What is ADHD: Symptoms and Evaluations
MindFlow Insights: Why It Matters
This article explores ADHD, a prevalent mental health issue around the world, including South Korea, and its impact on children and adults. Although ADHD can affect various aspects of a person's life, it is treatable through evidence-based interventions after properly being diagnosed through ADHD evaluations by licensed psychologists.
What is ADHD?
ADHD (Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that begins in childhood (before the age of 12) and typically persists into adulthood.
Primary traits of ADHD include hyperactivity and impulsivity, as well as inattentiveness (i.e., the inability to focus or pay attention for a needed duration of time). ADHD can be quite debilitating throughout one’s life, especially if it is left untreated.
For example, an intelligent college student might struggle academically for the first time upon entering freshman year of college, when structure of high school has been removed, and he/she must navigate a more liberal system by him/herself. The person might not only struggle academically, but also might find it difficult to navigate other aspects of their lives, including social life and relationships. This is why early identification through a comprehensive ADHD evaluation is crucial.
ADHD vs. ADD: Some might wonder how ADHD and ADD are different. ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) is an old terminology that mental health professionals used to refer to those who struggle with inattention. Since 1980, the term “ADHD” was introduced in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-III), and it acknowledges both inattention AND hyperactivity in individuals.
Common Signs of Inattention and Hyperactivity/Impulsivity in ADHD
Zoning out at school or at work (e.g., lectures, team meetings)
Frequent drifting of attention when engaged in a mundane, boring task
Frequently misplacing personal belongings
Missing important details during conversations
Having difficulty waiting for their turns such as in line or during conversations
ADHD Evaluation Explained: Key Processes
First, what is psychological assessment or evaluation? Psychological assessment is a comprehensive and thorough process of identifying one’s psychological and/or cognitive strengths and weaknesses, as well as providing insight into current distress by utilizing a test battery which consists of various psychological and cognitive measures.
The purpose of psychological assessments is to provide clients with a deeper understanding of the current distress they are experiencing and to actively search for solutions to enhance their lives. Some of the reasons clients might seek out psychological testing includes struggling at school or at work, or repeatedly experiencing interpersonal relationship concerns with romantic partners or others.
ADHD evaluation is a type of psychological evaluation conducted by a qualified psychologist to help answer this question: “Do I have ADHD?” ADHD evaluation can help identify a detailed plan to work with your cognitive strengths and weaknesses and excel in areas of life that you desire.
ADHD evaluation starts with a clinical interview to identify specific problems and discomfort the client is currently experiencing. Next, typically you will be asked to complete a few questionnaires and complete psychological measures, including the IQ test.
Who Can Benefit from ADHD Evaluation?
Now you might be wondering, “Can I benefit from ADHD evaluation?”
Generally speaking, those who seek out ADHD evaluation wants to know if they have ADHD because of their frequent inattention concerns at school/work and/or hyperactivity/impulsivity concerns.
If you find yourself experiencing most of the common signs or symptoms of ADHD as mentioned above, you could potentially benefit from an ADHD evaluation.
What to Expect After Your ADHD Evaluation
At the end of the ADHD evaluation, you can walk away with the following:
Increased insight into one’s current ADHD or ADHD-like struggles
A thorough and complete psychological report
Tailored recommendations based on the test results
Interested in ADHD Evaluation?
Our ADHD specialist can help you understand and manage ADHD through personalized evaluations and strategies. With a compassionate approach, they are dedicated to empowering you on your journey to success. Contact us today to learn more about how our services can support you!