How to Get the Best ADHD Assessment for Adults
A professional ADHD assessment is the most effective way to obtain an accurate diagnosis. Self-assessment is helpful, but cannot replace a consultation with an expert.
An ADHD assessment should include a look to determine if you suffer from other mental health issues that could be coexisting or resemble ADHD symptoms, and you should also be aware if your symptoms started before the age of 12. Additional psychological or neuropsychological tests could be required.
Self-Assessment Tools
Self-assessment is a form of assessment which examines specific signs and traits. These tools are often used in clinical studies, research studies, and by health websites to assist people screen for ADHD. Self-assessments may be brief and provide thorough results at the conclusion of the test, while others are more extensive and require participation from important people in the individual's life (such as family members or spouses). These tests can be used to determine if a person should consider getting an ADHD assessment.
There are numerous online ADHD screening tests and assessments however, the majority of them aren't scientifically verified or standardized. Using these assessments without the support of a medical professional is not recommended since it could lead to inaccurate diagnosis. It could also result in unnecessary referrals to specialists for ADHD assessments of people who aren't likely to be suffering from the disorder. This can waste healthcare resources, cause stress for the person being referred to, and lead to long waiting times for an in-depth interview.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Workgroup on Adult ADHD created a brief survey called the Adult ADHD Self Report Scale Screener. The ASRS is a six-item survey that focuses on the experiences of adults with the most typical symptoms of ADHD. A score of more than 4 on this test indicates that a person would need further evaluation by a doctor.
Other more comprehensive self assessments include the Conners abbreviated symptom assessment and the CBCLAP. Both of these scales are highly precise in diagnosing and have a moderate level of specificity and sensitivity. However, it is important to keep in mind that any of these tests cannot substitute for a thorough medical examination by a certified psychologist or psychiatrist.
Women's ADHD symptoms are slightly different from men's and that's why certain self-assessments for women are specifically designed to address specific issues. These specific tools for women are a useful way to help people determine if they should seek a professional diagnosis of their ADHD.
Diagnosis
In many cases the primary medical doctor will refer the patient to an ADHD specialist neurologist or psychiatrist. Typically, a specialist will have to interview the person to assess how his or her symptoms interfere in daily activities. The clinician may ask the patient fill out an inventory of symptoms or a behavior rating scale, and will likely go over the medical and psychiatric history of the patient from childhood through the present. The clinician will also examine other disorders that could be akin to ADHD like depression and anxiety.
When looking at adults, it's more important to consider the extent of functional impairment than at symptom count or severity. People suffering from ADHD often have trouble meeting school, work and relationship expectations. It's a good idea for you to tell your supervisors at work as well as your teachers at school and your loved ones about the difficulties you face every day. Patients can feel uncomfortable bringing up these issues, but it's critical to speak up in order to get the help you require.
Generally speaking, an neurologist or psychiatrist who is specialized in ADHD will begin by interviewing the patient and will likely utilize a symptom checklist from the DSM-5 that is geared toward diagnosing children. The doctor will also inquire about the patient's personal, emotional and psychiatric background, as well as how his or her ADHD symptoms impact daily functioning. Many doctors also inquire about the patient's spouse or other close family members about their observations of the patient's behavior, and if they see any symptoms of ADHD. This type of personal knowledge can provide information that isn't available from questionnaires or ratings.
A psychologist who is trained in cognitive behavior therapy may diagnose ADHD in certain instances. A psychologist is not authorized to prescribe medication. This is usually done by a neurologist or psychiatrist. A therapist who is specially trained in treating ADHD can help the patient learn techniques that can help manage symptoms, including managing time and money and organizational strategies. These therapies are offered in person and through telemental health services, such as Frida.
Treatment
A thorough assessment of ADHD for adults should include an interview for diagnosis as well as information from independent sources such a spouse or close relative. The clinician may ask to have the patient complete one or more of the standardized ADHD ratings scales. These tests are based upon research and analyze the behavior of people suffering from ADHD to those who are not. They aid in determining if a problem exists. Certain clinical psychologists conduct cognitive tests to diagnose ADHD or other problems, such as an anxiety disorder or a learning disorder.
The clinician will also evaluate the patient's symptoms and determine if they affect their daily functioning in school, at work or in relationships. For instance, the patient might be struggling to keep the track of appointments and bills or arranging their belongings and thoughts. Additionally, many adult patients have low self-esteem and resentment toward the repeated patterns of academic failure or job loss, as well as relationship conflict. A mental health professional may suggest individual therapy, or a program that can help the person cope and manage their ADHD symptoms.
If the clinician suspects a medical issue like thyroid issues or seizures, is contributing to the ADHD symptoms, he will perform an examination. He will also ask the patient about previous health issues and whether they've had any accidents or injuries. A careful history will help the clinician determine whether the patient has been diagnosed in the past of ADHD or any other neurological or psychiatric issues like depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder.
Many adults have a weak or weak recall of their childhood, and may not remember they were diagnosed as ADHD children. To obtain a more accurate picture, the clinician will interview someone significant in the life of the person like their spouse or family member or employer. This can help gain an impartial assessment of the behavior of the individual and to eliminate the possibility for a bias in the assessment.
A thorough ADHD assessment should also include a neuropsychological or psychological assessment. These tests evaluate a person's working memory and intelligence, in addition to other cognitive abilities. These tests will help the therapist determine if ADHD is a factor in the person's difficulties in learning, working, or coping.
Support
Many adults with undiagnosed ADHD struggle to perform at school or work. They may struggle to keep on top of their daily chores as well as organizing their personal belongings and retaining important details. They might also have issues in their relationships or have difficulty to keep appointments and make them.
Talking with your primary care provider is the first step towards receiving an ADHD diagnosis. He or she will be able to provide referral options or recommend an expert in mental health for an assessment. Certain psychiatrists as well as graduate psychology programs and private therapists are trained in the psychological evaluation of ADHD.
During the assessment the mental health professional will utilize the standardised ratings scales used for ADHD symptoms to determine if an adult meets the diagnostic criteria for the condition. There are a variety of different scales for rating which include the Barkley Adult ADHD Scales and Conners' Classroom Assessment of Attention Hyperactivity Disorder Self Report (CAARS). A mental health professional may also utilize cognitive tests in addition to these rating scales in order to assess an adult's executive functioning abilities spatial and visual abilities, and working memory.
If the mental health professional determines that a patient has ADHD they will discuss possible treatment options with them. There are several strategies for managing ADHD symptoms, which include medication, therapy and lifestyle adjustments. you can find out more suffering from ADHD have reported improved functioning when they take stimulant medication that improve concentration and alertness. Certain adults also benefit from non-stimulant drugs that reduce anxiety or depression, as well as from therapy that includes mindfulness techniques and coaching.
It can be a difficult and stressful experience to receive an diagnosis of ADHD. However with the right support and guidance, people suffering from ADHD can manage their symptoms, and live full lives. The key is to remain open with your healthcare provider and not hold back because of shame or fear of judgment. It's also helpful to tell your supervisors, colleagues and teachers that you have ADHD. If they know about your struggles, they may be more understanding and provide accommodation such as extra time for homework.