How to Get the Best ADHD Assessment for Adults
The best method to obtain an accurate diagnosis is by taking a professional ADHD assessment. Self-assessment tools can be useful, but they are not able to replace a consultation and evaluation with an experienced professional.
A proper ADHD assessment should check for other mental health issues that can coexist with or mimic symptoms of ADHD and should take into account whether your symptoms started before age 12. The process may also include additional neuropsychological or psychological tests.
Self-Assessment Tools
Self-assessment is a form of assessment which examines particular symptoms and characteristics. These tools are typically used in clinical studies, research studies and on 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 longer and require participation from significant people in the life of the person. These tests can help determine whether or not the individual might be interested in getting an assessment for ADHD.
There are many online ADHD assessments and screening questionnaires, but most of them have not been scientifically verified or standardized. It is not recommended to use these tests without consulting a healthcare professional, as they could lead to inaccurate diagnoses. It could also lead to unnecessary specialist referrals for ADHD assessments of people who are not likely to suffer from the disorder. This can result in a waste of healthcare funds and cause distress for the person who is referred to, and cause long wait times for an in depth interview.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Workgroup on Adult ADHD created a short survey called the Adult ADHD Self Report Scale Screener. The ASRS is a six-item questionnaire that examines the experiences of adults with the most common ADHD symptoms. This test is useful in to determine if a person requires an additional clinical examination.
Other more comprehensive self-assessments include the Conners Abbreviated Symptom Questionnaire and the CBCL-AP. Both scales have been found to have high diagnostic accuracy and have moderate sensitivity and specificity. However, it is important to keep in mind that these tests cannot substitute for a thorough clinical assessment by a trained psychologist or psychiatrist.
Women's experiences with ADHD symptoms differ slightly from those experienced by males and that's why a number of the self-assessments that are available are specifically designed for women with behavioral challenges. These women-specific tools can be a useful way to help people understand if they're likely to require an expert diagnosis of their ADHD.
Diagnosis
In most instances, the first step in determining the severity of the problem is to talk with an primary care physician, who could refer the patient to a psychiatrist or neurologists who specialize in ADHD. Typically, a specialist will need to speak with the patient to determine if their symptoms interfere with daily functioning. The clinician will request the patient to fill out a symptom list or behavior rating scale. They will also look over the patient's medical and mental health experiences from childhood until the present. The doctor may also consider other disorders that might be similar to ADHD, such as depression and anxiety.
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 with ADHD frequently have difficulty meeting work, school and expectations of relationships. It's a good idea for you to tell your supervisors at work, your teachers at school, and your family about the difficulties you encounter every day. It can be difficult for patients to talk about such problems. However, it's important to do so to get the help they require.
Typically, adhd assessment adult or neurologist who specializes in ADHD will begin by interviewing the patient. They will likely use a checklist of symptoms from the DSM-5 that is geared toward diagnosing children. The doctor will inquire about the patient's psychiatric, emotional, and social history, as well how ADHD symptoms affect their daily life. A lot of doctors inquire about the patient's spouse or other close family members about their experiences with the patient's behavior, and if they see any symptoms of ADHD. This personal perspective can provide information that isn't available from questionnaires or ratings.
In some instances, a psychologist who is certified in cognitive behavioral therapy may be able to make an ADHD diagnosis. A psychologist is not licensed to prescribe medication. This is usually performed by a neurologist or psychiatrist. A therapist with special training in ADHD can assist the patient learn how to manage symptoms. These include money and time management, organizational strategies, and time management. These therapies are available both in person and via telemental services such as Frida.
Treatment
A thorough assessment for ADHD in adults should consist of an interview with a doctor and information from independent sources, like the person's spouse or a close family member. The clinician may ask to have the patient complete one or more standardized ADHD ratings scales. These questionnaires are based on research and compare the behavior of people suffering from ADHD to those who are not. They aid in determining if a problem exists. Some clinical psychologists will also conduct cognitive tests to determine if someone has ADHD or other problems such as an anxiety disorder or a learning disorder.
The clinician will also evaluate the person's symptoms and how they impact their daily life at work, in school or in relationships. The patient may have difficulty keeping track of bills, appointments or arrange thoughts and belongings. Many adult patients also have low self-esteem, resentment or low self-esteem due to the pattern of constant academic failure, job losses and relationships conflicts. A mental health professional might suggest individual therapy, or a program designed to assist the patient to cope and manage their ADHD symptoms.
If the doctor suspects that a medical condition such as thyroid problems or seizures, are contributing to the ADHD symptoms, he will perform an examination. The doctor will also inquire with the patient about any previous health issues and whether they've had any injuries or accidents. A thorough medical history will allow the doctor to determine if the patient has been diagnosed with ADHD or other psychiatric and neurological problems, such as depression or anxiety.
Many adults have shaky or blurry memories of their childhood, and may forget that they were diagnosed with ADHD as children. The clinician will ask anyone who is important to the life of the patient like a spouse, family member or even an employer, to provide a more accurate assessment. This is a good method of gaining an impartial view of the person and avoid bias.
A thorough ADHD assessment should also include a neuropsychological, or psychological test. These tests measure the level of working memory and intelligence, as well as other cognitive capabilities. These tests can help the therapist determine if ADHD contributes to the person's difficulties in learning, working or coping.
Support
Many adults with undiagnosed ADHD struggle to perform at school or work. They may have difficulty keeping track of their daily tasks, arranging their belongings and retaining 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 to talk to a primary care provider. They can offer suggestions for referrals or recommend mental health professionals for an evaluation. Certain psychiatrists as well as graduate programs in psychology and private therapists are trained in the psychological evaluation of ADHD.
During the evaluation, a mental health professional will use standardized ratings scales for ADHD symptoms to determine if a person meets the diagnostic criteria for the condition. There are a number of different rating scales which include the Barkley Adult ADHD Scales and Conners' Classroom Assessment of Attention Hyperactivity Disorder Self Report (CAARS). A mental health professional can also use cognitive tests in addition to these rating scales in order to assess the abilities of an adult's executive function spatial and visual skills and working memory.
If the mental health professional concludes that a patient suffers from ADHD they will discuss possible treatment options with them. There are many strategies to manage ADHD symptoms, such as medication, therapy and lifestyle changes. Many adults suffering from ADHD have reported improved functioning after taking stimulant medications that improve alertness and concentration. Some adults may also benefit from nonstimulant medicines to ease depression or anxiety as well as therapy that includes mindfulness techniques and coaching.
It can be a difficult and upsetting experience to receive a diagnosis for ADHD. However with the right support and guidance, those suffering from ADHD can manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives. The key is to remain open with your healthcare provider and not hold back because of shame or fear of judgement. You can also tell your co-workers and teachers about ADHD. If they know about your struggles, they may be more understanding and offer accommodation such as extra time for assignments.