Getting testing done for a loved one suspected of having ADHD is a big decision. It can be total vindication or confirmation of something you may have feared all along. At my practice ADHD Counseling in the Roanoke Valley, I look at an ADHD diagnosis as something good! Not only because I view ADHD as a gift that comes with superpowers, but also, because it gives a starting point as to why someone might do or think in a particular way. Once we have that we can know those patterns and learn to stay ahead of them.
Regardless of what I think, parents still have questions they want answered about testing for ADHD. So here are the top 5 questions I get asked about ADHD Testing:
What’s involved in testing?
For a long form to this answer check out my other article: “What you need to know about ADHD testing”. But a good test should include multiple rating scales and assessments, an oral history of the suspected person’s significant others, and an oral history/observation of the person suspected to have ADHD.
What age can you start testing, am I too old or my child too young?
Someone can be diagnosed at the age of 3 with ADHD, however depending on the age testing might look a bit different. Also, there is no upper age limit on diagnosing or having ADHD.
Will it go on my child’s medical record or school record?
Yes and no. If you decide to go through your insurance provider the diagnosis will probably end up on the medical records. Just the same, if you go through the school for testing it will also end up on their school record. But contrary to popular belief, it won’t follow them through to college or after and if it does the impact will be unnoticable.
How much does it cost and does insurance cover it?
This depends on the type of testing you get done and who you see to provide the testing. Some testing can run upwards of $600, and be as low as your insurances co-pay. Unfortunately, you will get what you pay for, so make sure you’ve done your due diligence.
Once I get a diagnosis, what then?
This will either be a moment of vindication, or worry. Regardless, once you have a diagnosis, one way or the other start to get educated! Get educated, read books, articles, find podcasts and the like. Then give education (to teachers, bosses, your spouse)! Then, start identifying your ADHD strengths and weaknesses with a specialist. Once you’ve done all of that begin addressing the emotional pitfalls placed upon you by life experiences and society (remember the REAL disorder is the stigmas placed on ADHDer’s)!
You may also be interested in: What You Need to Know about ADHD Testing
About the Author:
Gabriel Villarreal, is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia. He owns LostBoys Strength & Conditioning, the only gym that offers coaching to children with special needs such as ADHD, ASD, Depression, Anxiety and other mental health disorders. Additionally, with his private practice, ADHD Counseling in the Roanoke Valley he coaches the only class in the country specifically for ADHDers, designed to give them the medicine exercise offers. Gabriel is an expert in the topic of exercise and mental health, is routinely asked to speak to gyms, coaches, athletes and educators, in the Roanoke Valley and beyond, on all things exercise and mental health.
