How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults
Many adults seek out an assessment due to being dissatisfied with the symptoms of ADHD. They could lose their jobs because of delayed deadlines, or struggle in relationships due to their impulsive behavior or have financial problems due to the fact that they forget bills and lose track of purchases.
Ask your health care provider or a mental health professional about their training and expertise in diagnosing ADHD in adults.
Signs and symptoms
If you believe that you or your child suffer from ADHD The first step to seek assistance is to locate a health care provider who will evaluate your symptoms. The assessment will include an examination of your body and an examination of your medical history, including mental health issues and drug use. It is important to be forthcoming with the doctor about your issues and how they affect you. Many people with ADHD conceal their symptoms out of shame or for fear of being judged. However, a thorough evaluation can provide your doctor with a more accurate picture of your daily life.
Adults differ from children, which is why the diagnosis of ADHD can be more difficult than diagnosing ADHD in children. 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. In addition to interviewing the patient, the doctor might also ask other people in the person's life -- such as spouse or co-habitating partner parents, siblings or teachers and coaches -- to describe the behavior of the patient and how it has affected them. This could provide information that might not be included on a checklist or other tests.
In certain cases the doctor may need to examine other conditions which could cause similar symptoms as ADHD. These conditions include mental health issues, and physical illnesses or injuries like head trauma. He or she will also look at the person's personal and work life to determine if their symptoms interfere with their daily activities.
The signs of adult ADHD can range from mild to moderate and moderate symptoms causing difficulties in work and social situations. Severe symptoms may interfere with academic or work performance, strain relationships and make it difficult to live a life of independence.
Anyone can suffer from ADHD It is more prevalent in men and boys than girls. It is unclear why this difference exists, but there are probably genetic and environmental factors at play. Certain chemicals and foods have been proven to trigger ADHD in certain people. It is also possible that some people are predisposed because of brain structures involved in processing stimuli.
Diagnosis
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD isn't always easy. Many people are insecure about their symptoms and find it difficult to talk to a mental health professional or health care professional. This can prolong the evaluation process. To ensure how to get an adult adhd diagnosis is crucial to be honest and open about your symptoms and past experiences.
During the evaluation your doctor will employ the standardized behavioral ratings scales as well as ADHD symptoms checklists to determine if you fulfill the criteria for a diagnosis. Your doctor will also ask for your family history and childhood records, as well as an in-depth description of your job and family life. Your doctor might also request an examination to rule out medical causes of your symptoms, like thyroid problems or seizure disorders.
A physical exam includes blood tests and an examination of the brain. These tests can help to identify structural or chemical issues in the brain which could be causing ADHD symptoms. A physical exam can also help rule out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, like addiction to drugs or depression.
Your doctor may suggest that you take part in clinical studies 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 trials may be risky and not lead to a treatment that is right for you.
It is also essential to inform your doctor any other medications you're taking, as they can interact with stimulants that are used to treat adults with ADHD. Drugs that affect the appetite, sleep, heart rate and blood pressure could affect how effective stimulants are. NIMH's Medication Interactions webpage can provide additional information on how you can discuss other medications with your physician.
Treatment
For adults diagnosed with ADHD Treatment options include behavioral therapy, medication and educational support. Often, it's a combination of these that can help people to achieve success in work, school and other areas. Treatment should begin with an appointment with a primary care provider or other health professional. Ask the doctor about their training and experience working with adults with ADHD. If a professional refuses or is unable to provide you the information you need, it's recommended to seek out a different professional.
The diagnosis process for adults with ADHD typically includes interviews with the patient's parents or other significant people, and teachers. The diagnostic process could also include an examination of the family and medical history, as well as an assessment of psychiatric issues. It is important that the person who is being assessed for ADHD be honest and not be hesitant due to embarrassment. A person has to show symptoms in more than one place and exhibit a significant impairment in their daily lives before an ADHD diagnosis can be determined.
Untreated ADHD can result in comorbid disorders such as anxiety and depression. This is particularly true when those who suffer from ADHD have a history of chronic stress or frustration in their lives. It can lead to an unfulfilled prophecy which results in low self-esteem, poor performance and feelings of frustration.
For those who are adults, the diagnosis of ADHD can be a source of relief. They can start to understand the situation and realize that it wasn't their fault they couldn't establish an occupation or make friends. However, for certain adults, a diagnosis of ADHD can be accompanied by a sense of grief and regret over lost opportunities that went unaddressed.
Adults who suffer from ADHD must always be ready to discuss their concerns openly with supervisors, coworkers and teachers. It's also recommended to think about joining an ADHD support group, where those suffering from the disorder can discuss their experiences and receive advice. Additionally, those with the diagnosis of ADHD should check their health insurance coverage to find out the services covered and to obtain the names and numbers of professionals who specialize in treating adults suffering from ADHD.
Support
A person diagnosed with ADHD can receive help to address the issues and symptoms that affect him or her in a variety of situations, including at home, work or at school, in relationships, and many more. Treatments for adults with ADHD typically include psychotherapy and medications. Some people may find that they also require specialized coaching, which can provide structure and help in everyday life.
Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD often feel relieved to learn that their troubles weren't just typical or caused by lazy parenting or a lack of discipline. A diagnosis could be the first step in receiving the help they require.
It is much easier to identify ADHD in children, but it isn't impossible for adults to have this disorder. Many adults are suffering from undiagnosed ADHD.
The diagnosis of ADHD in adults requires a thorough clinical interview by a psychiatrist with experience working with this condition. The interviewer can inquire about the person's personal and emotional history, as well his or her family history. Some doctors use brain scans or computer programs to assess patients. The majority of experts agree that an extensive interview is the best method to diagnose ADHD.
Depending on the severity and nature of the individual's problems and co-existing disorders such as anxiety, mood disorders and learning disabilities that typically are associated with ADHD additional psychological and neuropsychological tests may be conducted to determine the presence and effect of these conditions. The results of these tests could also help in determining the appropriate dosage of medication for an individual.
Asking friends and colleagues to recommend specialists with had experience in diagnosing ADHD is a good idea. Then check their professional credentials, including their academic degrees and the number of years they have worked. They should be able explain their diagnostic process and answer any questions that you might have. You can also find experts who are certified on the internet or in the phone book. Ask them about their methods of counseling and what type of therapy they would suggest for you.