How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults
Many adults seek out an assessment because they are frustrated by the symptoms of ADHD. They may lose their jobs due to late deadlines, have difficulty with relationships due to impulsive behavior, or face financial issues because they forget bills and forget to track purchases.
Ask your doctor or an expert in mental health about their education and experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults.
Signs and symptoms
Find a doctor to evaluate your symptoms if you suspect you or your child may have ADHD. Your evaluation will include both physical examinations and a review your medical background. This includes mental health issues and alcohol abuse. It is crucial to be open with your doctor about your symptoms and how they impact you. Many people suffering from ADHD hide the problem out of shame or for fear of being criticized. However an extensive evaluation will provide your doctor with a more accurate picture of your life.
Adults differ from children, which is why diagnosing ADHD is 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 appropriate for both adults and children. The doctor can inquire about other people who are in the patient's life such as a spouse or cohabitating partner or siblings, parents teachers, coaches, and other teachers, to describe how the person's behavior has affected them. This can reveal crucial information that may not be revealed by tests or checklists.
In some cases, the doctor will want to examine other conditions that could cause similar symptoms as ADHD. These conditions can include mental health conditions and physical illnesses or injuries such as concussions or head trauma. They will also review the individual's work and personal life to determine if their symptoms are affecting their daily activities.
The symptoms of adult ADHD can vary from mild to severe, with moderate symptoms causing some difficulty in work and social situations. The severe symptoms can hinder schoolwork or work performance or cause stress in relationships. It can also make it difficult to live an independent life.
Anyone can suffer from ADHD It is more common in men and boys than girls. It is not clear why this difference exists, but there are probably genetic and environmental factors at play. Certain chemicals and foods have been proven to trigger ADHD in certain individuals. It is also possible that certain people are predisposed due to brain structures that process stimuli.
Diagnosis
Being diagnosed with ADHD is not always easy. Many sufferers are embarrassed by their symptoms and may have difficulty opening up to a healthcare doctor or a mental health specialist. This can delay the process of evaluation. It is important to talk openly and honestly about your symptoms and your past background for a thorough evaluation.
During the evaluation your doctor may employ standard behavioral rating scales and ADHD symptom checklists to determine whether you meet the criteria to be diagnosed of ADHD. Your doctor will also inquire for your family and childhood history along with an extensive description of your work and home life. Your doctor might also request a physical exam to determine the cause of your symptoms, for example, seizures or thyroid issues.
A physical exam includes blood tests and an examination of the brain. These tests can help determine structural or chemical issues in the brain which could be contributing to ADHD symptoms. A physical exam can also identify other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, including addiction or depression.
Your doctor may recommend you participate in a clinical studies of new treatments for ADHD in adults. These trials are conducted by research centers, such as NIMH. However, you must be aware that these research studies can have risks and may not lead to a treatment that is suitable for you.
Tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking, as they can interact with stimulants used to treat ADHD in adults. Drugs that affect sleep, appetite heart rate, sleep and blood pressure may affect the effectiveness of stimulants. NIMH's Medication Interactions page can provide more information on how to discuss other medications with your physician.
Treatment
For adults who are diagnosed with ADHD treatments include therapy, medication and educational assistance. Most often, it's the combination of these that helps people achieve success at school, work and other pursuits. Referrals from primary care doctors or other health professionals are usually the first step in treatment. Find out about the professional's education and experience in working with adults suffering from ADHD. If the professional is unwilling or is unable to give you the information you need, it's best to look for a different one.
The process of diagnosing adult ADHD typically involves interviews with the patient's parents or other significant people, and teachers. The process of diagnosis may include an assessment of family and medical history and an assessment of psychiatric issues. It is essential that the person being evaluated for ADHD be honest and not evading the test due to embarrassment or fear of criticism. There must be a variety of symptoms in more than one setting and have a significant impact in the individual's life to allow an ADHD diagnosis to be given.
Untreated ADHD can cause comorbid disorders such as depression and anxiety. This is especially true for those with ADHD who have a history chronic anxiety or frustration. It can lead to a self fulfilling prophecy that causes low self-esteem, poor performance and feelings of frustration.
For those who are adults, the diagnosis of ADHD can be a great relief. They may begin to see themselves better and realize that it wasn't their fault that they couldn't make friends or establish a career. For some adults, the diagnoses of ADHD can cause regret and sadness over missed opportunities.
visit the next post with ADHD should always be prepared to discuss their issues with supervisors and coworkers. Consider joining an ADHD support group where those who suffer from the condition can discuss their experiences and receive guidance. Those with an ADHD diagnosis should check their insurance coverage and request the names and phone numbers of specialists who specialize in treating adults suffering from ADHD.
Support
A person diagnosed with ADHD can seek treatment for the symptoms and issues 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 individuals also discover they require specialized coaching to provide structure and support for their daily lives.
Adults diagnosed with ADHD are often relieved to know that their problems aren't due to poor parenting or laziness. A diagnosis could be the first step towards receiving the help they require.
It is easier to diagnose ADHD in children, however it is not impossible for adults to be affected by this disorder. Many adults are suffering from undiagnosed ADHD.
Diagnosing ADHD in adults requires a thorough and thorough interview by a psychiatrist who has worked with this condition for a long time. The interview might include questions about the individual's family history and also their own personal emotional and social background. Some doctors use brain scans or computer programs to evaluate a patient. The majority of experts agree that a thorough interview is the best way to determine the presence of ADHD.
Based on the nature of the issues a person faces depending on the nature of the problem, additional neuropsychological or psychological testing may be used to determine the effects and presence of co-existing disorders, like anxiety, learning disabilities, and mood disorders that often accompany ADHD. These tests can also help determine the right dosage of medication for a person.
It's also recommended to ask colleagues and friends for suggestions to specialists who are skilled in diagnosing ADHD. Check their credentials, including their academic degrees and the length of time they have been in practice. They should be able to explain their diagnostic procedure and answer any queries that you may have. You can also look for qualified professionals on the internet or through the phone book. Ask them about their counseling approach and what type of therapy they may recommend for you.