Struggling with focus? If you’re researching ADHD testing in Columbus, Ohio to find answers, you’re not alone. Many adults with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) go undiagnosed for years. Even though many struggle with losing time on unimportant distractions, missed deadlines at work, and low motivation to start big projects, the root cause often goes overlooked.
For adults with undiagnosed ADHD, life just feels like they are surviving from one day to the next. Some think, “I’ve survived this long, is a better life possible? How does getting an official ADHD diagnosis help?” Most realize after testing that an accurate ADHD diagnosis not only offers an answer but is the start of a guide to meeting your truest potential.
Why does an accurate ADHD diagnosis require comprehensive ADHD testing?
Research shows 80% of adults with ADHD have a co-occurring mental health condition (i.e. depression, 
OCD, generalized anxiety, social anxiety, etc.). To further complicate matters, all of those other conditions can also sound a lot like ADHD. To separate true ADHD from other conditions, a multi-step process of gathering data from multiple sources helps to diagnose ADHD with absolute confidence.
A Comprehensive ADHD Test Should Include:
- Clinical Interview: Because ADHD is lifelong and not situational, a one-on-one evaluation to explore your history of ADHD-related issues (i.e. procrastination, disorganization, forgetfulness, etc.) is used to explore symptoms over time.
- Standardized Cognitive ADHD-Tests: Evidence-based tools used to assess cognitive functioning related to focus and impulse control.
- In-depth Rating Scales: To explore your symptoms and their life impact on your daily
- Collateral Data: Gathering data from someone who knows you well to assess focusing issues from an outside perspective.
A multi-data test is holistic, helping ADHD specialists get a full picture of how your unique brain functions.
The Impact of Undiagnosed ADHD:
Here’s a not-so-fun fact: studies show that adults with undiagnosed ADHD earn over half a million dollars less than non-ADHD people in their lifetime. These types of alarming statistics are common and reflect the cost of not having the tools to manage a busy brain.
Some Other Impacts Include:
- Self-esteem: Many adults with ADHD report low self-esteem, imposter syndrome, and chronic fear of failure. Even highly successful people with ADHD have often accumulated more criticism than their non-ADHD peers. As a result, many believe deep down they are “lazy” or inadequate in some way.
- Relationship Distress: Because many adults with undiagnosed ADHD are not able to explain their ADHD, their partners are also in the As a result, there may be a lack of empathy in their lives. Many involuntary ADHD behaviors (i.e. forgetfulness, procrastination, etc.) get chalked up to making a “selfish choice,“ for example. Once diagnosed, many find increased understanding in their lives.
- Career Stagnation: Whether you’re seeking career advancement in IT at Ohio State University or struggling to start a small business in Worthington, Ohio, many people with undiagnosed ADHD feel behind in their careers. Even if they are successful, they look around and feel overlooked for promotions or just haven’t built enough momentum in their career.
The Benefits of an Accurate ADHD Diagnosis:
- Understanding Your Brain: There can be great relief in understanding how your brain actually works. For example, did you know that people with ADHD have highly sensitive nervous systems? That means they tend to be hyper-responsive. While this can make many people more focused in a crisis, they might also hear they are “too sensitive.” However, an accurate diagnosis removes the negative judgment and helps you understand how to channel your ADHD traits to work for you.
- Effective Treatment: With an accurate diagnosis comes the most effective treatment. For example, the research behind the effectiveness of medication for ADHD is clear. However, getting the right diagnosis is key to getting the right treatment. Interestingly, most individuals find that medication alone is insufficient for managing ADHD. Learning the right tools to build structure, improve motivation, and manage distractions is also key to maximizing your potential.
- Improved Mental Stamina: An ADHD diagnosis helps you build the right skills to improve focus and sustain the mental energy needed to meet your goals.
A Diagnosis that Goes Deeper than Labels
ADHD testing goes deeper than labels. The result of ADHD testing also includes a full report, which provides a profile of deficits to support and strengths to mobilize, empowering you with a guide for thriving (not just surviving) with ADHD.
The sooner you notice and accurately diagnose ADHD, the sooner you can take control of your life.
Begin Adult ADHD Testing in Columbus, OH
Wondering if you have ADHD? You don’t have to live your life feeling scattered without knowing why. Comprehensive ADHD testing can help you find answers. Our Columbus, OH counseling practice has caring therapists who specialize in ADHD Treatment. To start your counseling journey, follow these simple steps:
- Fill out the contact form to schedule a free 15-minute phone
- Meet with one of our caring therapists.
- Stop feeling like you’re not meeting your full potential. Start getting things done.
Other ADHD Services Offered at Focused Mind ADHD Counseling
Adult ADHD testing is not the only service we offer at our Columbus, OH counseling practice. At Focused Mind ADHD Counseling, we offer a variety of mental health services, including ADHD treatment. As an adult with ADHD, we know you may also benefit from ADHD counseling, anxiety treatment for ADHD, counseling for men with ADHD, ADHD-focused couples counseling, or depression counseling for ADHD. You can also view our blog for more resources and helpful info.
