Why It’s Worth Getting an ADHD Diagnosis?
ADHD, or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, is one of the most commonly diagnosed neuropsychological disorders in children and adults. Despite its prevalence, there are still many misconceptions and stereotypes about ADHD. Getting a diagnosis is crucial for effectively managing symptoms and improving the quality of life. Here are several reasons why it’s worth getting an ADHD diagnosis:
1. Better Understanding of Your Behaviors and Difficulties
An ADHD diagnosis can help you understand why certain behaviors and difficulties occur in your daily life. Many individuals with ADHD struggle with issues related to concentration, organization, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Recognizing this disorder can be the first step towards consciously managing your symptoms .
2. Access to Effective Treatment Methods
Once diagnosed with ADHD, patients have access to a wide range of effective treatments. Behavioral therapies, pharmacological treatments, and various coping strategies can significantly improve daily functioning. Research shows that appropriately tailored therapy can substantially reduce ADHD symptoms and enhance quality of life .
3. Educational and Vocational Support
Children and adolescents with ADHD often face challenges in school, which can lead to low self-esteem and frustration. A diagnosis allows teachers and parents to better understand the child’s needs and adapt educational strategies. Adults with ADHD can also receive workplace support, helping them better manage their responsibilities and achieve professional success .
4. Improved Interpersonal Relationships
Individuals with ADHD often experience difficulties in interpersonal relationships due to impulsivity and attention problems. A diagnosis allows for better understanding of these challenges both by the individuals themselves and their loved ones. This understanding can lead to building healthier and more satisfying relationships .
5. Reduction of Stress and Anxiety
Not knowing you have ADHD can lead to chronic stress, anxiety, and feelings of guilt. Many patients feel relieved after receiving a diagnosis because they can understand that their difficulties have medical foundations and can be managed with appropriate strategies .
Where to start?
An ADHD diagnosis is the first step towards better self-understanding and effective life management. If you suspect you or your child has ADHD, it’s worthwhile to consult with a specialist to undergo a thorough evaluation and begin appropriate treatment.
Recognizing the typical symptoms of ADHD can help determine if a diagnosis is needed.
Common signs include persistent issues with attention, such as difficulty staying focused on tasks, frequent forgetfulness, and trouble organizing activities. Hyperactivity symptoms often include restlessness, excessive talking, and difficulty remaining seated in appropriate situations. Impulsivity symptoms may manifest as interrupting others, making hasty decisions without considering consequences, and an inability to wait one's turn. If these symptoms significantly disrupt daily life, it may be worthwhile to seek a professional evaluation .
On this page, I offer patients a comprehensive diagnosis of ADHD using recognized diagnostic tools such as the DIVA-5 questionnaire and the MoXo test.
DIVA-5 Questionnaire (for adults)
The DIVA-5 questionnaire (Diagnostic Interview for ADHD in adults) is a diagnostic tool specifically designed for adults, allowing for a thorough assessment of ADHD presence based on standard diagnostic criteria. With my expertise and professional approach, we'll analyze your symptoms together and determine whether you meet the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis.
Conners 3 (for children aged 6 and youth up to 18 years old)
The Conners 3 is a comprehensive assessment tool designed to evaluate behavioral, emotional, and academic concerns in children and adolescents aged 6 to 18 years. Widely used by psychologists, this tool aids in the diagnosis of ADHD and other related disorders. It includes separate forms for parents, teachers, and the youth themselves, providing a multi-informant perspective on the individual's functioning. The Conners 3 is valued for its reliability, validity, and user-friendly format, making it an essential instrument in both clinical and educational settings.
MoXo Test (for children aged 7 and over or adults)
The MoXo Test is another advanced diagnostic tool that enables an objective assessment of executive functioning, including skills related to planning, organization, impulse control, and attention span. This test helps us better understand your individual needs and tailor therapeutic strategies accordingly.
Diagnostic packages
For adults: the cost of the diagnostic package (DIVA-5 questionnaire and MoXo test) for adults is 1100 PLN in Polish, 1500 PLN in French or English. Our session will take up to 2h and the on-line or in-office follow-up (up to 30 min.) to discuss the results together with the written summary of the diagnostic process is included in the price.
For children: the cost of the diagnostic package for children and youth is 1800 PLN in Polish (only). The assessment consists of the Conners-3 questionnaire, the MoXo test and an interview with parents and child. The first meeting (lasting about 45 minutes) is devoted to a walk-through of the study and the completion of the tests; some versions of the test (e.g. the teacher's version) will be handed over at this meeting for later completion. Completed questionnaires should be returned as soon as possible in order to calculate the results. At the second meeting (lasting up to an hour) an interview will be conducted to deepen the observation of the child. The diagnosis will conclude with a third meeting (lasting up to an hour) where the results and conclusions of the examination will be discussed. The diagnosis may conclude with the confirmation of ADHD symptoms, their exclusion or the indication of the need for further diagnosis, in the direction of co-occurring disorders.
A written summary of the findings is included in the cost of the examination. Regardless of the child's age, his or her informed consent is necessary for the diagnostic process to take place.
The price includes the examination with three Conners-3 questionnaires (for the child, parent and teacher) - if more questionnaires are used, the price is agreed individually.
To schedule an appointment please send an email to: hello@arturadamczyk.eu or use the Znany Lekarz platform.
Should there be no available diagnostic slots available on Znany Lekarz platform, please send an email to hello@arturadamczyk.eu or call at +48 572 602 209 to request additional availability. The diagnostic process for adults can be conducted in English or French.
References
- Barkley, R. A., & Murphy, K. R. (2006). Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A Clinical Workbook. Guilford Press.
- Biederman, J., & Faraone, S. V. (2005). Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. Lancet, 366(9481), 237-248.
- Pliszka, S. R. (2007). Pharmacologic treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: Efficacy, safety and mechanisms of action. Neuropsychology Review, 17(1), 61-72.
- DuPaul, G. J., & Stoner, G. (2014). ADHD in the Schools: Assessment and Intervention Strategies. Guilford Press.
- Weyandt, L. L., & DuPaul, G. J. (2008). ADHD in College Students: A Review of the Literature. Journal of Attention Disorders, 11(6), 568-581.
- Anastopoulos, A. D., & King, K. A. (2015). A Cognitive-Behavior Therapy and Mentoring Program for College Students with ADHD. Cognitive and Behavioral Practice, 22(2), 141-151.
- Mikami, A. Y. (2010). The importance of friendship for youth with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Clinical Child and Family Psychology Review, 13(2), 181-198.
- Shaw, P., Stringaris, A., Nigg, J., & Leibenluft, E. (2014). Emotion dysregulation in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. American Journal of Psychiatry, 171(3), 276-293.
- Ramsey, R. R., & Rostain, A. L. (2016). ADHD and Anxiety: Clinical Implications and Treatment. Current Psychiatry Reports, 18(12), 109.
