Keith Carman–Chief Administrative Coordinator
When it comes to our children, we always want what’s best for them. We’re able to make flash decisions in the best interests, seeing the world in a very black-and-white way.
Potential cold? Time to visit the family doctor. Are they struggling with math? Time for a tutor and/or assessment. Possible ADHD? Assessment. We may fear a diagnosis, but we know the end result—an IEP for school—will set them on a successful course.
When it comes to our own lives, however, shades of grey abound:
“This is just how I’m built.”
“I’ve always hated spelling. It’s no big deal.”
“I’ve managed this far, so why bother now.”
We “all-seeing” grownups really have a hard time admitting that we need an Attentional (ADHD) or Psychoeducational (Learning Disability) assessment.
In hopes of helping inform your choice, we sat down with a previous client to glean their reflections on whether the process, time, effort and such were actually worthwhile. Here’s what he had to say.
Artemis Assessment: Who are you?
Client: My name is Chris. I’m 22.
What do you do for a living?
I‘ve been working in security at a casino for about six months. Before that, I worked in kitchens as a cook. Either way, it’s long shifts, always on your feet, but not always a lot to do. When you have ADHD, the distractibility when walking or waiting around can get you into hot water. You’re bored and you don’t know what to do about it.
Why did you come to Artemis for an assessment?
I knew I wasn’t as successful as I could be. I could see some of the things that were hindering me. Having a little more information on how my brain works and why I do the things I do could give me strategies to do some positive things but also avoid the negative things I was doing.
Can you explain some of the negative things you felt you were doing?
Poor time management, always being distracted, trouble with emotional regulation. Energy levels were off, substance use, relationship issues, trouble keeping a job…those were some of the main ones, and they all fed into each other. I was also forgetful about a lot of things. I knew there was something going on, but I never addressed it. Everything came to a head because if I didn’t start to fix it, I could see things sliding further downhill with less of a chance to change anything as I got older.
What type of assessment do you have?
I had an Attentional assessment looking to see if I had ADHD. I didn’t realize it would also look to see if I was struggling with anything like anxiety, depression or things like that. I didn’t connect those.
Did you know what to expect when you came in?
Not entirely. I got a brief outline of what my day would entail: sitting in an office with someone asking questions and doing tasks or activities. Of course, you never really know what to expect with something entirely new.
In your own words, what happened while you were testing?
I was in a room with a lady administering the tests or little activities. A lot of it was kind of tedious, but there was one test that was so boring you couldn’t forget it. You sat there with a button, watching a screen, and pushed the button only at certain times. I was trying to pay attention, but it was so long and quiet that I was falling asleep. There was also some stuff on paper—questionnaires about how I was feeling and some booklets.
How did it feel? Was it tough? Exhausting? Fun? Silly?
It was tiring. It’s not tedious, but you have to use your brain and think. It’s not fun, but it’s not terrible. As the testing went on, I got worn out. It wasn’t too much to do or anything. It was only a few hours overall.
What–if you’re comfortable sharing–were the results?
I have an ADHD diagnosis as well as OCD. I definitely wasn’t expecting the OCD part, but it did make sense as to why I’m very particular about certain things.
Overall, the results gave me strategies on how to manage what I’m struggling with. I can regulate myself and keep myself on track better. I know my strengths and weaknesses so I can plan my life better. I also have a prescription for medication that definitely helps. It gives me energy, keeps me on task, and regulates my emotions and brain activity at the same time. I feel way more capable of managing my day-to-day life now. It’s not all easy, but it’s miles ahead of where I used to be…or could be if I didn’t get the help.
Did the testing feel fast? Slow? How about the time until you received your final results?
As I said, I got weary as the day went on, but it was manageable. From start to finish, the whole process was done in a very timely manner. There wasn’t a long wait for the results, so I could start making positive changes pretty quickly. The day itself was the dreary part.
Did you find the process valuable?
Oh, yes. This is something that helps me every single day and will continue to for the rest of my life. I know myself a lot better, I can work with my strengths and manage my weaknesses. It’s impacted a lot that you wouldn’t even think of on a daily basis, like how your OCD might impact a task you’re working on. I keep my diagnosis in the front of my head, so I know how to deal with whatever comes my way.
Do you feel stigmatized having a diagnosis as an adult?
Not at all. I also don’t feel the need to share it with everyone I see though, either.
Does your diagnosis impact your relationships?
Definitely, and for the better. It helps me realize how I interact with my partner when I’m stressed, sad, or anxious. I can regulate my emotions better and talk about things more. I can explain why I feel how I feel, if I need a minute or whatever. My loved ones and our relationships are stronger because they have better insight into my head and why I do the things I do—or don’t—do.
What were the negative aspects of an assessment?
The long testing day (laughs). Nothing negative came out of it at all.
How has your life changed since having an assessment?
I live a more successful life in general. I see what impacts me daily and can handle or deal with it better.
Did an assessment answer questions for you or create more?
It answered a lot. Seeing things explained to me about how my brain works gave me answers to my feelings, why I am how I am, and why I do what I do. Otherwise, my brain was working and struggling on its own…not always with my permission and definitely not always with my best interests or health in mind, physical or mental.
What did you think or feel post-assessment and diagnosis?
On the testing day, I was glad it was done. Despite being a long day and a lot of work, it was for the best. It was worth it.
When I got my diagnosis, it made sense, so I felt informed more than anything. I wouldn’t say I was excited, but I had the answer I was looking for, so I was keen to move ahead. I had a path to success instead of floundering. I’m actually seeing those results now.
What would you say to someone not sure if they should have an assessment done or not?
If you’re thinking about it, it’s worth it. You shouldn’t put a price on something like this. It’s literally giving you the most in-depth view of how your brain works. Even if you don’t have ADHD, you’ve either ruled it out or found out how your brain works as well. Nobody’s impervious to advice. We can all use some direction. The same thing especially applies if you’re afraid of it. You’re empowering yourself.
Anything you’d like to add?
Not really. Other than that, again, this was probably one of the best things I’ve ever done for myself.
