If you’re interested in being evaluated for ADHD, you’re probably wondering what it will be like. Here’s a guide to how it works and what you can expect as you seek an ADHD diagnosis.
Complete a Self-Assessment
Typically, the first step in being assessed for ADHD as an adult is filling out a self-assessment. Once you contact an ADHD specialist to make an appointment, they may have you complete this step before you meet in person. There are a few options that are commonly used among healthcare providers, including the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale, Barkley Adult ADHD Rating Scale-IV, Adult ADHD Clinical Diagnostic Scale, and Conners' Adult ADHD Rating Scales.
Most self-assessments cover topics like inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity, restlessness, and other key ADHD symptoms. These self-reporting devices are a good starting point that helps you detail your symptoms in an organized way so your specialist can more accurately evaluate your situation.
Interviews and Questionnaires
At your appointment, the specialist will interview you in more detail about your ADHD symptoms and your concerns. You’ll be able to convey what has caused you to suspect that you may have ADHD and explain how your symptoms have affected different areas of your life.
In addition, most specialists will want to gather information from some of the people you’re closest to, such as your partner, your parents, your siblings or your friends. Some specialists simply provide questionnaires for these individuals to fill out, while others prefer to conduct in-person or phone interviews. This will help your healthcare provider get more information about possible ADHD symptoms from the people who experience them from a different perspective.
Medical History and Exams
Screening for conditions that have overlapping symptoms with ADHD is an important part of the diagnostic process. Your ADHD specialist will likely ask about your medical history and conduct a physical exam, including hearing and vision screenings. This helps to rule out other possible causes of your symptoms, which could include learning disabilities, anxiety, depression, or autism spectrum disorder.
Diagnosis and Treatment
If you do have ADHD, the specialist will diagnose you with one of three types of the disorder: hyperactive/impulsive, inattentive, or combined. They’ll also go through some ADHD treatment options with you, which may include medication, therapy, or getting an ADHD coach. You should work closely with your healthcare provider to find the right treatment plan for your unique needs.
Can You Get an ADHD Diagnosis Online?
When you visit a specialist in person, it can be difficult to get an ADHD diagnosis in a timely manner. You have to find someone who’s taking on new patients, wait for an available appointment, and then take time off work and travel to their office to complete the assessment.
Done offers a better way to get an ADHD assessment for adults. Our process is 100% online, and we have a number of licensed ADHD clinicians ready to help you. It’s more convenient, it’s faster, and it’s also affordable. If you’d like to learn more about how to get an online ADHD assessment, get in touch with us today.
Resources:
https://chadd.org/adhd-weekly/qa-what-happens-during-an-adult-adhd-evaluation/
https://www.additudemag.com/adhd-testing-diagnosis-guide/
https://www.webmd.com/add-adhd/guide/adult-adhd-treatment-overview
This content does not provide medical advice. It is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read from Done’s content. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.
