How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults
For many adults, the frustration of being afflicted with ADHD symptoms is what prompts them to seek an assessment. They may be losing their jobs due to missing deadlines, or struggling with relationships because of impulsive behaviors or have financial issues because they forget bills or don't keep track of purchases.
Ask your doctor or mental health professional if they have experience in diagnosing ADHD among adults.
Symptoms
Find a doctor who can examine your symptoms if you think your child or you has ADHD. The evaluation will consist of physical examinations as well as a review of your medical history. This will include mental health issues as well as substance abuse. It is crucial to be forthcoming with the doctor about the symptoms you are experiencing and how they impact your life. Many people suffering from ADHD are reluctant to admit their problems because of shame or fear of criticism. However an extensive evaluation will provide your doctor with a clearer picture of your daily life.
Since adulthood is different from childhood, diagnosing ADHD in adults can be more difficult than diagnosing children suffering from 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 can inquire about others who are in the patient's life like a spouse or cohabitating partner or siblings, parents or teachers and coaches, to describe how the patient's behavior has affected them. This could reveal important details that aren't revealed by tests or checklists.
In some instances, the doctor will want to examine other conditions that could cause similar symptoms to ADHD. These could include mood disorders, other mental health conditions, as well as physical injuries or illnesses, such as concussion or head trauma. He or she will review the individual's personal and professional life to determine if the symptoms are interfering with 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 school or job performance, strain relationships, and make it harder to live an independent life.
Anyone can have ADHD It is more prevalent in males and boys than in girls. It is unclear why this is the case however, it is likely that there are genetic and environmental factors in play. Certain chemicals and foods have been found to trigger ADHD in a few people. It is also possible that certain people are predisposed because of brain structures involved in processing stimuli.
Diagnosis
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD is not always easy. Many sufferers are embarrassed by their symptoms and have difficulty opening up to a healthcare doctor or a mental health specialist. This could make the evaluation process longer. To ensure a thorough assessment it is essential to be honest and open about your health issues as well as past history.
During the exam your doctor may employ standardized behavioral rating scales and ADHD symptoms checklists to determine if you meet the criteria to be diagnosed of ADHD. Your doctor will ask you about your family and childhood history and will also provide a detailed account of your home and work. Your doctor might order a physical examination to rule out medical causes for your symptoms, such seizures or a thyroid disorder.
A physical exam typically includes blood work and a head scan which can help you identify any chemical or structural problems in the brain that could be causing your ADHD symptoms. diagnosed with adhd ADHD Diagnosis may also help rule other conditions out that could cause similar symptoms, such as depression or addiction to substances.
It is possible that your health care provider may suggest that you participate in a clinical trial of new treatments for adult ADHD. These trials are conducted by research centers such as NIMH. However, you should be aware that these trials may be risky and not result in a treatment that is appropriate for you.
It is also essential to tell your health care provider about any other medications you're taking, as they may interact with some stimulants used to treat adult ADHD. Medications that affect appetite, sleep, heart rate, and blood pressure can all have an effect on how effective stimulants are. The NIMH's Medication Interactions webpage can provide more information on how to discuss other medications with your health care provider.
Treatment
Adults with ADHD are treated with treatment with medication, behavioral therapy and educational assistance. It's usually an amalgamation of all three that can help people succeed at work, school, and other activities. Referrals from primary care doctors or other health professionals are the first step to treatment. Ask the doctor about their training and experience working with adults suffering from ADHD. If the professional is unwilling or is unable to provide you this information, it is best to find another professional.
The process of diagnosing adult ADHD typically involves interviews with teachers, parents and other people who are significant to the child. The diagnostic process may also include an assessment of family and medical history as well as an assessment of the psychiatric condition. It is important that the person being evaluated for ADHD be honest and not hide because of embarrassment. Multiple symptoms must be evident in more than one setting and cause significant impairment in the person's life to allow an ADHD diagnosis to be made.
Untreated ADHD can cause the development of comorbid disorders, such as anxiety and depression. This is particularly the case for those with ADHD who have a history of chronic stress or frustration. The frustration can cause a self-fulfilling prophecy of underachievement and result in feelings of low self-esteem and a lack of performance.
A diagnosis of ADHD could be a source of relief for some adults. They begin to see their own situation and realize that it wasn't their fault that they weren't able to establish a career or meet new friends. For some adults, a diagnoses of ADHD can bring a sense regret and sadness over missed opportunities.
Adults with ADHD should always be ready to discuss their concerns openly with co-workers, supervisors and teachers. It's also an excellent idea to think about joining an ADHD support group where people with the disorder can discuss their experiences and receive assistance. Finally, those with a diagnosis of ADHD should look into their health insurance coverage to find out the services covered and to find the names and numbers of specialists who specialize in treating adults with ADHD.
Support
A person who is diagnosed with ADHD is able to seek help for the symptoms and issues that affect them at home, at work at relationships, at school and in many other situations. Treatments for adults with ADHD typically involve psychotherapy and medications. Some people also need specialized coaching to provide structure and support for their daily lives.
Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD often feel relieved to discover that their troubles weren't just normal, or due to bad parenting or lazyness. A diagnosis could be the first step in receiving the help they require.
It is much easier to identify ADHD in children, however it is not impossible for adults to be affected by this disorder. In fact, many adults have struggled throughout their lives with undiagnosed ADHD.
Diagnosing ADHD in adults requires a thorough clinical interview by a psychiatrist who has experience working with this condition. The interview might include questions about the individual's family history as well as their own personal social and emotional history. Some doctors utilize brain scans or computer programs to assess patients. However, the majority of experts agree that the most accurate indicator of ADHD is an extensive clinical interview and it is crucial to take a patient's history into consideration when diagnosing the disorder.
Depending on the severity and nature of the individual's issues and the co-existing conditions like mood disorders, anxiety, and learning disabilities that typically are associated with ADHD Additional tests for neuropsychology and psychological testing could be conducted to determine the effect and severity of these conditions. The results of these tests can also be helpful in determining the right dosage of medication for an individual.
It is also a good idea to ask colleagues and friends for recommendations to specialists who are experienced in diagnosing ADHD. Examine their credentials, including their academic degrees and how long they've been in practice. They must also be able to explain how they diagnose and answer any questions you may have. You can also search for qualified professionals on the internet or in the phone book. Ask them about their approach to therapy and what they would suggest for you.