How to Get a Free ADHD Assessment
If you suspect you or your child is suffering from ADHD, it's important to seek professional assessment and diagnosis. Insurance may cover a comprehensive evaluation by a certified healthcare professional and is therefore cheaper than paying for it out of the pocket.
This free tool cannot offer a diagnosis. Only a doctor or a mental health professional is able to evaluate and diagnose ADHD.
Symptoms
People who are diagnosed with ADHD will suffer from symptoms that affect their work, lives, and relationships. It is important to recognize that not all sufferers have the same set of symptoms. Some symptoms may be concealed by stress or diet, for example. Therefore, how do i get my son assessed for adhd is crucial that a trained health care professional performs a full assessment to make an accurate diagnosis and identify effective treatments.
A professional will ask a series of questions to determine the frequency of the nine ADHD symptoms you encounter on a regular basis like:
Is easily distracted (e.g. by the television or a conversation with a friend or the sound of the outside window).
Completes assignments and tasks at work or school (e.g. is late in submitting a report, misplaces work supplies or fails to communicate with the supervisor).
Is often in trouble waiting for his or his or her turn in conversations or games. Answers questions before they are fully asked. Avoids, dislikes or is reluctant to take on tasks that require continuous mental effort (e.g. schoolwork or homework, for older adolescents and adults, writing reports or documents, or reviewing papers).
Is having trouble in keeping track of time or interpreting complex or changing schedules.
The person has a family member with ADHD who is a first level relative.
People with ADHD frequently have other conditions such as mood disorders or sleep issues, which result in similar symptoms. A health care provider may examine the person's previous mental and physical health including mood. They might also inquire about any medications they have taken in the past and present. They will also examine the person's early years or when they are an adult, their current behavior. Health care professionals can usually obtain this information with the patient's permission by talking to colleagues and friends, as well as by looking over early school report cards or other records of education. Health care professionals will be able to determine if the person is using psychostimulants or other "complementary health approaches" to help treat ADHD. These strategies haven't been scientifically proven to help improve ADHD.
Diagnosis
You might be told you suffer from ADHD if you are prone to losing your keys, have difficulty keeping up at school or work or if you forget appointments. These kinds of comments are easy to laugh off every now and then however if you believe that your apathy and lack of organization are getting out of control it's something you should talk to an expert in mental health for. This isn't a diagnostic tool however it's a great way to start the discussion about seeking help for symptoms that are disruptive to your life.
Self-assessment is a good method to determine if you or your child may have signs that indicate ADHD. However the specialist can only diagnose the condition after a consultation. They will examine your child's or your own symptoms and ask questions about your life, your family history, medical and psychiatric background. They will also utilize rating scales or checklists to assess your symptoms. They will also conduct a physical exam to rule out possible causes for your symptoms.
To determine if you have ADHD your doctor will examine the American Psychiatric Association's (DSM-5) criteria for the disorder. Your symptoms must be evident in at least two environments like school, home, or social situations. They must also significantly interfere with daily functioning. They must be present for at least six months and cannot be explained by other conditions, such as anxiety or depression.
For older teens or adults the criteria are slightly different. They must show consistently five of the seven inattention or impulsive signs to be diagnosed with ADHD. It's crucial that your physician knows your personal history when making a diagnosis and before deciding on the best treatment strategy.
It's crucial that your provider is certified and has experience working with adults suffering from ADHD. Many people who experience symptoms of ADHD choose to work with a professional licensed counselor or therapist. It's beneficial to inquire about their training and experience before you make an appointment.
Treatment
Many people with ADHD are reluctant to seek treatment due to a stigma that is associated with the condition. The results of scientific research have confirmed that the existence of ADHD is present and that untreated symptoms can negatively impact quality of life.
Experts recommend a combination non-medication methods, including therapy and lifestyle modifications. They also recommend educational assistance. This holistic approach ensures all aspects of the individual's life are addressed and will allow them to better navigate the challenges of ADHD.
Individual therapy for talk therapy is an important component of the treatment process. Talk therapy can be used to aid people with stress and improve their relationships and develop coping strategies. It can help people understand and control impulsive behaviors and learn to manage their time and finances better. These therapies can be offered either in person or via an online counseling service like BetterHelp.
Behavioral therapy can be used to instruct parents and family members how to better manage children's ADHD symptoms. In sessions, therapists will instruct parents and family members how to set expectations and reward positive behaviors. They can also help parents eliminate distractions from their child's area of work and make it easier for them to concentrate on their work or homework.
In therapy, you can also teach self-management skills like time management and organizational skills and self-care techniques such eating healthy and exercising. These tools can be especially useful for children with ADHD who have difficulty at school.
Medication is an effective treatment for people suffering from ADHD. The drugs work by reducing the activity in specific regions of the brain that regulate impulse control, allowing people to concentrate and pay attention. There are a number of different medications that are prescribed for ADHD which include stimulants such as Adderall and amphetamines, as well as non-stimulants, such as atomoxetine (Strattera), quetiapine (Quillium) and bupropion (Wellbutrin); and melatonin, which is available over the counter as an oral supplement.
There are also experimental treatments for ADHD, in addition to the use of pharmacological treatments. One study found that a small electrical device known as Monarch eTNS (electronic trigeminal nerve stimulation) reduced the symptoms of ADHD in children. It works by sending gentle electrical impulses to the trigeminal nervous system, which transmits the sensations from the head and face to the brain.
Support
A diagnosis of ADHD can be a relief but it can also raise a lot of questions. It's normal for adults to want to know how their conditions affect them and what they can do to manage their lives. There are a variety of free resources available.
Adults with ADHD, and their loved ones can seek help from support groups to help deal with the challenges of the disorder. Many of these groups are designed to assist people in connecting with other people who can relate to their own experiences provide advice, and provide emotional support. Additionally, many of these groups are focused on topics such as work-related issues, parenting struggles and the unique challenges that women with ADHD face.
Online resources are also an invaluable resource for people who suffer from ADHD. Self-assessment tools can assist individuals identify whether or not their symptoms could be connected to ADHD. They usually include an assessment with items that are commonly experienced by adults suffering from ADHD. They cannot replace the need for a professional assessment.
In addition to a variety of online resources, there are numerous local and national support groups available for those with ADHD. These groups are usually led by mental health experts who specialize in ADHD. They offer a safe space to discuss the symptoms, challenges and solutions.
Parents of children who suffer from ADHD can also get plenty of assistance and support from their doctors. In addition to prescribing medication, they can also be trained to implement strategies for managing behavior and teach these to their children. Parents typically go to 8-16 sessions with a therapist, and then practice these strategies between sessions.
Contact your mental health provider or your healthcare provider if you are interested in joining a support group for ADHD. They may be able to suggest a group or suggest a specific one. Make sure you attend some of the meetings to make sure that the tone of the group is appropriate for you. Be cautious about sharing any personal information. Be aware that many forums and online support groups allow anyone to post information. This advice is not regulated by medical practices and is not subject to regulation.