How to Get the Best ADHD Assessment for Adults
The best way to get an accurate diagnosis is by taking an expert ADHD assessment. Self-assessment tools are useful, but they can't replace a consultation and evaluation by a trained specialist.
A thorough ADHD assessment should look for other mental health conditions that can be present alongside or mimic symptoms of ADHD, and it should take into account whether your symptoms began before 12. The process could also include additional neuropsychological or psychological testing.
Self-Assessment Tool
Self-assessment is a form of assessment that examines particular symptoms and characteristics. These tools are often employed in research studies, in clinics and by health websites to help people detect ADHD. Certain self-assessments are brief and provide clear results at the conclusion of the test. Others are longer and require participation from other significant people in a person's life. These tools 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 however the majority of them haven't yet been validated or standardised. 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 specialist referrals for ADHD tests of those who are unlikely to have the disorder. This can waste healthcare funds, cause distress to the person referred, and result in long wait periods 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 examines adults' experiences with the most common symptoms of ADHD. A score of more than 4 on this screener indicates that a person would require further analysis by a doctor.
Other self-assessments that are more thorough include the Conners abbreviated symptom assessment and the CBCLAP. These scales are both extremely precise in diagnosing and have a moderate level of sensitivity and specificity. 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 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 issues with behavior. These tools for women can help users decide if they would like to get an expert ADHD diagnosis.
Diagnosis
In many instances the primary care physician will refer the patient to an ADHD-specialist psychiatrist or neurologist. A specialist will typically interview the patient to determine how their symptoms affect daily functioning. The physician will request the patient to fill out an inventory of symptoms or a rating scale. They will also review the patient's medical and psychiatric histories from childhood until the present. The doctor will also consider other disorders that may mimic ADHD, such as depression and anxiety.
When assessing adults, it's more important to look at the functional impairment of the adult than the amount or severity of symptoms. People suffering from ADHD are often unable to meet school, work and relationship expectations. It's recommended to communicate the details with those who supervise you at work, teachers at school and family members so that they are aware of your everyday struggles. It isn't easy for patients to talk about such problems. However, it is essential to do this to receive the assistance they require.
A psychiatrist or neurologist who is skilled in ADHD can begin by interviewing the child, and then using the DSM-5 symptom checklist specifically designed to help diagnose children. The clinician will also ask about the person's social, emotional and psychiatric history, and how his or her ADHD symptoms interfere with everyday functioning. A lot of doctors will also inquire about the patient's partner or close family members about their observations and whether they have noticed any indications of ADHD. This type of personal perspective can provide information that isn't available through surveys or ratings.
A psychologist who is trained in cognitive behavioral treatment can diagnose ADHD in certain cases. However psychologists do not have the authority to prescribe medication, which is usually given by a psychiatrist or neurologist. A therapist trained in ADHD can assist the patient to develop strategies to manage their symptoms. These include money and time management, organizational strategies, and time management. These therapies are available in person and through telemental health services, like Frida.
Treatment
A thorough assessment of ADHD for adults should include an interview for diagnosis and information from other sources like an intimate partner or close family member. The physician might ask the patient to fill out one or more standardized ADHD rating scales. These questionnaires are based on research to assess the behaviors of those with ADHD to the behavior of those who do not have it, and aid in determining if there is an issue. Depending on treating adhd in adults , some clinical psychologists may also conduct cognitive tests to aid in diagnosing ADHD or other issues such as a learning impairment or anxiety disorder.
The physician will also look at the patient's symptoms and determine if they affect their daily functioning in school, at work or in relationships. The patient might be unable to keep on top of appointments, bills or arrange thoughts and belongings. Many adult patients also have low self-esteem, resentment or low self-esteem because of a pattern of chronic academic failure, job losses and conflicts in relationships. A mental health professional might recommend individual talk therapy or a program to help the patient to manage and cope with their ADHD symptoms.
If the physician suspects that a medical condition such as thyroid problems or seizures, that are responsible for the ADHD symptoms then he will conduct a physical exam. He will ask about any prior health issues, and also if the patient was injured or involved in an accident. 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 problems such as anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder.
Many adults have weak or spotty memories of their childhood and many forget that they were diagnosed with ADHD as children. The clinician will seek out someone who is important in the life of the patient such as a spouse, family member or an employer to provide a more accurate assessment. This will allow the clinician to gain an impartial perspective of the person's behavior and to avoid the potential for bias in the assessment.
A comprehensive ADHD assessment should include a neuropsychological or psychological assessment. These tests evaluate the person's working memory, intelligence and other cognitive abilities. The psychologist will use the results of these tests to determine whether ADHD is causing the person's difficulty learning working, or managing.
Support
Many adults who have not been diagnosed with ADHD struggle to be productive at school or at work. They may have difficulty keeping on top of their daily activities and organizing their belongings and retaining important information. They might also experience difficulties in their relationships or find it difficult to keep appointments.
The first step to receive a diagnosis of ADHD is talking to an primary care provider. They can offer referral options or recommend mental health professionals for an assessment. Some psychiatrists or graduate psychology programs as well as private therapists are trained in the evaluation of the psychological aspects of ADHD.
In the course of the evaluation the mental health professional typically uses 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 and include 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 mental health professionals usually use cognitive tests to examine an adult's working memory ability, executive functioning capabilities and spatial and visual abilities.
If a mental health professional is able to determine that a patient is suffering from ADHD they will discuss the treatment options with them. There are several methods to manage ADHD symptoms, which include medication, therapy and lifestyle adjustments. Many adults with ADHD have reported improved performance through the use of psychostimulants, stimulant medicines that increase alertness and focus. Some adults also benefit from non-stimulant medication which reduce depression or anxiety and also from therapy that incorporates mindfulness techniques and coaching.
It can be a challenging and stressful experience to be given a diagnosis for ADHD. However, with the right support and guidance, those suffering from ADHD can manage their symptoms and live full lives. The key is to remain open with your health care provider and not hold back because of fear or shame of judgment. You can also inform your co-workers and teachers about ADHD. They might be more understanding if they know about your difficulties and can provide accommodations, such as additional time to complete assignments.