How Do I Find Adult ADHD Testing Near Me?
There’s a common misconception that ADHD is exclusive to childhood. However, adults can have ADHD too, and if left untreated, it can have significant effects on their daily lives and relationships. Recognizing the signs of adult ADHD and seeking professional testing can be important first steps if challenges with attention and impulsiveness are interfering with your life.
“But how do I find adult ADHD testing near me?” is a common question. Figuring out where to get tested can sometimes be intimidating, so if you aren’t sure where to start, this article may be for you.
Understanding ADHD in adults
ADHD (short for “attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder”) is a condition that can make it hard to concentrate, stay organized, manage time, and control impulses. Although it is commonly diagnosed in children, it is not exclusive to childhood; an estimated 2.8% of adults are living with ADHD worldwide.
There are two types of ADHD symptoms to be aware of: inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive. People with ADHD may have mainly one type or the other, or they may have a combination of both.
Symptoms of inattentiveness may include:
- Getting distracted often
- Frequently misplacing or forgetting things
- Struggling to concentrate, especially on long or tedious tasks
- Struggling to listen or follow directions
- Frequently daydreaming or getting lost in thought
Symptoms of hyperactivity/impulsiveness may include:
- Fidgeting or restlessness
- Taking unnecessary risks
- Interrupting others or blurting things out without thinking
- Experiencing frequent mood swings
- Racing from one activity to the next
Many people who have had ADHD as children don’t get diagnosed until adulthood, as symptoms may not always be easy to spot. This may be especially true for girls, who tend to experience more inattentive symptoms, which are often more subtle than hyperactive ones (which tend to be more common in boys). Adults may also be more likely to have developed coping strategies that “mask” their symptoms.
Left untreated, ADHD can have a range of consequences. People with ADHD may struggle to follow instructions and complete difficult tasks, which can affect their work or school performance. They may also have a hard time being patient and thinking before they act, which can impact relationships and lead to risky behavior.
If you suspect you may have ADHD, consider keeping a journal of the signs you notice, the times they occur, and the impacts they’re having on your life. Having a record of your symptoms may help you figure out if there’s a pattern. If there is, you may also want to share it with your mental health provider.
The importance of a professional diagnosis
If you recognize symptoms of ADHD in yourself and they are negatively affecting your quality of life, it can be important to get tested for the condition.
While it can be tempting to try to diagnose yourself using symptom lists or online tests, only a licensed mental health professional can diagnose ADHD accurately. Getting a proper diagnosis involves a comprehensive evaluation that considers your full medical and mental health history. A trained professional may also be able to rule out other underlying conditions, like anxiety or bipolar disorder, and provide ADHD treatment recommendations based on your situation.
Finding ADHD testing in your area
If you’ve decided to seek treatment for ADHD, finding testing can sometimes be intimidating. If you aren’t sure where to start your search, the following strategies may help:
Talk to your doctor: If you’ve brought your symptoms to the attention of a mental health professional, they may refer you to a specialist for further evaluation. However, your primary care doctor may also be able to provide an initial screening, rule out conditions with similar symptoms, and refer you to local ADHD testing services.
Check with your insurance provider: Most health insurance companies publish online directories of covered specialists, which you can search based on your plan and location. These can be a useful way to find testing that your insurance will cover, although you may want to double-check with your insurance company before booking the test, as listings may not always be up to date.
Take advantage of community resources: Many cities offer mental health resources, such as university clinics and community health centers, which may be able to test you for ADHD or connect you with outside testing services. If you’re looking for patient recommendations, you might also try joining a local ADHD support group or forum, where members can share their experiences and suggest providers they’ve found helpful.
Consult professional directories: Many websites publish listings of mental health specialists based on where they’re practicing. Organizations like the Attention Deficit Disorder Association also offer resources for finding healthcare providers specializing in ADHD.
Once you’ve found a testing provider in your area, you may want to call ahead to confirm insurance coverage, out-of-pocket costs, and whether you need to bring any documentation. Some providers may offer testing on-site, while others may require you to visit a specialized testing center. It can be a good idea to check these details before booking your appointment.
The ADHD testing process can look different depending on the person, their symptoms, and the test provider. It may involve evaluating your symptoms and rating how much they impact your life in different areas. People close to you, such as family members, may be asked to fill out assessments as well. Some providers may also perform psychological tests, which are designed to evaluate different aspects of your thinking, such as memory, attention, and the ability to process information.
After testing
While ADHD cannot be “cured,” it can often be managed with proper treatment. If you’ve received an ADHD diagnosis, your mental healthcare provider will likely recommend a treatment plan that may include:
- Medication (such as Adderall, Vyvanse, or Ritalin)
- Lifestyle changes (like changing your sleep schedule, practicing mindfulness, or keeping important items in the same place)
- Dietary modifications (such as reducing refined sugar intake)
Therapy is often another part of adult ADHD treatment. A licensed therapist may be able to offer personalized advice for managing your symptoms and improving your quality of life. They may also be a helpful resource if you’re living with another mental illness, such as depression or anxiety.
For people with ADHD, it can sometimes be hard to manage the logistics of commuting to in-person therapy appointments. Online platforms like BetterHelp may be a more convenient alternative, letting you see a therapist without having to leave the house.
Studies have found that online therapy may be an effective way to reduce ADHD symptoms. In 2022, researchers analyzed several studies of online interventions for ADHD, finding that they effectively improved attention and social function.
Takeaway
ADHD, a condition that can make it hard to focus and control impulses, is often associated with children, but adults can have it, too. If you notice ADHD symptoms in yourself, such as concentration issues, risk-taking, forgetfulness, or restlessness, you may benefit from getting tested. Only a trained professional can officially diagnose ADHD, so consider seeking a specialist via your primary care doctor, online directories, your insurance company, or your community.
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