How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults
For many adults, the annoyance of living with ADHD symptoms is what leads people to seek an evaluation. They may be losing their jobs due in part to missed deadlines, struggling in relationships due to their impulsive behavior or are having financial difficulties because they forget bills or lose track of purchases.
Ask your doctor or mental health professional if they have experience in diagnosing ADHD among adults.
Symptoms
Find a doctor to assess your symptoms if suspect that you or your child may have ADHD. The assessment will include physical examination as well as an analysis of your medical history, which includes mental health issues and drug use. It is important to be open with your doctor about your symptoms and how they impact you. Many people with ADHD are reluctant to talk about their issues because of shame or fear of criticism, but a thorough evaluation will give the doctor an accurate picture of your lifestyle and difficulties.
Adults are different from children, which is why the diagnosis of ADHD can be more challenging than identifying ADHD in children. The American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) offers guidelines for diagnosis that are generally valid for adults as well as children. In addition to interviewing the patient, the doctor might also ask others in the life of the patient- such as spouse or co-habitating partner, parents, siblings or coaches and teachers -- to describe the behavior of the patient and how it has affected them. This can reveal crucial details that aren't discovered by tests or checklists.
In some cases, the doctor will want to look into other conditions that could cause similar symptoms as ADHD. These conditions could include mental health issues and physical illnesses or injuries such as concussions or head trauma. He or she will also review the person's personal and professional life to determine if their symptoms affect 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. In severe cases, symptoms can affect schoolwork or work performance and can cause tension in relationships, making it difficult to live a life of independence.
ADHD can affect anyone, but it is more common in males and boys than in girls. It is unclear why this difference exists, but there are probably genetic and environmental factors in play. Certain foods and chemicals have been proven 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
It's not always easy to recognize ADHD. Many people are insecure about their symptoms and find it difficult to open up to an individual who is a mental health professional or health care professional. This can delay the evaluation process. To ensure that you receive a thorough evaluation it is crucial to be honest and transparent about your health issues as well as your past medical history.
During the examination, your doctor will use standardized behavioral ratings scales and ADHD symptoms checklists to determine if you fulfill the criteria for a diagnosis. Your doctor will also inquire for your family and childhood history along with an extensive description of your work and personal life. Your doctor may also order an exam to determine if there is a medical cause for your symptoms, for example, seizures or thyroid issues.
A physical exam involves blood tests and brain scans. These tests can help to identify chemical or structural issues in the brain that could be contributing to ADHD symptoms. A physical can also help rule out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms, such as addiction or depression.
Your doctor might 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, you must be aware that these research studies may be risky and not result in a solution that is appropriate for you.
Tell your doctor about any other medications you take, as these can interact with stimulants used to treat ADHD in adults. Drugs that affect the appetite, sleep heart rate, appetite and blood pressure could all affect how effective stimulants are. how do i get an adhd diagnosis provides more information on how to discuss other medications with your doctor.
Treatment
For adults diagnosed with ADHD, treatment options include therapy, medication and educational support. It's often an amalgamation of the three that can help people achieve success in school, work, and other activities. Treatment should begin with the referral of the primary care provider or other health care professional. Ask the doctor about their knowledge and experience working with adults who have ADHD. If a professional refuses or is unable to provide you this information, 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. It could also involve a complete medical and family history as well as a psychotherapy evaluation. It is crucial that the person being evaluated for ADHD be honest and not hold back because of embarrassment. A person must display symptoms in more than one place and exhibit an impairment that is significant in their daily lives before an ADHD diagnosis can be made.
Untreated ADHD can cause comorbid disorders such as anxiety and depression. This is particularly the case for those who suffer from ADHD who suffer from chronic stress or a sense of frustration. Frustration can lead to an unfulfilling prophecy about underachievement and result in feelings of self-doubt and poor performance.
For certain adults, being diagnosed of ADHD can be a relief. They may begin to understand their own situation and realize that it wasn't entirely their fault they couldn't establish a career or make friends. For some adults, a diagnosis of ADHD can be accompanied by a sense of grief and regret over missed opportunities that were left unexplored.
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 guidance. People 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 is able to seek help for the symptoms and issues that affect them at work, at home at school, in relationships and in many other settings. Adult ADHD is usually treated with psychotherapy and medication. Some people also find they require special coaching to provide structure and support for their daily life.
Adults diagnosed with ADHD are often relieved to learn that their problems aren't due to poor parenting or laziness. For some, a diagnosis is the first step towards receiving the help they require to live more fulfilled lives.
Adults may also be affected by ADHD. It is more difficult to recognize in children. Many adults suffer from undiagnosed ADHD.
Diagnosing ADHD in adults requires a thorough medical examination by a psychiatrist who has worked with this condition for a long time. The interviewer can inquire about the person's personal and emotional history, as also his or her family history. Some doctors use computer programs or brain scans to evaluate a patient. Most experts agree that a thorough interview is the best method to determine if a patient has ADHD.
Depending on the nature of the difficulties a person is experiencing depending on the nature of the problem, additional neuropsychological or psychological tests can be conducted to assess the presence and effects of co-existing disorders, like anxiety, learning disabilities, and mood disorders that often accompany ADHD. These tests can help determine the proper dosage of medication for an individual.
It is also a good idea to ask your friends and colleagues for recommendations to professionals who are experienced in diagnosing ADHD. Check their qualifications, including academic degrees and the length of time they've been practicing. They should also be able to explain the process of diagnosis and answer any questions you may have. You can also look for qualified professionals online or in the phonebook. Ask them about their approach to counseling and what kind of therapy they may suggest for you.