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 could be losing their jobs due to missed deadlines, having trouble with relationships because of impulsive behaviors or having financial trouble because they forget to pay their bills or don't keep track of purchases.
Ask your doctor or mental health professional if they have any training in diagnosing ADHD among adults.
Symptoms
Find a doctor who will examine your symptoms if you suspect you or your child has ADHD. The evaluation will consist of a physical exam as well as a review of your medical background. This includes mental health issues as well as addiction to drugs. It is crucial to be honest with the doctor about your symptoms and how they impact you. Many people with ADHD conceal their symptoms because of shame or fear of being criticized. However, a thorough evaluation can give your doctor a better picture of your life.
Since adulthood is different from childhood, diagnosing ADHD in adults is more difficult than diagnosing children with the disorder. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), Fifth Edition by the American Psychiatric Association provides guidelines for diagnosis that are applicable for both children and adults. In addition to interviewing the patient, the doctor could also ask other people who are in the patient's life- such as spouse or co-habitating partner parents, siblings or coaches and teachers to comment on the person's behavior and how it has affected them. This could reveal important details that aren't revealed by tests or checklists.
In certain cases, the doctor will want to investigate other conditions that may cause similar symptoms as ADHD. These can include mood disorders, other mental health issues, and physical illnesses or injuries, like concussions or head trauma. They will also look at the person's personal and work life to determine if the symptoms interfere with their daily activities.
The symptoms of adult ADHD can vary from mild to severe with moderate symptoms causing difficulties in social and work situations. Severe symptoms may interfere with academic or work performance, strain relationships and make it difficult to live independently.
Anyone can suffer from ADHD However, it is more prevalent in men and boys than girls. There isn't a clear reason for this however it could be due to genetic and 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
Being diagnosed with ADHD isn't always easy. Many people are embarrassed by their symptoms and have difficulty speaking to a health care provider or mental health specialist. This could make the evaluation process more time-consuming. It is crucial to speak candidly and honestly about your symptoms and your past experiences for an accurate assessment.
During the evaluation your doctor will use standardized behavioral ratings scales and ADHD symptoms checklists to determine if you meet the criteria for diagnosis. Your doctor will ask you about your family and childhood history as well as a thorough description of your work and home. Your doctor may request an examination of your body to rule out medical causes for your symptoms, like seizures or a thyroid disorder.
A physical exam involves blood tests and an examination of the brain. These can help identify structural or chemical issues in the brain that could be contributing to ADHD symptoms. A physical exam may also help rule other conditions out that can cause similar symptoms, like depression or substance abuse.
It is possible that your health care provider may suggest that you participate in a clinical trial of new treatments for adults ADHD. These trials are conducted by research centers like NIMH. However, you should be aware that these studies may be risky and not lead to a treatment that is right for you.
Tell your doctor about any other medications you take, as these can interact with stimulants used to treat ADHD in adults. The effects of medications on appetite, sleep, heart rate, and blood pressure can all have an effect on how effective stimulants are. NIMH's Medication Interactions webpage provides more details on how to discuss other medications with your doctor.
Treatment
Adults with ADHD can be treated with medications, behavioral therapy and educational assistance. Most often, it's the combination of these that can help people find success in school, work and other pursuits. Treatment should begin with a referral from the primary care provider or other health professional. Find out about the professional's education and experience in working with adults with ADHD. If a professional refuses to or is unable to provide you this information, it is best to look for a different one.
The diagnostic process for adult ADHD typically includes interviews with the patient's parents or other significant others, as well as teachers. It could also include a complete medical and family history and an evaluation of the psychiatric condition. It is essential that the person who is being assessed for ADHD be honest and not hold back to avoid embarrassment. Several symptoms must be present in more than one setting and cause significant impairment in the person's life to allow an ADHD diagnosis to be established.
Many adults with untreated ADHD suffer from comorbid conditions, including anxiety and depression. This is especially true when people with ADHD have an ongoing history of tension or frustration in their lives. Frustration can cause a self fulfilling prophecy that results in low self-esteem, poor performance, and feelings of anger.
For how to get an adult adhd diagnosis who are adults, the diagnosis of ADHD can be a relief. They can start to understand the situation and realize that it wasn't their own fault that they weren't able to establish a career or meet new friends. For some adults, a diagnoses of ADHD can cause regret and sadness over missed opportunities.
Adults who suffer from ADHD must always be ready to discuss their concerns with co-workers and supervisors. It's also an excellent idea to think about joining an ADHD support group in which people who suffer from the disorder can discuss their experiences and receive help. People who have an ADHD diagnosis should check their insurance coverage and obtain the names and numbers of professionals who specialize in treating adults with ADHD.
Support
A person diagnosed as ADHD is able to receive assistance for the symptoms and issues that affect him or her in a variety settings, including at home, work, school or in relationships, and many other. Adult ADHD is usually treated using psychotherapy and medication. Some people discover that they require specific coaching, which may provide structure and support in everyday life.
Adults diagnosed with ADHD are often relieved to know that their issues aren't caused by bad parenting or lazyness. For many, getting a diagnosis is the first step in getting the support they need to live more fulfilled lives.
It is much easier to identify ADHD in children, but it isn't difficult for adults to have this disorder. In fact, many adults struggle throughout their lives with undiagnosed ADHD.
A psychiatrist who has experience with this type of disorder can identify ADHD in adults through a clinical interview. The interview may include questions regarding the patient's family history, as well as the person's own emotional and social history. Some doctors use brain scans or computer programs to evaluate patients. The majority of experts agree that an extensive interview is the best way to determine the presence of ADHD.
Depending on the nature of the difficulties a person is experiencing, additional psychological or neuropsychological tests may be required to determine the presence and effects of co-existing conditions like learning disabilities, anxiety and mood disorders that often are associated with ADHD. These tests can also help determine the right dosage of medication for an individual.
Asking your friends and colleagues to recommend specialists with expertise in diagnosing ADHD is a good idea. Check their credentials, including their academic degrees and how long they have been practicing. They should be able explain their diagnosis procedure and answer any queries that you might have. You can also look for experts who are qualified on the internet or in the phone book. Find out about their approach to counseling and what type of therapy they may suggest for you.