Do you often find yourself frustrated at work or school? Do you find yourself trying to multitask, but never really “finishing” anything? Or maybe you stumble in social situations, or find it hard to connect with others. Maybe you don’t share these traits, but your child does; maybe they struggle to connect with their peers. Maybe you get notes from the teacher, mentioning their inability to sit still or focus on assignments that should normally be in their wheelhouse.
If any of these characteristics sound familiar, it may be that you or your child struggle with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, commonly known as ADHD. You hear from family, friends and teachers that you should get a diagnosis for yourself or your child. But maybe you’re in a bind. Maybe your insurance doesn’t cover an ADHD assessment, or you don’t have the time and resources to dedicate to a thorough assessment right now. Or, maybe you simply don’t see the benefit of a diagnosis.
So why should you or your child get tested for ADHD? What exactly are the benefits of an Attention Deficit Disorder diagnosis?
The Major Benefits of an Accurate ADHD Diagnosis
In a study by the Journal of Attention Disorders, participants who were diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder were compared to those who showed signs of ADHD but didn’t receive a diagnosis. Those who received an accurate diagnosis showed higher self-esteem, 20% less productivity loss, 16% less “activity-level impairment” and five points less on the Sheehan Disability scale.
So, what exactly does that mean? Overall, it seems that diagnosis and treatment of a neurodevelopmental disorder like ADHD can greatly enhance an individual’s life.
Academic/Professional Benefits to Getting an ADHD Assessment
Careless mistakes as a result of inattentiveness, impulsive behavior and inhibited executive functions caused by ADHD can greatly impact an adult’s career, ability to get hired, and/or succeed in academics. Similarly, children in school can perform poorly, struggle with anxiety and stress, and feel guilty for not achieving at the level of their peers.
Those who get an ADHD diagnosis can:
- Be eligible for student accomodations
- Create treatment plans that help build structure, organization and routine
- Improve productivity by getting help to organize your workspace, study area or classroom
- Improve academic success with 504 Plans, tutoring and special education programs
Keep in mind, these are just a few benefits to getting you or your child diagnosed by a health professional.
Social Benefits of Getting Tested for ADHD
ADHD can often cause relationship issues. Forgetting important things, getting upset over minor issues, chronic feelings of guilt and blame can make any individual with ADHD, regardless of age, struggle to connect or stay connected to others. So what benefits can a child or adult who gets an ADHD assessment and diagnosis look forward to?
Those who seek help with ADHD can find treatment plans that help them:
- Become better at reading social cues and become more included in social settings
- Check impulsivity and become “more in the moment”
- Actively engage in group activities, encouraging turn-taking and communication
- Become a better partner, parent, friend and/or family member
Again, these are just a few examples of the benefits of ADHD assessments for adults and children and ADHD treatment plans.
So, what are the next steps?
If you find you or your child’s daily activities hampered by symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention, mood swings or other symptoms of ADHD, reach out to our psychologists at Traini Counseling Group. We’re here to help you and your children succeed across all areas of life. We can’t wait to help you or your child achieve the life you/they deserve!