How to Get the Best ADHD Assessment for Adults
The best method to obtain an accurate diagnosis is by taking an expert ADHD assessment. Self-assessment tools can be useful, but they can't substitute a consultation and evaluation with an experienced professional.
An ADHD assessment should include a look to see if you have other mental health issues that could be coexisting or resemble ADHD symptoms, and should also consider if your symptoms started before the age of 12. The process could also include additional neuropsychological or psychological tests.
Self-Assessment Tools
A self-assessment questionnaire which examines specific signs and traits. These tools are often used in clinical studies, research studies, and by health websites to help patients test for ADHD. Certain self-assessments are brief and provide thorough results at the conclusion of the test, while others are more thorough and require participation from significant people in the life (such as family members or spouses). These tests can be used to determine if one should seek an ADHD assessment.
There are numerous online ADHD screening and assessment questionnaires, but most of them have not been scientifically validated or standardized. It is not advised to use these assessments without consulting a healthcare professional, as they can lead incorrect diagnosis. It could also result in unnecessary referrals of ADHD tests for those who are not likely to be suffering. This can waste healthcare funds, cause distress to the person being referred and cause long wait time 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 6-item test that examines the experiences of adults with the most common ADHD symptoms. A score of 4 or higher on this screener means that the person could need further evaluation by a clinician.
Other self-assessments that are more comprehensive include the Conners Abbreviated Symptom Questionnaire and the CBCL-AP. Both of these scales have been found to have high diagnostic accuracy as well as moderate specificity and sensitivity. However it is crucial to keep in mind that any of these tests can't replace the need for a thorough clinical assessment by a trained psychologist or psychiatrist.
Women's experiences with ADHD symptoms differ slightly than those experienced by men, which is why several of the self-assessments available are specifically designed for women with behavioral challenges. These tools for women can assist people decide if they would like to get a professional ADHD diagnosis.
iampsychiatry
In many instances, the primary doctor of care will refer the patient to an ADHD specialist psychiatrist or neurologist. A specialist will usually talk to the patient to determine how their symptoms affect their daily life. The clinician may ask the patient complete a symptom checklist or behavior rating scale, and also will likely review the medical and psychiatric histories from childhood through the present. The doctor may also look at other disorders that may mimic ADHD like depression and anxiety.
When assessing adults, it is more important to take into account the functional impairment of the adult, rather than the severity or number of symptoms. People suffering from ADHD struggle to meet expectations at work, school and 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 so that they have a full picture of your everyday struggles. Patients may be uncomfortable bringing up these concerns, but it's important to do so in order to receive the assistance you require.
Typically, an neurologist or psychiatrist who is specialized in ADHD will begin by talking to the patient and will likely use a symptom checklist from the DSM-5 that is geared toward diagnosing children. The clinician will ask about the patient's mental, emotional and social history as well how ADHD symptoms affect their daily life. Many doctors also like to consult with the patient's spouse and other close family members about their experiences with the person's behavior and whether they notice any signs of ADHD. This kind of personal insight can reveal details that are not available from questionnaires or ratings.
A psychologist trained in cognitive behavioral therapy can diagnose ADHD in some cases. However psychologists do not have the authority to prescribe medication, which is typically administered by a psychiatrist, or neurologist. 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 available in person or through the internet, such as Frida.
Treatment
A thorough assessment of ADHD for adults should include a diagnostic interview and information from sources outside of the clinic, such as an intimate partner or close family member. The clinician may ask to see the person fill out one or more standardized ADHD ratings scales. These tests are based on research and compare the behavior of people suffering from ADHD against those without it. They aid in determining whether there is a problem. Based on the situation the psychologist may also administer cognitive tests to help diagnose ADHD or other disorders such as a learning impairment or anxiety disorder.
The clinician will also evaluate how the symptoms impact the person's daily functioning at work, school or in relationships. The patient may find it difficult to keep the track of appointments, bills, or organize thoughts and belongings. Many adult patients also suffer from low self-esteem, resentment and low self-esteem as a result of the pattern of constant academic failure, job loss and conflicts in relationships. A mental health professional could recommend individual talk therapy, or a program to aid the patient cope with and manage their ADHD symptoms.
If the doctor suspects that a medical condition such as thyroid problems or seizures, that are contributing to the ADHD symptoms, he will perform an examination. The doctor will inquire about previous health issues and if the patient was injured or involved in an accident. A thorough medical history can help the clinician determine if the person has been diagnosed in the past of ADHD or any other psychiatric or neurological issues like bipolar, depression, or anxiety disorder.
Many adults have poor or spotty memories of their childhood, and they may not remember that they were diagnosed with ADHD as children. The clinician will ask anyone who is significant in the person's lives like family members, spouse or even an employer, to provide a more precise assessment. This is a good method to gain an objective view of the person and avoid bias.
A complete ADHD evaluation should include a neuropsychological or psychological assessment. These tests evaluate the level of working memory and intelligence as well as other cognitive capabilities. The clinician will use the results of these tests to determine if ADHD is causing the person's difficulty in learning, working or coping.
Support
Many adults with undiagnosed ADHD struggle to perform at work or school. They may have trouble keeping track of their daily tasks as well as organizing their personal belongings and remembering important information. They may also experience issues in their relationships or find it difficult to schedule and keep appointments.
The first step in getting a diagnosis of ADHD is speaking with an primary care provider. The doctor will be able to offer recommendations for referrals or refer a mental health professional for an evaluation. Certain psychiatrists as well as graduate psychology programs and private therapists are trained in the evaluation of the psychological aspects of ADHD.
During the examination of the mental health professional, they typically uses standardized scales of rating for ADHD symptoms to determine if an adult meets diagnostic criteria for the disorder. There are a variety of different scales of rating that are available, including the Barkley Adult ADHD Scales and Conners' Classroom Assessment of Attention Hyperactivity Disorder Self Report (CAARS). In addition to these ratings scales, a mental health professional will generally utilize cognitive tests to evaluate an adult's working memory ability, executive functioning capabilities and spatial and visual skills.
If a mental health professional concludes that an individual has ADHD, he or she will then discuss possible treatment options with the patient. There are many strategies to manage ADHD symptoms, such as medication, therapy and lifestyle changes. Many adults with ADHD have reported improved performance when they take stimulant medication, which increase alertness and concentration. Certain adults also benefit from non-stimulant medication which reduce depression or anxiety as well as therapy that includes mindfulness techniques and coaching.
It can be a difficult and upsetting experience to receive the diagnosis of ADHD. However, with the right support and guidance, people suffering from ADHD can manage their symptoms, and live full lives. It's essential to be open with your doctor and to not conceal anything due to shame or fear. You can also tell your teachers and coworkers about ADHD. If they are aware of your struggles, they may be more understanding and provide accommodations like additional time for homework.
