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 could lose their jobs due in part to missed deadlines, or struggling with relationships because of impulsive behaviors or have financial issues because they forget bills or don't keep track of purchases.
Ask your doctor or mental health professional if they have experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults.
Symptoms
If you believe that you or your child have ADHD, the first step towards getting assistance is to find a medical professional who will evaluate your symptoms. The evaluation will consist of physical examinations as well as a review of your medical background. This will include mental health issues and addiction to drugs. It is important to be honest with your doctor about the signs and how they impact you. Many people with ADHD are reluctant to admit their problems because of shame or fear of being criticized. However, a thorough evaluation can provide your doctor with a clearer picture of your life.
Adults differ from children, so diagnosing ADHD is more difficult than identifying ADHD in children. The American Psychological Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) provides guidelines for diagnosis that are generally applicable for adults as well as children. The doctor may inquire about others in the patient's life, such as the spouse or cohabiting partner or parents, siblings or teachers and coaches, to describe how the person's behavior has affected them. This could reveal information that may not show up on a checklist or other tests.
In certain cases doctors may decide to investigate other conditions that could cause similar symptoms as ADHD. These could include mood disorders, other mental health conditions, and physical injuries or illnesses such as concussion or head trauma. They will also review the person's personal and work life to determine if the symptoms impact their daily routines.
The symptoms of adult ADHD can vary from mild to severe with moderate symptoms causing difficulty in social and work situations. The severe symptoms can hinder schoolwork or work performance, strain relationships and make it difficult to live an independent life.
Everyone can be affected by ADHD It is more prevalent in males and boys than in girls. There is no definitive reason behind this however it could be due to genetic and environmental factors. Certain foods and chemicals have been found to cause ADHD in certain people. It is also possible that certain people are predisposed due to brain structures that process stimuli.
Diagnosis
It is not always simple to diagnose ADHD. Many people are ashamed of their symptoms and are unable to talk to an expert in mental health or health care professional. This could make the evaluation process longer. It is crucial to speak honestly and openly about your symptoms and your previous experiences for an accurate evaluation.
During the examination, your doctor will employ standardized behavioral ratings scales and ADHD symptoms checklists to determine if you meet the criteria of a diagnosis. Your doctor will ask you about your childhood and family history and will also provide a detailed account of your home and work. Your doctor may order an examination of your body 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 can help identify structural or chemical issues in the brain which may be causing ADHD symptoms. A physical exam can also help identify other conditions that may cause similar symptoms, such as depression or addiction to substances.
It is possible that your doctor may suggest that you take part in a clinical trial of new treatments for adults ADHD. These trials are conducted at research centers like NIMH. However, you must be aware that these studies can have risks and may not lead to a treatment that is suitable 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 sleep, appetite, heart rate and blood pressure could all affect how effective stimulants are. The NIMH's Medication Interactions page can provide you with more information on how to discuss other medicines with your doctor.
Treatment
For adults diagnosed with ADHD treatments include medication, behavioral therapy and educational supports. It's often the combination of these that can help people achieve success at work, school and other activities. Referrals from primary care doctors or other health professionals are usually the first step towards treatment. Find out about the specialist's training and experience working with adults suffering from ADHD. If a professional refuses or is unable to provide you this information, it's recommended to seek out a different professional.
The diagnostic process for adult ADHD typically includes interviews with the patient's parents or other significant others, as well as teachers. I Am Psychiatry of diagnosis may include an assessment of family and medical history as well as an assessment of psychiatric issues. It is essential that the person being assessed for ADHD be honest, not holding back due to embarrassment, or fear of criticism. A person must display symptoms in two or more locations and exhibit significant impairment in their life before an ADHD diagnosis can be made.
Untreated ADHD can result in comorbid disorders such as anxiety and depression. This is especially true if those with ADHD have a history of chronic tension or frustration in their lives. The frustration can trigger self-fulfilling prophecy that causes low self-esteem, poor performance and feelings of frustration.
A diagnosis of ADHD could be a source of relief for certain adults. They begin to see their own situation and realize that it wasn't entirely their responsibility for not being able to build an occupation or make friends. For some adults, a diagnosis of ADHD can trigger feelings of regret and sadness over missed opportunities.
Adults who suffer from ADHD should always be prepared to discuss their issues with their supervisors and colleagues. It's also recommended to think about joining an ADHD support group, where people with the disorder can share their experiences and get help. Those with an ADHD diagnosis should look into their insurance coverage and request the names and phone numbers of specialists who specialize in treating adults with ADHD.
Support
A person diagnosed with ADHD is able to receive assistance to address the issues and symptoms that affect him or her in a variety settings such as at work, home, school or in relationships, and many more. Adult ADHD is typically treated with medication and psychotherapy. Some individuals also discover they require specialized coaching to provide structure and support for their daily life.
Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD are often relieved to learn that their issues aren't caused by poor parenting or laziness. A diagnosis could be the first step to receiving the assistance they require.
It is easier to diagnose ADHD in children, however it isn't impossible for adults to be affected by this disorder. Many adults live with undiagnosed ADHD.
The diagnosis of ADHD in adults requires a thorough clinical interview by a psychiatrist who has experience working with this condition. The interview might include questions about the person's family history, as well as the person's own emotional and social background. Some doctors use brain scans or computer programs to evaluate patients. The majority of experts agree that a thorough interview is the best method to determine if a patient has ADHD.
Depending on the nature and severity of the person's difficulties and co-existing disorders like anxiety, mood disorders and learning disabilities that often accompany ADHD, additional psychological and neuropsychological tests may be administered to determine the presence and effect of these conditions. These tests can also help determine the right dosage of medication for an individual.
Asking colleagues and friends to recommend specialists who have had experience in diagnosing ADHD is a great idea. You should then verify their qualifications, including academic degrees and the length of time they've been practicing. They should be able explain their diagnostic procedure and answer any queries that you might have. You can also look for professional who are qualified through the internet or on the phonebook. Ask about their methods of counseling and what kind of therapy they may recommend for you.