There are a lot of self-assessment options for ADHD all across the internet that can help you learn more about yourself and self-regulation techniques. However, ADHD testing from a psychiatrist is the best way to establish a comprehensive mental health treatment plan. Working with a psychiatrist can include ADHD testing, getting an official ADHD diagnosis, determining and getting help with ADHD accommodations, and medication, which can include being prescribed Adderall.
What Does Professional ADHD Testing Include?
ADHD testing is most accurately done through a diagnostic interview with a mental health professional combined with rating scales. The diagnostic interview will focus on the following criteria from the CDC:
Symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity
Inattention
- Often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, at work, or with other activities.
- Often has trouble holding attention on tasks or play activities.
- Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly.
- Often does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace (e.g., loses focus, side-tracked).
- Often has trouble organizing tasks and activities.
- Often avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to do tasks that require mental effort over a long period of time (such as schoolwork or homework).
- Often loses things necessary for tasks and activities (e.g. school materials, pencils, books, tools, wallets, keys, paperwork, eyeglasses, mobile telephones).
- Is often easily distracted.
- Is often forgetful in daily activities.
Hyperactivity
- Often fidgets with or taps hands or feet, or squirms in seat.
- Often leaves seat in situations when remaining seated is expected.
- Often runs about or climbs in situations where it is not appropriate (adolescents or adults may be limited to feeling restless).
- Often unable to play or take part in leisure activities quietly.
- Is often “on the go” acting as if “driven by a motor.”
- Often talks excessively.
- Often blurts out an answer before a question has been completed.
- Often has trouble waiting their turn.
- Often interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g., butts into conversations or games).
At what age did the symptoms start and how long the symptoms have been present for
In the majority of cases, symptoms will start before the age of 12. For “adult ADHD”, although the adult may first be getting assessed as an adult, they usually have had the symptoms since childhood. The duration of symptoms is important too, where the symptoms should be present for at least 6 months. This helps rule out other etiologies that may cause focus issues such as depression or anxiety.
How much dysfunction the person experiences
The decision to pursue a diagnosis and treatment will usually come down to how much the symptoms impact the person. ADHD can impact relationships, school and work performance, confidence and self-esteem, and even safety in some cases (children impulsively crossing the street, teenagers or adults getting distracted while driving, etc.).
If the symptoms occur in multiple settings.
If the symptoms of ADHD are occurring exclusively in one setting, such as only at school, work, or at home, then it may speak to the situation at that setting (too many distractions at home, a difficult work environment, school avoidance) rather than ADHD.
The psychiatric evaluation will also screen for other psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or PTSD as well as medical conditions such as sleep disorders, thyroid issues, hearing or vision problems to name a few which can present with similar symptoms to ADHD. These must be ruled out to properly diagnose ADHD.
Rating Scales
Rating scales are important to empirically test for symptoms of ADHD in a manner that both correctly identifies people who have ADHD while ruling out people who do not have ADHD. These tests are also a great objective way to measure response to treatment over time.
For children and adolescents:
- Vanderbilt Assessment for parents
- Vanderbilt Assessment for teacher
- Conners Comprehensive Behavior Rating Scale
For Adults
- Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale
- Conners’ Adult ADHD Rating Scales – Self Report and Observer Report
The Differences Between ADHD Testing for Adults and ADHD Testing for Kids
Whether you are seeking out pediatric or adult psychiatry, the testing for ADHD overall follows the same basic mechanism of using a diagnostic interview along with rating scales. In some ways, it can be simpler to diagnose a child, since there may be more people to observe that child in multiple settings, for instance parents and teachers. Adults on the other hand may provide more insights into their self-reported symptoms which can be very valuable as well.
Is an Official ADHD Diagnosis Worth It?
How Much Does ADHD Testing Cost?
The cost of ADHD testing may range from the cost of a copay up to $3500. The average range to see a psychiatrist out of pocket to assess and treat ADHD is $300-500. If someone seeks out neuropsych testing to evaluate for a full battery of possible diagnoses including intelligence testing, learning disorder testing, ADHD, etc. then the cost can be up $3500.
How Long Does ADHD Testing Take?
The length of time for ADHD testing mostly depends on how quickly the “collateral” information in the form of rating scales from family members, teachers, etc. can be obtained. The interview itself can usually be accomplished in 1-2 sessions, so the bulk of the time depends on how quickly rating scales can be obtained from those people.
How to Get Tested for ADHD today
At A Better Day Psychiatry, we recognize the impact that untreated ADHD can have on people’s lives and the importance of accurately diagnosing and effectively treating it. Regardless of where you are in your journey with ADHD, our providers offer comprehensive care to improve your wellbeing. Reach out today.