ADHD Diagnosis
You might now be wondering whether to get a clinical ADHD diagnosis.
Taking a little time to understand what an ADHD diagnosis means for you before you start, can help the process feel easier and what to do afterwards clearer.
Remember, this is a an individual choice, which can be influenced by many factors.
What would getting diagnosis mean?
A diagnosis means different things to different people.
For some, it provides a long-awaited explanation for difficulties that have been present for years. For others, it offers a framework for understanding patterns that previously felt confusing, inconsistent or frustrating.
A diagnosis does not change who you are, but it can change how you understand yourself and the experiences you've had.
It may bring:
✓ Validation that your struggles are real and have a recognised explanation.
✓ Greater understanding of lifelong patterns and experiences.
✓ Access to treatment, workplace adjustments or support services.
✓ More self-compassion and less self-blame.
✓ Better communication with partners, family members and friends.
Some people feel relief after receiving a diagnosis. Others feel surprised, emotional, uncertain or need time to process what it means. There is no "right" reaction.
Most importantly, a diagnosis is a personal choice. For some people it is an important next step. For others, understanding ADHD is valuable regardless of whether they pursue a formal assessment.
Questions and Concerns
It is okay to have questions, worries and concerns prior to stepping into the diagnosis pathway.
Thinking these through before you start can help you plan which questions to ask and help the professionals advising you, understand you better.
Thoughts
-
I don't trust the system
-
I don't want a label of ADHD
-
I'm not doing this for me
-
The process, cost and time involved is too much
Questions
-
Will it change anything?
-
Will I have to take medication?
-
Do I want a label?
-
What is the point of it when I've lived with it for years?
Feelings
-
feels like a big step to take
-
feel overwhelmed by process
-
feel doubtful if it is true
-
feel hopeful about the outcome
-
feel it will bring validation and prove what I think.
How do I get an ADHD Diagnosis?
The detail varies according to which country you live in, however the process usually follows these steps.
It is important to remember getting an ADHD diagnosis as an adult is an emotional and practical process.
It can feel quite overwhelming at points - especially when it requires sustained organisation, follow-through plus navigating different systems with unfamiliar terminology.
A test on executive functioning processes and focus.
Breaking down the process into very small micro steps that are easy to follow helps minimise task avoidance, overwhelm and confusion.
