How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults
For many adults, the annoyance of being afflicted with ADHD symptoms is what prompts them to seek an assessment. They could lose their jobs due to delayed deadlines, or struggle with relationships due to impulsive behavior or have financial problems because they forget to pay bills and lose track of purchases.
Ask your doctor or mental health professional if they have any training in diagnosing ADHD among adults.
Symptoms
Find a doctor who can assess your symptoms if suspect you or your child is suffering from ADHD. The evaluation will consist of physical examination as well as a review of your medical history. This includes mental health issues and alcohol abuse. It is crucial to be open with your doctor about your issues 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 a more complete picture of your life and difficulties.
Because adulthood is very different from childhood, diagnosing ADHD in adults can be more difficult 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 that are appropriate for both children and adults. The doctor can inquire about others who are in the patient's life like the spouse or cohabiting partner or siblings, parents teachers, coaches, and other teachers to discuss how the person's behavior has affected them. This could reveal important information that may not be revealed by tests or checklists.
In some cases the doctor may decide to look into other conditions that may cause similar symptoms to ADHD. These conditions could include mood disorders, mental health issues, and physical injuries or illnesses like head trauma. The doctor will look over the individual's work and personal life to determine whether their symptoms are hindering their daily activities.
The symptoms of adult ADHD can range from mild to severe, with moderate symptoms that cause difficulty in social and work situations. A severe condition can affect school or job performance, strain relationships, and make it difficult to live a life of independence.
Everyone can be affected by ADHD However, it is more common in men and boys than in girls. It is not clear the reason for this however it is likely that there are environmental and genetic factors at play. Research has revealed that certain chemicals and foods can cause ADHD in some people, and it's possible that some people 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 ashamed of their symptoms and are unable to speak to an individual who is a mental health professional or health care professional. This can delay the process of evaluation. It is essential to speak honestly and openly about your symptoms and your previous experiences for an accurate evaluation.
During the examination, your doctor will utilize standard behavioral ratings scales and ADHD symptoms checklists to determine if you meet the criteria for a diagnosis. Your doctor may also ask for your family history and childhood records along with an in-depth description of your job and family life. Your doctor may request an examination to rule out medical causes for your symptoms, including seizures or a thyroid disorder.
A physical exam usually includes blood work and a head scan which can help you identify any structural or chemical issues in the brain that may be contributing to your ADHD symptoms. A physical exam may also aid in determining other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, like depression or addiction to substances.
Your doctor may recommend you participate in a a clinical study of new treatments for ADHD in adults. These trials are conducted by research centers such as NIMH. It is important to be aware, however, that these studies may have negative consequences and may not provide the best treatment for you.
It is also important to inform your doctor 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 appetite, sleep and blood pressure. The NIMH's Medication Interactions page can provide additional information on how you can discuss other medications with your health care provider.
Treatment
Adults with ADHD can be treated with medications, behavioral therapy and educational support. It's usually a combination of the three that can help people succeed at school, work, and other activities. adult diagnosis adhd from primary healthcare providers or other health professionals are often the first step towards treatment. Ask the professional about their expertise and training in working with adults with ADHD. If the professional is unwilling or is not able to provide you the information you need, it's best to look for a different one.
The process of diagnosing adult ADHD typically involves interviews with teachers, parents and other significant people. It could also include the complete medical and family history and psychotherapy evaluation. It is crucial that the person being assessed for ADHD be honest and not be hesitant because of embarrassment. A person has to show symptoms in two or more locations and cause significant impairment in their daily life before an ADHD diagnosis is made.
Many adults with untreated ADHD develop comorbid disorders, including anxiety and depression. This is especially true for those who suffer from ADHD who suffer from chronic stress or frustration. The frustration can cause self-fulfilling prophecy of failure and result in feelings of low self-esteem and a poor performance.
A diagnosis of ADHD could be a source of relief for some adults. They may begin to understand themselves and realize it wasn't their fault that they weren't able to establish an occupation or make friends. For some adults, the diagnosis of ADHD can trigger feelings of sadness and regret over missed opportunities.
Adults who suffer from ADHD must always be ready to talk about their problems with their supervisors and colleagues. Consider joining an ADHD support group where those who suffer from the condition can discuss their experiences and receive advice. Additionally, those with the diagnosis of ADHD should look into their health insurance coverage to determine the services covered and to get names and numbers of experts who specialize in treating adults suffering from ADHD.
Support
A person diagnosed with ADHD is able to receive assistance to address the issues and symptoms that affect them in a variety of settings that include at home, work at school as well as in relationships and many other. Treatments for adult ADHD typically include psychotherapy and medication. Some people find that they also need special coaching, which can provide structure and support in daily life.
Adults diagnosed with ADHD are often relieved to know their problems weren't due to poor parenting or laziness. For many, getting a diagnosis is the first step to receiving the help they require to live a better life.
Adults also have the potential to suffer from ADHD. It's more difficult to recognize in children. In fact, many adults struggle throughout their lives with undiagnosed ADHD.
A psychiatrist who has expertise in this condition can identify ADHD in adults by conducting a diagnostic interview. The interviewer may ask about the person's social and emotional history, as well as his or her family history. Some doctors utilize computer programs or brain scans to evaluate a patient. However, the majority of experts agree that the most accurate indication of ADHD is a thorough clinical interview and it is crucial to take the patient's history into consideration when diagnosing the disorder.
Depending on the nature and severity of the individual's issues and any co-existing issues such as mood disorders, anxiety and learning disabilities that commonly are associated with ADHD, additional neuropsychological and psychological tests could be conducted to determine the presence and effect of these conditions. The results of these tests can also help in determining the appropriate dosage of medications for a particular person.
It's also a good idea to ask colleagues and friends for recommendations to specialists who are experts in diagnosing ADHD. Check their credentials, including academic degrees and the length of time they have worked. They should be able to explain their diagnosis procedure and answer any questions that you may have. You can also search for professional who are certified via the internet or the phone book. Ask them about their philosophy of therapy and what advice they would give you.