How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults
For many adults, the stress of being afflicted with ADHD symptoms is what drives them to seek an evaluation. They could lose their jobs because of missed deadlines, struggle in relationships due to their impulsive behavior, or face financial issues 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 education and experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults.
Symptoms
Find a doctor who will evaluate your symptoms if you think your child or you has ADHD. made a post will include an examination of your body and an analysis of your medical history, which includes mental health issues and drug use. It is important that you open up to your doctor about the signs and how they affect your life. Many people with ADHD conceal their symptoms due to shame or fear of being criticized. However an honest assessment can provide your doctor with a clearer picture of your life.
Since adulthood is different from childhood, identifying ADHD in adults can be more difficult than diagnosing children suffering from 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 applicable for both adults and children. In addition to interviewing the patient, the doctor may also ask other people in the person's life -- such as spouse or co-habitating partner siblings, parents or coaches and teachers -- to describe the person's behavior and how it has affected them. This could provide information that might not show up on a checklist or other tests.
In some instances, the doctor will want to examine other conditions that may cause similar symptoms as ADHD. These could include mood disorders, mental health conditions, and physical injuries or illnesses, like concussions or head trauma. He or she will also examine the individual's work and personal life to determine if the symptoms affect their daily routines.
The symptoms of adult ADHD can range from mild to severe, with moderate symptoms that cause difficulty in work and social situations. The severe symptoms can hinder the performance of your work or school or cause stress in relationships. It can also make it difficult to live an independent life.
ADHD can be an issue for anyone, but it is more common in males 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. Certain foods and chemicals have been shown to cause ADHD in certain individuals. It is also possible that some people are predisposed because of brain structures that are involved in processing stimuli.
Diagnosis
Being diagnosed with ADHD isn't always easy. Many people are insecure about their symptoms and find it difficult to open up to an expert in mental health or health care professional. This can prolong the process of evaluation. It is essential to speak candidly and honestly about your symptoms as well as your previous history, to ensure an accurate evaluation.
During the examination, your doctor will utilize 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 work and personal life. Your doctor may request an examination to rule out medical causes for your symptoms, such seizure or thyroid disorder.
A physical exam usually includes blood work and a head scan, which can help identify any structural or chemical issues in the brain that may be causing 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 might suggest taking part in clinical studies of new treatments for ADHD in adults. These trials are conducted by research centers like NIMH. However, it is important to be aware that these research studies may be risky and not result in a solution that is appropriate for you.
It is also essential to inform your health care provider about any other medications you are taking, as they may interact with stimulants that are used to treat adult ADHD. The effects of medications on appetite, sleep heart rate, appetite and blood pressure could 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 physician.
Treatment
For adults diagnosed with ADHD treatments include therapy, medication and educational support. It's typically an amalgamation of all three that can help people achieve success at school, work, and other activities. Referrals from primary care providers or other health professionals are usually the first step in treatment. Ask the doctor about their expertise and training in working with adults suffering from ADHD. If the professional is unwilling or in a position to provide this information, you should find a different one.
The diagnosis process for adults with ADHD typically includes interviews with the patient, parents or other significant people, and teachers. The diagnostic process could also include a medical and family history as well as a psychiatric assessment. It is crucial that the person being assessed for ADHD be honest, not holding back because of embarrassment or fear of being judged. A person must exhibit several symptoms in more than one place and cause significant impairment in their daily life before an ADHD diagnosis can be determined.
Many people with untreated ADHD have comorbid disorders, including anxiety and depression. This is especially true if those who suffer from ADHD have an underlying history of chronic stress or frustration in their lives. Discontent can result in a self-fulfilling prophecy of underachievement and can lead to feelings of low self-esteem and a lack of performance.
A diagnosis of ADHD can be a great relief for certain adults. They will begin to understand themselves better and realize it wasn't their fault that they could not make friends or build an occupation. For some adults, a diagnosis of ADHD can come with a sense of grief and regret for missed opportunities that were not addressed.
Adults who suffer from ADHD should always be prepared to discuss their concerns with their supervisors and colleagues. Consider joining an ADHD support group where those with the condition can share their experiences and get advice. Those who have an ADHD diagnosis should verify their insurance coverage and request the names and phone numbers of specialists that specialize in treating adults with ADHD.
Support
A person diagnosed with ADHD can get help to address the issues and symptoms that afflict him or her at the workplace, at home, in relationships, at school and in a variety of other settings. Adult ADHD is usually treated using psychotherapy and medications. Some people may find that they also need specialized coaching, which can provide structure and help in everyday life.
Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD are often relieved to learn that their issues aren't caused by poor parenting or laziness. For certain people, being diagnosed with ADHD is the first step towards receiving the help they require to live better lives.
Adults also have the potential to suffer from ADHD. It is more difficult to recognize in children. Many adults suffer from undiagnosed ADHD.
A psychiatrist who has experience with this type of disorder can diagnose ADHD in adults by conducting a clinical interview. The interview might include questions about the person's family history as well as the person's own emotional and social background. Some doctors utilize brain scans or computer programs to assess patients. But most 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 determining the severity of the disorder.
Based on the nature and severity of the individual's issues and any co-existing issues like mood disorders, anxiety, and learning disabilities that commonly are associated with ADHD additional psychological and neuropsychological tests may be conducted to determine the effect and severity of these conditions. These tests can help determine the proper dosage of medication for an individual.
It is also an excellent idea to ask colleagues and friends for suggestions to specialists who are experienced in diagnosing ADHD. Then check their professional qualifications, including academic degrees and the length of time they have been in practice. They should also be able explain how they diagnose and answer any questions you may have. You can also find experts who are certified through the internet or on the phonebook. Ask about their counseling approach and what kind of therapy they would suggest for you.