How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults
For many adults, the annoyance of being afflicted with ADHD symptoms is what drives them to seek an evaluation. They could lose their jobs because of missed deadlines, struggle with relationships due to impulsive behavior, or face financial issues because they forget to pay bills and lose track of purchases.
Ask how to get an adult adhd diagnosis or mental health professional if they have any training in diagnosing ADHD among adults.
Signs and symptoms
If you suspect that you or your child suffer from ADHD, the first step in getting assistance is to find an expert in health care who will examine your symptoms. Your evaluation will include physical examination as well as an analysis of your medical history, including mental health issues and substance use. It is essential to be forthcoming with the doctor about your symptoms and how they impact you. Many people suffering from ADHD hide the problem 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 which are valid for both adults and children. In addition to examining the patient, the doctor could also ask others who are in the patient's life- such as 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 important information that isn't revealed by tests or checklists.
In some instances, the doctor will want to look into other conditions that could cause similar symptoms to ADHD. These include mood disorders, other 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 the symptoms impact their daily routines.
The signs of adult ADHD can range from mild to moderate, with moderate symptoms causing difficulty in social and work situations. In severe cases, symptoms can affect the performance of your work or school or cause stress in relationships. It can also make it difficult to live a life of independence.
ADHD can be a problem for anyone, but it is more frequent in men and boys than in girls. There is no definitive reason for this however it could be due to genetic and environmental factors. Research has revealed that certain chemicals and foods can trigger ADHD in certain people, and it is possible that some individuals are more likely to develop the condition due to the existence of specific brain structures involved in the processing of stimuli.
Diagnosis
It is not always simple to determine ADHD. Many sufferers are embarrassed by their symptoms and may have difficulty speaking to a healthcare specialist or a mental health professional. This can prolong the process of evaluation. To ensure a thorough assessment it is essential to be honest and upfront about your symptoms as well as your past medical circumstances.
During the examination, your doctor will employ the standardized behavioral ratings scales as well as ADHD symptoms checklists to determine if you meet the criteria for diagnosis. Your doctor may also ask for your family history and childhood records along with a detailed description of your job and home life. Your doctor may order an examination to rule out medical reasons for your symptoms, including seizures or a thyroid disorder.
A physical exam typically involves blood tests and a head scan which can help you identify any structural or chemical issues in the brain that may be causing your ADHD symptoms. A physical can also help rule out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms, such as addiction to drugs or depression.
It is possible that your doctor will recommend that you participate in a clinical trial of new treatments for adult ADHD. These trials are conducted at research centers like NIMH. It is important to be aware, however, that these studies could carry negative consequences and may not provide the appropriate treatment for you.
Inform your doctor about any other medications that you take, as they can interact with stimulants used to treat ADHD in adults. Drugs that affect the appetite, sleep heart rate, sleep, and blood pressure can all affect the effectiveness of stimulants. The NIMH's Medication Interactions page can give you more information about the best way to discuss other medications with your doctor.
Treatment
Adults suffering from ADHD can be treated with treatment with medication, behavioral therapy and educational support. It's often a combination of all three that can help people achieve success at school, work and other endeavors. Referrals from primary healthcare providers or other health professionals are usually the first step to treatment. Ask about the professional's training and experience working with adults with ADHD. If the professional is unwilling or in a position to provide this information, it's best to look for a different professional.
The diagnostic process of adult ADHD typically involves interviews with teachers, parents and other people who are significant to the child. The process of diagnosis may include an examination of the family and medical history as well as an assessment of the psychiatric condition. It is crucial that the person being assessed for ADHD be honest and not hide due to embarrassment. A person must display symptoms in more than one place and exhibit significant impairment in their daily lives before an ADHD diagnosis is made.
Many people with untreated ADHD develop comorbid disorders that include depression and anxiety. This is particularly true when those who suffer from ADHD have a history of chronic stress or frustration in their lives. Frustration can lead to a self-fulfilling prophecy of underachievement and can lead to feelings of low self-esteem and a poor performance.
A diagnosis of ADHD can be a great relief for some adults. They may begin to see themselves better and realize it wasn't their fault they could not make friends or build a career. For some adults, the diagnoses of ADHD can cause grief and regret about missed opportunities.
Adults with ADHD should always be prepared to talk about their problems with supervisors and coworkers. It's also recommended to think about joining an ADHD support group in which people who suffer from the disorder can discuss their experiences and receive advice. People with an ADHD diagnosis should look into their insurance coverage and obtain the names and numbers of the professionals who specialize in treating adults with ADHD.
Support
A person diagnosed as ADHD is able to receive assistance for the symptoms and problems that affect him or her in a variety settings that include at home, work at school or in relationships, and many others. Treatments for adult ADHD usually include psychotherapy and medications. Some people find that they require specific coaching, which may help them with structure and support in everyday life.
Adults diagnosed with ADHD often are relieved to know that their troubles weren't just normal, or due to lazy parenting or a lack of discipline. For some, a diagnosis is the first step towards getting the support they need to live a better life.
Adults may also be affected by ADHD. It's more difficult to identify in children. Many adults are suffering from 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 may include questions regarding the patient's family history, and also their own personal social and emotional background. Some doctors utilize brain scans or computer programs to determine the health of a patient. However, the majority of experts agree that the best indication of ADHD is an exhaustive clinical interview. It is also believed that it is essential to take the history of a patient into consideration when determining the severity of the disorder.
Depending on the nature of a person's difficulties, additional psychological or neuropsychological tests may be required to assess the presence and impact of co-existing disorders, like learning disabilities, anxiety and mood disorders that often accompany ADHD. These tests can also help determine the right dosage of medication for a person.
Asking colleagues and friends to recommend specialists with expertise in diagnosing ADHD is also a great idea. Verify their credentials, such as their academic degrees as well as how long they've been in practice. They should be able to explain their diagnostic process and answer any questions that you may have. You can also look for professional who are certified on the internet or through the phone book. Ask them about their approach to counseling and what kind of therapy they would recommend for you.