Overview
Dr. Jared DeFife explains the process of getting tested for adult ADHD, emphasizing key steps, common challenges, and the importance of finding knowledgeable professionals for accurate evaluation and support.
Challenges of Seeking ADHD Assessment
- Adults with suspected ADHD often struggle to start, organize, and follow through with tasks like scheduling an assessment.
- Unmanaged ADHD may affect time management, finances, relationships, self-care, and many daily routines.
- The frequency and persistence of symptoms, not occasional forgetfulness, distinguish ADHD from typical experiences.
Understanding ADHD Evaluation
- There is no single "magic" test for ADHD such as a brain scan, blood test, or computer game.
- Clinical assessment relies primarily on detailed interviewing and standardized questionnaires.
- The clinician will ask extensive questions about personal history and current challenges.
- Including input from family or close friends, with permission, improves assessment accuracy.
- Collecting records from past medical exams, therapy, or school history is helpful.
- A general medical exam is recommended to rule out other issues that may mimic ADHD symptoms.
Assessment Methods and Limitations
- Some clinicians may use cognitive or educational performance tasks; their effectiveness for ADHD diagnosis is debated.
- Task-based assessments may not reflect real-world challenges typical in adult ADHD.
- No clear link exists between ADHD and IQ, and some test measures miss adults with ADHD who perform well in structured environments.
Finding the Right Professional
- Adult ADHD is typically diagnosed by clinical psychologists, psychiatrists, neuropsychologists, or behavioral neurologists.
- Not all clinicians are knowledgeable about adult ADHD, even those with advanced training.
- Personal stories highlight the importance of persistence and self-advocacy when seeking evaluation.
Recommendations / Advice
- Seek evaluation from a clinician experienced in adult ADHD who will listen, gather standardized data, and include others’ input if possible.
- Be open to feedback if ADHD is ruled out based on thorough assessment.
- Continue seeking help and support even if the process is challenging.
Action Items
- TBD – Self: Locate a knowledgeable professional experienced in adult ADHD for evaluation.
- TBD – Self: Gather relevant medical, educational, and personal history records to support the diagnostic process.
- TBD – Self: Consult with a physician for a general medical exam to rule out other conditions.
Questions / Follow-Ups
- How can I find directories or resources to locate qualified ADHD specialists in my area?
- What topics would be helpful to cover in future ADHD-related informational videos?