How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults
For many adults, the frustration of living with ADHD symptoms is what drives people to seek an evaluation. They could be losing their jobs due to missing deadlines, struggling in relationships due to impulsive behavior or having financial trouble because they forget bills or lose track of purchases.
Ask your doctor or mental health professional if they have training in diagnosing ADHD in adults.
Signs and symptoms
If you believe that you or your child suffer from ADHD The first step towards getting assistance is to locate a medical professional who will assess your symptoms. The assessment will include a physical examination and a review of your medical history, including mental health issues and substance use. It is important that you open up to your doctor about the symptoms and how they affect your life. Many people suffering from ADHD are reluctant to admit their problems out of shame or for fear of being judged. However an extensive evaluation will provide your doctor with a more accurate picture of your daily life.
Since adulthood is different from childhood, identifying ADHD in adults can be more difficult than diagnosing children with the disorder. The American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) offers guidelines for diagnosing ADHD that are generally valid for adults as well as children. In addition to examining the patient, the doctor may also ask other people who are in the patient's lifefor example, spouse or co-habitating partner parents, siblings or coaches and teachers to comment on the behavior of the patient and how it has affected them. This may reveal information that may not be included on tests or checklists.
In certain cases doctors may decide to look into other conditions that could cause similar symptoms as ADHD. These include mood disorders, other mental health conditions, and physical injuries or illnesses like head trauma. They will also review the person's personal and work 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 difficulties in social and work situations. Severe symptoms may interfere with the performance of your work or school or cause stress in relationships. It can also make it difficult to live independently.
check this site out can have ADHD However, it is more prevalent in males and boys than in girls. It is unclear the reason for this, but there are probably environmental and genetic factors at play. Certain chemicals and foods have been shown to cause ADHD in a few people. It is also possible that certain individuals are predisposed to it due to brain structures involved in processing stimuli.
Diagnosis
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD isn't always easy. Many people are ashamed of their symptoms and find it difficult to open up to an expert in mental health or health care professional. This can delay the process of evaluation. To ensure you get a thorough evaluation it is crucial to be honest and open about your symptoms and past circumstances.
During the examination, your doctor will use the standardized behavioral ratings scales as well as ADHD symptoms checklists to determine if you meet the criteria of a diagnosis. Your doctor may also ask for your family history and childhood information and an extensive description of your work and home life. Your doctor might also request an examination to rule out medical causes of your symptoms, such as thyroid problems or seizure disorders.
A physical exam typically includes blood tests and a head scan, which can help identify any chemical or structural issues in the brain that could be contributing to your ADHD symptoms. A physical exam may also help rule other conditions out that could cause similar symptoms, like addiction or depression.
Your doctor may suggest you participate in a a clinical study of new treatments for ADHD in adults. These trials are conducted by research centers like NIMH. However, you should be aware that these research studies can have risks and may not result in a solution that is right for you.
Tell your doctor about any other medications that you take, as they could interact with stimulants that are used to treat ADHD in adults. The effects of medications on the appetite, sleep, heart rate and blood pressure may affect the effectiveness of stimulants. The NIMH's Medication Interactions page can provide you with more information on how to discuss other medications with your physician.
Treatment
Adults with ADHD can be treated with treatment with medication, behavioral therapy and education support. Most often, it's a combination of these that helps people achieve success at work, school and other areas. Referrals from primary healthcare providers or other health professionals are often the first step towards treatment. Ask the doctor about their training and experience working with adults with ADHD. If a professional refuses to or is unable to provide you this information, it's best to look for a different one.
The diagnostic process of adult ADHD usually includes interviews with parents, teachers and other people who are significant to the child. The diagnostic process could also include an examination of the family and medical history as well as an assessment of psychiatric issues. It is crucial that the person who is being assessed for ADHD be honest and not be hesitant because of embarrassment. A person has to show symptoms in more than one place and exhibit an impairment that is significant in their daily lives before an ADHD diagnosis can be determined.
Untreated ADHD can cause the development of comorbid disorders, such as depression and anxiety. This is particularly true for those who suffer from ADHD who have a history of chronic anxiety or frustration. Frustration can lead to an unfulfilling prophecy about underachievement and can lead to feelings of low self-esteem and a poor performance.
A diagnosis of ADHD may be a relief for certain adults. They begin to see themselves and realize it wasn't their own fault that they weren't able to establish an occupation or make friends. For some adults, the diagnosis of ADHD can trigger feelings of regret and sadness over missed opportunities.
Adults who suffer from ADHD must always be prepared to discuss their issues openly with co-workers, supervisors and teachers. Consider joining an ADHD support group where people who suffer from the condition can discuss their experiences and receive advice. Additionally, those with an diagnosis of ADHD should look into their health insurance coverage to find out what services are covered and to get names and numbers of professionals who specialize in treating adults suffering from ADHD.
Support
A person who is diagnosed with ADHD can receive help to address the issues and symptoms that affect him or her in a variety of settings such as at home, work at school or in relationships, and many more. Adult ADHD is usually treated with psychotherapy and medications. Some people discover that they also require special coaching, which can help them with structure and support in daily life.
Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD are often relieved to know their problems weren't due to bad parenting or lazyness. A diagnosis could be the first step in receiving the assistance they require.
Adults also have the potential to suffer from ADHD. It is more difficult to recognize in children. In fact, many adults have struggled throughout their lives with undiagnosed ADHD.
The diagnosis of ADHD in adults requires a thorough medical examination by a psychiatrist who has experience working with this condition. The interviewer may ask about the patient's social and emotional history, as well as his or her family history. Certain doctors employ brain scans or computer programs to evaluate a patient. Most experts agree that a thorough assessment is the best way to determine if a patient has ADHD.
Based on the nature of the difficulties a person is experiencing and the severity of their issues, additional psycho- or neuropsychological tests may be required to assess the presence and effects of co-existing conditions, like anxiety, learning disabilities and mood disorders that often occur in conjunction with ADHD. The results of these tests could also be helpful in determining the appropriate dosage of medication for an individual.
Asking colleagues and friends to recommend specialists who have experience diagnosing ADHD is a good idea. Examine their credentials, including their academic degrees and the length of time they've been in practice. They should be able to explain their diagnosis process and answer any questions you may have. You can also look for professional who are certified on the internet or through the phone book. Ask them about their approach to counseling and what type of therapy they would recommend for you.