How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults
Many adults seek an assessment due to being dissatisfied with the symptoms of ADHD. They could be losing their jobs due in part to missed deadlines, having trouble with relationships due to their impulsive behavior or have financial issues due to the fact that they forget to pay bills or forget to track 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 who can assess your symptoms if suspect you or your child has ADHD. Your evaluation will include a physical examination and an examination of your medical history, including mental health issues and drug use. It is important to be honest with the doctor about the symptoms you are experiencing and how they impact your life. Many people with ADHD are reluctant to talk about their issues because of fear of shame or criticism A thorough assessment will give the doctor more of a complete picture of your life and your problems.
Adults differ from children, which is why the diagnosis of ADHD can be more difficult than identifying ADHD in children. The American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5) provides guidelines for diagnosing ADHD that are generally valid for adults as well as children. In addition to examining the patient, the doctor may also ask other people in the person's life -like spouses or co-habitating partner, parents, siblings or coaches and teachers to comment on the person's behavior and how it has affected them. This can reveal important details that aren't discovered by tests or checklists.
In some cases the doctor may want to look into other conditions that can cause similar symptoms to ADHD. These conditions can include mental health issues, and physical injuries like head trauma. They will also look at the person's work and personal life to determine how their symptoms impact their daily routines.
The signs of adult ADHD can range from mild to severe with moderate symptoms that cause difficulties 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.
ADHD can affect any person, but it is more common in males and boys than in girls. It is not clear why this difference exists however it is likely that there are genetic and environmental factors at play. Research has shown that certain foods and chemicals can cause ADHD in some individuals, and it is possible that some individuals are more likely to develop the condition because of specific brain structures involved in the processing of stimuli.
Diagnosis
Being diagnosed with ADHD is not always easy. Many people are embarrassed by their symptoms and find it difficult to talk to an expert in mental health or health care provider. This can make the process of evaluation more time-consuming. To ensure that you receive a thorough evaluation it is crucial to be honest and upfront about your symptoms as well as your past medical experiences.
During the evaluation your doctor will use the standardized behavioral ratings scales as well as ADHD symptoms checklists to determine if you fulfill the criteria for diagnosis. Your doctor will inquire about your family and childhood history and will also provide a detailed account of your home and work. Your doctor may order a physical examination to rule out medical causes for your symptoms, including a thyroid disorder or seizure disorder.
A physical exam typically includes blood tests and a head scan, which can reveal any structural or chemical issues within the brain that may be contributing to your ADHD symptoms. A physical exam can help rule other conditions out that can cause similar symptoms, like depression or substance abuse.
Your doctor may suggest that you take part in a clinical study of new treatments for ADHD in adults. These trials are conducted at research centers such as NIMH. You should be aware that these studies could carry risks and not lead to the appropriate treatment for you.
It is also important to tell your health care provider about any other medications you are taking, since they could interfere with certain stimulants used to treat adult ADHD. The effectiveness of stimulants may be affected by medications that affect sleep, appetite and blood pressure. NIMH's Medication Interactions page can provide more information on how to discuss other medications with your physician.
Treatment
Adults suffering from ADHD can be treated with medications, behavioral therapy and educational assistance. Most often, it's the combination of these that help people achieve success at school, work and other pursuits. Referrals from primary healthcare providers or other health professionals are the first step to treatment. Find out about the professional's education and experience working with adults suffering from ADHD. If a professional is unwilling unable to give this information, it's best to look for a different professional.
The diagnosis process for adults with ADHD typically involves interviews with teachers, parents and other people who are significant to the child. It could also include the complete medical and family history as well as a an evaluation of the psychiatric condition. It's important that the person being evaluated for ADHD be honest and not shy away due to embarrassment or fear of being judged. A person must display symptoms in two or more places and cause an impairment that is significant in their daily lives before an ADHD diagnosis is made.
Many people with untreated ADHD develop comorbid disorders such as depression and anxiety. This is especially relevant for people with ADHD who have a history of chronic stress or frustration. The frustration can trigger an unfulfilled prophecy which results in lower self-esteem, low performance and feelings of frustration.
For some adults, a diagnosis of ADHD can be a great relief. They may begin to see themselves better and realize that it wasn't their fault they couldn't make friends or establish a career. For some adults, the diagnoses of ADHD can trigger feelings of grief and regret about missed opportunities.
adult adhd diagnosis uk with ADHD must always be ready to discuss their issues with co-workers and supervisors. Consider joining an ADHD support group where people with the condition can share their experiences and get advice. Anyone who have an ADHD diagnosis should verify their insurance coverage and obtain the names and phone numbers of specialists that specialize in treating adults with ADHD.
Support
A person diagnosed as ADHD can receive help for the symptoms and issues that affect him or her in a variety of settings, including at work, home at school or in relationships, and many other. Adult ADHD is usually treated with psychotherapy and medication. Some individuals also discover they require specialized coaching to provide structure and support for their daily lives.
Adults diagnosed with ADHD often are relieved to know that their problems aren't typical or caused by bad parenting or lazyness. A diagnosis could be the first step to getting the help they need.
It is easier to diagnose ADHD in children, however it isn't difficult for adults to suffer from this disorder. Many adults suffer from undiagnosed ADHD.
A psychiatrist who has experience with this type of disorder can diagnose ADHD in adults through a clinical interview. The interviewer might inquire about the person's personal and emotional history, as well his or her family history. Some doctors utilize computer programs or brain scans to assess a patient's. However, the majority of experts agree that the most reliable indication of ADHD is an exhaustive clinical interview. It is also believed it is vital to take a patient's history into consideration when determining the severity of the disorder.
Based on the nature and severity of the person's difficulties and the co-existing conditions like mood disorders, anxiety, and learning disabilities that commonly accompany ADHD Additional neuropsychological and psychological tests could be administered to determine the effect and severity of these conditions. These tests can also help determine the proper dosage of medication for an individual.
It is also a good idea to ask your friends and colleagues for recommendations to specialists who are experts in diagnosing ADHD. Examine their credentials, including their academic degrees and the length of time they've been working. They should be able 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 in the phone book. Ask them about their approach to therapy and what they would suggest for you.