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How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults
Many adults seek out an assessment due to being dissatisfied with the symptoms of ADHD. They could be losing their jobs due in part to missed deadlines, having trouble with relationships due to their impulsive behavior or are having financial difficulties due to the fact that they forget to pay bills or don't keep track of purchases.
Ask your health care provider or an expert in mental health about their training and expertise in diagnosing ADHD in adults.
Symptoms
Find a doctor to assess your symptoms if suspect that you or your child has ADHD. Your assessment will consist of physical examination and a review of your medical history. This includes mental health issues as well as alcohol abuse. It is crucial to be open with your doctor about your symptoms and how they impact your life. Many people suffering from ADHD hide the problem due to shame or fear of criticism. However, a thorough evaluation can provide your doctor with a clearer picture of your life.
diagnosed with adult adhd are different from children, so diagnosing ADHD can be more challenging than diagnosing ADHD in children. The American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) provides guidelines for diagnosis that are generally applicable for adults as well as children. In addition to interviewing the patient, the doctor could also ask others in the person's life -for example, spouse or co-habitating partner parents, siblings or coaches and teachers -- to describe the person's behavior and how it has affected them. This can reveal crucial information that isn't found in tests or checklists.
In certain cases the doctor may want to look into other conditions that can cause similar symptoms to ADHD. These can include mood disorders, other mental health issues, and physical illnesses or injuries, such as concussion or head trauma. He or she will also review the person's work and personal life to determine if the symptoms impact their daily activities.
The signs of adult ADHD vary from mild to moderate, with moderate symptoms causing difficulties in work and social situations. Severe symptoms may interfere with the performance of your work or school, strain relationships and make it difficult to live independently.
ADHD can be an issue for anyone, but it is more frequent in men and boys than in girls. It is not clear why this difference exists, but there are probably environmental and genetic factors at play. Studies have shown that certain foods and chemicals can cause ADHD in certain people, and it is possible that some people are more likely to develop the condition because of certain brain structures that are involved in processing stimuli.
Diagnosis
Finding a diagnosis of ADHD isn't always easy. People often feel embarrassed about their symptoms and have difficulty opening up to a healthcare provider or mental health specialist. This can delay the evaluation process. It is crucial to speak openly and honestly about your symptoms and your previous medical background to ensure a thorough evaluation.
During the examination the doctor will use standardized behavioral rating scales and ADHD symptoms checklists to determine if you are able to meet the criteria for a diagnosis of ADHD. Your doctor may also ask for your family and childhood history and a detailed description of your job and family life. Your doctor may order a physical examination to rule out medical causes for your symptoms, such seizures or a thyroid disorder.
A physical exam typically involves blood work and a head scan, which can help identify any structural or chemical issues in the brain that may be contributing to your ADHD symptoms. A physical exam can help identify other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as addiction or depression.
It is possible that your health care provider will recommend that you participate in a clinical trial of new treatments for adult ADHD. These trials are conducted by research centers like NIMH. However, you should be aware that these trials can have risks and may not result in a solution that is suitable for you.
It is also important to tell your doctor any other medications you're taking, since they could interact with some stimulants used to treat adult ADHD. The effects of medications on sleep, appetite heart rate, appetite and blood pressure may all affect how effective stimulants are. The NIMH's Medication Interactions page will give you more information about the best way to discuss other medications with your doctor.
Treatment
For adults diagnosed with ADHD treatments include medication, behavioral therapy and educational assistance. Often, it's the combination of these that can help people to achieve success in school, work and other pursuits. Referrals from primary care doctors or other health professionals are often the first step in treatment. Ask about the professional's training and experience working with adults suffering from ADHD. If a professional is unwilling unable to provide this information, you should find a different one.
The diagnostic process for adult ADHD typically includes interviews with the patient's parents or other significant others and teachers. It could also include the complete medical and family history as well as a an evaluation of the psychiatric condition. It's important that the person being assessed for ADHD be honest and not shy away due to embarrassment, or fear of being criticized. A person has to show symptoms in two or more locations and exhibit a significant impairment in their daily life before an ADHD diagnosis can be made.
Untreated ADHD can lead to the development of comorbid disorders, such as depression and anxiety. This is especially true when people with ADHD have a history of chronic tension or frustration in their lives. Discontent can result in an unfulfilling prophecy about underachievement and can lead to feelings of low self-esteem and a poor performance.
For some adults, a diagnosis of ADHD can be a relief. They can begin to understand their own behavior and realize that it wasn't their fault they were unable to make friends or start an occupation. For some adults, a diagnosis of ADHD can cause grief and regret about missed opportunities.
Adults who suffer from ADHD should be prepared to discuss their issues openly with co-workers, supervisors and teachers. Consider joining an ADHD support group where people who suffer from the condition can share their experiences and receive guidance. People with an ADHD diagnosis should verify their insurance coverage and obtain the names and phone numbers of specialists that specialize in treating adults who have ADHD.
Support
A person diagnosed with ADHD can seek help for the symptoms and problems that affect him or her in a variety settings that include at work, home at school or in relationships, and many more. Adult ADHD is usually treated using psychotherapy and medications. Some people find that they also need specialized coaching, which can provide structure and support in daily life.
Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD often are relieved to know that their issues aren't normal, or due to bad parenting or lazyness. For many, getting a diagnosis is the first step to getting the help they need to live a better life.
It is simpler to diagnose ADHD in children, however it is not impossible for adults to be affected by this disorder. In fact, many adults struggle all their lives with unrecognized ADHD.
The diagnosis of ADHD in adults requires a thorough and thorough interview by a psychiatrist who has experience working with this condition. The interview could include questions regarding the patient's family history, and also his or her own social and emotional background. Some doctors utilize brain scans or computer programs to assess patients. However, the majority of experts agree that the most accurate indication of ADHD is an exhaustive clinical interview. It is also believed it is vital to take the history of a patient into consideration when determining the severity of the disorder.
Based on the severity and nature of the individual's issues and the co-existing conditions such as mood disorders, anxiety and learning disabilities that typically are associated with ADHD additional tests for neuropsychology and psychological testing could be conducted to determine the effect and severity of these conditions. The results of these tests may also be helpful in determining the right dosage of medications for a particular person.
Asking your friends and colleagues to recommend specialists who have experience diagnosing ADHD is a great idea. Verify their credentials, such as their academic degrees and how long they've been in practice. They should also be able to explain the process of diagnosis and answer any questions you might have. You can also find professional who are qualified online or in the phone book. Find out about their approach to counseling and what kind of therapy they might suggest for you.
