How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults
Many adults seek out an assessment due to being dissatisfied with the symptoms of ADHD. They could lose their jobs due to missed deadlines, struggle in relationships due to their impulsive behavior, or face financial issues because they forget to pay bills and lose track of purchases.
Ask your doctor or mental health professional if they have training in diagnosing ADHD in adults.
Symptoms
Find a doctor who can assess your symptoms if suspect you or your child is suffering from ADHD. Your assessment will consist of physical examinations and a review of your medical background. This includes mental health issues and substance abuse. It is important to be open with your doctor about your symptoms and how they affect you. Many people with ADHD shy away from their problems because of shame or fear of criticism However, a thorough evaluation will give your doctor an accurate picture of your life and your difficulties.
Adults differ from children, which is why diagnosing ADHD is more difficult than identifying ADHD in children. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), Fifth Edition published by the American Psychiatric Association provides guidelines for diagnosis that are applicable for both adults and children. The doctor might request other people in the patient's life, for example, spouses or cohabiting partners or parents, siblings, teachers, and coaches to explain how the person's behavior has affected them. This can reveal information that might not be included on a checklist or other tests.
In some cases the doctor may decide to examine other conditions that can cause similar symptoms as ADHD. These conditions can include mood disorders, mental health issues and physical injuries like concussions or head trauma. He or she will also look at the person's personal and work life to determine if their symptoms affect their daily routines.
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 schoolwork or work performance and can cause tension in relationships, making it difficult to live independently.
adhd uk diagnosis can suffer from ADHD It is more prevalent in men and boys than girls. It is unclear why this difference exists, but there are probably environmental and genetic factors at play. Studies have shown that certain chemicals and foods can cause ADHD in certain individuals, and it is possible that some individuals are predisposed to develop the condition due to the existence specific brain structures that are that are involved in processing stimuli.
Diagnosis
It's not always easy to diagnose ADHD. Many people are embarrassed by their symptoms and have trouble speaking to a healthcare doctor or a mental health professional. This can prolong the process of evaluation. It is important to talk openly and honestly about your symptoms, as well as your past history for an accurate assessment.
During the evaluation your doctor will employ standardized behavioral ratings scales and ADHD symptoms checklists to determine if you fulfill the criteria of a diagnosis. Your doctor will ask you about your family history and childhood, and a detailed description your home and work. Your doctor may also order an exam to determine if there is a medical cause for your symptoms, like thyroid problems or seizure disorders.
A physical exam includes blood tests and an examination of the brain. These tests can help determine structural or chemical issues within the brain that could be causing 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 doctor might suggest you participate in a clinical trial of new treatments for adult ADHD. These trials are conducted by research centers such as NIMH. Be aware that these studies could pose potential risks and may not result in the right treatment for you.
Inform your doctor about any other medications 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 can provide you with more information on the best way to discuss other medications with your doctor.
Treatment
Adults with ADHD can be treated with medications, behavioral therapy and educational assistance. Often, it's the combination of these that can help people achieve success at school, work and other activities. Referrals from primary care doctors or other health professionals are the first step towards treatment. Ask about the professional's training and experience working with adults with ADHD. If how to get an adult adhd diagnosis 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 involves interviews with the patient's parents or other significant others and teachers. The process of diagnosis may include an assessment of family and medical history as well as an assessment of psychiatric issues. It is crucial that the person being evaluated for ADHD be honest and not hold back because of embarrassment. A person has to show symptoms in more than one place and cause significant impairment in their daily life before an ADHD diagnosis can be determined.
Many adults suffering from untreated ADHD suffer from comorbid conditions such as depression and anxiety. This is particularly relevant for people with ADHD who have a history of chronic stress or a sense of frustration. It can lead to self-fulfilling prophecy that causes low self-esteem, poor performance, and feelings of anger.
A diagnosis of ADHD may be a relief for certain adults. They may begin to understand their own situation and realize that it wasn't their responsibility for not being able to build a career or make friends. For some adults, the diagnoses of ADHD can cause regret and sadness over missed opportunities.
Adults with ADHD must always be ready to discuss their concerns openly with co-workers, supervisors and teachers. Consider joining an ADHD support group where those who suffer from the condition can share their experiences and receive guidance. People with an ADHD diagnosis should check their insurance coverage and obtain the names and numbers of professionals that specialize in treating adults with ADHD.
Support
A person diagnosed with ADHD can get help to address the issues and symptoms that affect them at the workplace, at home, in relationships, at school and in many other settings. Adult ADHD is usually treated with medication and psychotherapy. Some individuals also discover they need specialized coaching to provide structure and help for their daily lives.
Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD are often relieved to know their issues aren't caused by bad parenting or lazyness. For many, getting a diagnosis is the first step in getting the help they need to live better lives.
It is easier to diagnose ADHD in children, but it isn't impossible for adults to have this disorder. In fact, many adults have struggled throughout their lives with undiagnosed ADHD.
A psychiatrist who has experience with this condition can diagnose ADHD in adults by conducting a clinical interview. The interviewer can inquire about the person's personal and emotional history, as also the family history of the person. Some doctors use computer programs or brain scans to determine the health of a patient. The majority of experts agree that an extensive interview is the best method to determine the presence of ADHD.
Based on the nature of the difficulties a person is experiencing depending on the nature of the problem, additional neuropsychological or psychological tests can be conducted to assess the presence and effects of co-existing disorders, like anxiety, learning disabilities, and mood disorders, which often accompany ADHD. These tests can also help determine the proper dosage of medication for a person.
Asking friends and colleagues to recommend specialists with had experience in diagnosing ADHD is a great idea. Check their credentials, including academic degrees and the length of time they've been practicing. They should also be able explain the process of diagnosis and answer any questions you have. You can also search for qualified professionals on the internet or in the phonebook. Ask them about their method of therapy and what advice they would give you.