How to Get Tested For ADHD
Many people suffering from ADHD have a difficult time going through their lives without receiving a diagnosis. It may take a new level of accountability or a break in their relationships to raise the bar and cause them to seek assistance.
When you're seeking a diagnosis, the number of specialists, doctors and ADHD test can be overwhelming. Here are some helpful tips that can help.
1. Talk to Your Doctor
Speak to your doctor if you believe that you or someone you know might suffer from ADHD. Your primary care doctor can help you understand the causes of your symptoms and may refer you to a specialist. You can also ask for recommendations from friends you trust or therapists with whom you have worked. It is important that the person you meet has experience in ADHD evaluation and treatment.
During the assessment the evaluator will speak with you about the symptoms and how they interfere with your daily life. They'll ask you questions about how you manage your time at home, work and school, as well as any relationships you have. They will also ask you about any health problems and how they impact your life. The evaluator must know the medication you and your child are taking, including vitamins and supplements that are available over-the-counter.
Your doctor will also be interested in knowing about your childhood experiences. The symptoms must begin in the early stages of childhood, or even before the age of 12. Your evaluator might require you to bring in old report cards or other records from your childhood, so they can have a clearer picture of what happened during that time.
Your evaluator could also be required to conduct other tests in addition to taking a medical history. They could include cognitive tests and screening for other illnesses that may have symptoms similar to ADHD like thyroid or mood disorders. You'll also be asked to undergo a physical exam and wear comfortable clothes and take off any jewelry. Depending on the circumstances they might also have to interview coworkers, family members or even teachers.
2. Take a physical exam
You'll need to see an expert medical professional to be tested for ADHD. Your family doctor can help to locate someone local to you who is qualified to perform an evaluation for adults suffering from ADHD. You can also seek recommendations from your family and friends, or look up specialists on the list provided to you by your insurance company or online through BetterHelp.
The professional who evaluates your child or your family will begin by reviewing your family health history. They will ask you about your present life and your behavior, as well as your work and personal relationships. They'll also want to be aware of your childhood experiences (for an ADHD diagnosis, symptoms must have started in childhood, but not before the age of 12). If you have old report cards or other documents from your school, it may be helpful to bring them along to your appointment.
The specialist will likely recommend certain physical tests, including bloodwork, hearing tests or a dental exam in addition to discussing your symptoms and looking over your child. They might also recommend an exam for neuropsychological or psychological issues to determine how ADHD affects your life and to rule out other disorders like learning or depression.
You can also take a test online to determine if you suffer from ADHD. These tests don't replace the diagnosis of a doctor, but they can be an excellent place to start. Select a test that was developed by a trusted source, like a psychologist or psychiatrist. Make sure you verify the credentials of individuals who administer the test.
3. Talk to Your Child's Teachers
Teachers are often the ones who first recognize ADHD symptoms in kids. They work with kids for a significant amount of time throughout the year and are aware of how normal students behave in classroom settings that require focus. They also observe how kids interact with one another and can tell if a student has trouble staying focused or listening to others.
If your child's teacher suspects your child might be suffering from ADHD and is concerned, they can refer them to a health care professional who can conduct an exhaustive examination of the symptoms. They may have a specialist on staff who is an ADHD specialist or they can provide a list. Look for a mental health professional who is specialized in working with children and adolescents or a pediatrician that has additional training in the field of psychiatry.
When you meet with the professional, make sure to bring report cards or other documents from your child's school days. You may also want to provide details about their extracurricular activities, such as religious groups, scouts or sports teams. The professional doing your child's assessment will require to know about your child's past experiences with ADHD and other medical conditions, so they can determine a proper diagnosis.
In most instances, a physician will recommend therapy for your child. This might involve taking medication, but not always. The best way to treat this is to teach your child to modify their behavior at home and in school. Disconnecting the TV or ensuring that their space is clear of clutter will allow them to concentrate on their homework and stay clear of distractions. They can also benefit from exercising more by limiting caffeine and sugar intake and using calming methods when they feel anxious.
4. Talk to your employer
Being diagnosed with ADHD can have a significant impact on a person's life at work. But it's not a deal-breaker for many jobs. People who suffer from the condition can find a way to succeed in their professions even if they need to take frequent breaks or stay in touch with their supervisors through email rather than in person.
However, free test for adhd 's not always that simple. Adults may struggle to recognize the signs of this condition. They often don't appear until an adult struggles to maintain a job or a relationship. The signs will be more obvious and they'll have to seek assistance.
Online ADHD tests can help determine if a person has the condition. However, only a doctor can diagnose accurately mental health issues such as ADHD. Online screening tools should be used to guide and not replace professional evaluation.
A typical ADHD assessment for children or adults lasts up to three hours. During this time, the healthcare professional will interview the patient in order to learn about their health, lifestyle and family history. They may also ask questions about the person's routine. They might inquire about how often the person gets distracted by things in their surroundings or stops an activity early.
It's crucial to speak with your employer about the possibility of having you tested for ADHD before you do so. If you tell your employer about the disorder, he or she may alter the method they work. Some workers who have the disorder may want to discuss their situation at work to receive accommodations, like an adjustable schedule or an individual assistant to help them manage their duties.
5. Speak to Your Family
A health care professional with experience diagnosing ADHD can determine if you meet the criteria. It could be an adult ADHD specialist, a doctor who has experience with the condition or a psychiatrist psychologist, neurologist or psychotherapist.
They'll want to hear about your symptoms and how long they've been battling and where you've encountered them most often (at school or at work). They might also interview others, including teachers and daycare providers, as well as your family members. The evaluation can take up to three hours.
Talk to your family if you suspect you may have ADHD. Discuss your experiences and ask for their help in getting tested. You might also seek a referral from your primary care provider or another physician. You can locate mental health professionals that specialize in ADHD by calling your insurance company or visiting the website of a mental health organization such as BetterHelp.
You may also take part in an investigational study. These studies look for new ways to prevent, diagnose, or treat diseases and conditions. NIMH's Clinical Trials page can help you identify studies that are suitable for you. Always consult with an expert before taking part in a clinical study. They can answer your questions and inform you about the benefits and risks of clinical trials.