Clinically validated ADHD diagnostic model positions Mentavi as a benchmark for trustworthy digital health solutions.

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., September 15, 2025 (Newswire.com) – Mentavi Health will take a prominent role in Tech Week Grand Rapids (September 15-19, 2025), where CEO and Tech Week co-chair Keith Brophy will share insights at the intersection of health care and technology, drawing on Mentavi’s peer-reviewed, clinically validated digital diagnostic solutions as an example of how innovation can set new standards for trust in digital health.

Mentavi Health, founded in 2018, provides a broad spectrum of online services, from mental wellness checks to diagnosis and treatment. Mentavi is nationally recognized as an innovator in online mental health diagnosis and treatment.

Brophy’s leadership across multiple Tech Week events-including chairing the kickoff party, joining a digital health panel, and engaging with the VC Insights & Innovation Showcase-underscores Mentavi’s role as both a West Michigan success story and a national leader in validated digital health. Tech Week is expected to draw more than 16,000 attendees. 

Tech Week provides a platform to highlight Mentavi’s growth from its West Michigan roots to its recognition as a national benchmark for validated online mental health diagnostics.* Notably, Mentavi presented data at the 10th World Congress on ADHD in May and published a peer-reviewed validation study in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry (September 2025), documenting the accuracy of its proprietary online assessment.

Beyond Mentavi, Brophy is widely recognized as a leader in Michigan’s technology community, with a career spanning more than 25 years at the intersection of AI, healthcare, and entrepreneurship. His thought leadership has been featured in regional media and industry forums, where he has highlighted both the promise of technology and the importance of the human side of innovation. Brophy has underscored Mentavi Health’s commitment to deliver diagnosis and treatment with human psychologists, physicians, and coaches adhering to rigorous national clinical standards, with strong guardrails against AI providing any kind of patient clinical advice.

“Our approach has always been about doing this the right way-validated, clinician-reviewed, and built to earn trust from patients, partners, and regulators alike,” Brophy said. “At a time when credibility is the deciding factor in digital health, Tech Week is a meaningful place to share that story, both because of its focus on innovation and because West Michigan is where we’re proving that trustworthy digital health can thrive, and where I’ve dedicated much of my career to building a vibrant tech community.”

Tech Week Grand Rapids, where “Capital Meets Innovation,” will feature more than 50 events on innovation, investment, and entrepreneurship. Steve Wozniak, co-founder of Apple, is the keynote speaker. The conference highlights Grand Rapids’ growing reputation as a technology hub, with Mentavi featured among the innovators helping to shape the future of digital health.

“At Tech Week GR we’re showing that credible innovation isn’t just good medicine-it’s good growth. Mentavi wins business by setting a higher bar for trust,” said Corey Hart, senior director of business growth at Mentavi Health.

About 17 million U.S. adults have been diagnosed with ADHD but waiting periods to see a specialist often exceed six months. Mentavi’s online, asynchronous platform offers a much-needed solution: some 46% of U.S. adults with ADHD already use telehealth, meaning millions more can benefit from online access to diagnosis and treatment as warranted.

Mentavi’s online evaluation system provides people with an easily accessible and validated means of receiving a mental health diagnosis from a licensed provider. The evaluation has been developed from more than a dozen modern and widely accepted screening instruments and allows for the diagnosis of many mental health conditions, including ADHD.

Mentavi’s clinician-reviewed process delivers timely, evidence-based evaluations that meet the highest standards of clinical credibility. This approach embodies Mentavi Health’s mission: ensuring broad access to accurate, efficient, and evidence-based mental health assessments, grounded in trust and validation.

For more information, visit Mentavi Health or ADHD Online.

*The Mentavi Health Diagnostic Evaluation is clinically validated for the diagnosis of ADHD in adults. Study results were published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry on September 8, 2025 (J Clin Psychiatry 2025;86(3):25m15846; DOI:10.4088/JCP.25m15846).

Media Contact:
Tim Cox, ZingPR for Mentavi Health
tim@zingpr.com

About Mentavi Health and ADHD Online
Established as ADHD Online in 2018, Mentavi Health has evolved to encompass a broader range of mental health services. With the mission to make high-quality ADHD assessments accessible to all, Mentavi has grown to address not only ADHD but also the most common related mental health conditions. The nationwide Mentavi Diagnostic Evaluation and various treatment options showcase the company’s commitment to providing comprehensive, accessible, and compliant online mental health care, grounded in clinical validation and trust. For more information, visit mentavi.com.

Source: Mentavi Health

Just like beginning a school year or heading off to college, starting a new job brings a mix of excitement and uncertainty. It can be a blur of onboarding, training, meetings, new names and faces — an adjustment for anyone, especially those living with ADHD.

Part of those new-job jitters can involve when or if to disclose your ADHD diagnosis to your new manager. Predictably, the answer is complicated and personal.

As “the new person,” it’s natural to overanalyze every decision or interaction. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to informing your new employer about your ADHD diagnosis, but asking the right questions early can help you make the call that’s best for you and your future success in a new role.

Why disclose your diagnosis

Access to accommodations is a common motivation to disclosing an ADHD diagnosis. ADHD is protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which means you may be entitled to workplace accommodations if you formally disclose.

Accommodations are considered any workplace adjustments that can help aid performance. They can range from flex time and telecommuting to noise-canceling headphones or access to an enclosed workspace. However, an ADHD diagnosis alone doesn’t entitle an employee to accommodations:

• The diagnosis must be documented in writing and must show that ADHD “substantially limits a major life activity” (such as a job).
• The accommodations shouldn’t place an undue hardship on the business.
• You must show that you are otherwise qualified to perform the job.
• The company must have at least 15 employees.

Another reason for disclosing could be the old adage that honesty is the best policy. Some might be tempted to inform their managers to get ahead of any potential issues, such as taking longer to complete tasks or missed deadlines. And while some managers may be understanding and accommodating, it’s no guarantee that all will be receptive to the news.

Things to consider

At the end of the day, sharing your ADHD diagnosis is sharing personal information — and as is the case with sharing any type of personal information, there are things to think through before doing so:

• No going back – Once you’ve shared your diagnosis, you can’t take it back, so make sure you’re prepared for it to be documented.
• Misinformation abounds – There’s still a wide lack of knowledge and understanding around ADHD. Stigmas still exist, so before fully disclosing, it may be wise to broach the subject in a casual way and gauge the reaction.
• The rumor mill – People talk in the workplace, so when the information is out there, you can’t control who finds out and how they will react. 

Thinking it through

When you’re deciding on whether or not to disclose your ADHD diagnosis in your new role, it’s worth taking a beat to ask yourself a few questions that might help clarify your decision:

• Who do I need to tell and why?
• Do the people I am informing seem like they will handle the disclosure with confidentiality and without judgment?
• Can I manage my ADHD and make adjustments on my own or do I need additional support?
• Does this new environment feel ripe for distractions?

“It can change things for the better if the person receiving it understands what it means and is willing to help the person adapt the job to best suit their brain,” psychologist Marcy Caldwell, PsyD says. “Revealing [the diagnosis] also helps reduce stigma and allows people with ADHD to show up more wholly as themselves, not trying to change, blend, or assimilate.”

Succeeding without disclosing

Disclosing your ADHD diagnosis isn’t the only path to setting yourself up to best function in the workplace. 

“I encourage clients to frame it from the symptom lens versus the diagnosis,” says Darleshia Bibbins-Spikes, LCSW. For example, approach conversations by presenting not only the symptom, but also a solution:

• “I work best with short check-ins. Would it be okay to do a 10-minute sync twice a week?”
• “I really benefit from regular feedback on my performance. Can we schedule weekly meetings to touch base on how I’m doing while I get up and running?”
• “I get easily distracted near the break room. Could I move to a quieter spot?”
• “I’ve found that blocking off focus time in the morning helps me deliver better work. Can I block that time on my calendar?”

Finding creative ways to get accommodations should help you improve your job performance while keeping your ADHD diagnosis private.

Feel it out

Give yourself time to settle in. There’s no timeline for deciding whether or not to share your diagnosis. Learn the ropes, build relationships, and feel out what kind of support, if any, you might need. Then revisit the decision when you have all the information and feel ready to do so.

Whether you disclose immediately, later, or not at all, your success isn’t defined by your ADHD diagnosis. It’s shaped by how you advocate for your needs, build trust, and work in a way that works for you.

Sources

Should You Tell Your Boss About Your ADHD? – ADDitude Magazine

Your Rights to ADHD Accommodations at Work – ADDitude Magazine

Disclose Your ADHD? What to Consider First – CHADD

Disclosing Your ADHD Diagnosis – CHADD

GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN / ACCESS Newswire / May 1, 2025 / Mentavi Health will present new clinical data highlighting the validation of its proprietary online assessment for diagnosing attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults at a major international scientific conference, the 10th World Congress on ADHD, May 8-11, 2025, in Prague, Czech Republic.

Mentavi Health, founded in 2018, is an established innovator in evidence-based mental health solutions. Mentavi Chief Medical Officer Barry K. Herman, MD, MMM, will present clinical data from a study titled 

“Validity of an Online Assessment of ADHD Among a Real-World Sample of Adults Seeking Web-Based Mental Healthcare.” 

Mentavi’s study is the first of its kind to compare an asynchronous, web-based assessment against the current standard of care: a clinical interview, for diagnosing adult ADHD. 

“Too many adults live for years with undiagnosed ADHD, often experiencing significant impairment in their personal and professional lives,” Herman said. “This study demonstrates that validated digital tools can help close that gap and provide a credible first step toward care, especially for people who face barriers to traditional mental health services.”

Millions of U.S. adults are believed to have ADHD. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates the prevalence of ADHD 6.0 percent among adults.

The study’s manuscript is undergoing peer review and is expected to be published later in 2025. Herman will present key findings, including:

The Mentavi online assessment tool and the clinical interview have diagnostic agreement of 78%.

The Mentavi online assessment tool has a Positive Predictive Value (PPV) of 94.9%.

The Mentavi online assessment tool identified ADHD-positive cases more accurately than the clinical interview, with a 12% false positive rate vs. 56% for the clinical interview.

Comparison of the two measures indicates that the Mentavi online assessment tool is more conservative than the clinical interview, meaning it does not over-diagnose ADHD in adults.

“Presenting this data at the World Congress on ADHD, to many of the world’s leading experts on the disorder, will move the field forward for both the diagnosis of adult ADHD and for the value of telehealth,” Keith Brophy, CEO of Mentavi Health.

Mentavi Health’s core mission is to increase access to accurate, efficient, and evidence-based mental health assessments. Mentavi leadership sees the presentation as supporting the company’s mission through validating its technology, strengthening its clinical credibility, and building trust and a foundation for growth with stakeholders in healthcare and employer wellness.

For more information, please visit Mentavi Health or ADHD Online.

SOURCE: Mentavi Health

For many employees, the launch of remote work during the pandemic was a welcome and refreshing change that offered convenience and work/life balance. And for some employees living with ADHD, the sentiment was echoed.

But as we know, the symptoms and management of ADHD aren’t one-size-fits-all. What some workers with ADHD saw as a revolutionary paradigm shift that accommodated their unique needs, others with ADHD saw as the collapse of the structure, accountability, and invaluable open dialogue that they depended on to meet the demands of their jobs.

So what does a return to office (RTO) mean for the ADHD brain?

For many employees, the launch of remote work during the pandemic was a welcome and refreshing change that offered convenience and work/life balance. And for some employees living with ADHD, the sentiment was echoed.

But as we know, the symptoms and management of ADHD aren’t one-size-fits-all. What some workers with ADHD saw as a revolutionary paradigm shift that accommodated their unique needs, others with ADHD saw as the collapse of the structure, accountability, and invaluable open dialogue that they depended on to meet the demands of their jobs.

So what does a return to office (RTO) mean for the ADHD brain?

For some, a disruption of productivity

With the growing volume of companies pushing for returns to the office, some people living with ADHD are facing a difficult transition, as the traditional office environment can present several specific challenges. For them, it’s a game of input and output: the more energy required to manage their environment, the less energy there is for productivity and efficiency.

Sensory processing issues

Office environments, particularly open office plans, are sensory minefields with constant background noise, movement in peripheral vision, and impromptu social interactions. While neurotypical employees might easily filter these out, many people with ADHD process sensory input differently, making these distractions far more disruptive.

Time management hurdles

Someone who’s learned to manage their ADHD by working during their peak focus hours might now have to conform to standard office hours, which could mean losing their most productive time to a commute. And when you consider the added sensory overload that the crowded train ride, the stress of hailing rideshare, or the anxiety of standstill traffic can wreak on the ADHD brain, many workers might arrive feeling depleted before even making it to their desks.

Social battery drain

While unpredictable conversations and “water cooler moments” are often touted as benefits of office work, they can be exhausting for some with ADHD who already spend significant mental energy managing their symptoms. The constant task-switching between work and social interactions can be particularly challenging.

For others, a reintroduction to structure

No matter how you slice it, some jobs are better suited to be done in an office — and the same goes for employees. People living with ADHD can be especially affected by their environments, and while the ability to control their surroundings is beneficial, many times working from home does not equate to being in “work mode.”

Consistent routines

A pillar for many regardless of neurological state, the simple act of going to work is fundamental in creating a reliable routine, which is the key for most people to manage their ADHD. From sleep and wake times to self-care and hygiene habits to frequency of meals, establishing consistency is encouraged and maintained when you’re committed to being at a particular place at a particular time.

Valuable open dialogue

Though some living with ADHD might find impromptu conversations distracting, others may find that they often translate to valuable added context and detail around the projects and tasks at hand. Creative workers in particular benefit from in-person collaboration in the form of brainstorms, think tanks, and the like. And much of the time, the most innovative ideas come from casual conversations with team members.

Accountability and visibility

The solitude and control that working from home affords to many can be a double-edged sword. Certainly you’re able to tune in and out as you please, but many employees living with ADHD find that accountability drops without a support system — in this case, coworkers. Whether seeing others migrate to the conference room for a meeting or overhearing them prepare a brief, an office abounds with physical cues that help to manage time, deadlines, and expectations.

The intersection of flexibility and inclusivity

The reality is that there isn’t a singular clear path forward. Many companies are finding success in a more hybrid approach to remote work, offering flexible policies that allow employees to discuss in-office work based on their needs and preferred work setups, while also taking into account the company’s requirements.

But beyond evolving policies, the RTO debate has broader implications for workplace inclusivity. It’s pushing us to question traditional office norms and consider whether they truly serve everyone. And for employees living with ADHD, this conversation is particularly crucial.

The most successful RTO policies will be those that recognize neurodiversity as a strength rather than a challenge to be managed. By and large, diverse ways of thinking and working are fundamental to innovation and creative problem-solving, and that’s exactly what companies need in today’s rapidly changing business environment.

Living with ADHD isn’t just about losing focus or forgetting where you put your keys. It’s about navigating a world that isn’t built for the way your brain works. Emmanuel Abua’s story is one of resilience, discovery, and, ultimately, empowerment. From early struggles in school to becoming a voice for the neurodivergent community, his journey provides a roadmap for anyone facing an ADHD diagnosis.

Misunderstanding in childhood, struggles in college

Emmanuel’s ADHD story began early—at just five years old, a teacher flagged concerns. Despite excelling on tests, Emmanuel struggled with homework, focus, and organization. These challenges followed him into adulthood, making transitions—like the leap from high school to college—especially difficult.

“I didn’t actually grow up knowing that I had ADHD… supposedly, I had a teacher or an educational professional think I had it at five or six years old. I was put on stimulant medication, but my parents took me off, thinking I’d grow out of it.”

Like many young adults with undiagnosed ADHD, Emmanuel hit a wall in college. He went to Tuskegee University but found himself overwhelmed by the lack of structure. The safety nets of high school—teachers, parents, accountability—were gone.

“The transition from high school to college was difficult. If you don’t go to class, you don’t go. If you don’t turn in homework, no one follows up. The accountability was gone.”

Without the right tools and accommodations, many students with ADHD find college to be a major challenge. Emmanuel changed his major four times in just five months. The pressure of living up to expectations—his own and his family’s—only added to the weight of ADHD and anxiety.

At 19, Emmanuel finally received an ADHD diagnosis. But instead of being a solution, it was just the beginning of another challenge.

“Once I got diagnosed, my family was like, ‘Okay, what pills do you need to take so you can finish?’ But pills don’t teach skills.”

While ADHD medication can be life-changing, it’s not a standalone solution. Emmanuel still faced executive functioning struggles, organization issues, and a deep-seated belief that he had to conform to what others expected of him.

Almost a decade after his ADHD diagnosis, Emmanuel discovered he was also autistic. This revelation sent him into a spiral of depression and denial.

This dual diagnosis (often referred to as AuDHD) explained so much—but at first, Emmanuel rejected it. He hyper-focused on autism while ignoring his ADHD entirely. It wasn’t until Emmanuel connected with the broader neurodivergent community that he began to truly accept himself. Through self-advocacy work, he found purpose and connection.

“For some reason, I just feel better around other ADHD people. Around autistic people, I felt seen, but it wasn’t the same. Amongst ADHDers, it feels like I actually have a voice.”

He joined organizations like ADDA, started speaking out, and found work as a freelance writer and voiceover artist. Sharing his experiences helped him—and others—navigate the challenges of ADHD and co-occurring conditions.

Managing ADHD in adulthood

Emmanuel’s story is a testament to the importance of self-acceptance, support, and structure. Here are some takeaways for those navigating ADHD:

Diagnosis is just the first step. ADHD testing can provide clarity, but managing ADHD requires ongoing effort.

Medication helps, but it’s not a magic fix. Skills like organization, time management, and self-care are just as crucial.

Find your community. Connecting with others who understand ADHD can be life-changing.

Self-care matters. Exercise, proper sleep, and mindfulness all play a role in managing ADHD symptoms.

Embrace your strengths. ADHD is not just about challenges—it comes with creativity, resilience, and unique ways of thinking.

A future of advocacy and change

For Emmanuel, the future is about amplifying the voices of the neurodivergent community.

“What excites me is how much ADHDers and autistics are fed up with how society works. People want real change. I’d like to be one of the voices that helps convey that.”

His journey reminds us that ADHD isn’t a limitation—it’s a different way of experiencing the world. And with the right tools and support, living with ADHD can be empowering.

Take the first step: get your ADHD Diagnostic Evaluation

If Emmanuel’s story resonates with you, it may be time to take control of your own ADHD journey. Understanding your brain is the first step toward thriving. Take the ADHD Diagnostic Evaluation today to gain insight into your unique challenges and strengths.

This article draws on insights from a podcast conversation hosted by ADHD Online, featuring Emmanuel Abua. His perspectives provide valuable guidance for understanding the complexities of ADHD, embracing self-acceptance, and navigating the challenges that come with a dual diagnosis of ADHD and autism.

The end of the year often feels like a whirlwind — a time for celebration and connection but also an emotionally and physically draining stretch of weeks. Between wrapping up work projects, planning holiday gatherings, and managing self-imposed expectations, it’s no wonder many of us feel completely burned out before the new year even begins.

Burnout is a state of emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion caused by prolonged stress. It often shows up differently for everyone but can include signs like sleepless nights, irritability, demotivation, and a sense of disconnection. Left unchecked, burnout can damage mental and physical health, making it harder to recharge when you need it most.

Fortunately, with a few thoughtful strategies, you can reduce burnout and approach the end of the year with greater energy and optimism. Inspired by insights from Woodruff Woodruff, founder of Organize 365, here are five practical, achievable steps to help you turn the season’s chaos into an opportunity for reflection and renewal.

1. Reclaim your time with “planned neglect”

Not every task, tradition, or event is worth your energy, especially if it adds unnecessary stress. Woodruff calls this approach “planned neglect,” where you intentionally decide which activities to skip. “We spend so much time living in programs plated for us by others,” she explains. By reassessing your priorities, you can free yourself from unnecessary obligations.

For example, skipping elaborate holiday decorations doesn’t mean you lack holiday spirit — it simply means you’re choosing to focus on what matters most to you. Woodruff adds, “Once you’re happy with your decision, you don’t have to justify it to anyone.” Whether it’s a smaller tree or no tree at all, trust that your choices are valid and enough.

2. Set boundaries to create calm

Clear boundaries help create the time and space you need to relax. Woodruff shares a simple but powerful routine: After dinner, she cleans the kitchen, turns on the under-cabinet lights, and declares the kitchen closed. This boundary signals the end of her workday and gives her permission to relax guilt-free.

Think about where you can set similar boundaries. Maybe it’s limiting social obligations, setting work emails aside after a certain hour, or creating a peaceful wind-down routine in the evening. These small acts can make a big difference in how you feel at the end of each day.

3. Embrace the power of “one more thing”

Burnout often comes from feeling like you’re constantly catching up. Woodruff suggests a simple but effective mindset shift: Before leaving a room or finishing a task, ask yourself, “What’s one more thing I could do right now that I won’t have to do later?”

This might mean wiping the counter after making coffee, wrapping a gift right after buying it, or loading the dishwasher before bed. “Those little moments add up,” she explains. Completing small tasks in real-time reduces mental clutter and frees up your future self from unnecessary stress.

4. Prioritize connection over perfection

Amid the holiday bustle, it’s easy to get caught up in various distractions and endless to-do lists. But Woodruff reminds us that our connection with others truly matters during this time of year. “The things I enjoy most about the holidays are the moments spent with people, not the stuff,” she says.

Shift your focus away from striving for perfection and toward meaningful interactions. Instead of overloading your schedule with tasks, carve out time for activities that bring joy, whether it’s a cozy movie night with family or a quiet evening catching up with friends.

Bonus tip: Reflect and recharge

As the year winds down, take a moment to reflect on what’s gone well and what you’d like to improve in the new year. Journaling can be a helpful way to organize your thoughts, process emotions, and set goals for the months ahead.

This year, let’s reclaim the end of the year as a time for joy, growth, and connection. By setting boundaries, making intentional choices, and focusing on what truly matters, you can greet the new year feeling refreshed and ready to thrive.

Feeling overwhelmed? Take a moment to reflect on what matters most. Explore tools like the Mentavi Mental Wellness Snapshot to gain personalized insights into your mental health and prepare for the road ahead.

By Valerie Snyder, LVN, Mental Wellness Coach

If you have ADHD, staying focused and managing your time at work can feel challenging. The good news is that the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is there to help by offering accommodations that can make your job easier and more manageable. Understanding how to ask for the right support can help you succeed in your career while managing ADHD. Let’s break it down step by step!

What Are ADA Accommodations?

The ADA is a law that was created to protect people with disabilities from discrimination. If you have ADHD and it affects your ability to work, your employer must provide reasonable accommodations. Accommodations are small changes that can help you perform your job better, like giving you more time to complete tasks or letting you work in a quieter space.

The keyword here is reasonable, meaning that the accommodations should help you without causing too much trouble for your employer.

When Should You Ask for ADA Accommodations?

It can be tough to share that you have ADHD, especially if you’re worried about how others will react. But it’s important to ask for accommodations if ADHD is making your work harder. Don’t wait until you’re struggling or falling behind. The sooner you ask for help, the better it will be for your success at work.

How to Ask for ADA Accommodations in 3 Simple Steps:

1. Look at Your Challenges
   Think about your daily tasks. What part of your job is harder because of your ADHD? Is it keeping up with deadlines, staying focused, or managing your time?
2. Research Possible Solutions
   Once you know what’s hard for you, look into accommodations that could help. For example, some people find that having flexible work hours or a quieter workspace can make a big difference.
3. Prepare for the Conversation
   It might feel scary to talk about your ADHD, but if you explain how the accommodations will help you do your job better, it can make the conversation easier. Be clear about what you need and how it will improve your work.

Examples of ADA Accommodations That Can Help Adults with ADHD:

• Flexible Work Hours
  If you’re more focused at certain times of day, ask to adjust your work hours to fit when you’re most productive.
• Quiet Workspace or Noise-Canceling Headphones
  If distractions are a problem, ask for a quieter space to work or use noise-canceling headphones.
• Breaking Big Projects into Smaller Tasks
  Big tasks can feel overwhelming. Ask to break them into smaller, manageable steps with individual deadlines.
• Extended Deadlines
  If you need more time to finish tasks, ask for extra time to make sure your work is done well.
• Written Instructions
  Verbal instructions can be hard to remember, so ask for clear, written instructions to refer back to.
• Frequent Breaks
  Taking short breaks can help you recharge and stay focused throughout the day.
• Coaching and Support
• Some employers may offer ADHD coaching or extra support to help you stay organized and manage your time better.

Making Your Work Experience Better

Asking for accommodations isn’t about getting special treatment—it’s about creating a work environment that helps you succeed. Talking openly with your employer can help them understand both your challenges and strengths. With the right accommodations, you can not only survive at work but thrive.

Mental Wellness Coaching at ADHD Online

In addition to accommodations, ADHD Online offers Mental Wellness Coaching to help you set and achieve your goals. Working one-on-one with a coach, you can learn strategies for managing time, staying organized, and building your career success.

Valerie Snyder is a behavioral health nurse and mental wellness coach with over 15 years of experience. Inspired by her own ADHD diagnosis, she specializes in helping clients develop personalized strategies for time management, organization, and achieving their goals. Valerie’s personal journey with ADHD drives her compassionate, client-centered approach, and she is dedicated to advocating for greater understanding and acceptance of neurodiversity.

Spooky myths are fun, especially during spooky season, unless they’re about our mental health. Those of us in the ADHD community are best prepared to dispel myths and remove the stigma attached to ADHD. Here are the top five we come across, plus all the facts you need to debunk them.  

 #1

MYTH: GIRLS CAN’T HAVE ADHD.

FACT: 5.6% OF WOMEN AND GIRLS ADHD

In fact, the percentage of newly diagnosed women with ADHD nearly doubled from 2020 to 2022.   However, ADHD is often overlooked in both girls and women, with nearly 50-75% of cases missed. 

Why? It turns out that males and females present with ADHD differently. While males might externally show impulsive and hyperactive behaviors, females tend to display inattentive symptoms. Females are also more likely to internalize their behaviors and mask their symptoms, making them harder to pick up during an evaluation.

#2

MYTH : ADHD ISN’T REAL. IT’S JUST LAZINESS OR TOO MUCH ENERGY.

FACT: ADHD IS RECOGNIZED AS A DIFFERENCE IN BRAIN DEVELOPMENT

Three of our country’s primary medical organizations, The National Institutes of Health, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the American Psychiatric Association, recognize ADHD as a difference in brain development. Research has also shown it is hereditary.  

Those who are diagnosed with ADHD have lower levels of dopamine, a hormone in the brain that helps control reward and pleasure centers, while also regulating response and movement. With lower levels of dopamine, the brain is limited in its ability to stay motivated. 

#3

MYTH: ADHD IS ONLY FOR KIDS AND WILL BE OUTGROWN. 

FACT: MORE THAN 8.7 MILLION ADULTS HAVE BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH ADHD

Unlike pants or shoes, you can’t outgrow ADHD. If you were diagnosed with ADHD as a child, it’s likely that you’ll still have it in adulthood.

ADHD affects the brain and dopamine levels While treatment will help, it won’t make ADHD disappear forever.

That’s why it is important to get an evaluation for a diagnosis as soon as you can, so that you can factor your unique challenges and strengths into decisions about career, relationships, and more. 

#4

MYTH: ADHD IS A STAND-ALONE DIAGNOSIS.

FACT: AT LEAST HALF OF THOSE WITH ADHD ALSO HAVE ANOTHER CONDITION

When multiple conditions are present, these are often referred to as comorbid conditions. Comorbid conditions exist in parallel and typically each requires its own specific treatment plan.

The most common comorbid conditions with ADHD are anxiety, depression, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.

At ADHD online, our online assessment not only evaluates a patient for ADHD, but also for anxiety and depression while our Mental Health Snapshot screens for a number of . We work with doctorate-level psychologists to determine not only the best treatment plan, but also any other factors impacting mental health. 

#5

MYTH : ADHD CAN’T BE TREATED.  

FACT: ADHD TREATMENT CAN INCLUDE MEDICATION, THERAPY, AND/OR COACHING

While there is no cure for ADHD, there are a number of different treatment options. Often these treatment options are used in combination to help manage symptoms.

Our mission at ADHD Online is to help diagnose and find the best treatment plan to conquer life’s daily challenges with ADHD. We offer a variety of treatment options, including virtual counseling and medication management. 

These are just some of the myths surrounding ADHD. If you or someone you know hears additional myths or has questions about the information you are hearing, visit our resource library to get the facts.

Don’t be spooked this season by myths surrounding ADHD during ADHD Awareness Month, or any month. 

¹ https://psychcentral.com/adhd/adhd-and-gender#prevalence

² https://www.epicresearch.org/articles/number-of-adhd-patients-rising-especially-among-women

³ https://healthcare.utah.edu/healthfeed/2024/06/why-adult-adhd-rise#:~:text=Adult%20ADHD%20ranks%20in%20the,struggling%20with%20focus%20and%20concentration.%E2%80%9D

⁴ https://www.additudemag.com/when-its-not-just-adhd/#:~:text=We%20now%20know%20that%20at,Anxiety

What to Expect During Your First Session with a Therapist

Brandy Levine  

If you’re considering seeing a therapist, you’re taking a significant step toward improving your mental health. The journey begins with your first session, a crucial moment that sets the tone for your therapy experience. So, what can you expect on this initial visit?

Understanding the Initial Meeting

Your first session with a therapist is often more about getting to know each other than diving deep into your issues. The therapist will start by asking questions about your background, current challenges, and what led you to seek therapy. It’s their way of understanding where you’re coming from and how they can best assist you. You might be asked about your family history, any past therapy experiences, and your goals for therapy. This is a time for you to share your story, and it’s important to be as open and honest as possible.

Setting Goals and Expectations

One of the key aspects of your first session is setting goals. Your therapist will work with you to identify what you hope to achieve through therapy. These goals might include managing anxiety, improving relationships, or addressing specific issues. It’s also an opportunity to discuss your expectations about the therapy process. The therapist will explain how they work and what you can expect from future sessions. This mutual understanding helps build a foundation of trust and ensures that you’re both on the same page.

Exploring Your Comfort Level

Comfort is crucial in therapy. Your first session is a time to assess how comfortable you feel with the therapist. The relationship between you and your therapist is central to the success of therapy, so it’s important that you feel at ease. You might find yourself evaluating their communication style, demeanor, and approach to therapy. It’s okay to discuss any concerns or hesitations you have during this session.

Understanding Confidentiality

Confidentiality is a cornerstone of therapy. Your therapist will explain the limits of confidentiality and how your information will be protected. They’ll discuss situations where they might be required to break confidentiality, such as in cases of imminent harm or abuse. Understanding these boundaries helps establish trust and ensures that you feel safe sharing your thoughts and feelings.

How to Prepare for Your First Session

Preparation can help you feel more at ease during your first session. Consider writing down key points you want to discuss, including your reasons for seeking therapy and any specific issues you’re facing. It might also be helpful to jot down any questions you have about the therapy process. Being prepared can make the conversation flow more smoothly and ensure that you cover everything that’s important to you.

The Therapist’s Approach

Different therapists have different approaches, and your first session is a good time to understand their style. Some therapists may use cognitive-behavioral techniques, while others may focus on psychodynamic or humanistic approaches. Understanding their methods can help you decide if their approach aligns with your needs. Feel free to ask about their approach and how they think it will benefit you.

Real-Life Experience

Consider Sarah’s experience, who recently started therapy in Los Angeles. She was anxious about her first session but found that the therapist’s warm and welcoming demeanor helped her feel comfortable. The therapist asked thoughtful questions and helped Sarah articulate her goals for therapy. Sarah appreciated the clear explanation of what to expect and felt more confident moving forward. This positive initial experience made a significant difference in her commitment to the therapeutic process.

Common Concerns

It’s normal to have concerns about your first therapy session. You might worry about being judged, not knowing what to say, or whether therapy will actually help. These concerns are common and part of the process. Remember, therapists are trained to create a non-judgmental space where you can feel heard and supported. If you’re feeling uncertain, it’s okay to share these feelings with your therapist.

Building a Strong Therapeutic Relationship

The success of therapy often hinges on the strength of the relationship between you and your therapist. Your first session is a time to start building this relationship. A strong therapeutic relationship is built on trust, respect, and open communication. As you continue with therapy, this relationship will grow and become a crucial part of your healing journey.

Next Steps

After your first session, you and your therapist will discuss the next steps. This might include scheduling future sessions, setting specific goals, or exploring additional resources. The initial session is just the beginning, and your therapist will guide you through the process, providing support and tools to help you achieve your goals.

In summary, your first session with a therapist is an important step in your mental health journey. It’s a time to get to know your therapist, set goals, and discuss your expectations. By preparing and being open, you can make the most of this initial meeting and set the stage for a successful therapeutic experience.

Bio

Brandy Levine is a licensed therapist at Stori. She specializes in cognitive-behavioral therapy, helping clients navigate life’s challenges with resilience and insight. Her approach is centered on fostering self-awareness and empowering individuals to enact positive change in their lives.

You made it through your school years without being diagnosed with ADHD. So you’re in the clear, right?

Not exactly.

According to Forbes Health, more than 8.7 million adults in the United States have been diagnosed with ADHD. Thanks to increased awareness of all mental health concerns, the percentage of adults diagnosed has been steadily increasing in recent years¹. That means millions of people are getting the treatment and support they need to make the most of their ADHD brain and improve their quality of life.

But many still go undiagnosed, like millennial women, high-functioning executives, busy moms, and more.

While ADHD can only be diagnosed with a comprehensive assessment, we’ve compiled this list of the most common adult ADHD symptoms as a starting place. Continue reading to see how many sound familiar to you.  

1. Struggles with attention to detail and tasks

Does your mind wander off while you’re at work, or do you find yourself losing focus when catching up with friends? Does this happen more when you’re doing something that you don’t find particularly engaging? Is it even harder to focus when you have noise or activity around you?

‘Attention’ is right there in the name, and while many argue that those with ADHD are not actually suffering from a deficit of attention, the fact remains that struggles with focus are an indication that ADHD might be at play. 

2. Trouble with relationships

Attention struggles don’t just pop up at work. Sometimes they can impede personal relationships. When focus wanes during a conversation with friends or family, zoning out often comes next, which leads to missing important details. If your friends have noted that they often have to repeat themselves to you, this might be another indication that you’ve got some attention struggles. 

Remember, taking care of your mental health is a great way to improve the relationships in your life. 

3. Excessive fidgeting and feelings of restlessness

The word ‘hyperactivity’ usually brings to mind little boys bouncing out of their seats in elementary school. But adults can also struggle with hyperactivity. Feeling restless or fidgety when you have to sit still for a long meeting or at the movie theater is one way you might experience hyperactivity as an adult.

If you’ve ever felt as though your actions are driven by a motor, and not so much by your calm decision-making process, you might be struggling with hyperactivity.

4. Frequently interrupting conversations

Do your friends often ask you to stop interrupting them in conversation? Impulsivity doesn’t always have to be big and highly visible. Sometimes it shows up in our everyday interactions with friends and family.

However, also consider whether you frequently make major decisions quickly and without the time to think it through or change plans on a whim. 

5. Frequently misplacing important items

Where are your keys and wallet right now? If they’re misplaced more often than not, this is something to pay attention to.

Adults with ADHD struggle with disorganization because of the specific ways in which their brains work. Slight differences in executive function lead to cluttered spaces, difficulty with prioritization, and misplacing things.

6. Chronic lateness and struggles with time management

If your friends tell you to arrive an hour before the actual reservation time because they know you will be late, it doesn’t necessarily mean you have ADHD. But it is something to think about. 

Adults with ADHD struggle with estimating how long tasks will take, which leads to downstream effects like procrastination, trouble with deadlines, and, yes, chronic lateness.

7. Difficulty completing projects

The beginning of a project is a great time for people with ADHD. The novelty keeps your brain engaged, and the challenge keeps you going.

The middle or end of a project is a different story. By this point, struggles with focus and time management have taken over, leading many adults with ADHD to have a long list of half-finished tasks, projects, or hobbies.

8. Frequent mood swings or emotional sensitivity

Adults with ADHD may experience intense emotions, be easily frustrated, or have difficulty regulating their emotional responses. These tendencies can come out as being overwhelmed and angry and can lead to relationship challenges.

9. Getting lost in a task for hours

The flip side to struggling with focus is hyperfocus. This happens when you get so intensely focused on a task that you enjoy that time, and all other responsibilities fall away. While incredibly productive, this ability to get in the zone can also exacerbate those time management and relationship challenges.

10. Low self-esteem

Let’s face it, friends and family may struggle to accept that you are working through these challenges, not to mention coworkers and bosses. As a result, even if you are trying hard to compensate and overcome these struggles, you may still feel like you are failing those around you.

It’s important to note that everyone experiences some of these symptoms occasionally. For a diagnosis of Adult ADHD, these symptoms need to be persistent, present in multiple areas of life, and significantly impact daily functioning. If you identify strongly with many of these signs, it might be time to dig a little deeper.

If you think you might have ADHD, take our Diagnostic Evaluation. You’ll get your results in 5 days and could start treatment within the following week.

¹ https://www.forbes.com/health/mind/adhd-statistics