ADHD Assessment: Are you (or an employee) “dis-organized,” or do you have ADHD?
Helping yourself (or an adult employee with ADHD) struggle with “disorganization”, or ADHD can be a challenge. However, determining which one of these is causing the inefficiency can go a long way in your getting the most of their ability.
Determining if a client is “un-organized” is fairly simple. Be around them! On the other hand, determining if a client has (ADHD), and knowing what to do if they have ADHD is not simple at all.
What is ADHD?
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is currently defined as a neurological (brain) disorder. What is important to know is that ADHD affects both children and adults. ADHD symptoms are characterized by
- disorganization
- inattention
- impulsivity
- hyperactivity.
ADHD is an unusual disorder in that many of its key symptoms are experienced occasionally by the entire population. For instance, who hasn’t forgotten a date, lost something, made an inappropriate comment, daydreamed, made a late payment, or lost track of time.
Here is a test help you distinguish if you (or an employee) are “un-organized,” or actually have ADHD:
Are/Do They…
1. Disorganized?
2. Chronically procrastinate or have trouble getting started?
3. Easily bored?
4. Have many projects going simultaneously, and have trouble with follow-through?
5. Sometimes over focuses on details, at other times appears distracted by everything?
6. Creative, intuitive, and highly intelligent?
7. Impatient; exhibit a low tolerance for frustration?
8. Say what comes to mind, without necessarily considering the timing or appropriateness of the remark?
9. Underachievers, regardless of how much ability they possess?
10. Have trouble going through established channels, following proper procedure?
11. Always on the go as if driven by a motor?
12. Seek out fast paced, exciting activities?
13. Demonstrate an inability to get things done unless there is an absolute deadline?
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GUIDELINE FOR ADHD TEST INTERPRETATION: Since most everyone exhibits these characteristics periodically, when evaluating these behaviors have your client consider the frequency of which these characteristics are exhibited: “once in a while,” “often” or “frequently”. If a their behaviors are “frequently” consistent with 8 or more of these traits, then you are advised to have them seek a professional opinion. (Only a trained professional can truly determine if a person has ADHD, and provide treatment.)
