When seeking an ADHD diagnoses, many people often experience discrimination based on gender, age, race, success, and more. Research has found none of these factors affect a person's likelihood of having ADHD; however, some doctors still discriminate based on them when conducting ADHD evaluations.
If your doctor says… here are some helpful responses:
“You’re too smart to have ADHD” or “You’re successful, you don’t have ADHD”
Response: “Intelligence and success are not a part of the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for ADHD. There are MANY smart and successful people who have ADHD.”
"Adult ADHD isn’t real” or “ADHD is for kids”
Response: “According to the DSM-5, adults can have ADHD.”
*You can also add if you want: “There are decades of peer-reviewed research published in medical journals proving adult ADHD is real.”
“ADHD is for boys” or “ADHD is more common in boys”
Response: “Gender is not a DSM-5 diagnostic criterion for ADHD.”
“Someone with ADHD wouldn’t be as organized/prepared as you are for this appointment"
Response: “I filled out a worksheet designed for people with undiagnosed ADHD. It helps you prepare for an ADHD evaluation.”
If you believe you’re Hyperactive type ADHD: “My ability to complete a worksheet has nothing to do with the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for Hyperactive type ADHD.”
If it applies: “Me completing a worksheet is evidence of the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria ‘Often has trouble organizing tasks and activities’ because:
I completely neglected [insert tasks (laundry/dishes/homework/etc)] while filling it out
I was late for [activity] because I lost track of time while filling it out
I waited until the last minute to fill it out so I did my best but I know I missed things
If they continue to reference outdated/incorrect information even though you already debunked it
Response: “This isn’t a part of the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria. Can we move on, please?”
If you want to explain why you’re reading from a paper:
“[Adults/women/POC/fill-in-the-blank] are often discriminated against when seeking an ADHD Diagnosis. I came across a resource with responses to common reasons for discrimination.”
Comments