How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults

For many adults, the stress of being afflicted with ADHD symptoms is what prompts them to seek an assessment. They could be losing their jobs due in part to missed deadlines, or struggling with relationships due to their impulsive behavior or having financial trouble because they forget bills or forget to track purchases.

Ask your doctor or mental health professional if they have any training in diagnosing ADHD in adults.

Signs and symptoms

If you suspect that you or your child suffer from ADHD, the first step to seek assistance is to locate a health care provider who will evaluate your symptoms. Your evaluation will include both a physical exam and a review of your medical history. This includes mental health issues as well as substance abuse. It is essential to be forthcoming with the doctor about your symptoms and how they impact your life. Many people with ADHD shy away from their problems because of fear of shame or criticism However, a thorough evaluation will give the doctor more of a complete picture of your life and your problems.

Because adulthood is very different from childhood, diagnosing ADHD in adults is more difficult than diagnosing children with the disorder. The American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5) provides guidelines for diagnosis that are generally applicable to adults as well as children. The doctor can inquire about other people who are in the patient's life such as spouses or cohabiting partners or siblings, parents teachers, coaches, and other teachers to discuss how the patient's behavior has affected them. This can reveal crucial information that isn't revealed by tests or checklists.

In certain cases, the doctor will want to look into other conditions that may cause similar symptoms to ADHD. These conditions include mental health issues and physical injuries or illnesses like concussions or head trauma. The doctor will also look at the person's personal and work life to determine how do i get adhd diagnosis their symptoms affect their daily activities.

The symptoms of adult ADHD vary from mild to moderate and moderate symptoms causing problems in work and social situations. The severe symptoms can hinder the performance of your work or school, strain relationships and make it difficult to live independently.

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 however it could be due to genetic and environmental factors. Research has shown that certain chemicals and foods can cause ADHD in some individuals, and it is possible that some people are predisposed to develop the condition due to the existence specific brain structures that are involved in the processing of stimuli.

Diagnosis

It is not always simple to diagnose ADHD. Many sufferers are embarrassed by their symptoms and have difficulty talking to a health care doctor or mental health specialist. This can prolong the evaluation process. It is important to talk openly and honestly about your symptoms and your past experiences for an accurate evaluation.

During the examination, your doctor will employ standard behavioral ratings scales and ADHD symptoms checklists to determine if you meet the criteria for diagnosis. Your doctor may also ask for your family history and childhood information, as well as a detailed description of your work and personal life. Your doctor might also request an examination to determine the cause of your symptoms, such as seizures or thyroid issues.

A physical exam typically includes blood tests and a head scan which can help you identify any chemical or structural issues in the brain that may be causing your ADHD symptoms. A physical exam can aid in determining other conditions that may cause similar symptoms, such as addiction or depression.

It is possible that your health care provider will recommend that you take part in an investigational trial of new treatments for adults ADHD. These trials are conducted at research centers such as NIMH. However, it is important to be aware that these trials may be risky and not result in a solution that is right for you.

Discuss with your doctor any other medications that you take, as they could interact with stimulants that are used to treat ADHD in adults. Medications that affect the appetite, sleep heart rate, appetite and blood pressure could all have an effect on how effective stimulants are. The NIMH's Medication Interactions page can provide more details about how to discuss other medicines with your physician.

Treatment

Adults suffering from ADHD can be treated with medications, behavioral therapy and education support. It's usually a combination of the three that can help people achieve success at work, school and in other pursuits. Referrals from primary care providers or other health professionals are the first step to treatment. Ask the professional about their expertise and training in working with adults suffering from ADHD. If a professional refuses or is not able to provide you this information, it is recommended to seek out a different professional.

The diagnostic process for adult ADHD typically involves interviews with the patient's parents or other significant people, and teachers. The process of diagnosis may include a medical and family history and an assessment of psychiatric issues. It is essential that the person who is being assessed for ADHD be honest and not hide to avoid embarrassment. Multiple symptoms must be evident in two or more settings and cause significant impairment in the person's life for an ADHD diagnosis to be given.

Untreated ADHD can cause comorbid disorders such as anxiety and depression. This is especially the case for those with ADHD who have a history chronic stress or frustration. Discontent can result in self-fulfilling prophecy of failure and lead to feelings of low self-esteem and a poor performance.

For those who are adults, the diagnosis of ADHD can be a source of relief. They will begin to understand themselves better and realize that it wasn't their fault that they couldn't make friends or establish a career. For some adults, a diagnosis of ADHD can cause sadness and regret over missed opportunities.

Adults with ADHD should be prepared to discuss their problems openly with their supervisors, colleagues, and teachers. Consider joining an ADHD support group where those who suffer from the condition can share their experiences and get advice. Those with an ADHD diagnosis should look into their insurance coverage and request the names and numbers of the professionals that specialize in treating adults who have ADHD.

Support

A person diagnosed with ADHD can seek treatment to address the issues and symptoms that afflict him or her at home, at work at school, in relationships and in many other situations. Treatments for adult ADHD usually include medication and psychotherapy. Some people also require specialized coaching to provide structure and help for their daily lives.

Adults diagnosed with ADHD often feel relieved to discover that their problems aren't normal or because of poor parenting or laziness. For some, a diagnosis is the first step in receiving the help they require to live better lives.

Adults also have the potential to suffer from ADHD. It's more difficult to diagnose in children. In fact, many adults struggle throughout their lives with undiagnosed ADHD.

A psychiatrist who has experience with this kind of condition can identify ADHD in adults through a clinical interview. The interviewer may ask about the person's personal and emotional history, as well the family history of the person. Certain doctors employ brain scans or computer programs to assess patients. However, most experts agree that the most accurate indication of ADHD is an extensive clinical interview and it is crucial to take a patient's history into consideration when determining the severity of the disorder.

Depending on the severity and nature of the person's difficulties and co-existing disorders like mood disorders, anxiety and learning disabilities that typically are associated with ADHD, additional neuropsychological and psychological tests could be administered to determine the severity and presence of these conditions. The results of these tests may also help in determining the proper dosage of medications for a particular person.

It is also a good idea to ask colleagues and friends for recommendations to specialists who are experienced in diagnosing ADHD. You should then verify their qualifications, including academic degrees and the length of time they have been in practice. They should also be able explain the process of diagnosis and answer any questions you have. You can also find professional who are qualified online or in the phone book. Ask about their approach to counseling and what type of therapy they might suggest for you.