How much should I rely on notes during an ADHD assessment?

Ross1975

Eventually I'll be having an ADHD assessment. I can really struggle with remembering things, giving examples, and even explaining simple things, I worry that during the assessment I'll be going blank too much, saying I don't know, I can't explain it, and I can't remember too much, and when I do try to explain something I'll miss the most important points and mainly mention irrelevant stuff which is what I can often do sometimes.

I feel this could go against me because they wont get enough information, or they may even think he must not have ADHD otherwise he'd be able to remember some things and provide me with some examples.

BUT, supposedly a big part of having ADHD means you do go blank, are forgetful, and your thoughts and words can end up disorganised, and I've heard this can work in your favour?

I do have a lot of notes written which explain my ADHD type symptoms and give examples, I could just read straight off these whenever I'm asked a question, but could that go against me and make it look too staged like I'm faking ADHD? Because surely if you really do have those symptoms and experience them regularly you wouldn't have to always read from notes whenever you're asked a question?

I'm really not sure what to do at the assessment, I'm really worried that even if I do have ADHD (and it really seems like I do) that I'll just mess things up and will end up being diagnosed as not having it which will then mean I wont be able to get the help that I desperately need.

chiarieds

Hi @Ross1975 - I think you should add a short version about what you've said here to the front of your notes because that illustrates some of the difficulties you face, & is completely honest.

I don't know enough about ADHD, but should, as my son's wife mentioned on Christmas Day that she is fairly certain she's also affected by this. So, whether you have ADHD, or not, I'm probably not the best person to comment, but what you've said above is your truth, & that's what matters.

I know when I've previously had appointments with Drs, I have taken notes with me mainly about the questions I needed to ask, in order of importance. For many people we can worry that we'll forget what we hope to say, & it must be even harder for you with your upcoming assessment.

I hope your assessment helps, & I hope you kindly let us all know how you get on.