How to Get Tested For ADHD
Many people with ADHD live their entire lives before receiving an diagnosis. It could take a fresh sense of responsibility or a rupture in their relationships to push them over the edge and cause them to seek help.
Doctors, specialists, and ADHD tests can be overwhelming when you're trying to find the diagnosis. Here are some helpful strategies that can aid.
1. Speak to Your Doctor
Speak to your doctor if you believe that you or someone you know may have ADHD. Your primary care doctor can help you make sense of your symptoms and refer you to an expert. You may also seek recommendations from friends you trust or therapists you've worked with. It's important that the person you see has experience in ADHD assessment and treatment.
During the evaluation you'll be asked about your symptoms and how they impact on your daily routine. They will inquire about your routines at home, school, at work and in your relationships. They'll also inquire about any other health issues you may have and how they impact your life. The evaluator will need to know about any medications that you or your child are taking such as over-the-counter supplements and vitamins.
Your doctor may also be interested in knowing about your childhood experiences. The symptoms should have begun in early childhood, or in some cases before the age of 12. The person evaluating you may request old report cards or other records from your childhood so they can have a better understanding of what was happening during that time.
Your evaluator may also need to conduct other tests in addition to a medical history. These tests may include cognitive testing or screening for conditions that have symptoms with ADHD, such a mood disorder or thyroid issues. You'll also be required to undergo a physical exam and wear comfortable clothes and remove any jewelry. Based on the circumstances they may also have to interview family members, teachers and coworkers.
2. Have a physical examination
To test for ADHD You'll need to be evaluated by a qualified medical provider. Your family physician can help you locate a specialist nearby who is qualified to perform an evaluation for adults suffering from ADHD. You can also get recommendations from family and friends, or look for specialists on a list provided to you by your insurance provider or online through BetterHelp.
The professional who evaluates your child or yourself will begin by reviewing your family health history. They will ask you about your current life including your behavior, professional and personal relationships. They will also want to learn about your childhood experiences (for an ADHD diagnosis, the symptoms must have started in childhood but before the age of 12). Bring old school documents or report cards to your appointment.
In addition to talking about your symptoms and examining your child or yourself, the specialist will probably recommend certain physical examinations like hearing tests, a vision test dental exam, bloodwork or a hearing test. They might also suggest an examination for psychological or neuropsychological issues to understand how ADHD affects your life and to rule out other conditions such as depression or learning issues.
You can also take an online assessment test to determine whether you be suffering from ADHD. These tests aren't meant to replace an official diagnosis, however they are an excellent starting point. Choose a test designed by a trustworthy source, such a psychotherapist or psychiatrist. Also, Our Home Page should look up the professional credentials and academic degrees of the people who administer the test.
3. Speak with your child's teacher
Teachers are often the first ones to spot ADHD symptoms in children. They interact with children for a long period of time throughout the year and understand the typical behavior of students in classroom settings that require focus. They can also tell if students are having difficulty focusing or concentrating.
If your child's teacher suspects your kid might have ADHD, they may refer them to a health professional who can do an exhaustive examination of their symptoms. They may have a person on staff that is trained in ADHD or provide an array of specialists. Look for a mental healthcare specialist who has worked with adolescents and children or someone who has had additional training in psychiatry.
You'll have to bring your child's report cards or other school records with you when you meet with the professional. You might also want to include details about extracurricular activities, such as religious groups, scouts, or sports teams. Your child's ADHD background and any other medical conditions will be needed by the doctor who is evaluating your child to determine the most accurate diagnosis.
In the majority of instances, a doctor will recommend treatment for your child. This may involve taking medications, but it's not always. The best therapy is often to teach your child how to change their behavior at home and in school. For instance, turning off the TV and making sure their workspace is clean can help them focus on homework and avoid distractions. They could also benefit from exercise by limiting caffeine and sugar consumption and implementing calming techniques when they are anxious.
4. Speak to Your Employer
ADHD can have a major impact on the life of a working adult. It's not a problem for many jobs. People who have the disorder are able to be successful in their career, even if they have to take frequent breaks or keep in contact with their bosses via email rather than in person.
But that's not always easy. Symptoms of the condition are often difficult to spot in adults. Sometimes, they don't show up until an adult struggles to meet the demands of a job or relationship. The symptoms could be more obvious and it becomes evident that they need assistance.
An online ADHD test can be helpful to determine whether a person may suffer from the condition, however only a doctor is able to accurately identify a mental health issue like ADHD. Online screening tools should only be used to guide and not substitute for professional evaluation.
A typical ADHD assessment lasts between one and three hours for adults or children. During this time, the doctor interview the patient about their development and health family, lifestyle, and history. They may also ask questions about the patient's daily routine. They may inquire about how often the person is distracted by things around them or stop an activity early.
Before you are tested for ADHD, it's important to discuss the issue with your employer. If you inform your boss about the condition they may consider adjusting the way they work with you. Some workers with the condition would like to share their diagnosis to their employers in order to get accommodation such as a flexible schedule or an assistant to help them manage their responsibilities.
5. Talk to Your Family
A health care specialist who has expertise in diagnosing ADHD can determine if you meet the requirements. It could be a regular doctor who's worked with adult ADHD or it could be a psychiatrist psychologist, psychotherapist, or neurologist who has knowledge of the condition.
They'll want to hear about your symptoms and how long they've been going on, and where you see them the most often (at school or at work). They might also interview your family members, as well as other people, like teachers or daycare providers. The evaluation may last anywhere from one to three hours.
Talk to your family if you suspect you may be suffering from ADHD. Ask them to assist you in getting checked. You may also request a referral from a primary care provider or another doctor. You can find mental health specialists who specialize in ADHD by contacting your insurance company or visiting a mental healthcare association's website, such as BetterHelp.
You may also want to take part in a clinical study. These studies look for new methods to prevent, diagnose, or treat illnesses and conditions. The Clinical Trials page of the NIMH can help you locate research studies that are appropriate for you. However, you should always talk to a health care professional before joining a clinical trial. They can answer your questions and tell you about the benefits and risks of clinical trials.