How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults
For many adults, the stress of being afflicted with ADHD symptoms is what prompts them to seek an assessment. They may lose their jobs because of missed deadlines, struggle in relationships due to impulsive behavior, or face financial issues 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 think your child or you has ADHD. The evaluation will consist of an examination of your body and an examination of your medical history, which includes mental health issues as well as substance use. It is crucial to be open with your doctor about your symptoms and how they impact your life. Many people with ADHD shy away from their problems because of fear or shame criticism However, a thorough evaluation will give the doctor an accurate picture of your lifestyle and problems.
Since adulthood is different from childhood, diagnosing ADHD in adults is 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 which are valid for both children and adults. The doctor might request others who are in the patient's life such as the spouse or cohabiting partner or siblings, parents teachers, coaches, and other teachers, to describe how the patient's behavior has affected them. This can reveal information that might not show up on tests or checklists.
In some instances the doctor may want to examine other conditions that can cause similar symptoms to ADHD. These conditions include mood disorders, mental health conditions and physical illnesses or injuries like 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 routines.
The symptoms of adult ADHD can vary from mild to severe with moderate symptoms causing difficulty in social and work situations. In severe cases, symptoms can affect schoolwork or work performance, strain relationships and make it difficult to live a life of independence.
ADHD can be an issue for everyone, but it's more common in males and boys than in girls. There is no definitive reason behind this however it could be due to genetic or environmental factors. Certain foods and chemicals have been proven to cause ADHD in certain individuals. It is also possible that certain people are predisposed because of brain structures that process stimuli.
Diagnosis
Finding a diagnosis of ADHD is not always easy. Many people are insecure about their symptoms and are unable to open up to an expert in mental health or health care professional. This can delay the process of evaluation. It is essential to speak openly and honestly about your symptoms, as well as your past background to ensure an accurate assessment.
During the exam, your doctor may use the standardized behavioral rating scales as well as ADHD symptom checklists to determine if you are able to meet the criteria for a diagnosis of ADHD. Your doctor will ask you about your family history and childhood as well as a thorough description of your work and home. Your doctor may order a physical examination to rule out medical reasons for your symptoms, such seizures or a thyroid disorder.
A physical exam involves blood tests and a brain scan. These tests can help to identify structural or chemical issues in the brain that could be contributing to ADHD symptoms. A physical exam can help rule other conditions out that could cause similar symptoms, such as addiction or depression.
Your doctor may suggest taking part in a clinical study of new treatments for ADHD in adults. These trials are conducted at research centers such as NIMH. However, you should be aware that these trials could be risky and not result in a solution that is suitable for you.
Inform 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 appetite, sleep, heart rate and blood pressure may all have an effect on the effectiveness of stimulants. The NIMH's Medication Interactions page will provide more details about the best way to discuss other medications with your doctor.
Treatment
Adults with ADHD are treated with treatment with medication, behavioral therapy and education support. It's often the combination of these that help people achieve success at work, school and other areas. Referrals from primary care providers or other health professionals are usually the first step towards treatment. Ask about the professional's training and experience working with adults suffering from ADHD. If a professional refuses or is not able to provide you the information you need, it's best to find another professional.
The diagnostic process for adult ADHD typically involves interviews with the patient, parents or other significant people, and teachers. It could also include a complete medical and family history as well as a psychiatric evaluation. It's important that the person being evaluated for ADHD be honest and not evading the test because of embarrassment or fear of criticism. Several symptoms must be present in a variety of settings and must cause significant impairment in the person's life to allow an ADHD diagnosis to be given.
Untreated ADHD can cause the development of comorbid disorders, such as anxiety and depression. This is especially true for those with ADHD who have a history of chronic anxiety or frustration. It can lead to self-fulfilling prophecy that causes lower self-esteem, low performance and feelings of frustration.
A diagnosis of ADHD can be a great relief for some adults. They may begin to understand their own situation and realize that it wasn't their own responsibility for not being able to build an occupation or make friends. For adhd uk diagnosis , a diagnosis of ADHD can be accompanied by feelings of sadness and regret for missed opportunities that were left unexplored.
Adults suffering from ADHD should always be prepared to discuss their issues with supervisors and coworkers. Consider joining an ADHD support group where people who suffer from the condition can discuss their experiences and get advice. Those who have an ADHD diagnosis should verify their insurance coverage and obtain the names and phone numbers of specialists that specialize in treating adults with ADHD.
Support
A person diagnosed as ADHD is able to receive assistance for the symptoms and issues that affect them in a variety settings, including at home, work or at school, in relationships, and many others. Treatments for adults with ADHD typically include psychotherapy and medications. Some people find that they require specialized coaching, which can help them with structure and support in everyday life.
Adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD often feel relieved to discover that their issues aren't normal, or due to lazy parenting or a lack of discipline. For some, a diagnosis is the first step towards getting the help they need to live more fulfilled lives.
Adults may also be affected by ADHD. It is more difficult to recognize in children. In fact, many adults struggle all their lives with unrecognized ADHD.
A psychiatrist with experience in this type of disorder can identify ADHD in adults by conducting a diagnostic interview. The interviewer can inquire about the person's social and emotional history, as well as the family history of the person. Some doctors use brain scans or computer programs to assess patients. Most experts agree that a thorough interview is the best way to determine if a patient has ADHD.
Depending on the nature and severity of the person's difficulties and any co-existing issues such as mood disorders, anxiety 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. These tests can aid in determining the appropriate dosage of medication for an individual.
Asking colleagues and friends to recommend specialists who have had experience in diagnosing ADHD is also a great idea. Then check their professional credentials, including academic degrees and the length of time they have worked. They should be able explain their diagnostic process and answer any questions you may have. You can also search for professional who are qualified on the internet or in the phonebook. Ask them about their method of therapy and what they would suggest for you.