance, people with ADHD can manage their symptoms, and lead fulfilling lives. It is essential to be honest with your doctor and don't hide anything out of fear or shame. It is also beneficial to inform co-workers, supervisors and teachers that you suffer from ADHD. If they are aware of your struggles, they may be more understanding and provide accommodation such as extra time for assignments.