i have a lot going on in terms of my mental health, but one thing that is really destroying my life right now seems to be executive dysfunction. i’m well into middle age now and never got assessed, but i’d like to be evaluated and treated if possible. i really don’t know where to start. i don’t have insurance as i’m unemployed (u.s.). what sort of professional should i see who can help me? any thoughts on what to expect along the way? any advice would be most appreciated!
Formal eval is generally gonna be expensive; you should look towards figuring out what public programs you qualify for, and then work towards getting diagnosed after you have coverage.
Instead, what you can do in the short term is go to a primary care doctor, tell them exactly what you put in your post body, and ask if they would be willing to prescribe any non-stimulant medications to help manage your cognitive symptoms while you work towards getting coverage and specialist care. Very few will say no, but if they do, it’s a reflection of what they consider their wheelhouse rather than you asking anything untoward.
this might be the way to go for now until things get more stable. i didn’t know that was an option, but i’m gonna look into it!
In parts of Europe, Modafinil has a decent ratio of “easy to get” / “helpful with executive dysfunction”. It’s schedule IV in the USA; not sure if a GP can and will prescribe it, especially when intended for off-label use. Safety is also not great compared to real ADHD meds, but it helps pretty well.