ADHD stands for “attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.” It is a very commonly used term in our society, and we also know that it is a very common diagnosis. Often, individuals requesting ADHD evaluations notice difficulties with attention, concentration, organization, staying on task, keeping track of information, and planning ahead. Sometimes, challenges with fidgeting, impulsivity, and excessive talking can be present too. If we keep lifestyle changes due to the pandemic in mind, one can see how it would be hard to tell whether these focus and behavioral problems are because of boredom, lack of stimulation, social disconnect, anxiety about the current circumstances, “Zoom fatigue,” or a change in sleep patterns.
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A Rise in ADHD Evaluation Requests
During the COVID-19 pandemic, we have seen an increase in requests for ADHD evaluations. For adults, the drastic change in work environment and/or living situation has made them more aware of ways their attentional abilities are impacted. For parents, many are spending greater amounts of time with their school-age child. This provides several more opportunities to observe a child’s strengths and difficulties academically, socially, and emotionally. However, it is important that we understand the difference between a diagnosis of ADHD and other psychological or environmental factors that could be playing a role. This is where ADHD testing can be extremely valuable because the psychologist’s role as an evaluator is to explore your concerns and then provide recommendations to help find solutions and supportive resources.
What’s Involved in an ADHD Evaluation
An ADHD evaluation includes measures of an individual’s cognitive and executive functioning abilities. This is a way to see your brain’s ability to plan, organize, problem-solve, and regulate. This type of psychological evaluation also includes tests that help determine whether any issues socially, emotionally, academically, or personality-wise are occurring and are possibly a better explanation of the symptoms. The evaluator will also want to explore whether the symptoms are happening in more than one location, meaning that they impact you at school, work, with friends, with family, and/or at home. This is done by speaking with or collecting survey information from teachers, loved ones and significant others, coworkers, or tutors; the key is to have information from your past and your present to best understand you and your experience. Overall, by the end of the ADHD evaluation, regardless of whether ADHD is found, you will have a much more in-depth and improved understanding of what is happening and how to move forward. At Relucent Psychology Group, our goal is to collaborate with you throughout the entire testing process so that you feel empowered, heard, and informed.
ADHD Evaluations
If you would like to find out more about scheduling an ADHD evaluation for yourself or your child, contact us for a free 15-minute phone consultation by calling 408-680-4114 or visiting our contact page. You are not alone during these times and we are here to support you in assessing your needs!
