How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults
For many adults, the annoyance of being afflicted with ADHD symptoms is what leads them to seek an evaluation. They may lose their jobs due to delayed deadlines, or struggle in relationships due to their impulsive behaviors, or face financial difficulties because they forget bills and don't keep track of purchases.
Ask your doctor or mental health professional if they have any experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults.
Symptoms
Find a doctor who will examine your symptoms if you think your child or you has ADHD. Your evaluation will include physical examination as well as a review of your medical history, which includes mental health issues and drug use. It is important that you open up to your doctor about the signs and the way they affect you. Many people with ADHD are reluctant to admit their problems out of shame or for fear of being judged. However an honest assessment can give your doctor a better picture of your life.
Adults differ from children, and therefore diagnosing ADHD can be more challenging than identifying ADHD in children. 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 children and adults. The doctor can inquire about others who are in the patient's life such as spouses or cohabiting partners or siblings, parents or teachers and coaches to explain how the patient's behavior has affected them. This may reveal information that might not be found on checklists or other tests.
In some cases, the doctor will want to examine other conditions that could cause similar symptoms as ADHD. These conditions can include mood disorders, mental health conditions and physical illnesses or injuries such as concussions or head trauma. The doctor will also examine the individual's work and personal life to determine if the symptoms interfere with their daily routines.
The symptoms of adult ADHD can range from mild to moderate with moderate symptoms leading to difficulty in social and work situations. The severe symptoms can hinder the performance of a job or school and can cause tension in relationships. They also make it harder to live an independent life.
Anyone can suffer from ADHD, but it is more prevalent in males and boys than girls. It is unclear why this difference exists however, it is likely that there are genetic and environmental factors in play. Studies have shown that certain chemicals and foods can trigger ADHD in some people, and it's possible that some individuals are predisposed to develop the condition because of specific brain structures that are involved in processing stimuli.
Diagnosis
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD isn't always easy. People often feel embarrassed about their symptoms and have trouble speaking to a healthcare provider or a mental health professional. This can make the process of evaluation longer. It is crucial to speak honestly and openly about your symptoms and your previous medical background to ensure an accurate evaluation.
During the examination, your doctor will employ standardized behavioral ratings scales and ADHD symptoms checklists to determine if you meet the criteria for diagnosis. Your doctor will also inquire for your family and childhood history along with an in-depth description of your job and family life. Your doctor could also recommend an exam to determine the cause of your symptoms, such as thyroid problems or seizure disorders.
A physical exam includes blood tests and brain scans. These tests can help to identify chemical or structural issues in the brain which could be contributing to ADHD symptoms. A physical exam can also help identify other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, such as addiction or depression.
It is possible that your doctor might suggest you take part in an investigational trial of new treatments for adults with ADHD. These trials are conducted at research centers such as NIMH. It is important to be aware that these studies may have negative consequences and may not provide the best treatment for you.
It is also important to tell your doctor about any other medications you're taking, since they could interfere with certain stimulants used to treat adult ADHD. The effects of medications on sleep, appetite heart rate, appetite, and blood pressure can all have an effect on the effectiveness of stimulants. The NIMH's Medication Interactions webpage provides more information on how to discuss other medications with your physician.
Treatment
For adults diagnosed with ADHD treatments include behavioral therapy, medication and educational supports. It's typically a combination of all three that helps people to succeed at school, work, and other activities. Treatment should begin with the referral of a primary care provider or another health care professional. Find out about the specialist's training and experience working with adults with ADHD. If a professional refuses to or is unable to give you this information, it is recommended to seek out a different professional.
The diagnostic process for adult ADHD typically includes interviews with the patient, parents or other significant people, and teachers. The diagnostic process could also include a medical and family history and a psychiatric assessment. It's important that the person being evaluated for ADHD be honest and not evading the test because of embarrassment or fear of being criticized. A person must exhibit several symptoms in more than one place and cause significant impairment in their life before an ADHD diagnosis is made.
Many adults suffering from untreated ADHD develop comorbid disorders that include depression and anxiety. This is particularly true when people with ADHD have an ongoing history of tension or frustration in their lives. It can lead to self-fulfilling prophecy that can result in low self-esteem, a lack of performance, and feelings of anger.
A diagnosis of ADHD could be a source of relief for certain adults. They may begin to understand their own situation and realize that it wasn't entirely their fault they couldn't establish a career or meet new friends. For some adults, the diagnosis of ADHD can bring a sense grief and regret about missed opportunities.
how are adults diagnosed with adhd who suffer from ADHD should always be prepared to discuss their issues openly with supervisors, coworkers and teachers. It's also an excellent idea to think about joining an ADHD support group in which people who suffer from the disorder can talk about their experiences and seek assistance. Additionally, those with the diagnosis of ADHD should verify their health insurance coverage to find out what services are covered, and to get names and numbers of professionals who specialize in treating adults with ADHD.
Support
A person diagnosed with ADHD can receive help for the symptoms and issues that affect them in a variety of situations such as at work, home, school as well as in relationships and many other. Treatments for adult ADHD typically include medication and psychotherapy. Some people may find that they require special coaching, which can provide structure and help in everyday life.
Adults diagnosed with ADHD often feel relieved to learn that their problems aren't typical or caused by bad parenting or lazyness. A diagnosis can be the first step in getting the help they need.
It is simpler to diagnose ADHD in children, but it isn't impossible for adults to have this disorder. In fact, many adults have struggled all their lives with unrecognized ADHD.
A psychiatrist with experience in this kind of condition can identify ADHD in adults by conducting a clinical interview. The interviewer may ask about the patient's social and emotional history, as well as the family history of the person. Some doctors use brain scans or computer programs to evaluate a patient. Most experts agree that a thorough assessment is the best way to determine the presence of ADHD.
Based on the nature of a person's difficulties, additional psychological or neuropsychological tests can be conducted to determine the presence and effects of co-existing disorders, such as anxiety, learning disabilities, and mood disorders, which often are associated with ADHD. These tests can help determine the proper dosage of medication for an individual.
Asking friends and colleagues to recommend specialists who have expertise in diagnosing ADHD is a good idea. Check their credentials, including their academic degrees as well as how long they've been in practice. They should be able to explain their diagnostic procedure and answer any queries that you may have. You can also find professional who are certified via the internet or the phone book. Ask about their counseling approach and what kind of therapy they might recommend for you.