Adult ADHD
At PsyMed Health, we empower people at all stages of life to overcome barriers. Our team of licensed psychologists, counselors, and social workers take an integrated approach to behavioral health. By tailoring treatment to your individual needs, we can help you sustain motivation and meet your personal goals. Our ADHD specialists work with adults, ages 18 and over, seeking diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. Our psychologists are licensed to treat patients via online telehealth in 44 states.
What is Adult ADHD?
ADHD refers to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, which is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects both children and adults. Symptoms experienced by adults with ADHD include difficulties in focusing, being hyperactive, acting impulsively, having a poor sense of time management, and being forgetful. These symptoms can have negative effects on day-to-day life, including relationships and work.
Why Should Adults Who Suspect They Have ADHD Seek A Formal Diagnosis?
It is important to assess and diagnose ADHD in adults because it is a chronic condition that significantly affects an individual’s ability to function effectively in personal and professional aspects of life. If left untreated, ADHD symptoms can lead to poor performance at work, relationship difficulties, and low self-esteem.
Furthermore, adult ADHD is often underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed as it shares symptoms with other conditions such as depression or anxiety. Proper assessment and diagnosis are crucial in order to provide individuals with appropriate treatment and support (which may include medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes) to effectively manage their symptoms.
Early diagnosis and treatment of adult ADHD can greatly improve the quality of life for affected individuals, enhance their relationships, and help them reach their full potential.
What Are The Signs Of ADHD In Adults?
There are generally considered to be three types of Adult ADHD: predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive or patients may receive a combined diagnosis if they exhibit symptoms of both types.
Signs of Predominantly Inattentive ADHD:
- Difficulty paying close attention to details or making careless mistakes
- Struggles to sustain attention
- Appears not to listen
- Has trouble following through with instructions
- Difficulties with organization
- Avoidance of tasks that require sustained mental effort
- Tends to lose things
- Easily distracted
- Forgets daily activities
Signs of Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive ADHD:
- Fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in chair
- Has difficulty staying seated
- Extreme feelings of restlessness
- Struggles to engage in activities quietly
- Talks excessively
- Answers preemptively
- Difficulty waiting or taking turns
- Interrupts or intrudes upon others
How is Adult ADHD Diagnosed?
There is not a simple medical test for ADHD. It is also important to note that internet quizzes or questionnaires cannot provide an accurate diagnosis. Diagnosing Adult ADHD is a complex process that must involve a qualified and licensed mental health professional or physician.
At PsyMed, we recognize that there are misconceptions and social stigmas that make it difficult for some people to seek a formal diagnosis. We assure you that the evaluation process can be highly beneficial. Our providers will engage in a discussion with you about your symptoms and work to gather information in order to reach a diagnosis and develop a plan for treatment.
The process of diagnosing Adult ADHD typically involves:
- A comprehensive history
- A psychological assessment
- Evaluation of symptoms and their impact on daily life
- Objective continuous performance testing
- Standardized rating scales of ADHD symptoms, executive functioning, and impairment
- Information from a significant other
You may be asked to provide contact information for people who know you well, as well as any previous job or school records or psychological evaluations that demonstrate your symptoms.
What to Expect from Adult ADHD Testing at PsyMed
- Initial Intake: Your first discussion with our team will involve setting up and completing information through our patient portal.
- Testing Appointment: This is a one hour appointment to complete a Continuous Performance Test (CPT) to assess for symptoms of ADHD
- Interview and Evaluation by a psychologist
- Feedback Session
Contact Us for an Adult ADHD Evaluation
Many people with ADHD face a “double struggle” of trying to manage their symptoms while also battling common misconceptions about ADHD that may lead them to believe that they don’t deserve help. It is normal to feel nervous about seeking a formal diagnosis, but remember that you deserve the support. A comprehensive evaluation can help you overcome barriers and get the treatment you need to succeed.