Attention Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder, also known as ADHD, frequently occurs in childhood. However, people of all ages can suffer from it. If you think you have it, taking an exam is vital to learning how to manage and live with it.
Steps
Step 1. Consider why you think you are affected
Every now and then, everyone gets distracted, but ADHD sufferers have a particular situation. Try to understand the reasons why you think you have this condition so that you can fully describe them to your doctor. Identify specific examples and moments in which the classic symptoms of the disease occurred.
Step 2. Choose a professional to contact
If you are already being treated by a psychiatrist or psychologist, make an appointment with this expert. If not, go to the family doctor: he will give you suggestions on how to proceed and direct you to the nearest professional.
Step 3. Speak frankly with the therapist
This is not the right time to be vague. Explain exactly why you think you have the disorder. List the specific cases you thought about before going there. Additionally, he or she will likely be interested in the following information:
- Possible family medical history: If one of your blood relatives has suffered from it, tell your therapist. Some studies show that ADHD has a genetic risk factor.
- Your medical history: Explain any illnesses or medical problems you have suffered from in the past. In particular, it tries to describe psychiatric disorders.
- Your medications. If you are considering taking medications to treat ADHD, your doctor should be aware of the medications you are taking to prevent interactions.
Step 4. Answer the doctor's questions honestly
If he thinks you have this disorder, he will take you through a series of questionnaires. In some cases, you will need to write the answers on a piece of paper, in others say them out loud. Of course, it will ask you questions related to attention per se, but it will also analyze other psychiatric problems, such as other mental disorders or depression. Don't be alarmed if you find yourself struggling with questions about interpersonal relationships and moods. Always try to be honest. The physician must be able to make a diagnosis based on accurate information.
Step 5. If your doctor asks you to, invite others to fill out questionnaires
The psychiatrist may need more information about your family, teachers, or co-workers. If that's not a problem for you, ask these people to help. Make sure you don't influence them on the answers. Again, accuracy is quite important. Keep in mind that, among other things, many teachers often find themselves answering such questions about their students.
Step 6. Accept the doctor's diagnosis
After providing him with all the information, the psychiatrist will complete the analysis according to the criteria of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. This volume indicates the universally accepted characteristics of the ADHD. While I disagree, remember that he is a professional and has been trained to do this job. Not convinced of his opinion? Get a second opinion.
Advice
- If you can't afford to pay for a private visit, go to the hospital or find out about any free care programs.
- The severity of this diagnosis varies from one person to another. Some people have a mild form of ADHD, others don't. Sometimes, people tend to underestimate the disorder precisely because it is not serious.
