How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults
For many adults, the annoyance of being afflicted with ADHD symptoms is what prompts them to seek an evaluation. They could be losing their jobs due in part to missed deadlines, having trouble with relationships due to impulsive behavior or are having financial difficulties due to the fact that they forget to pay bills or forget to track purchases.
Ask your doctor or mental health professional if they have any experience in diagnosing ADHD among adults.
Signs and symptoms
Find a doctor who will examine your symptoms if you suspect that you or your child is suffering from ADHD. The evaluation will consist of physical examination as well as a review of your medical history, which includes mental health issues and drug use. It is essential that you are honest with your doctor about the signs and how they impact your life. Many people suffering from ADHD hide the problem out of shame or for fear of being judged. However an extensive evaluation will provide your doctor with a more accurate picture of your life.
Adults are different from children, so diagnosing 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 children and adults. The doctor might ask other people in the patient's life, for example, spouses or cohabiting partners or parents, siblings, teachers, and coaches to explain how the patient's behavior has affected them. This could reveal important information that may not be revealed by tests or checklists.
In some cases doctors may decide to investigate other conditions that could cause similar symptoms as ADHD. These conditions include mood disorders, mental health issues, and physical injuries or illnesses like concussions or head trauma. He or she will review the individual's work and personal life to determine if the symptoms are hindering their daily routine.
The signs of adult ADHD can range from mild to severe with moderate symptoms causing difficulty in work and social situations. The severe symptoms can hinder 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 everyone, but it's more prevalent in boys and men than in girls. There is no clear reason for this, but it could be due to genetic or environmental factors. Research has revealed that certain chemicals and foods can trigger ADHD in certain people, and it's possible that some people are more likely to develop the condition because of specific brain structures that are involved in processing stimuli.
Diagnosis
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD isn't always straightforward. Many people are embarrassed by their symptoms and have difficulty speaking to a healthcare doctor or a mental health specialist. This can delay the evaluation process. It is important to talk openly and honestly about your symptoms and your previous history, to ensure an accurate assessment.
During the examination the doctor will use standard behavioral rating scales and ADHD symptoms checklists to determine if you are able to meet the criteria to be diagnosed of ADHD. Your doctor will ask you about your family and childhood history as well as a thorough description of your work and home. Your doctor may also order an exam to determine the cause of your symptoms, for example, thyroid problems or seizure disorders.
A physical exam typically involves blood work and a head scan, which can reveal any structural or chemical problems in the brain that could be causing your ADHD symptoms. A physical exam can help identify other conditions that may cause similar symptoms, such as depression or substance abuse.
Your doctor may suggest that you take part in an investigation into the effectiveness of new treatments for ADHD in adults. These trials are conducted at research centers like NIMH. However, you must be aware that these research studies could be risky and not result in a solution that is appropriate for you.
It is also crucial to inform your doctor about any other medications you are taking, as they can interact with stimulants that are used to treat adults with ADHD. The effectiveness of stimulants may be affected by medications that affect appetite, sleep and blood pressure. The NIMH's Medication Interactions page can provide you with more information on the best way to discuss other medications with your doctor.
Treatment
Adults suffering from ADHD may be treated by treatment with medication, behavioral therapy and educational support. Often, it's the combination of these that helps people find success in work, school and other activities. Treatment should begin with an appointment with your primary care physician or another health care professional. Find out about the professional's education and experience working with adults with ADHD. If the professional is unwilling or unable to give this information, it's best to seek another professional.
The diagnosis process for adults with ADHD typically involves interviews with the patient, parents or other significant people, and teachers. It could also involve an extensive medical and family history and psychiatric evaluation. It is crucial that the person who is being assessed for ADHD be honest and not be hesitant to avoid embarrassment. There must be a variety of symptoms in more than one setting and cause significant impairment in the life of the individual to allow an ADHD diagnosis to be established.
Untreated ADHD can cause comorbid disorders such as anxiety and depression. This is particularly true when those who suffer from ADHD have an ongoing history of stress or frustration in their lives. peer relationships can result in a self-fulfilling prophecy of underachievement and lead to feelings of self-doubt and a poor performance.
For certain adults, being diagnosed of ADHD can be a great relief. They begin to see the situation and realize that it wasn't entirely their responsibility for not being able to build a career or make friends. For certain adults, a diagnosis of ADHD can be accompanied by a sense of grief and regret over missed opportunities that were not addressed.
Adults suffering from ADHD should be prepared to discuss their problems openly with supervisors, coworkers and teachers. Consider joining an ADHD support group where those who suffer from the condition can discuss their experiences and receive guidance. People who have an ADHD diagnosis should verify their insurance coverage and request the names and numbers of professionals who specialize in treating adults with ADHD.
Support
A person diagnosed as ADHD can seek help for the symptoms and problems that affect them in a variety of settings such as at work, home or at school as well as in relationships and many other. Treatments for adults with ADHD usually include psychotherapy and medication. Some people also require special coaching to provide structure and help for their daily life.
Adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD often are relieved to know that their issues aren't normal, or due to poor parenting or laziness. For many, getting a diagnosis is the first step towards getting the help they need to live better lives.
It is easier to diagnose ADHD in children, but it is not impossible for adults to be affected by this disorder. Many adults are suffering from undiagnosed ADHD.
The diagnosis of ADHD in adults requires a thorough medical examination by a psychiatrist who has worked with this condition for a long time. The interview may include questions regarding the patient's family history, and also the person's own emotional and social background. Some doctors utilize brain scans or computer programs to evaluate patients. The majority of experts agree that a thorough assessment is the best method to determine if a patient has ADHD.
Depending on the severity and nature of the individual's issues and any co-existing issues such as mood disorders, anxiety, and learning disabilities that often are associated with ADHD, additional psychological and neuropsychological tests may be conducted to determine the severity and presence of these conditions. These tests can help determine the right dosage of medication for an individual.
It is also an excellent idea to ask friends and colleagues for suggestions to specialists who are skilled in diagnosing ADHD. Check their credentials, including their academic degrees and the length of time they've been in practice. They must also be able to explain the process of diagnosis and answer any questions you might have. You can also search for qualified professionals online or in the phone book. Find out about their approach to counseling and what kind of therapy they would recommend for you.