How to Get an ADHD Diagnosis The process of determining if you have ADHD is not always easy. There are many obstacles that can hinder the process including a lack access to care to a general physician who is reluctant to refer patients to an evaluation. Psychologists, psychiatrists and clinical social workers are all qualified professionals who are able to conduct ADHD testing. Do your research and ask trusted therapists and doctors for recommendations. 1. Talk to Your Doctor It's important to first find a doctor or health professional who can help you evaluate and manage ADHD symptoms. It can take time and be frustrating but the final result is worth it. You may have to meet with several people before you can find someone who understands your needs and philosophies about treating ADHD. Make sure to be aware of your beliefs regarding medication. If you're against it, be certain to communicate your position prior to deciding to ensure that you don't waste your time with someone who won't take your side or agree with you. The patient's interview is the first step to determine whether a person suffers from ADHD. The doctor will ask the patient to describe in detail their symptoms and how they affect their lives. The doctor might also employ a rating system or other instruments to determine the frequency the symptoms occur. A mental health professional could also interview the patient's close relatives (spouses, parents, or children for adults) and request them to complete evaluation forms. This will allow the examiner to gain an understanding of the way ADHD symptoms affect a person. It can be beneficial for partners and spouses to discuss the issues together as this helps them gain a better understanding of the struggles of their partners. In addition, a mental health professional will typically perform a physical exam to rule out other ailments which could be contributing to the person's issues. For instance the health professional might conduct an examination of the blood to look for high levels of specific chemicals in the body which are linked to ADHD. https://gonzalezsander7.livejournal.com/profile can also conduct an imaging test of the brain to measure blood flow in the brain and to look for signs of an increase in brain structures linked to ADHD. 2. Speak with your child's teacher Teachers are usually able to provide valuable information about children's unusual behavior. They can help you determine if your child's issues might be related to ADHD. They can also assist in ensuring that your child receive the help they require at school. It's best to meet with your child's teacher prior to the beginning of the school year to discuss ADHD. You can make it easier for your child's teacher to communicate with you by scheduling an initial meeting prior to the start of the first day of class. In the course of evaluating your child for ADHD the doctor will typically require you to provide feedback from people who spend time with your child (like teachers). The doctor will ask what time your child's symptoms have been present and if they are affecting academic performance. They may also ask you questions about your child's behavior at home, with friends and family or at work. Some adults with ADHD didn't get diagnosed as children, either because they weren't treated for their symptoms or because their symptoms were attributed to other problems such as anxiety or depression. As adults, they can sometimes forget about their childhood struggles with ADHD symptoms or believe that they "grew out of them." During an ADHD evaluation, you may be asked to fill out questionnaires with family members, colleagues, and 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 help the evaluator understand your history of ADHD and how it impacts your life. 3. Talk to Your Co-Workers Many adults with ADHD have lived with the condition without ever being diagnosed. Many adults with ADHD face difficulties, frustrations at work, and within their families. Some people may be happy to know that they're not the only ones struggling when they realize that many others face similar issues. For others, the diagnosis could cause sadness and anger when they consider missed opportunities in childhood, lack of success in their careers, and miscommunications in relationships. A specialist can help you determine if you suffer from ADHD. This could be a clinical psychiatrist or physician who has expertise in ADHD. GPs or therapists as well as other healthcare professionals will often recommend specialists. It is recommended to gather as much information about the doctor you'll be meeting as you can including their qualifications as a professional and academic background. You can ask for recommendations or conducting searches on the internet. Once you have identified a professional who is qualified talk about your symptoms with them and how they affect your life. If you're having trouble time finding a specialist, ask family and friends who they've been to and what their experiences were like. You can also learn more about the qualifications and reviews of specialists on the Internet. Be honest when discussing your symptoms with your psychiatrist or doctor. They'll want to know if they are causing you significant distress or hindering your work performance. If you need to, bring documentation of your diagnosis. This will help support your request for accommodation at work, such as flexible hours and early morning meetings or the possibility of taking the day off. 4. Speak to your spouse Adults suffering from ADHD might not be aware of the condition until a friend is able to bring it to their attention or they encounter frustrating life situations. For instance they might not be in a position to meet deadlines at work, have difficulty communicating with family or friends or even get into accidents with their vehicle due to impulsive driving. Symptoms also include trouble organizing, procrastinating and having trouble with executive functioning, like planning, time management or organizing skills. If you're in a relationship with someone who suffers from ADHD Try talking to them about their symptoms and how they affect your relationship. If you can't talk face-toface, try video chatting or using email to maintain eye-contact and establish a connection. You can also ask for assistance from an expert in mental health who is trained in ADHD to guide your conversation and help both to understand how the symptoms play out in your daily lives. After discussing the causes of your partner's ADHD with them, look for ways to help them get treated and to support them. Avoid pointing out or berating them, as it can make them feel overwhelmed and defensive. Instead, help them by role-playing situations and providing them with helpful strategies that can assist them in managing their symptoms. While ADHD can have a negative effect on relationships, it's important to recognize that people with the condition have positive characteristics as well. It is crucial to remind your spouse of their strengths, such as their ability to solve problems with creativity and to focus for long periods of time on new tasks. 5. Talk to other People If you or your child are having trouble at school, at work or in relationships, it could be time to seek an ADHD assessment. It is important to keep in mind that ADHD is often misdiagnosed, and many of its symptoms may be present in other mental disorders such as depression or anxiety. The good news is, many people who are diagnosed with ADHD can manage their symptoms through therapy. It is important to discuss your issues with your therapist, no matter if you choose online counseling or face-to-face therapy. It's also beneficial to explain the impact that these symptoms can have on your life as it will help them get to know your perspective and become better equipped to help you. Contact your primary care doctor and request the referral to a psychologist or psychiatrist who can conduct an ADHD assessment. During the evaluation the doctor will review your symptoms and past, complete rating scales or questions, and then conduct physical exam. They will also likely conduct an examination of your family history and ask about your education, surroundings and upbringing. When the diagnosis is established, it is important to talk about it with your supervisors, coworkers, and teachers. They can offer accommodations to help you succeed. For example they might provide more specific explanations or grant extra time for certain tasks. Have you or your child ever forgotten an assignment for homework, wished away time in class, or behaved without thinking? These are all indicators of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) which is the most common mental health issue in children and teens. It's also a condition that can last throughout adulthood. In fact, many adults don't realize they're suffering until they begin to experience issues at work or in a relationship.