Research ADHD
ADHD symptoms often come across as the disorder and not just a symptom such as anxiety or depression, especially in women. Researching your symptoms before you talk to a professional can help you move past a hasty diagnosis and quicken your ability to get help. That being said: self diagnosis is not something to be taken lightly. Talking to a psychiatrist or psychologist is the next step.
Find a Mental Health Professional
Insurance
Your health insurance should approve of a list of counseling centers in your area that can help narrow the options
No Insurance
There should be a directory of counseling centers in your community, city, or state
Make a List
Make a list of which counseling centers you prefer over others
Call
There is no quicker way to find a ADHD specialist than calling your preferred counseling center and asking if someone specializes with ADHD
Schedule an Appointment
After you have picked a professional, you have to try them out. Sometimes they will fit all of the requirements, but they don’t mesh well with you or your needs. This is a trial and error process. Don’t be discouraged!
Schedule an Assessment with a Psychologist
After you find a specialist that works well with you and believes in you the next step is to get an official diagnosis. To get an ADHD diagnosis you have to take an in depth assessment with a professional. Unfortunately, it might take a while for a time slot to open up, but the sooner you get on the calendar the better! For more information Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD) is an amazing resource.
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