Brandy Butler, NBC-HWC, LVN
Value is one of those words with multiple meanings. It can come in the form of money or material appraisals, but it can also be deeply personal—like that heirloom your grandma passed down through generations.
As a mental health coach, I’ve been reflecting on the value of an official diagnosis and, on the flip side, the cost of untreated conditions. Think about impulsive purchases, missed career opportunities, strained relationships, and even declining physical health. All of these are potential consequences of untreated mental health conditions. There’s immense value in addressing these issues and improving one’s quality of life.
Take ADHD, for example. Many go undiagnosed and untreated because they’ve developed strategies to cope with their symptoms. This can seem like a win, but it’s like treating diabetes with painkillers or a toothache with foot surgery—misguided at best and ineffective at worst. Similar to physical illness, a proper mental health diagnosis brings so much more to the table.
Here’s why an accurate ADHD diagnosis is invaluable:
- Clarity
A diagnosis provides a level of self-understanding. It stops the endless wondering—why can’t I do this? Why is that so hard? This level of self-awareness not only saves you mental energy but can also improve your relationships. - Targeted Treatment
ADHD presents differently in everyone—factors like age, gender, and life experience play a role. It also shares symptoms with conditions like depression, anxiety, and complex PTSD, which can lead to a misdiagnosis. Getting an accurate diagnosis ensures the right treatment, focusing on what will make the greatest impact on your life. - Improved Quality of Life
There’s a saying: “What is measured, improves.” Diagnosis is a form of measurement. It’s not something to fear or avoid. When ADHD is recognized, it becomes something you can work on—and that brings relief. It’s not about just “willing” yourself through life anymore; it’s about managing it in a way that reduces stress and frustration. - Release the Guilt
How often do you feel guilty for leaving things undone? Whether it’s household chores or failing to provide timely updates at work, the uneasiness can spiral into a vicious cycle of self-blame. A diagnosis won’t be an excuse, but it will offer a pathway to understanding and improvement, helping to lift the burden of guilt.
Proper diagnosis isn’t just about putting a name to your experience. It can help prevent anxiety, substance use disorders, broken relationships, and even poor health. The right diagnosis brings access to tailored resources, improves executive functioning skills, and reduces the emotional burden of living with uncertainty, guilt, or feelings of unworthiness.
In short, a proper ADHD diagnosis is worth it. It opens the door to treatment, understanding, and, ultimately, a better life.
Brandy Butler is a nationally board-certified health and wellness coach and licensed nurse. She has conducted research with UCLA/JHA and has 25 years of experience caring for patients with mental health and substance misuse disorders. Trained in Integrative Health Coaching at Duke Integrative Medicine, Brandy has coached hundreds of clients, helping them implement behavioral changes to optimize their health and well-being.
