How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults

Many adults seek out an assessment because they are dissatisfied with the symptoms of ADHD. They could lose their jobs due to delayed deadlines, or struggle in relationships due to their impulsive behavior, or face financial issues due to the fact that they forget bills and 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 to examine your symptoms if you think your child or you is suffering from ADHD. Your assessment will consist of physical examinations and a review your medical background. This will include mental health issues as well as alcohol abuse. It is crucial that you open up to your doctor about the signs and how they affect your life. Many people with ADHD hide their problems out of fear of shame or criticism, but a thorough evaluation will give the doctor an accurate picture of your life and your problems.

Because adulthood is very different from childhood, identifying ADHD in adults can be more complicated than diagnosing children with the disorder. 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. 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 partner siblings, parents or coaches and teachers -- to describe the person's behavior and how it has affected them. This can provide information that might not show up on a checklist or other tests.

In some instances, the doctor will want to investigate other conditions that may cause similar symptoms as ADHD. These can include mood disorders, other 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 whether their symptoms are interfering with their daily routine.

The symptoms of adult ADHD can vary from mild to severe, with moderate symptoms that cause difficulty in social and work situations. A severe condition can affect the performance of a job or school, strain relationships, and make it difficult to live a life of independence.

ADHD can affect any person, but it is more prevalent in boys and men than in 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 cause ADHD in certain individuals. It is also possible that some people are predisposed because of brain structures that process stimuli.

Diagnosis

Getting a diagnosis of ADHD isn't always straightforward. Many people are embarrassed by their symptoms and find it difficult to open up to an expert in mental health or health care professional. This can delay the evaluation process. To ensure that you receive a thorough evaluation it is crucial to be honest and upfront about your health issues as well as past history.

During the exam your doctor may employ the standardized behavioral rating scales as well as ADHD symptoms checklists to determine if you are able to meet the criteria to be diagnosed of ADHD. Your doctor may also ask for your family history and childhood information, as well as an in-depth description of your job and family life. Your doctor could also recommend an examination to determine if there is a medical cause for your symptoms, for example, seizures or thyroid issues.

A physical exam typically involves blood tests and a head scan, which can reveal any structural or chemical problems in the brain that may be causing your ADHD symptoms. A physical can also help rule out other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, including addiction to drugs or depression.

It is possible that your health care provider might suggest you take part in a clinical trial of new treatments for adults with ADHD. These trials are conducted by research centers like NIMH. However, it is important to be aware that these trials can have risks and may not result in a treatment that is right for you.

Discuss with your doctor any other medications you take, as these may interact with stimulants used to treat ADHD in adults. Drugs that affect the appetite, sleep, heart rate and blood pressure could all affect the effectiveness of stimulants. The NIMH's Medication Interactions page will provide you with more information on how to discuss other medications with your doctor.

Treatment

Adults suffering from ADHD can be treated with treatment with medication, behavioral therapy and educational assistance. Often, it's the combination of these that can help people find success in school, work and other areas. Referrals from primary care doctors or other health professionals are often the first step to treatment. Ask about the professional's training and experience working with adults suffering from ADHD. If the professional is unwilling or is not able to provide you this information, it's recommended to seek out a different professional.

The diagnostic process for adult ADHD typically includes interviews with the patient's parents or other significant others, as well as teachers. It may also include a complete medical and family history as well as a psychiatric evaluation. It is crucial that the person being evaluated for ADHD be honest and not evading the test due to embarrassment or fear of being judged. A person must display symptoms in two or more locations and exhibit an impairment that is significant in their daily lives before an ADHD diagnosis can be determined.

Untreated ADHD can result in the development of comorbid disorders, such as depression and anxiety. This Is It Worth Getting An Adhd Diagnosis especially true when those who suffer from ADHD have an underlying history of chronic anxiety or discontent in their lives. The frustration can cause an unfulfilling prophecy about underachievement and lead to feelings of low self-esteem and poor performance.

For certain adults, being diagnosed of ADHD can be a great relief. They can begin to understand themselves better and realize that it wasn't their fault that they could not make friends or build a career. For some adults, the diagnoses of ADHD can trigger feelings of grief and regret about missed opportunities.

Adults suffering from ADHD must always be ready to discuss their issues with their supervisors and colleagues. It's also an excellent idea to think about joining an ADHD support group, where those suffering from the disorder can discuss their experiences and receive advice. People with an ADHD diagnosis should verify their insurance coverage and request the names and phone numbers of specialists who specialize in treating adults suffering from ADHD.

Support

A person who is diagnosed with ADHD can get help for symptoms and problems that plague him or her at home, at work, in relationships, at school and in many other settings. Treatments for adult ADHD usually include psychotherapy and medications. Some people may find that they also need specific coaching, which may provide structure and support in daily life.

Adults diagnosed with ADHD often feel relieved to learn that their problems aren't typical or caused by poor parenting or laziness. A diagnosis could be the first step in getting the help they need.

Adults may also be affected by ADHD. It's more difficult to recognize in children. In fact, many adults struggle all their lives with unrecognized ADHD.

The diagnosis of ADHD in adults requires a thorough and thorough interview by a psychiatrist with experience working with this condition. The interview might include questions about the person's family history as well as their own personal emotional and social history. Some doctors use brain scans or computer programs to assess a patient's. Most experts agree that a thorough interview is the most effective way to determine the presence of ADHD.

Based on the nature of the issues a person faces, additional psychological or neuropsychological tests can be conducted to determine the effects and presence of co-existing conditions, such as anxiety, learning disabilities and mood disorders that often are associated with ADHD. The results of these tests may be useful in determining the proper dosage of medication for an individual.

Asking friends and colleagues to recommend specialists with experience diagnosing ADHD is a good idea. You should then verify their credentials, including their academic degrees and the length of time they have worked. They should be able explain their diagnostic procedure and answer any queries you may have. You can also look for experts who are certified online or in the phonebook. Ask them about their philosophy of therapy and what they would recommend for you.