DD16 - Is it worth getting a ADHD diagnosis?

[PenOrPencil]

DD is 16 and struggling with mental health issues. We went private and she is stable(-ish) on Sertraline at the moment. Her psychiatrist wants to find out whether she has ADHD. I am wondering what difference a diagnosis might make for her?

Yes, always worth it - it can really help them understand who they are. But doubly so for ADHD where medication can really help (my fifteen year old DD has ADHD and medication has changed her life).

Than you, @diningiswest . How did your dd get diagnosed?

We went to a private paediatrician who specialises in ADHD (and has it herself) because we thought that - for various reasons - she might be quite tricky to diagnose and we wanted to get it sorted once and for all before she started her GCSE courses.

And actually, that's another advantage. She's getting extra time and a quiet room for her exams, and so far that has made a big difference, not least to her anxiety levels about them!

Definitely! My daughter was diagnosed at 13 and is now medicated and it has been life changing.

But even if medication Isn't appropriate/doesn't work it is worth it because the it's really common for girls with adhd (particularly undiagnosed) to have massive self esteem and anxiety issues and understanding a big part of what is likely contributing to that will be invaluable.

She may also qualify for access arrangements for any future exams, eg A levels.

As someone who was diagnosed with ASD & ADHD in my 30's please please don't dismiss it as 'is it worth it'. A diagnosis in my childhood could have helped my mental health immensely. It is always worth it!