In recent years, the number of individuals seeking an ADHD diagnosis has skyrocketed. This surge has been fueled by increased awareness, social media discussions, and the ease of access to online symptom checklists. As a teletherapy practice that includes both psychologists and psychiatrists, we have experienced this trend firsthand. Every day, we receive inquiries from individuals who believe they have ADHD and are seeking medication management. Some have self-diagnosed, while others have had informal conversations with therapists or medical professionals but have never undergone a comprehensive assessment. Given the serious implications of stimulant medication, we have made the decision, as a practice, that we will not refer patients to a psychiatrist for medication management unless they have a formal ADHD diagnosis from a qualified professional.
The Dangers of Overdiagnosis and Inadequate Assessment
ADHD is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that requires careful evaluation. However, the rise in ADHD awareness has also led to an increase in hasty or inaccurate diagnoses. Many individuals seeking stimulant medication may not actually have ADHD but instead exhibit symptoms stemming from anxiety, depression, trauma, or other conditions that require different treatment approaches (Asherson et al., 2022). Prescribing stimulant medications without a proper diagnosis can lead to unnecessary side effects, medication misuse, and a failure to treat the actual underlying issue.
Unfortunately, some clinics and online services offer ADHD diagnoses based on a brief 15-minute consultation, followed by an immediate prescription. This practice is not only irresponsible but also dangerous. ADHD medications, such as amphetamines and methylphenidates, are controlled substances that can have significant effects on the brain and body. They should only be prescribed after a thorough assessment to ensure they are truly needed and appropriate for the individual (Faraone et al., 2021).
Our Commitment to Proper Diagnosis
To ensure that every patient receives the appropriate care, our practice requires a full assessment before we will refer a patient to a psychiatrist for medication management. We are fortunate to have two highly trained psychologists on our team who specialize in ADHD assessment. They offer two levels of evaluation:
- A 4-hour assessment that provides a formal diagnosis and a diagnostic letter for treatment purposes.
- An 8-hour comprehensive assessment that results in a detailed report suitable for professional or academic accommodations.
These assessments include clinical interviews, standardized testing, and a thorough review of the individual’s history and symptoms. By taking the time to conduct a proper evaluation, we can ensure that those who genuinely have ADHD receive the correct diagnosis and treatment plan, while those who may be struggling with other issues can be guided toward the most appropriate interventions.
Responsible Treatment and Medication Management
If an individual is diagnosed with ADHD through our comprehensive assessment process, we can then refer them to our psychiatrists for medication management. Our psychiatrists approach treatment with care, ensuring that any prescribed medications are monitored for effectiveness and safety. Stimulant medications should never be taken lightly. They can have significant impacts on appetite, sleep, cardiovascular health, and mental well-being. In children, improper use of ADHD medication can also affect growth and development. This is why professional oversight is critical.
A Call for Thoughtful and Ethical ADHD Treatment
We understand that navigating an ADHD diagnosis can be frustrating, especially when some clinics offer quick and easy prescriptions with minimal evaluation. However, as mental health professionals, our priority is the well-being of our patients. ADHD treatment is not just about access to medication—it is about providing the right care for each individual.
For those seeking an ADHD evaluation, we encourage a thorough assessment to ensure an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment plan. We are committed to ethical, responsible, and evidence-based care, and we will continue to advocate for safe and effective ADHD treatment for all of our patients.
References
Asherson, P., Buitelaar, J., Faraone, S. V., & Rohde, L. A. (2022). Adult attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder: Key conceptual issues. The Lancet Psychiatry, 9(4), 309-320. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2215-0366(21)00299-0
Faraone, S. V., Rostain, A. L., Blader, J., Busch, B., Childress, A. C., Connor, D. F., & Newcorn, J. H. (2021). Practitioner review: Emotional dysregulation in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder – Implications for clinical recognition and intervention. Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 62(5), 593-610. https://doi.org/10.1111/jcpp.13360