How to Get the Best ADHD Assessment for Adults
A professional ADHD assessment is the best method to get an accurate diagnosis. Self-assessment tools can be useful, but they are not able to substitute for a consultation and assessment by a qualified professional.
An ADHD assessment should include a look to determine if you suffer from other mental health issues that may coexist or mimic ADHD symptoms, and should also consider if your symptoms started before the age of 12. The process may also include additional neuropsychological or psychological tests.
Self-Assessment Tool
A self-assessment is a questionnaire which examines specific symptoms and traits. These tools are used by research studies, clinics and health websites to check for ADHD. Certain self-assessments are brief and provide a thoughtful report at the conclusion of the test. Some are longer and require participation from other significant people in the life of the person. These tests can help determine whether or not the person might want to take an assessment for ADHD.
There are a variety of online ADHD screening questionnaires and assessments, but the majority of them haven't yet been tested or standardised. It is not recommended to use these tests without the help of a healthcare professional, as they can lead incorrect diagnosis. It can also result in unnecessary referrals to specialists for ADHD assessments of people who are unlikely to have the disorder. This could waste healthcare resources, cause stress for the person being referred and result in long wait for an in-depth examination.
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 an 6-item survey that examines the experiences of adults with the most common ADHD symptoms. 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 thorough include the Conners abbreviated symptom survey and the CBCLAP. Both of these scales have been shown to have high diagnostic accuracy as well as moderate specificity and sensitivity. However it is essential to keep in mind that these tests cannot substitute for a thorough clinical 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 problems. These tools for women can help people decide if they'd like to get an expert ADHD diagnosis.
Diagnosis
In many instances, the primary medical doctor will refer the patient to an ADHD specialist neurologist or psychiatrist. In most cases, a specialist will be required to talk with the patient to determine if the symptoms affect them with daily functioning. The clinician will request the patient to fill out the symptom list or rating scale. They will also review the patient's medical and mental health histories from childhood until the present. The doctor may also inquire whether other disorders that resemble ADHD could be contributing to the patient's symptoms, including anxiety and depression.
When assessing adults, it's more important to consider the extent of functional impairment rather than the number of symptoms or severity. People with ADHD have difficulty meeting expectations at school, work and in relationships. It's a good idea for you to tell your bosses at work as well as your teachers at school, and your family about the difficulties you encounter every day. Patients may be ashamed to discuss such concerns, but it's important to do so to get the help you need.
Typically, an neurologist or psychiatrist who specializes in ADHD will start by interviewing the patient. They will likely utilize a symptom checklist from the DSM-5 which is designed for diagnosing children. The clinician will ask about the patient's emotional, psychiatric, and social history, and also how ADHD symptoms impact daily functioning. A majority of doctors will also ask the patient's partner or other close family members about their observations and if they notice any signs of ADHD. This kind of personal perspective can provide details that are not available from questionnaires or ratings.
A psychologist 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 given by a psychiatrist or neurologists. A therapist specially trained to treat ADHD can help the patient learn techniques that can help manage symptoms, including time and money management and organizational strategies. These treatments are available in person and via online services like Frida.
Treatment
A thorough assessment of ADHD in adults must comprise a diagnostic interview as well as information from sources outside of the clinic, such as an intimate partner or close family member. The clinician might ask the patient to fill out one or more of the standardized ADHD rating scales. These tests are based on research and can examine the behavior of people with ADHD to those of people without it, and aid in determining whether there is an issue. Some clinical psychologists will also administer cognitive tests to diagnose ADHD or other problems such as anxiety or a learning disorder.
The doctor will also assess the extent to which the symptoms affect the person's daily functioning at school, work or in relationships. For example, the patient may have difficulty keeping track of bills and appointments or organizing their thoughts and belongings. In addition many adults suffer from low self-esteem and resentment over the repeated patterns of academic failure or job loss, as well as relationship conflict. A mental health professional might recommend individual therapy or a program that can help the person cope and manage their ADHD symptoms.
If the doctor suspects that a medical issue such as seizures or thyroid issues are contributing to ADHD symptoms, he'll conduct an examination. He will ask about any medical issues that have occurred in the past and whether the patient has been injured or had an accident. A thorough medical history can help the clinician determine if the person was diagnosed in the past of ADHD or any other neurological or psychiatric issues such as anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder.
Many adults have shaky or spotty memories of their childhood, and many forget that they were diagnosed with ADHD as children. In order to obtain a more accurate image, the psychologist will interview someone significant in the life of the person like their spouse or a family member or employer. This is an effective way to get a more objective perspective of the individual and avoid bias.
A comprehensive ADHD assessment should also include a neuropsychological, or psychological assessment. These tests assess the individual's intelligence, working memory and other cognitive capabilities. The doctor will use the results of these tests to determine if ADHD is contributing to the person's difficulties in learning working, coping or even coping.
Support
Many adults who are not diagnosed with ADHD struggle to perform at school or work. They may have difficulties managing their daily tasks, arranging their belongings and retaining important information. They might also have issues in their relationships or have difficulty to keep appointments and make them.
Contacting assessment adhd adults I Am Psychiatry UK is the first step to getting an ADHD diagnosis. They will be able to provide suggestions for referrals or suggest an expert in mental health for an assessment. Certain psychiatrists, graduate psychology programs and private therapists have specialized training in the evaluation of the psychological aspects of ADHD.
During the evaluation, a mental health professional will utilize standard ratings scales for ADHD symptoms in order to determine if an adult is meeting the criteria for diagnosis of the condition. There are a variety of 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 utilize cognitive tests to evaluate an adult's working memory ability, executive functioning capabilities and spatial and visual abilities.
If the mental health professional determines the patient has ADHD the professional will then discuss the treatment options with the patient. There are a variety of strategies to manage ADHD symptoms, including therapy, medication and lifestyle changes. Many adults with ADHD have reported improved performance following the use of stimulant drugs which improve alertness and concentration. Certain adults also benefit from non-stimulant drugs that reduce anxiety or depression and also from therapy that incorporates mindfulness techniques and coaching.
It can be a difficult and upsetting experience to be given a diagnosis for 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 honest with your doctor and not hold back due to shame or fear of judgment. You can also tell your co-workers and teachers about ADHD. If they know about your struggles, they may be more understanding and provide the appropriate accommodations, such as additional time for homework.