How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults
Many adults seek an assessment because they are frustrated by the symptoms of ADHD. They could lose their jobs due to late deadlines, have difficulty in relationships due to their impulsive behavior, or face financial issues because they forget to pay bills and don't keep track of purchases.
Ask your doctor or mental health professional if they have any training in diagnosing ADHD among adults.
Signs and symptoms
Find a doctor to assess your symptoms if suspect you or your child has ADHD. Your evaluation will include a physical examination and an analysis of your medical history, which includes mental health issues and substance use. It is essential that you open up to your doctor about the symptoms and how they affect you. Many people with ADHD conceal their symptoms because of shame or fear of being criticized. However an extensive evaluation will give your doctor a better picture of your daily life.
Adults are different from children, so diagnosing ADHD is more difficult 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 adults and children. In addition to examining the patient, the doctor could also ask other people in the life of the patient- such as spouse or co-habitating partners, parents, siblings or teachers and coaches -- to describe the behavior of the patient and how it has affected them. This can reveal important information that may not be revealed by tests or checklists.
In some cases, a doctor may want to look into other conditions that can cause similar symptoms to ADHD. These can include mood disorders, mental health conditions, as well as physical injuries or illnesses like head trauma. They will also review the person's personal and work life to determine if their symptoms affect their daily routines.
The symptoms of adult ADHD range from mild to moderate and moderate symptoms causing problems in work and social situations. A severe condition can affect work or school performance, strain relationships, and make it difficult to live an independent life.
ADHD can be an issue for anyone, but it is more frequent in men and boys than in girls. There is no definitive explanation for this difference, but it could be due to genetic or environmental factors. Certain chemicals and foods have been shown to cause ADHD in a few people. It is also possible that some people are predisposed because of brain structures that process stimuli.
Diagnosis
Finding a diagnosis of ADHD is not always easy. Many people are insecure about their symptoms and are unable to speak to an individual who is a mental health professional or health care professional. This could make the evaluation process more time-consuming. To ensure you get a thorough evaluation it is essential to be honest and transparent about your symptoms and past experiences.
During the examination the doctor will use standard behavioral rating scales and ADHD symptoms checklists to determine whether you are able to meet the criteria to be diagnosed of ADHD. Your doctor will also ask for your family history and childhood information along with a detailed description of your work and personal life. Your doctor may order an examination of your body to rule out medical causes for your symptoms, including seizures or a thyroid disorder.
A physical exam consists of blood tests and a brain scan. These tests can help determine chemical or structural issues in the brain which may be causing ADHD symptoms. A physical exam may also 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 participate in the clinical trials of new treatments for adults with ADHD. These trials are conducted by research centers like NIMH. It is important to be aware that these studies may have risks and not lead to the right treatment for you.
Tell your doctor about any other medications that you are taking, as they may interact with stimulants used to treat ADHD in adults. The effectiveness of stimulants may be affected by medications that affect appetite, sleep and blood pressure. The NIMH's Medication Interactions page will provide more details on the best way to discuss other medications with your physician.
Treatment
For adults who are diagnosed with ADHD, treatment options include behavioral therapy, medication and educational assistance. It's usually a combination of all three that can help people succeed in school, work, and other activities. Referrals from primary care providers or other health professionals are the first step towards treatment. Ask about the professional's training and experience in working with adults with ADHD. If a professional is unwilling or in a position 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 others, as well as teachers. The diagnostic process could also include an assessment of family and medical history as well as a psychiatric assessment. It is crucial that the person who is being assessed for ADHD be honest and not be hesitant due to embarrassment. A person must display symptoms in more than one place and have significant impairment in their life before an ADHD diagnosis can be determined.
Untreated ADHD can result in comorbid disorders such as anxiety and depression. This is especially true if those with ADHD have a history of chronic stress or frustration in their lives. The frustration can cause an unfulfilling prophecy about underachievement and lead to feelings of self-doubt and a lack of performance.
For certain adults, being diagnosed of ADHD can be a great relief. They can start to understand their own situation and realize that it wasn't their fault that they weren't able to establish an occupation or make friends. For some adults, a diagnoses of ADHD can bring a sense sadness and regret over missed opportunities.
Adults with ADHD must always be ready to discuss their concerns openly with their supervisors, colleagues, and teachers. Consider joining an ADHD support group where those who suffer from the condition can discuss their experiences and receive advice. Also, those who have a diagnosis of ADHD should verify their health insurance coverage to see what services are covered, and to obtain the names and numbers of specialists who specialize in treating adults with ADHD.
Support
A person diagnosed with ADHD can seek treatment for symptoms and problems that affect them at the workplace, at home, in school, in relationships and in many other settings. adults diagnosed with adhd is usually treated using medication and psychotherapy. Some people discover that they also require special coaching, which can help them with structure and support in everyday life.
Adults diagnosed with ADHD are often relieved to learn that their issues aren't caused by lazy parenting or a lack of discipline. A diagnosis can be the first step towards getting the help they need.
Adults may also be affected by ADHD. It's more difficult to diagnose in children. Many adults are suffering from undiagnosed ADHD.
Diagnosing ADHD in adults requires a thorough medical examination by a psychiatrist with had experience working with this disorder. The interview might include questions about the person's family history and also the person's own social and emotional background. Certain doctors employ brain scans or computer programs to assess patients. But most experts agree that the most accurate way to determine the presence of ADHD is an extensive clinical interview and it is vital to take the patient's history into consideration when diagnosing the disorder.
Based on the nature of a person's difficulties, additional psychological or neuropsychological testing may be used to assess the presence and effects of co-existing disorders, like anxiety, learning disabilities and mood disorders, which typically are associated with ADHD. 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 friends and colleagues for recommendations to specialists who are experienced in diagnosing ADHD. Check their credentials, including academic degrees and the length of time they've been practicing. They should also be able to explain how their diagnosis process works and answer any questions you might have. You can also look for experts who are qualified on the internet or through the phone book. Find out about their approach to counseling and what type of therapy they might suggest for you.