How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults
Many adults seek an assessment because they are dissatisfied with the symptoms of ADHD. They may lose their jobs because of missed deadlines, struggle in relationships due to their impulsive behavior, or face financial issues because they forget bills and forget to track purchases.
Ask your health care provider or a mental health professional about their education and experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults.
Symptoms
Find a doctor to assess your symptoms if suspect that you or your child may have ADHD. The evaluation will consist of physical examination and a review your medical background. This includes mental health issues and addiction to drugs. It is important that you open up to your doctor about the signs and how they affect your life. Many people with ADHD hide the problem because of shame or fear of being criticized. However, a thorough evaluation can give your doctor a better picture of your daily life.
Because adulthood is very different from childhood, identifying ADHD in adults can be more difficult than diagnosing children suffering from the disorder. The American Psychological Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5) offers guidelines for diagnosis that are generally valid for adults as well as children. In addition to interviewing the patient, the doctor may also ask other people who are in the patient's lifefor example, spouse or co-habitating partner parents, siblings or coaches and teachers -- to describe the behavior of the patient and how it has affected them. This can reveal important details that aren't discovered by tests or checklists.
In certain instances doctors may decide to examine other conditions which may cause similar symptoms to ADHD. These include mood disorders, mental health conditions, as well as physical illnesses or injuries, such as concussion or head trauma. The doctor will also examine the individual's work and personal life to determine how their symptoms impact their daily routines.
The symptoms of adult ADHD range from mild to moderate with moderate symptoms leading to difficulty in social and work situations. A severe condition can affect work or school performance and can cause tension in relationships. They also make it difficult to live a life of independence.
Everyone can be affected by ADHD However, it is more common in men and boys than in girls. There isn't a clear explanation for this difference however it could be due to genetic and environmental factors. Research has revealed that certain chemicals and foods can trigger ADHD in certain people, and it is possible that some individuals are more likely to develop the condition because specific brain structures that are involved in the processing of stimuli.
Diagnosis
Finding a diagnosis of ADHD isn't always straightforward. Many people are embarrassed by their symptoms and find it difficult to open up to an individual who is a mental health professional or health care professional. This can delay the process of evaluation. It is crucial to speak honestly and openly about your symptoms, as well as your previous history to ensure a thorough evaluation.
During the exam the doctor will use standardized behavioral rating scales and ADHD symptom checklists to determine if you are able to meet the criteria for a diagnosis of ADHD. Your doctor will ask you about your childhood and family history as well as a thorough description of your home and work. Your doctor might order an examination of your body to rule out medical reasons for your symptoms, like seizures or a thyroid disorder.
A physical exam typically involves blood work and a head scan which can help identify any structural or chemical problems in the brain that could be contributing to your ADHD symptoms. A physical can also help determine other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, such as depression or substance abuse.
Your doctor may recommend you participate in a a clinical study of new treatments for ADHD in adults. These trials are conducted at research centers like NIMH. It is important to be aware that these studies may have potential risks and may not result in the appropriate treatment for you.
It is also crucial to inform your doctor any other medications you are taking, as they can interact with stimulants that are used to treat adults with ADHD. Medications that affect appetite, sleep heart rate, appetite and blood pressure could affect the effectiveness of stimulants. The NIMH's Medication Interactions page can provide you with more information about how to discuss other medicines with your physician.
Treatment
Adults suffering from ADHD can be treated with treatment with medication, behavioral therapy and educational assistance. Most often, it's the combination of these that helps people find success in school, work and other pursuits. adhd diagnosis uk adults from primary care providers or other health professionals are the first step towards treatment. Find out about the specialist's expertise and training in working with adults suffering from ADHD. If a professional is unwilling or unable to provide this information, it's best to find a different one.
The process of diagnosing adult ADHD typically includes interviews with the patient, parents or other significant people, and teachers. The process of diagnosis may include an examination of the family and medical history and an assessment of psychiatric issues. It is important that the person who is being assessed for ADHD be honest and not hold back because of embarrassment. Several symptoms must be present in a variety of settings and have a significant impact in the individual's life to allow an ADHD diagnosis to be established.
Many people with untreated ADHD develop comorbid disorders, including anxiety and depression. This is particularly true when those who suffer from ADHD have an underlying history of chronic tension or frustration in their lives. Frustration can cause an unfulfilled prophecy which causes lower self-esteem, low performance, and feelings of anger.
A diagnosis of ADHD can be a great relief for some adults. They begin to see their own situation and realize that it wasn't their fault they couldn't establish an occupation or make friends. However, for certain adults, a diagnosis of ADHD may be accompanied by a sense of grief and regret for missed opportunities that were not addressed.
Adults with ADHD should be ready to discuss their concerns openly with their supervisors, colleagues, and teachers. Consider joining an ADHD support group where people who suffer from the condition can share their experiences and receive guidance. Anyone with an ADHD diagnosis should check their insurance coverage and get the names and phone numbers of specialists who specialize in treating adults who have ADHD.
Support
A person diagnosed with 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 using psychotherapy and medications. Some people discover that they also need specific coaching, which may help them with structure and support in everyday life.
Adults diagnosed with ADHD are often relieved to know their problems aren't due to lazy parenting or a lack of discipline. A diagnosis can be the first step in receiving the help they require.
It is much easier to identify ADHD in children, but it is not impossible for adults to suffer from this disorder. In fact, many adults struggle all their lives with unrecognized ADHD.
A psychiatrist with experience in this type of disorder can identify ADHD in adults through a clinical interview. The interview could include questions about the person's family history as well as his or her own social and emotional history. Some doctors utilize computer programs or brain scans to evaluate a patient. Most experts agree that a thorough interview is the best method to determine the presence of ADHD.
Based on the severity and nature of the person's difficulties and the co-existing conditions like mood disorders, anxiety and learning disabilities that often accompany ADHD additional psychological and neuropsychological tests may be conducted to determine the effect and severity of these conditions. These tests can also help determine the right dosage of medication for an individual.
Asking friends and colleagues to recommend specialists who have expertise in diagnosing ADHD is also a great idea. Then check their professional qualifications, including academic degrees and the number of years they have been in practice. 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 through the phone book. Find out about their approach to counseling and what kind of therapy they might recommend for you.