How to Get the Best ADHD Assessment for Adults
A professional ADHD assessment is the best method to get an accurate diagnosis. Self-assessment is helpful, but cannot replace a consultation with a specialist.
A proper ADHD assessment should look for other mental health issues that can coexist with or mimic symptoms of ADHD and should take into account whether your symptoms began before age 12. The process may also include additional psychological or neuropsychological testing.
Self-Assessment Tools
A self-assessment tool is a form of assessment that analyzes certain traits or symptoms. These tools are typically used in research studies, in clinics, and by health websites to help patients test for ADHD. Some self-assessments are short and provide a thoughtful report at the conclusion of the test. Others are more extensive and require participation from other significant people in the life of the person. These tests can help determine whether or not the person may want to consider getting an assessment for ADHD.
There are many online ADHD screening tests and questionnaires, but the majority of them haven't yet been verified or standardised. It is not recommended to use these tests without consulting a healthcare professional, as they could lead to inaccurate diagnosis. It could also result in unneeded referrals of ADHD assessments for people who are unlikely sufferers. This could waste healthcare resources, cause distress for the individual referred, and result in long wait for an in-depth examination.
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 questionnaire of six items that focuses on the experiences of adults with the most typical symptoms of ADHD. This test is useful in to determine if a person requires further clinical analysis.
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 as well as moderate specificity and sensitivity. It is important to remember that none of these tests will substitute for a thorough evaluation conducted by a psychologist or psychiatrist.
Women's experiences with ADHD symptoms are slightly different than those experienced by men and that's why a number of the self-assessments available have been tailored to women-specific behavioral challenges. These women-specific tools can be an effective way to help people determine if they should seek an expert diagnosis of their ADHD.
Diagnosis
In many cases, the first step in determining the severity of the problem is to talk with an primary care physician who may refer the patient to a psychiatrist or a neurologist who specializes in ADHD. A specialist will usually interview the patient to determine how symptoms affect daily functioning. The doctor may ask the patient to fill out the symptom checklist or rating scale, and also will likely look over the medical and psychiatric histories from childhood through the present. The doctor might also think about whether other disorders that resemble ADHD could be contributing to the patient's symptoms, such as anxiety and depression.
When looking at adults, it's more important to look at the degree of impairment rather than focusing on symptom count or severity. Individuals with ADHD frequently have difficulty meeting school, work and expectations in relationships. It's a good idea for you to tell your supervisors at work, your teachers at school and your loved ones about the challenges you have to have to deal with every day. It can be difficult for patients to discuss such issues. However, it's essential to do this to receive the help they require.
Typically, an neurologist or psychiatrist who is specialized in ADHD will start by talking to the patient and likely employ a symptom checklist from the DSM-5 which is designed for diagnosing children. The doctor will inquire about the patient's emotional, psychiatric and social history, as well how ADHD symptoms impact 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 indications of ADHD. These personal observations can reveal information that cannot be gleaned from ratings or questionnaires.
In some cases psychologists who are certified in cognitive behavioral therapy may be able to provide an ADHD diagnosis. A psychologist is not able to prescribe medication. This is usually performed by a psychiatrist or neurologist. A therapist who is trained to treat ADHD can teach the patient strategies to manage symptoms, for example, managing money and time, as well as organizational strategies. These therapies are offered in person or through online mental health services such as Frida.
Treatment
A thorough evaluation of ADHD in adults must include an interview to diagnose the condition and information from sources outside of the clinic, such as an intimate partner or close family member. The physician may suggest to have the patient complete one or more standardized ADHD ratings scales. These questionnaires are based on research and examine the behavior of people suffering from ADHD against those without it. They aid in determining if a problem exists. Some clinical psychologists will also conduct cognitive tests to determine if someone has ADHD or other disorders like a learning disorder or anxiety disorder.
The physician will also consider how the symptoms interfere with the patient's daily activities at work, school or in relationships. For example, the patient may have difficulty keeping track of bills and appointments or organizing their thoughts and belongings. Additionally many adults suffer from low self-esteem and resentment over the repeated patterns of academic failure or job loss, as well as relationship conflict. A mental health professional may recommend individual therapy or a program that can aid the patient cope with and manage their ADHD symptoms.
If the clinician suspects that a medical condition such as seizures or thyroid issues are contributing to ADHD symptoms, they'll conduct a physical exam. He will inquire about any previous health issues and if the patient has been injured or suffered an accident. A thorough medical history will allow the doctor to determine whether someone has been diagnosed with ADHD or any other psychiatric or neurological disorders, such as depression or anxiety.
Many adults have shaky or hazy memories of their childhood, and they may not remember that they were diagnosed with ADHD as children. The doctor will ask someone who is important in the person's lives like family members, spouse, or employer, to provide a more precise assessment. This is a great method of gaining an objective view of the person and to avoid bias.
A complete ADHD evaluation should include a neuropsychological or psychological assessment. These tests measure the person's intelligence, working memory and other cognitive capabilities. The clinician will utilize the results of these tests to determine if ADHD contributes to the person's difficulties in learning, working or being able to cope.
adhd assessment adults with undiagnosed ADHD often have difficulty performing well at work or at school. They may have trouble keeping on top of their daily chores and organizing their belongings and retaining important information. They might also have issues in their relationships or have difficulty to schedule and keep appointments.
Talking to your primary care provider is the first step to receiving an ADHD diagnosis. They will be able to offer referral options or recommend an expert in mental health to conduct an evaluation. Some psychiatrists or graduate psychology programs as well as private therapists have special training in the evaluation of the psychological aspects of ADHD.
During the assessment of the mental health professional, they will typically use standard scales of rating for ADHD symptoms to determine whether an adult meets the diagnostic criteria for the disorder. A number of different 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 addition to these ratings scales, a mental health professional will usually utilize cognitive tests to evaluate an adult's working memory as well as executive functioning abilities, spatial and visual skills.
If the mental health professional determines that a patient suffers from ADHD they will discuss possible treatment options with them. There are many methods to manage ADHD symptoms that include medication, therapy and lifestyle adjustments. Many adults with ADHD report improved functioning through the use of psychostimulants, stimulant drugs that increase alertness and focus. Many adults also benefit from non-stimulant drugs that reduce anxiety or depression as well as therapy that includes coaching and mindfulness techniques.
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD can be challenging and upsetting, however with the right support those with the condition can be taught to manage their symptoms and lead life that is fulfilling. The key is to remain open with your health care provider and not repress your feelings due to shame or fear of being judged. It is also beneficial to inform your supervisors, colleagues and teachers that you have ADHD. They may be more understanding if they are aware about your difficulties and can offer accommodations such as additional time to complete assignments.