How to Get a Free ADHD Assessment
If you suspect that you or your child may have ADHD, it's important to seek professional assessment and diagnosis. A comprehensive assessment by a qualified healthcare professional is covered by insurance, which makes it more affordable than paying out-of-pocket.
This free tool does not offer an assessment or diagnosis. Only a doctor or mental health professional can evaluate and diagnose ADHD.
Signs and symptoms
People who are diagnosed with ADHD are likely to suffer from symptoms that affect their life, work, and relationships. However, it is important to recognize that not all sufferers have the same set of symptoms. The symptoms can be disguised due to stress or diet, for example. It is crucial that a certified healthcare professional performs an assessment in order to accurately diagnose and identify effective treatment.
A professional will employ a series of questions to determine how many of the nine ADHD symptoms you encounter regularly for example:
Is easily distracted (e.g. by the television or having a conversation with a person or the sounds outside the window).
Follows through on assignments and projects at work or in school (e.g. fails to submit an assignment, loses work materials, or doesn't communicate with the supervisor).
Has a hard time waiting for their turn in a game or conversation. Answers questions before they are fully asked. Avoids, disapproves or is not willing to take on tasks that require continuous mental efforts (e.g. homework or schoolwork for teenagers and adults, writing documents or reports, reviewing papers).
It is often difficult to keep track of time or understanding complex or changing schedules (e.g., regularly is late to appointments or falls behind in household or work obligations).
The person has a family member with ADHD who is a first level relative.
It is normal for people with ADHD to have other health issues or disorders like sleep and mood problems, that cause similar symptoms. A health care provider may examine the person's previous physical and mental health including mood. They may also ask about the current and previous medications. They also will look at the patient's present or, if they are an adult, their childhood behaviors and school experiences. Health care providers can often collect this information with the patient's consent by speaking to friends and coworkers, and by reviewing early school report cards or other academic records. Additionally health experts will determine if the patient is using psychostimulants or other "complementary" health approaches to help with their ADHD. These strategies aren't scientifically proven to reduce ADHD symptoms.
Diagnosis
You may be told you suffer from ADHD If you're prone to losing your keys, experience difficulties keeping up with work or school, or forget appointments. These types of comments are easy to laugh off every now and then however if you feel that your apathy and lack of organization are getting out of control it's worth seeing an expert in mental health to discuss. This assessment is not a diagnostic tool however it's a great way to start the conversation about seeking help for symptoms that are disruptive to your life.
Self-assessment is a good tool to determine whether you or your child have symptoms that indicate ADHD. However the specialist can only diagnose the problem after an appointment. They will review the symptoms of your child or yourself and will ask you questions about your lifestyle and family history as well as medical and mental health history. They will also use rating scales or checklists to assess your symptoms. They will also perform physical examinations to rule out any other possible causes for your symptoms.
Your doctor will apply the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-5) criteria to diagnose ADHD. Your symptoms must be present in at least two different settings, such as school and at home, or in social settings. They also must significantly interfere with everyday functioning. They must be present for at least six months and are not attributed to other conditions, like depression or anxiety.
The criteria for older teens and adults differs slightly. To be diagnosed with ADHD, they must consistently show five out of seven symptoms of impulsivity or inattention. When choosing the best treatment plan, it's essential that your doctor knows your medical history.
It's important that your provider is trained and has experience working with adults with ADHD. Many adults with symptoms of ADHD have an accredited professional counselor or therapist. It is helpful to inquire about their experience and training prior to making an appointment.
Treatment
Many people suffering from ADHD aren't seeking treatment due to the stigma attached to the condition. Highly recommended Internet page has confirmed adult ADHD exists and that untreated symptoms can negatively affect quality of life.
Experts recommend a combination non-medication strategies, such as therapy and lifestyle changes. They also suggest educational assistance. This holistic approach ensures that all aspects of a person's life are addressed and allows them to face the difficulties of ADHD more effectively.
Individual talk therapy is an important component of the treatment process. Talk therapy can be utilized to aid people with stress and improve their relationships and develop strategies for coping. It can help people understand and manage impulsive behavior and help them manage their time and finances better. These treatments can be provided in-person or via an online counseling service such as BetterHelp.
Behavioral therapy is a great way to teach parents and other family members how to manage ADHD symptoms in children. During sessions, the therapist will teach parents and family members how to set expectations and reward positive behaviors. They can also teach parents to eliminate distractions and make their child's work space more comfortable, allowing them to concentrate on their work or assignments.
There is also a range of self-management techniques that can be taught in therapy, such as time and organization skills, as well as self-care practices such as exercise and eating a healthy diet. These techniques can be particularly useful for children with ADHD who struggle at school.
Medication is an effective treatment for some people with ADHD. The medications work by decreasing activity in specific areas of the brain that regulate impulse control. This allows people to focus and concentrate. There are a variety of different medications that are prescribed for ADHD, including stimulants, like Adderall and amphetamines; nonstimulants such as atomoxetine (Strattera) as well as quetiapine (Quillium) and bupropion (Wellbutrin); and melatonin. It is available over-the-counter as an oral supplement.
In addition to pharmacological treatments there are also experimental therapies for managing ADHD. In one study, a tiny electrical device known as Monarch eTNS, which is an electronic trigeminal neural stimulation - was found to reduce the symptoms of ADHD in children. It works by sending short bursts of gentle electrical stimulation to the trigeminal nervous system, which carries sensation from your head and face to the brain.
Support
While being diagnosed with ADHD can be an elation, it could also bring up a new set of questions. It's normal for adults to want to understand how their symptoms impact them and what they can do to manage their lives. The good news is that there's a a variety of free resources available.
Adults with ADHD and their families can join support groups for assistance in navigating the difficulties that come with the disorder. A lot of these groups are designed to help people connect with other people who are able to relate to their experiences, offer advice, and provide emotional support. Additionally, a lot of these groups are specifically focused on topics such as work-related issues, parenting struggles, and the unique challenges that women with ADHD face.
Online resources can be an excellent resource for those with ADHD. Self-assessment tools are a great way to identify whether or not their symptoms are caused by ADHD. They usually include a questionnaire with items commonly encountered by adults with ADHD. However, they can't be used as a replacement for a professional assessment.
There are many local and national support groups for those who suffer from ADHD in addition to the online resources. These groups are typically run by mental health experts who specialize in ADHD and provide an opportunity to talk about issues, symptoms, and solutions.
Doctors can provide a lot of assistance and support parents of children who suffer from ADHD. They can also receive training in behavioral strategies that they can teach their children. Parents usually go to 8 to 16 sessions with a therapist, and use these strategies in between sessions.
Contact your mental health professional or your healthcare provider if are interested in joining a support group for ADHD. They might be able to recommend an organization or refer you to a particular one. Be sure to attend some of the meetings to make sure that the group's tone is appropriate for you. Be careful not to disclose any personal information. Also, be aware that many forums and online support groups allow anyone to share advice. This information may not be regulated by medical practices and is not subject to regulation.