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How to Get an ADHD Diagnosis
Finding a diagnosis for ADHD is not always easy. There are many hurdles to overcome, from a lack of access to healthcare to a physician who refuses to refer you.
Professionals who are certified to perform ADHD testing include psychiatrists, psychologists and clinical social workers. Do your homework and ask trusted therapists and doctors for recommendations.
1. Speak to Your Doctor
It is essential to find a health professional or doctor who can help you evaluate and manage ADHD symptoms. It may take a while and be difficult, but the final result is worth it. You may have to meet with many people before you discover someone who understands your needs and philosophies about treating ADHD. Also, you should consider your stance on medication. If adhd diagnostic against it, be certain to communicate your position upfront so that you don't waste your time with someone who won't take your side or agree with you.
The patient interview is the starting point to determine if a person has ADHD. The doctor will usually ask the patient to describe their symptoms in detail and how they impact their lives. In addition the doctor might use a rating scale or other tools to assess the frequency of symptoms.
A mental health professional may also interview the patient's close relatives (spouses parents, spouses, or children for adults) and ask them to fill out evaluation forms. This provides the examiner with a broader perspective of the effect of ADHD symptoms on a person's life. It is often beneficial for spouses and partners to discuss the symptoms together as this helps to gain a better understanding of their partner's struggles.
A mental health professional may also conduct a physical examination to rule out any other conditions that could contribute to a person's problems. For example an expert in health care might conduct tests on blood to check for high levels of certain chemicals in the body which are linked to ADHD. They may also conduct a brain-imaging exam to measure the flow of blood in the brain and check for signs of increased structures in the brain that are associated with ADHD.
2. Speak to your child's teacher.
Teachers often observe unusual behaviors in children and can be an excellent source of information. They can assist you in determining whether or not your child's problems are caused by ADHD. They can also help your child receive the support they need at school.
If you want to talk to your child's teacher about ADHD and other issues, it's best to schedule an appointment with them at the beginning of the school year. They may be overwhelmed with 25-30 new students at the beginning of the school year, and it can be easier for them to communicate with you if you set up an initial meeting before the first day of school.
During the ADHD evaluation, doctors often request feedback from people who spend time with your children (such as teachers). The doctor will inquire about what time your child's symptoms have been evident and if they are affecting academic performance. You will be asked about your child's behavior, whether at home, at school, or with family and friends.
Certain adults with ADHD were not diagnosed as children, either because they were not treated for their symptoms or because the symptoms were attributed to other problems like depression or anxiety. As adults, they often forget about their past struggles with ADHD symptoms or think they "grew out of them."
In an ADHD assessment, you could be asked to fill out questionnaires with other family members, colleagues, or close friends. The evaluator could also ask you to submit report cards from your education and, if possible you have a medical history prior to the evaluation. These documents will assist the evaluator in understanding the history of your ADHD and how it affects your daily life.
3. Talk to your coworkers
Many people suffering from ADHD have suffered from the condition without ever being diagnosed. Many adults with ADHD experience frustrations, problems at work and in their families. For some, it can be a relief to find a reason behind their problems, especially when they realize how many of their friends struggle with the same issues and realize that they're not the only ones. For others, the diagnosis may be a source of anger and sadness as they think about the opportunities they missed in their childhood, a lack of progress in their careers, and miscommunications in relationships.
The best way to receive a diagnosis of adult ADHD is to visit an expert. This could be a clinical psychologist or a doctor with expertise in ADHD. GPs or therapists, as well as other healthcare professionals often recommend specialists. It is important to learn the most you can about the doctor that you will be visiting as well as their academic and professional background. You can ask for recommendations or conducting an online search.
Once you've identified a professional who is qualified, discuss your symptoms with them about how they impact your life. Ask your family and acquaintances for recommendations if are struggling to find a specialist. You can also learn more about the qualifications of specialists and ratings on the internet.
When discussing your symptoms with a psychiatrist or a doctor and be honest about how the behaviours affect you. They will ask if the behaviours cause you stress or if your performance at work is affected. If you need to document your diagnosis. This will help support your request for accommodation at work, such as flexible hours or early morning meetings or the option of taking an afternoon nap.
4. Speak to your spouse
Adults with ADHD may not be aware of the disorder until a loved one is able to bring it to their attention or they face frustrating life situations. For instance, they may not be in a position to meet deadlines at work and have trouble communicating with friends or family or even get into accidents with their vehicle due to impulsive driving. The symptoms include difficulty organizing, procrastinating and having trouble with executive functioning, like time management, planning, or organizational skills.
If you're in a relationship discuss with your partner their ADHD symptoms and how they affect your relationship. If you are unable to talk face-to-face, try video chat or email to keep eye contact and maintain a connection. You can also ask an expert in mental health that is specialized in ADHD for guidance and to assist you in understanding the symptoms you encounter in your everyday life.
After discussing the issues relating to your partner's ADHD, find ways to support them and assist them in getting treatment. Avoid pointing out or berating them, as it can make them feel defensive and overwhelmed. Instead, support them by playing scenarios and providing them with helpful strategies to aid them in managing their symptoms.
While ADHD can affect relationships, it's important to recognize that a lot of people with the condition possess positive qualities as well. It is important to remind your spouse of the positive things about them, such as their ability to think creatively and solve problems, as well as their ability to focus for long periods of time on novel tasks.
5. Talk with other people
If you or your child have issues at school, work, or in relationships, it might be time to get an ADHD evaluation. It's important to know that ADHD is often misdiagnosed, and many of the symptoms are present in other mental health issues like depression or anxiety.
The good news is, many people diagnosed with ADHD can manage their symptoms through therapy. Whether you decide to try online therapy or in-person it is important to discuss the issues you're experiencing with your counselor. It's also helpful to explain the impact these symptoms can have on your life, as they will be able to understand your perspective and be better equipped to assist you.
Contact your primary care doctor to refer you to a psychiatrist or psychologist who can perform an ADHD assessment. During the evaluation the doctor will review your symptoms as well as past experiences, complete rating scales or questions, and perform a physical examination. They may also conduct a family history and ask about your education, surroundings and upbringing.
After the diagnosis has been confirmed, it's crucial to talk about it with your supervisors, coworkers, and teachers. They are often able to provide accommodations to help you succeed by providing more detailed explanations and extra time for certain tasks.
Have you or your child ever misplaced an assignment for homework, wished away time in class or acted without thinking? Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is the most common mental illness in children and teenagers. The condition can persist into adulthood. In fact, many adults don't recognize they're suffering until they begin to experience issues at work or in relationships.