How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults
For many adults, the frustration of being afflicted with ADHD symptoms is what prompts them to seek an evaluation. They could lose their jobs due to missed deadlines, or struggling with relationships due to impulsive behavior or having financial trouble because they forget bills or don't keep track of purchases.
Ask your doctor or a mental health professional about their education and experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults.
Symptoms
Find a doctor who will assess your symptoms if suspect you or your child may have ADHD. Your assessment will consist of physical examination as well as a review of your medical history. This includes mental health issues as well as addiction to drugs. It is essential to be honest with your doctor about the signs and the way they affect you. Many people with ADHD are reluctant to admit their problems due to shame or fear of criticism. However an honest assessment can give your doctor a better picture of your life.
Adults differ from children, and therefore the diagnosis of ADHD can be more difficult than identifying ADHD in children. 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 adults and children. In addition to interviewing the patient, the doctor could also ask other people in the person's life -for example, spouse or co-habitating partners siblings, parents or coaches and teachers to comment on the behavior of the patient and how it has affected them. This could reveal important details that aren't revealed by tests or checklists.
In certain instances the doctor may need to examine other conditions which could cause similar symptoms as ADHD. These conditions can include mood disorders, mental health issues and physical injuries like concussions or head trauma. The doctor will look over the individual's work and personal life to determine if the symptoms are hindering their daily activities.
The signs of adult ADHD can range from mild to severe, with moderate symptoms causing some difficulties in social and work situations. In severe cases, symptoms can affect the performance of your work or school and can cause tension in relationships, making it difficult to live independently.
ADHD can affect any person, but it is more prevalent in boys and men than in girls. There is no definitive reason behind this, but it could be due to genetic and environmental factors. Certain chemicals and foods have been found to cause ADHD in certain people. It is also possible that certain individuals are predisposed to it due to brain structures that process stimuli.
Diagnosis
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD is not always easy. Many people are insecure about their symptoms and find it difficult to speak to an individual who is a mental health professional or health care provider. This could make the evaluation process even longer. To ensure that you receive a thorough evaluation, it is important to be honest and transparent about your symptoms and past history.
During the exam the doctor will use standard behavioral rating scales and ADHD symptom checklists to determine if you are able to meet the criteria to be diagnosed of ADHD. Your doctor will inquire about your childhood and family history, and a detailed description your home and work. Your doctor may order an examination to rule out medical causes for your symptoms, such seizure or thyroid disorder.
A physical exam includes blood tests and a brain scan. These tests can help to identify chemical or structural issues in the brain that could be causing ADHD symptoms. A physical can also help rule out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms, including addiction to drugs or depression.
Your doctor may recommend taking part in clinical studies of new treatments for ADHD in adults. These trials are conducted by research centers, such as NIMH. You should be aware that these studies may have potential risks and may not result in the best treatment for you.
It is also important to inform your doctor about any other medications you are taking, as they can interact with stimulants that are used to treat adult ADHD. Drugs that affect the appetite, sleep, heart rate and blood pressure could all affect how effective stimulants are. NIMH's Medication Interactions webpage can provide more information on how to discuss other medications with your physician.
Treatment
Adults suffering from ADHD are treated with treatment with medication, behavioral therapy and educational support. Often, it's a combination of these that helps people to achieve success in school, work and other pursuits. Treatment should start with an appointment with the primary care provider or other health professional. Find out about the professional's education and experience working with adults suffering from ADHD. If a professional is unwilling or not able to give this information, it's best to look for a different professional.
diagnosing adhd for adult ADHD typically includes interviews with the patient, parents or other significant others and teachers. The diagnostic process could also include a medical and family history and an assessment of the psychiatric condition. It is crucial that the person who is being assessed for ADHD be honest and not be hesitant due to embarrassment. Several symptoms must be present in a variety of settings and cause significant impairment in the life of the individual to allow an ADHD diagnosis to be established.
Many people with untreated ADHD have comorbid disorders such as depression and anxiety. This is especially the case for those with ADHD who have a history of chronic stress or a sense of frustration. The frustration can trigger an unfulfilled prophecy which results in lower self-esteem, low performance and feelings of frustration.
A diagnosis of ADHD can be a great relief for certain adults. They can begin to understand themselves better and realize that it wasn't their fault that they were unable to make friends or start a career. However, for some adults, a diagnosis of ADHD can be accompanied by a sense of grief and regret over missed opportunities that went unaddressed.
Adults with ADHD must always be ready to discuss their issues with their supervisors and colleagues. Consider joining an ADHD support group where those who suffer from the condition can discuss their experiences and get advice. Also, those who have an diagnosis of ADHD should check their health insurance coverage to determine what services are covered and to get names and numbers of specialists who specialize in treating adults suffering from ADHD.
Support
A person diagnosed with ADHD can receive help for the symptoms and problems that affect them in a variety settings such as at home, work at school or in relationships, and many more. Adult ADHD is usually treated with psychotherapy and medication. Some people also require specialized coaching to provide structure and support for their daily life.
Adults diagnosed with ADHD are often relieved to learn that their problems aren't due to poor parenting or laziness. A diagnosis could be the first step in receiving the help they require.
It is much easier to identify ADHD in children, however it isn't difficult for adults to have this disorder. Many adults live with undiagnosed ADHD.
A psychiatrist with experience in this type of disorder can identify ADHD in adults by conducting a diagnostic interview. The interview may include questions regarding the patient's family history, as well as his or her own social and emotional history. 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 diagnose ADHD.
Based on the nature of the difficulties a person is experiencing, additional psychological or neuropsychological tests may be required to assess the presence and effects of co-existing conditions, like learning disabilities, anxiety and mood disorders, which typically accompany ADHD. The results of these tests could be useful in determining the proper dosage of medications for a particular person.
It is also recommended to ask colleagues and friends for recommendations to professionals who are skilled in diagnosing ADHD. Then check their professional credentials, including academic degrees and the length of time they've been practicing. They should be able to explain their diagnosis procedure and answer any questions that you might have. You can also search for qualified professionals through the internet or on the phonebook. Find out about their methods of counseling and what type of therapy they might suggest for you.