How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults
Many adults seek out an assessment because they are annoyed by the symptoms of ADHD. They may lose their jobs due to late deadlines, have difficulty in relationships due to impulsive behaviors, or face financial difficulties because they forget to pay bills and lose track of purchases.
Ask your doctor or mental health professional if they have any experience in diagnosing ADHD among adults.
Symptoms
If you suspect that you or your child suffer from ADHD, the first step in getting assistance is to find a health care provider who will assess your symptoms. Your evaluation will include both physical examination as well as a review of your medical history. This will include mental health issues as well as addiction to drugs. It is crucial that you open up to your doctor about the signs and how they affect you. Many people suffering from ADHD are reluctant to admit their problems due to shame or fear of criticism. However an honest assessment can provide your doctor with a more accurate picture of your daily life.
Since adulthood is different from childhood, diagnosing 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 children and adults. In addition to examining the patient, the doctor could also ask others in the person's life -for example, spouse or co-habitating partners parents, siblings or teachers and coaches to provide a description of the behavior of the patient and how it has affected them. This could reveal information that may not be found on tests or checklists.
In some cases the doctor may decide to look into other conditions that could cause similar symptoms as ADHD. These could include mood disorders, mental health conditions, and physical illnesses or injuries, like concussions or head trauma. They will also review the individual's work and personal life to determine if the symptoms are affecting their daily activities.
The signs of adult ADHD vary from mild to moderate and moderate symptoms causing difficulties in work and social situations. A severe condition can affect work or school performance and can cause tension in relationships. They also make it difficult to live a life of independence.
ADHD can be an issue for anyone, but it is more frequent in men and boys than in girls. It is not clear why this is the case however, it is likely that there are genetic and environmental factors in play. Certain chemicals and foods have been found to trigger ADHD in certain people. It is also possible that certain people are predisposed due to brain structures that are involved in processing stimuli.
Diagnosis
It's not always easy to recognize ADHD. Many people are embarrassed by their symptoms and find it difficult to speak to an individual who is a mental health professional or health care professional. This can make the evaluation process longer. To ensure a thorough assessment it is essential to be honest and open about your symptoms as well as your past medical history.
During the evaluation your doctor may employ standard behavioral rating scales and ADHD symptom checklists to determine if you meet the criteria for a diagnosis of ADHD. Your doctor will inquire about your childhood and family history 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 seizure or thyroid disorder.
A physical exam typically involves blood tests and a head scan which can reveal any chemical or structural issues in the brain that may be contributing to your ADHD symptoms. A physical exam can also identify other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, including addiction or depression.
Your doctor might suggest that you take part in an investigation into the effectiveness of new treatments for ADHD in adults. These trials are conducted by research centers, such as NIMH. However, you should be aware that these research studies may be risky and not result in a treatment that is suitable for you.
It is also essential to tell your doctor any other medications you are taking, as they can interact with stimulants that are used to treat adults with ADHD. The effectiveness of stimulants can be affected by medications that affect appetite, sleep and blood pressure. The NIMH's Medication Interactions page can provide more details about the best way to discuss other medications with your doctor.
Treatment
For adults who are diagnosed with ADHD, treatment options include therapy, medication and educational assistance. It's often a combination of these that can help people find success in school, work and other areas. Referrals from primary care providers or other health professionals are often the first step in treatment. Find out about the specialist's expertise and training in working with adults with ADHD. If a professional refuses or is unable to give you this information, it's best to find another professional.
The diagnostic process for adult ADHD typically involves interviews with the patient, parents or other significant others, as well as teachers. The diagnostic process may also include an assessment of family and medical history and an assessment of psychiatric issues. It is important that the person being assessed for ADHD be honest and not hide due to embarrassment. Multiple symptoms must be evident in two or more settings and must cause significant impairment in the individual's life for an ADHD diagnosis to be given.
Many adults suffering from untreated ADHD develop comorbid disorders that include depression and anxiety. This is particularly relevant for people who suffer from ADHD who suffer from chronic anxiety or frustration. Discontent can result in an unfulfilling prophecy about underachievement and can lead to feelings of low self-esteem and a lack of performance.
For certain adults, being diagnosed of ADHD can be a great relief. They will begin to understand themselves better and realize that it wasn't because of them that they could not make friends or build a career. For certain adults, a diagnosis of ADHD can be accompanied by feelings of sadness and regret over lost opportunities that were not addressed.
Adults who suffer from ADHD must be always ready to talk about their problems with co-workers and supervisors. It's also a good idea to consider joining an ADHD support group, where those suffering from the disorder can discuss their experiences and receive assistance. People with an ADHD diagnosis should verify their insurance coverage and get the names and phone numbers of specialists who specialize in treating adults with ADHD.
Support
A person diagnosed with ADHD can seek help for the symptoms and problems that affect them in a variety settings that include at work, home at school as well as in relationships and many others. Treatments for adults with ADHD usually include psychotherapy and medications. Some people discover that they also require special coaching, which can provide structure and support in everyday life.
Adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD often feel relieved to learn that their troubles weren't just normal or because of bad parenting or lazyness. A diagnosis can be the first step to receiving the help they require.
It is easier to diagnose ADHD in children, but it is not impossible for adults to have this disorder. Many adults live with undiagnosed ADHD.
A psychiatrist who has expertise in this kind of condition can diagnose ADHD in adults through a clinical interview. The interview might include questions about the person's family history, as well as their own personal emotional and social background. Certain doctors employ brain scans or computer programs to evaluate patients. But most e
