In this MD Newsline exclusive interview with psychiatrist Dr. Sasha Hamdani, we discuss how to address ADHD disparities and psychiatrist implicit bias.
MD Newsline:
How would you recommend psychiatrists rectify disparities in ADHD diagnosis and treatment?
Dr. Sasha Hamdani:
“I think doing a comprehensive mental health screening when focused mental health issues arise could help psychiatrists rectify disparities in ADHD diagnosis and treatment. For example, if a patient presents and they’re clearly struggling with mood dysregulation or anxiety, evaluate the patient for ADHD because a lack of focus could be the root cause of their symptoms. Without an adequate ability to focus, you don’t have the executive functioning required to maintain your mood and your nerves.
Now, sometimes, there is a primary mood disorder or anxiety disorder contributing to the patient’s difficulty focusing, but it’s important to consider ADHD as part of the differential diagnosis.”
MD Newsline:
How can psychiatrists address implicit bias in their practice?
Dr. Sasha Hamdani:
“I think psychiatrists can address implicit bias in their practice by educating themselves and understanding that bias is present. We all have unique backgrounds that influence our views of situations. We just have to recognize where our biases fall so we can try to neutralize them and best care for our patients.
So, rather than denying or avoiding your biases, really look at your own patterns and see if there’s a way you can be more impartial.”
Responses have been condensed and lightly edited.
