Talking To A Counselor About Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, also known as ADHD, is a common, chronic condition that includes attention difficulty, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness. There are common signs of ADHD, but every situation varies and people with the disorder can have unique symptoms. Getting a proper diagnosis from someone qualified to do so is vital for receiving proper treatment.
If you think you or your child might have ADHD, seek a professional in the field so that they can give a correct assessment and diagnosis. Not all mental health providers are able to diagnose mental health disorders, so knowing what to look for if you’re seeking an evaluation can be helpful.
Unlike other disorders, you can't recognize ADHD by undergoing a brain scan, blood test, or other medical test. Instead, the client must go through a clinical interview with any of the aforementioned professionals who are trained to recognize, evaluate, and diagnose ADHD. Only professionals can determine whether you have ADHD; not by taking a "Do I have ADHD quiz" online.
When looking for a professional, consider limiting your search to those who have experience with ADHD. If your primary care provider cannot diagnose ADHD, they may refer you to someone who can. You can also perform an internet search for “ADHD specialists near me”. If you’re using your health insurance provider’s site, you may be able to filter results so that you only see professionals who treat ADHD.
According to the Brain and Behavior Research Foundation, for a medical doctor or other professional to diagnose ADHD, a client must have at least six symptoms. These symptoms must be present for at least six months or longer. Since ADHD often manifests itself in children, the symptoms must be present before the age of seven, whether it is recognized and diagnosed in children or in adults. Finally, ADHD symptoms must cause significant impairment or difficulties in two or more settings. These settings include school, work, home, and social situations.
For adults, getting diagnosed with ADHD may be a bit more in-depth. According to specialists at Johns Hopkins University, diagnosing ADHD in an adult is more complex because adults may experience variable symptoms. have the symptoms of ADHD but not have the condition. For adults and children, a diagnosis of ADHD is made according to the DSM-V criteria. However, in adults, it may be helpful to use a validated ADHD scoring tool in a clinical interview to best assess adult ADHD symptoms. While ADHD often manifests itself in childhood, increasing numbers of people who have ADHD did not have it in childhood. Many times, adults with ADHD also have one or more other psychiatric disorders with it, such as a mood disorder or anxiety. As a result, the mental health professional assessing the patient must sort out which symptoms belong to which disorder, as some can pertain to both.
The World Health Organization (WHO) endorsed a six-question screening test. This screening test was reported by the Journal of the American Medical Association as one that, based on their studies, could reliably help identify and diagnose adults with ADHD. While a screening test may not be the only way to understand if you have ADHD, it can be a starting point. If you’ve taken an assessment, an ADHD specialist can help interpret your results and determine whether further testing is recommended.
The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) have researchers who study the causes of ADHD. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, "current research suggests ADHD may be caused by interactions between genes and environmental or non-genetic factors." While this answer may not be the most conclusive, the institution believes that a number of factors can contribute to ADHD. Some of these factors include brain injuries, low birth weight, genes, exposure to environmental toxins at a young age, and unhealthy substance intake during pregnancy, such as smoking, alcohol, or substance use.
In many cases, ADHD begins to show symptoms in childhood. However, it is not a disorder that ends in childhood; increasing numbers of cases are present into adulthood. Symptoms of ADHD include difficulty in paying attention, controlling impulsive behaviors, sitting still, and being overactive.
In addition, ADHD can influence how children function in school. They may continuously interrupt others when speaking, move constantly, and overlook details, which can cause them to make mistakes while doing homework. They also may seem to not listen when they are being spoken to directly and fail to follow instructions, whether it is schoolwork, chores, or another command.
Children with ADHD may start a task but get distracted and never go back to finishing it. They can also fidget regularly, talk nonstop, blurt out answers before it is their turn to speak, or get up and move in potentially inappropriate settings, such as during class. While these symptoms many times equate to ADHD, they do not always mean that you or your child have ADHD.
ADHD treatment
If you or your child have been diagnosed with ADHD, there are various treatment options you can consider. Although there is no known cure, there are ways to manage the symptoms to minimize their effect on your life. The type of treatment you receive often largely depends on the doctor and your specific needs. Treatments range from behavioral intervention to prescription medication.
Medication
Medication is often part of treating ADHD in teens, children, and adults. If you are the parent of a child with ADHD, deciding whether to choose medication can be difficult. There are various types of ADHD medications, so have a thorough discussion with your doctor about what is best for your child. ADHD medications fall into two main categories: stimulants and non-stimulants.
ADHD research shows that medication can improve concentration and focus. While stimulant medications are perhaps the most well-known medications for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, other medications are available as well. Some medications can also help improve attention and memory.
Any medication can have risks, so it's essential to look into the potential side effects before choosing one. ADHD medications can cause side effects, including headaches, dry mouth, weight loss, upset stomach, and trouble sleeping, among others. However, since every person's body reacts differently to different medications, it's vital to keep an eye on how it is affecting you or your child.
Continuing to consult with your doctor is also a crucial step in the process of treating ADHD. Working alongside your healthcare provider, you can pick the most effective and promising option for you or your child’s situation. If a certain medication doesn’t work as expected, you can talk to your doctor about switching to a different option.
The BetterHelp platform is not intended to provide any information regarding which drugs, medication, or medical treatment may be appropriate for you. The content provides generalized information that is not specific to one individual. You should not take any action (including starting, stopping, or changing medications) without consulting a qualified medical professional.
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy or behavioral therapy is often used alongside medication to manage the symptoms of ADHD. For children or adults living with ADHD, coping and figuring out how to work through certain behaviors can be constructive, and this can be done with the guidance of a mental health professional. Research suggests that an online or in-person therapist who specializes in ADHD can offer a safe space for you or your child to freely express yourselves. You can also talk about your experience as a parent of a child who has ADHD without the fear of being judged. As an adult with ADHD, you can work through difficult situations you have gone through because of ADHD and learn techniques to minimize the impact of ADHD on your life.
Before choosing a therapist, do some research to make sure the mental health professional you entrust has experience managing and treating ADHD. You can find out more by asking them how many clients with ADHD they have seen, how they assess clients, how they treat clients, and what kind of training they have received.
ADHD management
If you are the parent of a child who has ADHD, there are support groups that can connect you with other parents in similar situations. Support groups can be effective resources for ideas and parenting strategies needed in everyday life with your child as you, too, navigate this chapter.
Adults with ADHD can join online or in-person support groups, as well. These groups can be a tremendous source of support because adults are often lost in the conversation. Connecting with other adults who have similar experiences may alleviate loneliness. Some people have dealt with the symptoms of ADHD for years without knowing it. A support group can provide an individual with a safe area to address what life was like for them, especially as a child.
Every treatment plan is case-dependent, so talk to your doctor about your options. Doing so can help you gain more information when deciding which treatment(s) may work most effectively for you or your child. If you’d like to learn more about the disorder, you can find medically reviewed informational articles and other online resources.
Support options
Those with ADHD can live healthy, happy, and productive lives. Everyone faces challenges now and then, and it can be helpful to have someone to confide in when those obstacles arise. You can connect with an online therapist through the BetterHelp platform to find an accessible provider.
Some people feel more comfortable at home than anywhere else, especially those with ADHD, since they can rearrange their living space according to their needs and preferences. Your home might be the ideal place to receive therapy, so many people turn to online therapy to get care. You can meet according to your availability and connect in the way that’s most convenient for you. Whether that’s through a phone call, video chat, or in-app messaging session, online therapy allows you to have more control over your experience.
Online therapy has been shown to be as effective as traditional, in-person therapy. One study assessed the efficacy of an internet-based program for treating those with ADHD. Researchers found that the online intervention improved attention and social functioning in adults and children with ADHD. These results show the effectiveness of online-based interventions for managing ADHD.
Takeaway
How does a therapist identify ADHD?
The principal guidelines for diagnosing ADHD are listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). The DSM-5 is the primary source of diagnostic information used by mental health professionals in the United States and provides examples of behaviors that are common to each ADHD subtype. A person must exhibit at least some of those behaviors to qualify for a diagnosis of ADHD.
In the past, it was not unheard of for medical professionals and mental health practitioners to diagnose ADHD simply by listing the symptoms and having a person (or their parents, if a child was being diagnosed) report whether they exhibit a specific behavior. Today, ADHD diagnoses are typically much more rigorous.
A therapist or other licensed healthcare professional may begin the diagnostic process by obtaining a thorough history and conducting a clinical interview designed to assess for symptoms of ADHD and rule out other mental health conditions. They may use tests like ADHD rating scales, cognitive assessments, and tests of specific abilities to determine if ADHD is the likely source of symptoms.
Can my therapist tell if I have ADHD?
Your therapist will not diagnose you with ADHD without a thorough evaluation. However, many therapists, especially those who work extensively with ADHD patients, may be able to get a “sense” of your condition. They may recommend that you receive an ADHD evaluation, but without hard details, qualified therapists might not offer a diagnosis.
Who is qualified to give an ADHD diagnosis?
Many healthcare professionals can diagnose ADHD but may choose to refer to specialists as diagnostic standards become more rigorous. Medical doctors, nurse practitioners, psychologists, and therapists or counselors are all capable of making an ADHD diagnosis. Still, they may believe that additional training and experience are required to be truly qualified. While many types of healthcare professionals are qualified to diagnose ADHD, only medical professionals, like doctors, can prescribe the medication used to treat it.
Medical doctors, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants can diagnose and treat ADHD using medication, although special training may be required. Professional counselors and therapists—including occupational therapists and family therapists—often treat ADHD by providing behavioral strategies for managing symptoms. Therapists and medical providers may also work together to help a person manage ADHD using a two-pronged approach.
Who do I see if I think I have ADHD?
Many people begin their ADHD journey by speaking with their primary care provider (PCP). While few PCPs may specialize in the treatment of ADHD, they may be happy to provide referrals to those who have a better understanding of the condition. A PCP may also help with the medical management of ADHD and may be comfortable prescribing medication after you receive an evaluation from a specialist. Providers can also be in a position to rule out other medical conditions that may be contributing to your symptoms and often work in consultation with ADHD specialists or other mental health practitioners. Consult your insurance company to avoid surprise bills for services.
Why won't my psychiatrist diagnose me with ADHD?
If your psychiatrist doesn’t diagnose you with ADHD, they may believe another condition is responsible for your symptoms or that the symptom severity does not rise to the level of ADHD. They might know from your history that your symptoms began too recently to be ADHD or that you have consistently struggled with other issues that may cause similar symptoms. If you are sure you have ADHD, you can request a second opinion from another medical provider.
How do I get tested for ADHD?
Getting tested for ADHD begins with locating a qualified professional to conduct the evaluation. People commonly seek referrals from their primary care physician, who may send their client to a psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist specializing in ADHD. In the past, some primary care providers may have been comfortable diagnosing ADHD using standard forms or clinical interviews, but it is increasingly common for a primary care provider to refer their patient to a specialist, especially if the client is seeking medication.
What does an ADHD test look like for adults?
There is no single test to evaluate ADHD in children or adults. When done correctly, the diagnostic process typically involves a comprehensive evaluation that lasts several hours. A qualified professional will take a detailed history and spend a lot of time discussing the person's childhood, as increasing numbers of ADHD have onset in adulthood.
The clinician may also use rating scales, computerized testing, and clinical interviews to pinpoint the source of the symptoms. Evaluations usually occur over several sessions and may last eight hours or more. The clinician, who is likely specifically trained to assess for ADHD, analyzes the details. If all the details show that ADHD is the most likely cause of a person’s concerns, they may give a diagnosis.
Should I talk to a therapist if I think I have ADHD?
You can talk to a therapist if you think you have ADHD. It is becoming increasingly common for ADHD evaluations to be performed by psychologists and therapists who then work alongside medical practitioners as part of a treatment team to determine if ADHD medication is necessary. Therapists might provide evaluation and behavioral treatment, while a medical provider helps their patient find a combination and dosage of medication that works for them.
Why is it so hard to get an ADHD diagnosis?
Getting an ADHD diagnosis may be difficult because many people obtain psychostimulant medication to treat the symptoms once diagnosed. Stimulant medications may all produce euphoria and energy when taken for recreational purposes. Because of this, stimulants have a high street value and are frequently taken for nonmedical purposes. Some people may seek ADHD diagnoses not because their symptoms are overwhelming but because they would like to get those medications.
Does untreated ADHD get worse with age?
ADHD does not generally worsen with age. However, comorbid disorders or life circumstances may exacerbate symptoms across the lifespan. It is possible that someone with untreated ADHD could navigate their lives well until they encounter a new challenge or obstacle.
For example, consider someone who previously functioned well at their job as a construction worker. In middle age, they are promoted to an office position within the construction company. Their symptoms might be exacerbated by their new sedentary work environment, as evidence suggests that ADHD symptoms reduce in response to physical activity. Now that they spend all day at a desk, they may find it harder to function due to reduced physical activity and increased demands on their concentration.
- Previous Article
- Next Article