Where Do I Start?

[cnet18]

Can anyone help me take the first steps in finding a doctor to help treat my ADHD. I am 21 years old and cannot hold down and job or pass a class due to lack of focus, organization & time management. I've had ADHD since I was a kid, but was able to handle it with structure and a lot of exercise until I went away to college. I have no idea where to start.

[ADHD33]

Hi! Welcome!

The way I was diagnosed: I paid a ton of money to a psychiatrist who did a 4 hour consultation (2 appointments) to discuss my symptoms. We then had shorter monthly appointments as I tried different medications and doses. I paid out of pocket for the whole thing as the doctor did not take insurance. But it was a very quick diagnosis. If you go this route, be sure to do a little research on the doctors before you spend the money. For example, I got names from friends, or looked up doctors who had published articles about adhd. I used a few psychiatrists who were VERY knowledgeable about adhd. Based on people’s experiences described on here, it sounds like not all of them are… and you don’t want to waste your money. PM me if you want me to share the names I used - not sure where you are located… but maybe they would do telehealth?

You can also look into your college’s resources and see what they might have available for students. Just be aware that they might be trying to weed out kids faking it and just looking for study drugs. But if it’s way cheaper and/or you hear they aren’t shying away from diagnoses it might be worth that route.

Other people will be able to share their routes for diagnoses that used insurance, school resources or other healthcare providers. If I can do anything to help, reach out! Good luck!

[ADHD_Living]

I was able to get special "accommodations" through my college.

Due to my ADHD I am allotted twice as much time on all tests and quizzes.

You fill out the application and submit supporting evidence/documents and it will get approved.