Over the years, the meme self-diagnosis of autism and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has become increasingly popular. It is admirable that adults are working hard to find the right diagnosis and trying to get the support they need. 

However, it is important to remember that diagnosing yourself isn’t enough and can lead to the spread of misinformation.

If you think you’re on the autism spectrum or have ADHD, it’s crucial to seek out a mental health professional who can provide you with a diagnosis. That way, you can get the care you need. An excellent place to start is by talking to your primary care physician. They are familiar with your health history and can help guide you in the right direction. They can also refer you to a specialist if an initial assessment is necessary.

In this guide, we will explore the steps to getting a diagnosis and finding the right physicians, as well as what to expect during this process.  

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Benefits of a diagnosis

Diagnosing a condition can be the missing piece to a complicated puzzle. It can help you uncover benefits like personalized treatments and access to support services. All of which are key to achieving well-being. Here’s an overview of some advantages of early detection:

• Correct a misdiagnosis: Many adults are misdiagnosed as children or teens and have no idea of their true condition until later in life. Seeing a specialist as an adult can correct this error and help you receive the proper treatment. 
• Help access services and legal support: A correct diagnosis can open doors to many support services and legal benefits. These include accommodations in education, housing, insurance and employment opportunities. 
• Increase self-awareness: When you’re diagnosed with autism or ADHD, it will be clear why some aspects of your adult life have been more difficult. With this information and the help of a counselor, you can get guidance on how to change your routines. 
• Receive specialized treatment: A specialist can create a tailored plan to manage your symptoms. This may include lifestyle modifications, mental health therapy and other forms of support.
• Obtain a label and a community: Receiving a diagnosis can be empowering since it puts a name to your experience. It can also connect you with others who are going through the same situations. This feeling of understanding and belonging can give you comfort during difficult times.

Getting a proper diagnosis can change your life, so seeking help from experts is essential. With guidance from professionals, you’ll improve your chances of success.

Potential risks of undiagnosed and untreated symptoms

The risk of an untreated diagnosis can be significant, especially as you get older. Here are some potential dangers:

• Difficulty forming relationships: It can be lonely and isolating when no one understands your situation. This may lead to difficulty developing relationships, which can harm your mental health.
• Lower life quality: Struggling to receive proper accommodations without a diagnosis is an uphill battle. It can stand in the way of success and affect your well-being.
• Increased risk of mental health issues: Neglecting your symptoms increases the risk of comorbid mental health issues, including substance use disorder, anxiety and personality disorders.
• Memory issues: Patients with ADHD may experience difficulty with memorization and retaining long-term memories. This problem can worsen if you are incorrectly diagnosed or managed.
• Poor time management: Poor organization can cause a lot of problems. It could ruin relationships, create money troubles and stop you from achieving success.
• Financial issues: Research suggests that individuals with ADHD often experience financial hardship. This can be the result of impulsive buying, difficulty budgeting and a lack of financial responsibility.
• Self-medication: When left untreated, individuals with ADHD can feel desperate to find a way to cope and resort to substance abuse. Unfortunately, this only causes more problems for the individual and their loved ones.

Early identification of ADHD or autism is key to ensuring you and your loved ones have the support you need. A professional evaluation can help detect any potential issues, so being proactive is crucial to prevent future risks.

What are ADHD and ASD?

ADHD and ASD are complicated conditions that can be difficult to understand. To qualify as a disorder according to DSM-5 standards, a condition must meet specific criteria.

How is attention-deficit disorder classified?

ADHD can be broken down into three presentations: inattentive, hyperactive and combined. Specialists determine the presentation based on the person’s symptoms. 

• Inattentive type of ADHD: Individuals who are inattentive will find it hard to complete tasks, are easily distracted and have trouble following instructions. Common symptoms include forgetfulness and difficulty starting activities.

• Hyperactive type of ADHD: People with hyperactive presentation have a tough time sitting still and keeping quiet. Symptoms can range from constantly moving to difficulty waiting their turn. They often interrupt conversations without being aware of the social cues. 
• Combined types of ADHD: Individuals with mixed presentations have symptoms of both inattentive and hyperactive ADHD.

Remember, a person may not exhibit all the symptoms. It’s important to get an assessment of a hyperactive disorder from a professional to understand the type of ADHD presentation you have and get the best treatment.

How are autism spectrum disorder symptoms measured?

ASD symptoms can range from difficulty with verbal or nonverbal communication to poor social connections and repetitive behaviors. Here are the main indicators for autism that specialists use to make diagnoses and determine treatment plans:

• Communication issues: For adults and children diagnosed with autism, conversations can be difficult. They often struggle to express themselves while dealing with repetitive language patterns and an inability to transition between topics.

• Social interaction difficulties: Autism can present challenges when you’re connecting with others. Signs may include trouble interpreting social cues, difficulty making friends and a lack of interest in social interactions.
• Restricted and repetitive behaviors: People on the autism spectrum may develop unique interests and routines. These patterns can be restrictive and repetitive, sometimes making it hard for others to understand their world.

To receive an official diagnosis from a doctor specializing in the autism spectrum, individuals must meet criteria in all three of the above categories.

Are ADHD and ASD mutually exclusive?

Until the DSM-5 was published in 2013, ADHD and ASD were considered disparate disorders. However, recent studies found that the two disorders are often connected. Meaning that individuals with ADHD can also have symptoms of ASD and vice versa (referred to as “comorbidity”).

This highlights the need for careful assessment to provide proper treatments. 

Furthermore, the DSM-5 changed the diagnostic criteria for both ADHD and ASD. This removed ADHD and Asperger’s syndrome as separate diagnoses from the autism spectrum diagnosis. This was done to show the complex nature of these disorders and improve accurate diagnosis. 

Who can diagnose ADHD or ASD?

ADHD and ASD are two neurodevelopmental conditions affecting an individual’s life. Seeking guidance from qualified professionals who specialize in these disorders is extremely important.

• Psychiatrists: Medical doctors who diagnose and treat mental illnesses, including ADHD and ASD, through medication and therapy. Finding the best psychiatrist for your needs can help ensure an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

• Psychologists: Mental health professionals who use psychological testing and counseling to treat individual conditions. Booking a top psychologist online can help you receive the best care.

• Neuropsychologists: Doctors who assess and diagnose neurological conditions. Consulting a neuropsychologist can help you find the right answers and guide you in the right direction. 

• Licensed social workers: Mental health professionals who provide counseling and support to individuals and families affected by ADHD and ASD.

Navigating ADHD and ASD can be challenging, but the right professionals will help make it more manageable. They can offer clarity even in difficult situations through accurate diagnosis and tailored treatments.

Where to find an ADHD or ASD specialist?

There are a few options for finding a qualified specialist. Here are a few ideas on where to start:

• Ask for a referral: You could start by asking your primary care provider for a referral, as they can recommend someone who specializes in your specific condition.

• Check your insurance plan: Check if your insurance plan has a directory of in-network professionals. However, it should be noted that not all plans have a guide, and many are poorly updated and inaccurate.

• Use free search tools: If your health plan doesn’t have a directory, you can use free-to-patients search tools to find local doctors who take your insurance. These tools can help filter results based on specialty, location and availability criteria. 
• Explore student options: There are also various options for students with mental health symptoms. Many colleges and universities have counseling or student health centers that offer mental health services to students free of charge. These centers can provide therapy, support groups and referrals to outside specialists.

It’s essential to take the time to find a qualified specialist who can diagnose and treat your condition. By exploring the options available, you’re more likely to find the right provider for your needs.

Questions to ask while researching physicians

It’s crucial to ask the right questions before committing to an ADHD and autism evaluation. This will help you determine whether the physician and treatment suit you. Here are some questions to consider before undergoing an evaluation:

How will they assess you?

If you have ADHD or autism, you must ask your doctor about the assessment process. This typically includes a detailed look at medical history, an in-person interview with the provider and special assessments to see if all diagnostic criteria are met. All this requires time, so make sure you know what kind of evaluation they use and approximately how long it will take.

What methods will they use?

Diagnosing ADHD or autism spectrum disorder is not the same for everyone. You must ask your doctor what assessment methods they use to ensure you get the correct diagnosis. Some tests include cognitive evaluations, behavioral tests and sensory exams. These will help them create a plan that works for you.

Are these methods up-to-date and widely accepted in the field?

It is important to ask if the tests used to diagnose ADHD and autism are current and acceptable. Researchers are constantly conducting new studies on how to test for these conditions. Ensure you work with a doctor who knows about and uses the latest, most effective tests.

Do you feel comfortable being evaluated in this way?

Getting assessed can take a while, and you must disclose personal information. Finding a doctor who makes you feel safe and comfortable is important. This helps you form a good relationship with the physician so that you get the best results from your assessment.

Finding the right provider can be challenging. But if you take the time to research and ask questions, you will have a better chance of finding the correct diagnosis.

What to expect during testing

When evaluating for ADHD and autism, providers may use many different types of tests. Some assessments are more informal than others, and some are designed to be more standardized. Here’s what to expect when you’re getting tested for ADHD or autism.

Informal assessments and screenings

Physicians will often start with an informal assessment to get a better understanding of the patient’s symptoms and concerns. This typically includes:  

• Personal interview: This is one of the most common assessments for ADHD and autism. During a personal interview, you’ll meet with a clinician who will ask you questions about your symptoms, behaviors and unique experiences. They may ask about things like how you handle transitions, how you react to changes in routine and whether you have any trouble with social interactions.

• Interview of family and friends: Another common type of assessment is to interview the people around you, such as family members, friends or colleagues. The clinician will ask them about your behavior, such as how you interact with others, how well you focus on tasks, and whether you have any unusual habits or routines.

Formal assessments

A structured and focused assessment is needed to collect accurate data. This includes cognitive and neuropsychological assessments. These assessments measure your cognitive abilities, such as how well you can think, reason, and remember. Clinicians may use intelligence tests, memory tests, or other evaluation tools to check your skills.

Evaluation of other causes of symptoms or comorbidities

Before you are diagnosed with ADHD or autism, it’s essential to rule out other causes. A doctor will ask questions about your health and any other diagnosis you may have. Other conditions that can look like ADHD or autism include: anxiety, dyslexia, fetal alcohol syndrome and learning disabilities.

Common tests and scoring methods for ADHD and ASD

Clinicians use several standardized tests and scoring methods to assess ADHD and autism. The most common ones include:

ADHD assessments

An ADHD assessment typically includes the following evaluations: 

• Vanderbilt assessment scale: A widely used tool for assessing symptoms of ADHD. It asks questions about the individual’s behavior, which helps identify inattention and hyperactivity patterns.
• ADHD-RS-IV (ADHD Rating Scale IV) with Adult Prompts: This rating scale is similar to the Vanderbilt Assessment Scale but is designed for adults. It also considers symptoms of impulsivity and helps assess the severity of symptoms.
• ASRS DSM-5 (Adult ADHD Self-Report Screening Scale for DSM-5): The ASRS DSM-5 is a self-assessment tool designed to help individuals identify symptoms of ADHD in themselves. It is given to adults 18 years and older.

ASD assessments

To test for Autism, a doctor may use ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition). One of the most commonly used tools for diagnosing autism, it is a set of activities designed to measure someone’s communication skills, social skills, and other types of behavior.

While there are many types of assessments, each has its strengths and weaknesses. Working with a trained professional is essential to get the most accurate diagnosis.

Self-advocacy and preparing for testing

Self-advocacy means speaking up for yourself and sharing your needs and desires. It is especially important when you’re diagnosed with ADHD or ASD because it can be hard to explain your symptoms. With self-advocacy skills, you can better share your needs during and after evaluations.

To prepare for the evaluation, you can: 

• Gather information 
• Fill out questionnaires 
• Look at past medical records 
• Rest and prepare yourself mentally 

This may be difficult if you have ADHD or ASD since you may suffer from anxiety, stress and poor communication. But with careful planning, you can get over this hurdle and get the best treatment options.

Issues and traits that have led to seeking a diagnosis

It’s important to consider any issues or traits that may have led you to seek a diagnosis. Here are some examples:

• Difficulty focusing or maintaining attention
• Easily distracted and disorganized
• Hyperactivity, impulsivity, or restlessness
• Limited social skills or difficulty forming relationships with peers
• Repetitive behaviors or unusual interests
• Unusual sensory sensitivities include a heightened response to sound, light or smells

If someone close to you shows signs of ADHD or autism, an expert can see if it is those conditions. Remember, there may be other reasons for the symptoms you are experiencing, so it is important to get a proper diagnosis.

 Bring someone you trust

By bringing in a trusted friend or family member, you’ll have someone to help focus the conversation on your needs while communicating with medical staff. This person will also advocate and ensure your worries are heard and considered.

It takes courage to admit that you or someone you care about may have ADHD or ASD. A diagnosis can help you understand the condition and what needs to be done to manage it. Getting a diagnosis is about getting answers and taking responsibility for your well-being. So make sure you get the proper support and treatment.

Additional support

It is important to remember that you are not alone during this procedure. Here are some other resources available to help and support you throughout the process:

• ADDA – Virtual Peer Support Groups for Adults with ADHD: ADDA is a global group for adults with ADHD. It provides access to virtual support groups, resources, workshops and events designed for people with the disorder. 
• CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder): CHADD is an organization that helps people with ADHD. They provide information, help people in need, and support those affected by ADHD.
• Autism Speaks: Autism Speaks is dedicated to providing solutions for the needs of individuals with autism and their families.

Getting tested and evaluated can help you understand your condition. Make sure you have all the information and tools you need to make a good decision. This will give you the power to take care of your well-being.

 

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