How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults
For many adults, the stress of living with ADHD symptoms is what drives people to seek an evaluation. They could lose their jobs because of delayed deadlines, or struggle in relationships due to impulsive behavior, or face financial issues due to the fact that they forget bills and don't keep track of purchases.
Ask your doctor or a mental health professional about their experience and training in diagnosing ADHD in adults.
Signs and symptoms
Find a doctor to evaluate your symptoms if you suspect that you or your child has ADHD. The assessment will include physical examination as well as an examination of your medical history, including mental health issues and substance use. It is crucial to be honest with your doctor about the symptoms and how they affect you. Many people suffering from ADHD are reluctant to talk about their issues because of fear of shame or criticism However, a thorough evaluation will give your doctor a more complete picture of your life and your issues.
Adults are different from children, which is why the diagnosis of ADHD can be more difficult than diagnosing ADHD in children. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), Fifth Edition published by the American Psychiatric Association provides guidelines for diagnosis that are applicable for both adults and children. In addition to examining the patient, the doctor might also ask others in the person's life -for example, spouse or co-habitating partners, parents, siblings or teachers and coaches to comment on the person's behavior and how it has affected them. This could reveal information that might not show up on checklists or other tests.
In some instances the doctor may want to investigate other conditions that can cause similar symptoms to ADHD. These include mood disorders, mental health issues, and physical illnesses or injuries, such as concussion or head trauma. They will also examine the individual's work and personal life to determine if their symptoms affect their daily routines.
The symptoms of adult ADHD can range from mild to severe with moderate symptoms that cause difficulties in social and work situations. Severe symptoms may interfere with schoolwork or work performance, strain relationships and make it difficult to live independently.
Anyone can suffer from ADHD, but it is more prevalent in men and boys than girls. There is no definitive reason behind this, but it could be due to genetic or environmental factors. Research has shown that certain chemicals and foods can trigger ADHD in certain people, and it's possible that some individuals are more likely to develop the condition because specific brain structures that are involved in the processing of stimuli.
Diagnosis
It's not always easy to diagnose ADHD. Many people are embarrassed by their symptoms and are unable to talk to an individual who is a mental health professional or health care provider. This could make the evaluation process longer. To ensure you get a thorough evaluation, it is important to be honest and open about your symptoms as well as your past medical circumstances.
During the examination, your doctor may use standardized behavioral rating scales and ADHD symptom checklists to determine if you are able to meet the criteria for a diagnosis of ADHD. Your doctor will inquire about your family history and childhood, and a detailed description your work and home. Your doctor could also recommend a physical exam to rule out medical causes of your symptoms, for example, thyroid problems or seizure disorders.
visit my web page includes blood work and a head scan, which can reveal any structural or chemical issues in the brain that may be causing your ADHD symptoms. A physical exam may also help rule other conditions out that can cause similar symptoms, like depression or substance abuse.
Your doctor may recommend you participate in a clinical studies of new treatments for ADHD in adults. These trials are conducted by research centers like NIMH. Be aware, however, that these studies may have risks and not lead to the appropriate treatment for you.
Discuss with your doctor any other medications you take, as these could interact with stimulants that are used to treat ADHD in adults. The effectiveness of stimulants can be affected by medications that affect appetite, sleep and blood pressure. The NIMH's Medication Interactions page will provide you with more information on how to discuss other medications with your doctor.
Treatment
For adults who are diagnosed with ADHD treatments include behavioral therapy, medication and educational supports. Most often, it's the combination of these that help people find success in school, work and other areas. Treatment should start with the referral of the primary care provider or other health professional. Ask about the professional's training and experience in working with adults with ADHD. If a professional is unwilling or unable to give this information, you should seek another professional.
The process of diagnosing adult ADHD usually includes interviews with parents, teachers and other people who are significant to the child. It could also involve the complete medical and family history and psychiatric evaluation. It is crucial that the person being assessed for ADHD be honest and not be hesitant because of embarrassment. Multiple symptoms must be evident in more than one setting and cause significant impairment in the life of the individual to allow an ADHD diagnosis to be established.
Many people with untreated ADHD develop comorbid disorders that include depression and anxiety. This is especially true if those with ADHD have an ongoing history of anxiety or discontent in their lives. The frustration can trigger self-fulfilling prophecy that can result in low self-esteem, poor performance and feelings of frustration.
A diagnosis of ADHD can be a great relief for certain adults. They can start to understand their own situation and realize that it wasn't entirely their fault that they weren't able to establish a career or meet new friends. For some adults, the diagnoses of ADHD can trigger feelings of regret and sadness over missed opportunities.
Adults who suffer from ADHD must be always ready to discuss their concerns with co-workers and supervisors. Consider joining an ADHD support group where people who suffer from the condition can share their experiences and receive guidance. People who have an ADHD diagnosis should look into their insurance coverage and get the names and phone numbers of specialists that specialize in treating adults suffering from ADHD.
Support
A person diagnosed with ADHD can receive help for the symptoms and issues that affect them in a variety settings that include at home, work, school, in relationships, and many other. Adult ADHD is typically treated with medication and psychotherapy. Some individuals also discover they require special coaching to provide structure and support for their daily lives.
Adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD often are relieved to know that their troubles weren't just typical or caused by poor parenting or laziness. For some, a diagnosis is the first step to getting the help they need to live more fulfilled lives.
Adults can also suffer from ADHD. It is more difficult to identify in children. Many adults suffer from undiagnosed ADHD.
A psychiatrist who has experience with this type of disorder can identify ADHD in adults by conducting a clinical interview. The interview could include questions about the person's family history as well as his or her own emotional and social history. Some doctors use brain scans or computer programs to assess patients. Most experts agree that an extensive interview is the best method to determine if a patient has ADHD.
Depending on the severity and nature of the individual's issues and the co-existing conditions like mood disorders, anxiety and learning disabilities that often accompany ADHD, additional neuropsychological and psychological tests could be conducted to determine the effect and severity of these conditions. These tests can help determine the right dosage of medication for a person.
It's also an excellent idea to ask your friends and colleagues for recommendations to specialists who are skilled in diagnosing ADHD. You should then verify their credentials, including their academic degrees and the length of time they have been in practice. They should also be able to explain how their diagnosis process works and answer any questions you may have. You can also search for experts who are certified through the internet or on the phonebook. Ask about their methods of counseling and what type of therapy they might suggest for you.