How to Get the Best ADHD Assessment for Adults
The best method to obtain an accurate diagnosis is through an expert ADHD assessment. Self-assessment tools can be helpful, but they cannot substitute for a consultation and assessment by a trained specialist.
An ADHD assessment should include a look to determine if you have other mental health issues that may coexist or mimic ADHD symptoms, and should also consider if your symptoms began before the age of 12. The process could also include additional psychological or neuropsychological testing.
Self-Assessment Tool
A self-assessment questionnaire that examines specific signs and traits. These tools are often employed in clinical studies, research studies, and by health websites to help patients test for ADHD. Some self-assessments are short and provide thoughtful results at the end of the test. Some are longer and require participation from other significant people in the life of the person. These tests can be used to determine whether one should seek an ADHD assessment.
There are numerous online ADHD screening and assessment questionnaires however, the majority of them have not been scientifically verified or standardized. Making use of these tests without the assistance of a healthcare provider is not recommended as it can lead to inaccurate diagnosis. It could also result in unnecessary referrals of ADHD tests for those who are unlikely sufferers. This can waste healthcare resources, cause stress for the individual referred, and lead to long wait 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 6-item questionnaire that focuses on the experiences of adults with the most typical symptoms of ADHD. A score of 4 or more on this test indicates that the person could need further evaluation by a clinician.
Other self-assessments that are more extensive include the Conners abbreviated symptom assessment and the CBCLAP. Both scales have been found to have high diagnostic accuracy and have moderate sensitivity and specificity. It is important to keep in mind that neither of these tests can replace a thorough evaluation by a psychologist or psychiatrist.
Women's experiences with ADHD symptoms can be a bit different from those experienced by males 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 a useful way to help people determine if they may want to seek an expert diagnosis of their ADHD.
Diagnosis
In many instances the primary doctor of care will refer the patient to an ADHD-specialist psychiatrist or neurologist. In most cases, a specialist will need to speak with the patient to determine if the symptoms affect them in daily activities. The physician might ask the patient to fill out the symptom checklist or rating scale, and also will likely go over the medical and psychiatric history from childhood through the present. The doctor will also examine other disorders that might be similar to ADHD, such as anxiety and depression.
When assessing adults, it is more important to take into account the functional impairment of the adult rather than the amount or severity of symptoms. People suffering from ADHD often have trouble meeting the demands of school, work or expectations of relationships. It's a good idea to share the facts with those who supervise you at work, teachers at school, and your family members to ensure that they are aware of your daily difficulties. Patients may be embarrassed to bring up such concerns, but it's important to do so in order to get the help you require.
A neurologist or psychiatrist who is skilled in ADHD can begin by interviewing the child using a DSM-5 checklist of symptoms that is specifically designed to help diagnose children. The doctor will inquire about the patient's psychiatric, emotional and social history as well how 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 notice any indications of ADHD. This type of personal insight can reveal information that isn't available through surveys or ratings.
A psychologist who is trained in cognitive behavior therapy may diagnose ADHD in some cases. However, a psychologist does not have the authority to prescribe medication, which is typically provided by a psychiatrist or neurologists. A therapist specially trained in treating ADHD can teach the patient skills that might help manage symptoms, including time and money management and methods for organizing. These therapies are available in person or via online mental health services like Frida.
Treatment
A thorough assessment for ADHD in adults should include a diagnostic interview and information from outside sources, such as the spouse or a close family member. The physician may suggest to have the patient complete one or more standardized ADHD ratings scales. These tests are based on research and can compare the behaviors of people with ADHD to the behavior of those who do not have it and assist in determining if there is a problem. Some clinical psychologists will also conduct cognitive tests to determine if someone has ADHD or other disorders, such as an anxiety disorder or a learning disorder.
The physician will also consider the extent to which the symptoms affect the patient's daily activities at work, school or in relationships. For example, the patient might have trouble keeping track of bills and appointments or arranging their belongings and thoughts. Additionally, many adult patients have low self-esteem and resentment toward the repeated patterns of academic failure, job loss and relationship conflict. A mental health professional could suggest individual therapy or a program that assists the patient to manage and cope with their ADHD symptoms.
If the physician suspects that a medical problem like seizures or thyroid issues are contributing to ADHD symptoms, he'll conduct an exam. The doctor will also inquire with the patient about any previous health issues and if they have suffered any injuries or accidents. A thorough history will aid the physician in determining if the person has been diagnosed in the past of ADHD or any other psychiatric or neurological issues such as depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder.
speaking of have shaky or blurry memories of their childhood, and they may not remember that they were diagnosed with ADHD as children. To gain a more precise picture, the clinician will interview someone significant in the life of the person for example, their spouse, family member or even their employer. This is a way to get an objective view of the person's behavior and to avoid the potential for a bias in the evaluation.
A comprehensive ADHD assessment should also include a neuropsychological or psychological test. These tests evaluate the person's working memory and intelligence as well as other cognitive capabilities. These tests will help the therapist determine whether ADHD contributes to the individual's difficulties in learning, working or dealing with.
Support
Many adults who are not diagnosed with ADHD struggle to be productive at school or at work. 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 have difficulty to keep appointments.
The first step to receive a diagnosis of ADHD is speaking with a primary care provider. He or she can provide recommendations for referrals or suggest mental health professionals for an evaluation. Some psychiatrists, graduate programs in psychology, and private therapy professionals are trained in the psychological evaluation of ADHD.
During the examination, the mental health professional will usually use standardized scales of rating for ADHD symptoms to determine if an adult is able to meet the diagnostic criteria for the disorder. A variety of different ratings scales are available for use, including the Barkley Adult ADHD Rating Scales and the Conners' Classroom Assessment of Attention and 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 abilities, and working memory.
If a mental health professional concludes that an individual suffers from ADHD the professional will then discuss treatment options with the patient. There are many strategies to manage ADHD symptoms, such as therapy, medication and lifestyle adjustments. Many people with ADHD have reported improved performance by taking psychostimulants, stimulant medicines that improve focus and alertness. Many adults also benefit from non-stimulant medication that help reduce depression or anxiety and also from therapy that incorporates mindfulness and coaching techniques.
The diagnosis of ADHD can be difficult and stressful, but with the right help, people living with the disorder can learn to manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives. The key is to remain open with your doctor and not hold back because of shame or fear of judgement. It is also beneficial to inform co-workers, supervisors and teachers that you have ADHD. If they are aware of your struggles, they may be more understanding and offer accommodation such as extra time for assignments.