I can't concentrate. Is it definitely ADHD?
You read the same message several times. You start a task, then switch to another. You forget a deadline. You come across a description of ADHD and recognise your own difficulties.
That is a reason to look at them more closely. It is not enough, however, to make a diagnosis.
Concentration problems also occur with anxiety disorders, depression and insufficient sleep. After a traumatic experience, intrusive memories and constant vigilance can make paying attention difficult. Health conditions, medication and substance use also matter.
That is why, during an assessment, I ask about more than what is happening now. It is important to establish when the difficulties began. Were similar symptoms present in childhood? What were learning, following instructions and organising everyday matters like?
ADHD begins in childhood. When assessing adults, we look for information about symptoms present before the age of 12. A late diagnosis does not mean a late onset.
Good grades do not rule out ADHD. It is worth asking how much effort learning required and how much help with organisation was needed. School results alone do not describe every difficulty.
We also look at different settings. What happens at work, at home and in relationships? Does the problem affect many activities, or did it mainly appear during a period of insomnia or low mood?
We do not always have to choose one cause. ADHD can coexist with other disorders. Identifying anxiety or depression therefore does not end further assessment.
Prepare specific examples from your current life and childhood for the consultation. Bring any earlier reports or records you have. You do not have to remember everything.
Questionnaires and tests help with assessment. Their results do not replace a clinical interview or checking other possible causes of symptoms.
The purpose of assessment is to understand where the difficulties come from and what support meets your needs.
Hanna Swierczewska
Psychologist, psychotraumatologist, psycho-oncologist
If you would like to talk about your situation, you are welcome to book an online consultation.
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