Considering an ADHD Evaluation? A Holistic Guide for Adults

Many adults find themselves wondering: “Do I have ADHD, or is something else going on?” You may notice difficulty focusing, procrastination, or feeling mentally scattered. Maybe you’ve struggled with time management, or you’ve relied on last-minute pressure to meet deadlines. Or perhaps friends or colleagues have mentioned ADHD to you after noticing your patterns.

At Still Waters Mental Health, we believe ADHD deserves a thorough and thoughtful evaluation. That means not only assessing for ADHD itself but also considering the whole person: your mental health, physical health, lifestyle, and strengths.

What Happens During an ADHD Evaluation?

An ADHD evaluation in a psychiatric setting typically includes:

• Clinical Interview: A detailed conversation about your current symptoms, personal history, family history, and how your difficulties affect daily life.

• Standardized Questionnaires: Evidence-based rating scales help measure attention, impulsivity, and executive functioning.

• Collateral Information: If helpful, input from family members, past report cards, or workplace feedback can give added context.

• Screening for Other Conditions: Anxiety, depression, trauma, and sleep disorders can mimic or worsen ADHD symptoms, so it’s essential to evaluate these as well.

Our goal is to rule out other possible causes and understand the bigger picture of your mental and physical health.

What Else Could Be Contributing to ADHD-like Symptoms?

It’s common for other factors to look like ADHD or to overlap with it. A holistic evaluation considers both mental health and physiologic contributors:

• Mental Health Conditions: Anxiety, depression, PTSD, and bipolar disorder can all impact focus, memory, and motivation.

• Sleep Issues: Sleep apnea, insomnia, or disrupted circadian rhythms can lead to concentration problems and brain fog.

• Medical Conditions: Thyroid dysfunction, hormonal changes, chronic pain, or nutritional deficiencies (like low iron or B12) may contribute to poor focus.

• Lifestyle Factors: High stress, overuse of screens, lack of physical activity, or poor diet can mimic ADHD-like patterns.

Looking at these pieces ensures we don’t miss something important—and that treatment is truly tailored to you.

Holistic Treatment Options for ADHD

If ADHD is diagnosed, there are multiple paths forward. Treatment is not one-size-fits-all, and our integrative approach blends the best of conventional and holistic options:

1. Medication Options

• Stimulants: Such as methylphenidate and amphetamine-based medications, which are considered first-line treatments and are well-studied for effectiveness.

• Non-Stimulants: Medications like atomoxetine, guanfacine, or bupropion may be appropriate if stimulants aren’t a good fit.

2. Lifestyle Interventions

Evidence shows lifestyle plays a major role in supporting brain health and focus:

• Exercise: Regular aerobic movement improves attention, mood, and executive functioning.

• Sleep Hygiene: Consistent, high-quality sleep supports focus and memory.

• Nutrition: Balanced meals with protein, fiber, and healthy fats stabilize energy and concentration.

• Mindfulness & Stress Reduction: Meditation, journaling, or prayer can regulate emotional reactivity and improve focus.

3. Evidence-Based Supplements

Certain supplements may support attention and mood alongside other treatments:

• Omega-3 fatty acids (linked to improved focus and emotional regulation)

• Magnesium (supportive for sleep and stress regulation)

• Vitamin D, Iron, or B Vitamins (if lab testing shows deficiency)

We recommend supplements only after a careful review of your personal health needs and lab work.

Why Choose an Integrative Approach?

ADHD is real, valid, and highly treatable—but it rarely exists in a vacuum. By looking at both conventional and holistic factors, we can create a treatment plan that supports not just symptom management but also long-term wellbeing.

If you’ve been wondering whether ADHD may be affecting your life, seeking an evaluation is the first step. Whether or not you receive a diagnosis, the process can give you clarity and open doors to strategies that help you thrive.

👉 If you’re ready to explore ADHD evaluation with an integrative lens, our clinic is here to help you find answers and create a plan that fits your unique needs.