How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults
Many adults seek an assessment because they are annoyed by the symptoms of ADHD. They may lose their jobs because of late deadlines, have difficulty in relationships due to their impulsive behavior, or face financial issues because they forget to pay bills and don't keep track of purchases.
Ask how to get an adult adhd diagnosis or mental health professional if they have any training in diagnosing ADHD among adults.
Symptoms
If you believe that you or your child suffer from ADHD The first step towards getting help is to find a medical professional who will examine your symptoms. The evaluation will consist of an examination of your body and an analysis of your medical history, which includes mental health issues and substance use. It is important to be honest with the doctor about the symptoms you are experiencing and how they affect you. Many people suffering from ADHD hide their problems out of fear or shame criticism However, a thorough evaluation will give your doctor more of a complete picture of your life and difficulties.
Because adulthood is very different from childhood, identifying ADHD in adults can be more complicated than diagnosing children with the disorder. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), Fifth Edition by the American Psychiatric Association provides guidelines for diagnosis which are valid for both children and adults. The doctor might inquire about other people who are in the patient's life such as the spouse or cohabiting partner or siblings, parents or teachers and coaches to discuss how the behavior of the person has affected them. This can provide information that might not be found on tests or checklists.
In certain instances doctors may decide to look into other conditions that may cause similar symptoms to ADHD. These could include mood disorders, other mental health conditions, as well as physical illnesses or injuries, such as concussion or head trauma. The doctor will also look at the person's personal and work life to determine if the symptoms impact their daily activities.
The signs of adult ADHD can vary from mild to severe with moderate symptoms causing some difficulties in social and work situations. The severe symptoms can hinder the performance of your work or school or cause stress in relationships. It can also make it difficult to live an independent life.
Anyone can suffer from ADHD, but it is more common in men and boys than in girls. There is no clear reason behind this, but it could be due to genetic and environmental factors. Research has shown that certain foods and chemicals can cause ADHD in certain people, and it is possible that some individuals are more likely to develop the condition due to the existence of specific brain structures involved in the processing of stimuli.
Diagnosis
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD is not always easy. Many people are embarrassed by their symptoms and find it difficult to talk to a mental health professional or health care professional. This can delay the process of evaluation. To ensure you get a thorough evaluation, it is important to be honest and upfront about your health issues as well as past circumstances.
During the examination the doctor will use standardized behavioral rating scales and ADHD symptom checklists to determine if you are able to meet the criteria for a diagnosis of ADHD. Your doctor may also ask for your family history and childhood information along with an in-depth description of your job and home life. Your doctor could also recommend an examination to rule out medical causes of your symptoms, for example, thyroid problems or seizure disorders.
A physical exam usually includes blood work and a head scan, which can reveal any chemical or structural issues within the brain that could be causing your ADHD symptoms. A physical exam may also aid in determining other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, like addiction or depression.
Your doctor may suggest you participate in a an investigation into the effectiveness of new treatments for ADHD in adults. These trials are conducted by research centers, such as NIMH. However, it is important to be aware that these studies can have risks and may not result in a solution that is appropriate for you.
It is also essential to tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking, as they can interfere with certain stimulants used to treat adults with ADHD. The effectiveness of stimulants may be affected by medications that affect sleep, appetite and blood pressure. The NIMH's Medication Interactions page will provide more details on the best way to discuss other medications with your doctor.
Treatment
Adults with ADHD can be treated with treatment with medication, behavioral therapy and educational assistance. Most often, it's a combination of these that can help people to achieve success in work, school and other activities. Treatment should start with an appointment with a primary care provider or another health care professional. Ask about the professional's training and experience working with adults with ADHD. If the professional is unwilling or unable to provide this information, it's best to look for a different professional.
The diagnostic process for adult ADHD typically includes interviews with the patient's parents or other significant others, as well as teachers. The diagnostic process could also include a medical and family history, as well as an assessment of the psychiatric condition. It is important that the person being assessed for ADHD be honest and not hide to avoid embarrassment. Multiple symptoms must be evident in two or more settings and have a significant impact in the individual's life to allow an ADHD diagnosis to be established.
Many adults suffering from untreated ADHD suffer from comorbid conditions that include depression and anxiety. This is especially true when those who suffer from ADHD have an underlying history of chronic tension or frustration in their lives. Frustration can lead to an unfulfilling prophecy about underachievement and lead to feelings of low self-esteem and poor performance.
For certain adults, being diagnosed of ADHD can be a great relief. They will begin to understand themselves better and realize that it wasn't because of them that they couldn't make friends or establish a career. For certain adults, a diagnosis of ADHD can come with feelings of sadness and regret over lost opportunities that were not addressed.
Adults who suffer from ADHD must always be prepared to discuss their issues openly with their supervisors, colleagues, and teachers. It's also an excellent idea to think about joining an ADHD support group, where those suffering from the disorder can talk about their experiences and seek help. Anyone who have an ADHD diagnosis should check their insurance coverage and request the names and numbers of professionals that specialize in treating adults with ADHD.
Support
A person who is diagnosed with ADHD can receive help for the symptoms and problems that affect him or her in a variety of settings, including at home, work, school as well as in relationships and many others. Treatments for adult ADHD typically include medication and psychotherapy. Some people discover that they also need specialized coaching, which can help them with structure and support in daily life.
Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD often feel relieved to discover that their problems aren't typical or caused by lazy parenting or a lack of discipline. A diagnosis could be the first step in receiving the assistance they require.
Adults can also suffer from ADHD. It is more difficult to identify in children. In fact, many adults have struggled throughout their lives with undiagnosed ADHD.
A psychiatrist who has experience with this condition can identify ADHD in adults by conducting a diagnostic interview. The interviewer might inquire about the patient's social and emotional history, as well as his or her family history. Some doctors utilize brain scans or computer programs to evaluate patients. The majority of experts agree that a thorough assessment is the best way to determine the presence of ADHD.
Based on the nature of the difficulties a person is experiencing depending on the nature of the problem, additional neuropsychological or psychological tests may be required to evaluate the presence and effects of co-existing conditions like anxiety, learning disabilities and mood disorders, which often occur in conjunction with ADHD. The results of these tests may also be helpful in determining the proper dosage of medications for an individual.
It is also recommended to ask friends and colleagues for suggestions to specialists who are skilled in diagnosing ADHD. Examine their credentials, including their academic degrees and the length of time they've been working. They should be able explain their diagnosis procedure and answer any queries that you may have. You can also look for qualified professionals online or in the phone book. Ask about their approach to counseling and what kind of therapy they may suggest for you.