What is it like to get a psych evaluation for ADHD?
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- Опубликовано: 8 май 2024
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Today, Patrick LaCount and I talk through what it's like to get a deep dive evaluation on how my brain works!
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My neuropsych eval was traumatizing bc the tests were very overwhelming. To top it off, the neuropsychologist - who diagnosed me with autism as well - said that, as I'm Autistic i cannot feel "true empathy". I got into an existential crisis and, a while later, called her in order to ask for further clarifications. She brushed my concerns off, telling me that I was "taking things too literally, as Autistic people do" 😑 Fyi, I both have empathy and capacity for non-literal thinking. However, no matter how much evidence I provided of my own behavior, she kept gaslighting me. To her, diagnosis is destiny,
Sorry about that, that sounds like a terrible psychologist
Are you in Delaware? Because that is how my evaluator was and would not explain why I did not have ADHD. She said it was only anxiety and was openly irritated I questioned her.
Sad that someone who is qualified in assessing for autism is also stuck in the harmful and incorrect stereotypes of the last century. Sounds like she's been sloughing off on her continuing education.
Talk about dehumanizing autistic people as a whole. I'm sorry you had to go through that
@@puppypoet I'm in Brazil. those stereotypes are everywhere...
regardless of how many views this video gets, i hope you keep posting videos about the process of treatment and assessment-I know I’m not alone when I say a huge part of my difficulty seeking help is residual memories of unpleasant experiences working with practitioners and clinicians: not knowing what to expect, not knowing what’s normal, what I can push back on or advocate for myself, etc. Videos like these are tremendously helpful!
I need to like this a million times!!!!
This was SO WELL SAID!! Thank you!!
I had a neuropsych eval for ADHD and it was a bad experience for multiple reasons. It culminated in my diagnosis being missed because I didn’t remember much from elementary school and therefore couldn’t recall if I had any ADHD related issues from that time. That was literally the only reason they gave for not diagnosing me, and they said everything else was my anxiety 🙄 my therapist had me get a second opinion and called to tell them off for being so wretched at their jobs.
I'm really sorry you had to go through that and I'm glad you had your therapist to encourage you to get a second opinion. I could definitely see how someone who didn't have that support could get discouraged and not seek further support.
When I took the test, the assessor took the fact that I had an absolutely awful time trying to remember specifics and details about my time in elementary school as a reason why I DID have ADHD.
Me too, I was told I couldn’t focus bc I had no self confidence and had anxiety, it felt very heart breaking: the main issue too was that we didn’t have my school records and my moms eval she said she didn’t think I had it (bc she doesn’t believe in adhd)
Yeah, my memory from that time is terrible and I'm fairly sure the person that did the parental questionnaire has forgotten a lot as well, and that was the basis of me not being diagnosed, although he did keep it in mind in case something came up that further supported it. That said, I was never very sure of ADHD, and I think we've reached a better fit now, and I don't think it's a case of co-occurrence. THAT diagnosis also took a while because some things were really subtle to the extent that my psychiatrist had completely ruled it out, which he doesn't do unless he feels certain. So I don't mind so much since I know he's willing to reevaluate even then (and he takes really good notes which has to have helped).
I actually did have a REALLY hard time getting organized in early elementary school, though. It's not like there were no signs, and he said as much.
I'm glad you were able to get a second opinion.
The irony is that by remembering enough I got my ADHD dx. Probably because I’m more hyperactive than anything. But now that I think about it, that would have been the first time in my life that my wretched academic record (sixth grade twice, dropped out of high school twice, no GED) actually did me some good.
Almost like memory problems are an ADHD symptom.
Make sure to see a doctor who actually knows what ADHD really is. It's possible to do too well on the tests and get misdiagnosed and dismissed as not having ADHD.
Thats what happened to me!! Struggling with what to do now…
Happened to me too. Got the full dementia test. Conclusion was that l didn't have dementia but did have some kind of anxiety. Was prescribed anti anxiety medication. Turned me into a zombie. Needless to say I stopped taking it. Have other ways to cope without stimulant medication.
@@AmyJLiang hate to say it, but I got a second test with a center that specializes in helping “gifted” kids/adults with ADHD and finally was treated like a person instead of run through an unnecessary full IQ test. It was SUPER expensive (the several grand they mention in the vid) but well worth it for me.
That's exactly what happened to me 💀
My therapist claimed to have adhd himself but completely brushed over my symptoms/experiences just because I did 'too' well on the test (barely above average result)..
then proceeded to try and 'explain' my experience in really demeaning ways.
What really left a stain on me was when he eventually felt the need to suggest I am just "too lazy" or "uninterested" to do "actual work". 💀
I'm considering consulting an actual professional sometime.
Thankfully my neuropsych realized this.
This channel was a big reason I decided to get myself evaluated for ADHD this year. I went through testing very similar to what Patrick described and was diagnosed with ADHD inattentive type. The process to talk to various therapists, psychologists, and psychiatrists was daunting but it's worth pushing through if you are like me and need to know for sure. My next step is talk to yet another psychiatrist about medication but to me the biggest piece was just being able to name my demon.
Get used to being your own ally and expert. Imho, it doesn't get easier.
can you share any links to evaluators you met with ? would greatly appreciate !
Didn't have a neurological eval, but recently got diagnosed with ADHD after suspecting it for a while now. The validation was real.
How do you go about getting a diagnosis (UK if you know)
@@ez_the_therian I’m US. I started with a therapist and let them know I was concerned/suspected it based off of a multitude of reasons. They eventually provided a recommendation that I followed up on and scheduled the evaluation. Your system is different from our, but I would expect a therapist that works in a hospital network would likely be able to guide you.
@@Mrhofer ah ok that makes sense thank you :)
@@ez_the_therian How old are u? If under 18 I’ve been going through the diagnosis with CAMHS (under the NHS). If over 18 speak your GP and I think they can refer you
@@benedettaekwuru4733 under 18 idk who to speak to abt it tho
Like how do I talk to CAMHS
I'd love a similar video for getting an adult diagnosis. Things to expect, pitfalls, costs, etc.
They usually accuse you of drug seeking and being a drug addict. That's what happened to me when I get to a therapist to get treatment for my ADHD after my doctor retired. It took me four years to find another doctor to prescribe my medication CII.
That’s what the diagnostician accused me of based on nothing other than the results of a bogus personality test called the “Personality Assessment Inventory.” Complete and utter nonsense.
I’ll have to check, but I think PAI may have been what I took also. After seeing the results I realized it was not a personality test so much as it was designed to look for personality disorders, and I don’t think it was structured to be taken by an autistic person. I agreed with the graphed results in terms of my biggest issues, which aligned with the top coefficients of fit. A couple other things that had high coefficients were surprising, but might have some valid insights. What I disagreed with were certain flagged answered, places where I responded that I do “a bit” of something. It appeared to me that they flagged these because they suggested antisocial behavior, and I think the threshold was based on the assumption that someone with antisocial tendencies will underacknowledge their problematic traits. I answered “a bit” because I try to be self aware, and recognize my weaknesses. I also thought they were probably expecting me to be distrustful, and I am too trusting and bad at reading intentions. Sounds like you got hit in the same way, the test was looking for drug abusers and interpreted your responses that way. Ugh!
Joke's on them, I already am on meds... sometimes... when I remember to take them.
But seriously it took forever. I was upset that my ADHD was ruining my first serious relationship and I was really committed to changing that, but the psychiatrist said "well, you still have symptoms of depression so we need to treat mood before productivity or attention" citing Maslow's hierarchy of needs and I'm like "not being productive and making dumb mistakes to beat myself up over is the problem though, I'm depressed because it's starting to ruin my life and my relationship".
Anyway, I finally got on meds 1.5 years after that relationship ended due to my inability to be responsible 😢
My sister had a similar experience. She wasn't even the one who asked for the referral. She got a new doctor, had trouble staying in topic during her check up, and the doctor recommended the evaluation. She barely even got started on testing before the specialist basically called her a liar and showed her the door.
Literally me. They’re trying everything under the sun except for stimulants, and none have helped, some have made my issues worse. Vyvanse has helped in the past, but because I had an alcohol addiction over 6 years ago, it made me a red flag. I was using alcohol to cope with my PTSD and other issues long before I was ever diagnosed with anything, and got myself out of it through getting to know myself better and talking about my issues with people who cared about me. It’s really frustrating, and I had to drop out of school because they won’t give me proper treatment.
I would love to have one done for myself and my daughter.
I struggled severely with mental health throughout life to the point of being told I was “treatment resistant” in my 30s I was diagnosed with adhd and once I started medication there was a huge shift for my overall mental health.
Had I been diagnosed sooner it could have changed so much for me so I want to do better for my own daughter. I wish it was much more accessible - early treatment can make a world of difference.
One of the things that annoy me the most is the fact that I NEED accountability but I hate when people actually try to hold me accountable, even when it is my parents trying to help. I get this feeling that "I'm and adult, I don't need my parents' help!" (SPOILER ALERT - I do)
I've had a number of cognitive evaluations over the years for various reasons, and I'll add another point: Some tests are designed not to be finished. Part of the evaluation is how many questions you completed in the allotted time. In rare cases, someone will finish such a test, but that makes it hard to quantify the parameter they're evaluating.
Also a caution: If you need your medication to function adequately, talk to your doctor before arranging to complete an evaluation off your meds.
I had a neuropsych test a month ago and some brain scans too because of what I thought was newly acquired visual procssesing and coginitive decline. Can you guess the finding? Oh, actually, looks like you have ADHD and life challenges are pushing to a point that your coping strategies aren't enough! Mind blowing at 52 🤪
OMG NO WAY I WENT TO GET AN EVALUATION TODAY BUT APPARENTLY ITS TOMORROW OOPS AND IVE BEEN MEANING TO SEARCH UP THE PROCESS IM SO SCARED WISH ME LUCK
Good luck!
Its...really not super bad. Just be open and honest with your experiences. The adhd will show for itself. Trust me.
Good luck!
Best of luck. Remember no matter the outcome the test is for your own good. Be honest with yourself & make the most of whatever comes out of it.
Great clarifying video! Just to add one more thought: The assessment is always a snapshot of your abilities in that particular moment. If someone does e.g. a working memory test well-rested at the beginning of their assessment and they're really motivated (stimulated) to do this new task, they may as well show a normal score, even though their working memory is impaired in every day life, when not being rested after half of the work day, facing old boring or way more complex tasks. I've only worked with neuropsycholical tests, though, that would last for about 30-60 minutes, so it's possible they may factor that aspect in during that kind of 6h long assessment.
I think I did the inverse. I had some major stresses a day or two before the assessment, and I think I did even worse than my average on working memory. Sympathetic nervous activity short circuited me more than usual.
That's what happened to me. They missed my diagnosis last year because I actually am really good at the types of working memory skills they were using on the test (memorizing words? yeah, I'm actually GREAT at that!). They did not ask me anything about my day-to-day existence wherein my boss asks me to do a thing and I forget, literally two minutes later, what the heck she asked me to do. I was extremely frustrated that the test missed my ADHD because it seemed like they were testing in a vacuum and not actually taking the time to figure out what in my real life could be a sign of ADHD.
I've been trying for over a year to get one of these. Dr. agreed I have ADHD traits after going through a questionnaire, but since I "got good grades in high school," he would only agree to treatment if I got a full neuropsychological evaluation. I finally have one scheduled for next month.... excellent to hear it's not likely necessary 😑
I tried talking to my doctor about it and he specifically asked me "how were your grades in school?"
When I said they were good he just flat out said "I don't think you have ADHD"
@@angelofdeath9513 "I have a medical degree, so I understand everything, even things I've never spent any time learning about. ESPECIALLY things I've never spent any time learning about."
@@jimwilliams3816 Ha!
My worst fear if I get tested is my grades are too good. What do you want me to do just start answering every question wrong on purpose??!
Thank-you. I have been following your channel for about six months now as I explore my mental health. This week I had scheduled a psych eval, I won’t probably due to the level that you are speaking here, but it’s validating and helpful. It’s getting me prepared to get the most out of my session. Thank you so much.
Funny thing I had a nurse practitioner tell me I don’t have ADHD and took the conners 3 test. I scored high in inattentiveness and impulsiveness. She changed her tune yet wanted to give me off label drugs. So I found a doctor who knew more about what I was going through and advocating for myself was hard but worked
@Squidlord77 no. Off label means a drug that is not used for it’s actual purpose and given to a patient for other reasons not approved by the FDA. For instance, I was on clonidine, which can be used for Adhd and anxiety but it’s a blood pressure pill. So it’s not approved for anxiety but approved for adhd. As long as there’s evidence that it works the nurse can prescribe it.
It shows the strengths and weaknesses, to improve one’s life .
I was shocked how bad my coordination and dyspraxia was .
I had 3 diagnoses of dyspraxia, ADHD and autistic traits ( Aspergers traits).
For Aspergers traits, no formal assessment.
When I had my assessment for dyspraxia, from a psychologist IQ test , verbal comprehension, working memory, processing speed, perceptual organisation, visual perception, coordination tests . There are recommendations, medical records , prior background.
I had questionnaires prior to my ADHD assessment, a psychiatric history, medical reports , a clinical interview. It was done by a psychiatrist.
I've always been curious about this. Thanks for sharing!
Thank you so much for posting on this topic. I just completed my neuropsych evaluation and awaiting my results prior to treatment. It’s been challenging to find resources.
I just went thru this testing on Monday June 19 and got my results today June 26th. It was really cool and explain a lot of things from my school career. Also I have been a subscriber for a while and on my results they suggested your channel for information and help with my diagnosis.
I seriously just got results today from doing one of these which my work required me to do, and the doctor told me I don't have ADD/ADHD! I'm stunned and angry about this. My symptoms line up with non-hyperactive ADD. Every time I talk to people with ADD or ADHD and compare experiences, we understand each other well. I know that there were several tests that I performed particularly poorly on, such as remembering a random verbal string of words and a reflex/follow directions test where you only click a button when a certain image is shown, but the doctor had the gall to tell me I was actally better than the average person. If I'm "so much better than average" why do I struggle to remember things? Why do I stuggle anytime I have to multi-task? Why do I have so much trouble processing my emotions? Why is it physically painful to push through doing boring work? Why is my brain so muddled if I can't get my meds? I had to go off meds for over a month because of the shortage, and I was barely functional. I went to this guy to get assistance in figuring out a treatment strategy and he basically kicked me to the curb saying that I don't have ADHD I'm just depressed! I don't think that would account for lifelong stuggles. What a setback... I hope your assesment turns out more productive, Jessica.
A doctor/assessor should be able to take in other information and explain/realize that just because you test "above average" doesn't mean you don't live with ADHD. (And I can't say whether you do, just reacting based on my own experience.) For example, more normatively "intelligent" people and those who are more skilled with working out their own coping mechanisms (both lucky in their own rights) can also have ADHD obviously; it just may not be so apparent through testing against an "average" performance on the typical evals
It isn't exactly a binary and there are a ton of factors beyond test performance. Recognizing that it can be time consuming and expensive, I hope you have the ability to get another assessment where you feel more comprehensively seen and heard
Edit: as I continue watching, I see the video reflects and explains this more tailored approach very nicely. Something I hope you get to experience!
was the doctor one that your job told you to go to/employed by the company? My father worked in the auto industry and said to me that if you get hurt on the job they make you go to their doctor and that doctor almost always says "There's nothing wrong" even if there clearly is. If that doctor was one the company told you to go to or employed by the company, it could just be that. They don't want to diagnose you with something protected by law and could cause "trouble" for the company. I'd get several outside opinions at that point to challenge those results.
11:37 "As if you were in college".
I'm going back to college after a long break. Wish me luck folks 😊
Good luck! I went back a couple of years ago and it's been a really good experience, both mental health wise (because I saw an actual psychiatrist for the first time through their med center among other things) and in terms of really enjoying most of the classes. It depends on you and your school, of course, but I hope you have a good experience as well. You can do it.
@@lexihopes Thank you Becca it means a lot
Thank you so much for this post! I will be going for such an evaluation in a week. Don't know how much they have planned, or if my psychiatrist has hipped them to any particular points, but this post has been most helpful to let me know what I might expect. I literally had no idea otherwise. 🙂
I just found this channel and checked a few older videos. I started crying. I can almost never cry, it's something I struggle with. Starting to understand some of the struggles and knowing why we struggle is a huge relief.
Thank you for making amazing videos.
Timely. I’m considering this rn. Thanks to Jessica and community💓
Very informative! Would love to see a video about “alternative” “treatments”that are out there that can be used in conjunction with medication. Coaching, ADHD groups, etc.
I’ve been diagnosed for 15 year and am just now learning (from your channel) that having ADHD affects me emotionally! CRAZY! Thank you so much and keep up the good work!
Thanks for another awesome video!
PSA for anyone considering - neuropsych can be very helpful if you have another condition that could be muddying the waters and making it more difficult to diagnose ADHD.
I went through a neuropsychological evaluation for ADHD because I have a separate neurological condition, and for me personally it was really helpful (both the clinical interview segment and the actual battery of tests). I was lucky that the neuropsych who did my testing had great knowledge of ADHD in women and comorbid conditions, and she was able to make a differential diagnosis that assured me I did have ADHD, not just the impacts of my other condition. I also got a lot of useful insights about how my brain worked, similarly to Jessica. Thanks HowToADHD!
I am 53 and I am going to do this soon for my autism. I have memory issues from mitochondrial dysfunction and I got tested again for the first time in a decade. It is so useful to know exactly where your issues are.
Getting a full evaluation June 7th. The timing of this was perfect. Thank you again for your contributions.
Getting mine on June 9th. Good luck
@@sinner2133 You too 👍
I had a neuropsych evaluation last year to test for Adhd and possibly dyslexia. I have known for many years before that I had ADHD but it was never diagnosed until the neuropsych eval. I was struggling tremendously in my master’s program and feeling like a failure. The evaluation was draining but at the same time very eye opening and validating. It has allowed me to reshape how I feel about my brain and its strengths and weaknesses. I cried occasionally when there were tests that were especially hard for me but then I realized there were other tests that were really easy for me. So I get to see where my strengths and weaknesses are.
Dr LaCount is honest. Thank you for being direct, Dr LaCount ❤❤❤
You are so sweet!!!🥰 Thank you!
Great video! Hope to see a video of you discussing the diagnostic testing and perhaps why you've been re-diagnosed several times.
Weirdly enough I had a very wonderful doctor do my eval. Even though I didnt score within the threshhold for many of the tests, they really listened to me and took everything into consideration when diagnosing me. They made sure to take in my previous ADHD screening, life history, coping mechanisms, and their lead doctor's second opinion before the official diagnosis.
I was very nervous before going in because I know how hard it is to get diagnosed for the first time as an adult, plus I have other social factors that can lead to biases preventing proper diagnosis. It was a long process but worth it for me because I have legal basis for accomodations now.
Same here. Although, I was seeking an autism diagnosis and what was known both by my evaluator and myself at the time was very much limited due to the general knowledge out there at that time about what that is like in adults. But, in retrospect, she started out extremely respectful and talking to me like a normal person and by the end I thought she was being inappropriately direct and blunt about things. 15 years later, it finally clicked that she was still being respectful, she was just being respectful to somebody that she was pretty sure what autistic, but lacked enough specific evidence to allow her to use the word as that would have required putting that in my file when I already had enough stuff in my file that it was hard to be taken seriously by doctors at times. She meant that I should get reevaluated for some of that stuff, and probably would have given the diagnosis if I had had a stronger reason for needing it. I think when I go in this time there's going to be no question that I get a clean diagnosis as I am much more aware of the masking that I've been doing and have less capacity to keep it up now.
Thank you for this video! My daughter (11) is getting a whole bunch of evals done over the next few weeks and while she’s happy we are getting answers, she’s also really nervous. ADHD is just one of the things being tested for but I think your video will help make her feel more prepared.
I went through like 7 tests over 2 months. results ->slightly above average IQ, difficulty with decision making, really bad short-term memory but better visual memory (remembering colors, shapes etc) but in terms of numbers etc it was bad.. I was diagnosed with GAD with ADHD symptoms. After 6 months of being on 3 different antidepressants my psychiatrist tried Ritalin and it clicked and I can be more functional human being finally... But it still bugs me, every time i brought up ADHD he is like: Yea but thats something you are born with and as Iam listening to you, you started having noticable problems in high-school therefore it is something else....
That's a point in favour of ADHD, though, what the heck. High school is harder, therefore your symptoms present.
This sounds like the story of my life. Are you saying that they disregarded your ADHD diagnosis because it only “started” in high school. How is someone supposed to pin point their starting point if they can’t even remember elementary school? 🙄
What’s GAD?
@@maelyswega3045 Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Omg, I’m a Psychometrist so I administer at least one ADHD battery a week, I did not know the testing was that expensive!
It depends on where you're located and what the insurance coverage is. But, keep in mind that whatever you're personally being paid for your time, there's going to be a lot of administrative bloat, because medical care, as well.
When I was tested previously, I just paid for the copay, but it was a bit less extensive than this and covered by insurance so it was only about $20 for evaluation. But, I think a lot of it depends on what's being done and what the purpose is. It was diagnostic as I didn't already have any sort of a diagnosis covering the AS diagnosis that was being evaluated, so that may have been a factor in the pricing. But, 6 hours of testing is going to be at least $600 just for doctor's time.
I have done these tests a number of times to get accommodations and these tests are very exhausting but also very insightful. Someone who is really good at doing this can make a huge difference in your life, other times it can be a painful but necessary experience.
Its wild to me that people get a ND DX without having this (Still a valid DX regardless of course) but now I know the cost that explains it. I had my assessment paid for by university as I was struggling, I feel so lucky now. There's so many overlaps with different neurodivergencies that to me it makes sense to do this as you could easily get misdiagnosed because they didn't take GAD or IQ or Working Memory Speed etc into account.
Thanks for bringing this topic up!
Excuse my ignorance, but what is "ND DX" ?
@@thegreatartiste3598 It's a "neurodivergent diagnosis" :)
I always doubt whether or not I need my medicine. I've been off of adderall for the past 7 months and my performance at work and my relationships have suffered. Today I finally have it again and it is such a difference!!
Currently in couples counseling, and one of the first things she noticed was was my ADHD tendencies. I'm unmediated but was diagnosed when I was a tot. She want me to explore the medicated route as help in the relationship and communication issues, emotional unsustainable ect... and i've been so worried about doing it and the reactions from the doc, and what happens if i find out im not adha, but something else or worse, nothing else. ( MY WHOLE LIFE IS A LIE!?) lol
I am so happy this has been made. Thank you.
Interesting timing! I have my psych eval for ADHD diagnosis in a couple weeks
I start my evaluation this week. This video came in good time because I'm pretty nervous about it.
I had my second evaluation last summer and it really helped me and my therapist to have a better understanding of where I was at as well as myself to get a starting point ti help with manage my ADHD
My formal testing was done last year over two days and it really wasn’t terrible (if anything: i found it interesting and fun and spent the whole time treating it like a very involved game almost). I needed to have the testing done in order to be prescribed medication to try and get things under control. I was told I had ADHD as a child but my mom didn’t want to put me on meds (“he’s just active”)…but then I absolutely tanked in school and eventually dropped out in my senior year because I was “brilliant but unfocused”. (Hmm…unfocused? Maybe I had ADHD the WHOLE time…🤔😡). As a psychology major (bachelors degree and working on my masters), I knew without a doubt that I had it, but needed the formal testing to move to the next step. Now that I have, the meds have helped SUBSTANTIALLY in my daily life.
Very great video!
This is super interesting and something I've been thinking about doing for years now.
I got a late diagnosis of ADHD at 25 even though I've quietly thought I might have ADHD since I was in middle school, but was able to compensate enough to get by ... until I couldn't anymore. I work in the healthcare system myself and it's so incredibly frustrating how difficult it is to get appropriate accommodations. I have some big tests coming up and I haven't been able to get the accommodations I need to do as well as I can on these exams because I've never had accommodations before and "why would I need it now if I didn't before" and it's so unbelievably frustrating ...
If only this kind of testing was a little more available or easier to access for so many of us and if only the process of getting accommodations as an adult was a little more clear ... ugh
I LOVE the D&D reference! My kids and I use character attributes as our personal references for discussing real life humans and their quirks. It's fun to know that you're part of our favorite nerd-dom!
I did one of those evaluations because I have an acquired brain injury. Turned out I had PTSD on top of everything , lol. It was so exhausting to do but I’m glad I did it. Oh, and mine only cost me my time. A grad student did mine at a local university, so there are other ways to get it done.
I think I had one of these tests after my first year of highschool, BEFORE I was diagnosed with ADHD. I had a number of related ADHD symptoms, depression, anxiety, maladaptive daydreaming, etc. But because I wasn't the "Hyperactive" type, I went under the radar. Something was "wrong", but it was hard to pinpoint.
Anyways, the test was essentially an IQ test (the actual legit ones). I scored fairly high on my verbal and spacial orientation, but much lower on my practical.
When going into the test, I remember being reminded that, while the numbers mattered, it WAS NOT like a school test where I was graded, and to just do my best. So go into it with that mindset: it's important to do your best, but it is not "graded". You are there to learn more about you.
Thank you for making this! I've been debating a while whether I want to do a neuropsych evaluation (for autism, mostly), but I really need to decide while I still have insurance that partially covers it and a psychiatrist willing to do a referral (which apparently can be difficult even for a psychiatric referral, especially for less obvious autism. mine actually was the one to bring it up; I love my psychiatrist). I don't think there are any near me since I moved, so I'm going to decide soon and (assuming I haven't waited too long and there's still availability) do it in November when I'm going to the nearest city for something else anyway (given what the other thing is, both scheduling and the fact the tests will likely be tiring should be fine).
I'm still not sure if it's worth the money for me, but hearing an actual conversation rather than just an article or FAQ helped. Going to check out the comments now, those will probably help a bit as well. :)
Thanks for making this video. I should probably look into the process closer. I got referred for some sort of neuropsychologist testing by a newcomer to my GP's office despite having an ADHD diagnosis thru my specialist psychiatrist-- and then I tested really high on everything except two specific items where I tested very below average! :[ My only guess so far is that I've really found good ways to cope... I was straining myself to get those good of scores. The doctor didn't seem to understand that just because I did okay when asked to match pairs of words, doesn't mean much in day-to-day life. If my morning routine gets interrupted, I can end up randomly dropping one or more of the tasks in my to-do list. It could mean leaving my keys inside the door, forgetting to eat breakfast, or even wearing my PJs to work!
So it was reassuring to hear from your expert that the tests aren't always useful.
I am literally putting off calling neurology right now and this popped up in my feed. Had just decided to procrastinate again. Last time I called them, they told me that ADHD was not a neurologist's domain and they tried to shuffle me off to another shrink. I ALREADY HAVE A SHRINK AND THEY DON'T LISTEN OR HELP EITHER. Maybe I'll try calling, maybe this was a sign, idk.
After I got out of school and got into my interests instead of my adhd holding me back because of the way school was going I now am fully off meds and no longer need them to function and am more motivated and focused then ever
I got evaluated and found to have ADHD a month ago. I still don't totally believe it but I love your videos.
@howtoadhd Jessica, where did you get those purple lamps? I'm obsessed!
I got my eval because I was struggling at work and found out what I was trying to tell ppl the whole time... I did mine in person it took 5 hours like it was intense I got extremely high scores in everything except processing and focus/attention...
Literally overall IQ 128 but with my processing and focus/attention issues my working IQ was closer to 100 depending on my brains processing speed of the day 😅
So basically my potential ability is well above average but my actual ability is much lower and causes me a lot of struggles still above average but not fast... (Which at my job I need to be fast!)...
So yeah needless to say well worth the time and I need to be on stimulants for the rest of forever the world is so much more tolerable now! 😍😍😍
I had my assessment with a Psychiatrist recently and it was just a conversation that lasted about half an hour and asked me all sorts of questions before concluding with, you have ADHD.
I'm going to be tested for adhd and asd. I don't really know what's going to happen so this is just in the right time. ❤
This is super interesting, I’m soon going to see a diagnosing person and it’s comforting to have some idea of how this sort of testing is carried out, thanks ❤
Side note: It’s nice to see the two of you sitting on chairs in not the ‘normal’ way as I have been shamed for the way I sit on chairs and had to mask that and so I’m glad to see you are comfortable to just sit as you want.
This reminded me I haven't heard back from the neuropsychologist I am also shocked how much moneys it is , I have had some strokes so I have done the neurophyc thing twice
The first one was much more exsatibg than the second
Good video
My therapist has diagnosed me with ADHD about 1 year ago. I’m 54 years old, and finally realized why I failed as a child, but I succeeded in lots of other areas.
It’s so important to find a practitioner that will do a thorough psych eval, and NOT just what’s known as a educational evaluation. I did not know the difference but an overall eval can pick up more than just ADHD
I got mine as part of my diagnosis (well… twice, bc got two evaluations/assessments…).
It wasn’t really clear from questionnaires and stuff (…I graduated hs without studying, and got into med school (basically an IQ test here) without much studying…. And it totally broke apart during lockdown).
So I did quite a few tests…. Now got my diagnosis
I just had a neuropsych evaluation last week, still waiting on the formal report. I had an ADHD evaluation last year, but it was "inconclusive." There was math (ugh!), memory tests, pattern tests, etc. It took 6 hours!
Fluid Reasoning = D&D Wisdom ❤
Not necessary? Then why won't anyone even attempt to treat me without me getting a neuropsych eval, which no one gives to adults? I have been actively trying to get a diagnosis for 6 months straight, and I'm going around the "you need a neuropsych eval/you're an adult" circle with zero progress.
With a clinical diagnosis of ADHD you can apply for a free national park parking permit. Which means you get free access to any national park in the continental United States.
???? Where do I sign up
I wanna know too!!!!
I tried to post the link but it took my comment down. :/
Can you post with spaces or just the website to look at?
Question to everyone on Ritalin! have your eyesight improved?
I love these videos! they inspire alot! as a person with ADD/ADHD and Atypical Autism, this helps with my focus! great job!
D&D abilities (from Dungeon Dudes):
Strenght = crush a Tomato
Dexterity = dodge a Tomato
Constitution = eat a bad Tomato
Intelligence = Tomato is a fruit
Wisdom = Tomato not in fruit salad
Charisma = selling Tomato Fruit salad
Funnily enough I had an eye test not longer after starting Concerta (Ritalin) and my eyesight had slightly improved!
Oh. Oh my.
I went through the first assessment today. The cognitive testing and memory part kinda scared me, because I was feeling my failures in real-time, and it carved me a new scar in my psyche.
❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
That seems like a lot of money and information both... I'm glad it can be helpful for people, tho I wish it was more accessible...
I checked my medicaid insurance and asked if screening was covered And it is/was! It does vary by state/plan so yes, access is still a barrier & good therapy/treatments too
I just got my evaluation completed at the beginning of this month. And I just turned 50 earlier this year!!
I walked into mine as my own advocate, because I knew something was different and I was tired of misdiagnosed problems.
Could we get a video about unhealthy coping mechanisms/strategies, and how to break bad habits?
For your friend: I believe dnd wisdom is most closely related to EQ. There are innumerable Reddit (and other) discussions on what the real world equivalent of this skill is and they are a fun read in my opinion.
Thank you for what you do ive been struggling with even seeking help, my issue is that i grew up in the 90s and early 2000s which i was labeled with a learning disability which i don't think i have. Like my issue is affecting credit, bills, whatever relationship i may have in the future.
Hi, it appears like there is a lot of overlap between ADD/ADHD and HSP (highly sensitive person). It would be great to hear your input on that.
For me I actually got a neuropsych eval to get a dyslexia diagnosis. But the Dr who did it decided to test for ADHD as well. So imagine my surprise in going for one diagnosis and getting two instead. For me it was a really valuable process and gave me the tools to get the help I needed. But it defiantly isn’t for everyone.
Well I just wanted to say I received evaluation from a neuropsychologist five months ago I was diagnosed with cognitive impairments and anxiety I already have ADHD and Parkinson's my neurologist sent me to do that testing it was very dreadful and wore me out
Oh. Also I also found getting a psycho-educational incredibly helpful as it allowed me accommodations at college
please do a video on dopamine detoxes and if it is of any benefit to those with adhd thanks
I just had one to figure out what is going on after 3 years of struggling after a mild TBI. Throw ADHD and ASD into the mix it should be interesting. I am really looking forward to the results.
How was your mild TBI determined? I had a possible concussion that may have contributed to the same mix, and I really went off the rails a few months later, but there were other reasons I knew of why I did. But I still wonder if it factors in. I did not lose consciousness, but it was the kind of impact the PFC does not like...fall backwards and land on the back of your head. PFC kind of pulls away from the front of your skull I gather.
@@jimwilliams3816 it was treated as a concussion after slipping, falling and hitting my left temple on the corner of a square post below ground level. I have no idea how long I was out for. Three years later and my symptoms have not gone away.
😂😂😂😂😂
Dr Le Count was caught there when Jessica refer to assessment like D&D game.
Nice to put the shrink on the spot.😅😅😅
I feel like the forms of empathy might fit into wisdom as regards D&D's categorizations, though also it covers intuition, but the social aspects of being able to tell if someone's bluffing is part of Wisdom skill checks, even in 5E, iirc
It's so interesting to hear how the neuro psych testing is supposedly not considered any better than traditional diagnostic questions/history/symptoms. My psychiatrist made me get this testing done outside of her practice because she didn't believe that I had ADHD. (I do, and my neuro psych testing confirmed this)
I did mine a few months ago and it was long and I wasn’t medicated so I was loopy and aggravated. My issue is also working memory. Took three weeks for my report and they found adhd. Glad I did the test but it wasn’t an easy 6 hours.
I've known I had ADHD for a few years, but I wouldn't take an eval. because of a bad experience. Then I "had" to take one in order to get on Ritalin. I failed miserably or passed with flying colors depending on your point of view.
You asked if you should take your meds or not, and the question that popped up in my head was: is anyone asking where you are in your menstrual cycle? (If you have one.) I mean, probably not cause no one ever cares for that, but I think my results might be a lot different depending on my hormone level. Like I'm just way more forgetful and generally confused right before my menses, for example. 🤔
I’ve seen talk that it can affect dopamine levels. My mother had serious dysregulation then. I’ve heard from various sources that menopause tends to lower dopamine too.
I'll try the app next month and 2024
Thanks for this! I'm curious if Dr. Patrick knows if there is more research out there about women and ADHD. My diagnosis was missed for 34 years I think in part because the DSM criteria were standardized from males. I actually work in mental health too (I'm a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor) and my most problematic symptoms could also be explained by depression &/or anxiety. I can't really blame any one person for missing my diagnosis, because I MYSELF missed it! I think it'd be beneficial for counselors, social workers, & marriage & family therapists to have a deeper understanding of ADHD; clearly psychologists already do 😉. I wonder if the DSM criteria will ever be updated or if the name will ever be changed to a more accurate description of our symptoms?? Like Executive Functioning Dysregulation or something....
The answer so far, is extremely difficult, especially post covid. I am finally coming out, at 56, to advocate for my 3 and a half year old, and I am wishing I hadn't, due to the uphill battle that has now ensued.
I've already got my diagnosis, but I never had a formal evaluation per se. Are there benefits to getting the test done outside of the diagnosis?
Its her voice for me😉🥰
Think if to were to go to one myself it be a guide to self improvement places my Brainn struggles with and knowing them I can improve them and live an easier life with mental health .they don't really give you a guide book when they diagnose you at a phycologist or somewhere. I see this as a guide to your strengths and weakness but also a instruction book to help understand the tool your head a little bit better.
I just got tested for ADHD, right around the time this video was uploaded. It was brutal. I won't get the results for another month. GAH
As a follow up on the wisdom question; with a rough background in philosophy but also religious studies, I'd argue the idea of wisdom is more philosophical and abstract, which can overlap with psychology, but as for a test, that's like trying to test for virtue, also a philosophical discussion.
In ancient Greek philosophy, Aristotle made a distinction between sophia and phronesis, the former being more our initial capacity to reason and contemplate and the latter our ability to apply that reasoning to ends. Take this with a grain of salt, I own the Nicomachean Ethics, but haven't actually cracked the spine
Can you please please please do a video on how to help your child with adhd for grandparents (im in junior high (8-7)) love your videos thx!
Could years of masking and coping mechanisms (and being really good at themt) skew an evaluation? The neurotypical world seems to expect neurodivergents to just adapt and it's so frustrating that we have to find ways to explain things in "their words" rather than them trying to understand things from our perspective. I would hope evaluators take these things into consideration, but how do you find someone who does? My insurance will no longer pay for me to continue to see the incredible person who diagnosed me and the new person seems to just be checking off boxes with me.