How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults
Many adults seek an assessment because they are frustrated by the symptoms of ADHD. They may lose their jobs due to late deadlines, have difficulty in relationships due to their impulsive behavior, or face financial issues due to the fact that they forget bills and lose 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
If you believe that you or your child has ADHD The first step towards getting assistance is to locate a health care provider who will examine your symptoms. The evaluation will consist of a physical exam and a review of your medical history. This includes mental health issues as well as alcohol abuse. It is crucial to be honest with your doctor about the signs and how they affect you. Many people with ADHD are reluctant to talk about their issues because of fear or shame criticism, but a thorough evaluation will give the doctor more of a complete picture of your life and difficulties.
Adults are different from children, so the diagnosis of ADHD can be more difficult than diagnosing 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 children and adults. The doctor may request other people in the patient's life, such as a spouse or cohabitating partner or siblings, parents or teachers and coaches, to describe how the person's behavior has affected them. This may provide information that might not show up on a checklist or other tests.
In some cases, the doctor will want to investigate other conditions that could cause similar symptoms to ADHD. These conditions can include mood disorders, mental health issues and physical injuries or illnesses like head trauma. The doctor will look over the individual's personal and professional life to determine if the symptoms are affecting their daily routine.
The signs of adult ADHD vary from mild to moderate and moderate symptoms causing difficulty in social and work situations. The severe symptoms can hinder school or job performance and can cause tension in relationships. They also make it harder to live independently.
ADHD can be an issue for anyone, but it is more common in males and boys than in girls. It is not clear why this is the case however, it is likely that there are genetic and environmental factors at play. Certain foods and chemicals have been shown to cause ADHD in certain people. It is also possible that some individuals are predisposed to it due to brain structures that process stimuli.
Diagnosis
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD is not always easy. Many people are ashamed of their symptoms and find it difficult to talk to an expert in mental health or health care professional. This could make the evaluation process longer. It is important to talk openly and honestly about your symptoms, as well as your past experiences for an accurate assessment.
During IamPsychiatry may employ the standardized behavioral rating scales as well as ADHD symptoms checklists to determine if you meet the criteria for a diagnosis of ADHD. Your doctor will also inquire for your family history and childhood information along with an extensive description of your job and family life. Your doctor may order a physical examination to rule out medical causes for your symptoms, including seizures or a thyroid disorder.
A physical exam involves blood tests and brain scans. These tests can help to identify structural or chemical problems in the brain which could be contributing to ADHD symptoms. A physical exam can also help rule other conditions out that could cause similar symptoms, such as depression or substance abuse.
Your doctor might suggest that you take part in clinical studies of new treatments for ADHD in adults. These trials are conducted by research centers, such as NIMH. However, it is important to be aware that these trials may be risky and not result in a solution that is suitable for you.
It is also important to tell your doctor any other medications you are taking, as they may interact with stimulants that are used to treat adult ADHD. The effects of medications on appetite, sleep heart rate, sleep, and blood pressure can affect how effective stimulants are. The NIMH's Medication Interactions webpage can provide additional information on how you can discuss other medications with your health care provider.
Treatment
Adults suffering from ADHD can be treated with medications, behavioral therapy and educational assistance. It's often a combination of all three that can help people achieve success at school, work and other endeavors. Referrals from primary care providers or other health professionals are usually the first step in treatment. Ask the professional about their knowledge and experience working with adults with ADHD. If the professional is unwilling or is unable to provide you this information, it's best to look for a different one.
The diagnosis process for adults with ADHD typically includes interviews with the patient, parents or other significant people, and teachers. The diagnostic process could also include an assessment of family and medical history and a psychiatric assessment. It's important that the person being evaluated for ADHD be honest and not shy away because of embarrassment or fear of criticism. A person must display symptoms in more than one place and cause an impairment that is significant in their daily lives before an ADHD diagnosis is made.
Many people with untreated ADHD suffer from comorbid conditions, including anxiety and depression. This is especially true for those who suffer from ADHD who have a history chronic stress or a sense of frustration. The frustration can trigger self-fulfilling prophecy that can result in low self-esteem, a lack of performance and feelings of frustration.
For certain adults, being diagnosed of ADHD can be a source of relief. They can begin to understand their own behavior and realize that it wasn't because of them that they could not make friends or build an occupation. For certain adults, being diagnosed of ADHD can be accompanied by feelings of sadness and regret for missed opportunities that were not addressed.
Adults who suffer from ADHD should always be prepared to talk about their problems 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 talk about their experiences and seek assistance. Finally, those with a diagnosis of ADHD should verify their health insurance coverage to determine what services are covered and to find the names and numbers of specialists who specialize in treating adults with ADHD.
Support
A person diagnosed with ADHD is able to seek help to address the issues and symptoms that plague him or her at home, at work at school, in relationships and in many other situations. Treatments for adults with ADHD typically include psychotherapy and medications. Some people may find that they require specialized coaching, which can provide structure and help in everyday life.
Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD often feel relieved to learn that their issues aren't normal or because of lazy parenting or a lack of discipline. For many, getting a diagnosis is the first step in getting the support they need to live better lives.
It is simpler to diagnose ADHD in children, however it isn't impossible for adults to have this disorder. Many adults are suffering from undiagnosed ADHD.
A psychiatrist with experience in this type of disorder can diagnose ADHD in adults through a clinical interview. The interview might include questions regarding the patient's family history, and also the person's own emotional and social history. Certain doctors employ brain scans or computer programs to evaluate a patient. However, the majority of experts agree that the most reliable indicator of ADHD is a thorough clinical interview and it is vital to take the history of a patient into consideration when diagnosing the disorder.
Based on the nature of the difficulties a person is experiencing and the severity of their issues, additional psycho- or neuropsychological testing may be used to assess the presence and impact of co-existing conditions such as anxiety, learning disabilities and mood disorders that often occur in conjunction with ADHD. These tests can also aid in determining the appropriate dosage of medication for an individual.
It's also recommended to ask friends and colleagues for recommendations to professionals who are experts in diagnosing ADHD. You should then verify their qualifications, including academic degrees and the number of years they have been in practice. They should also be able to explain the process of diagnosis and answer any questions you might have. You can also look for experts who are certified through the internet or on the phone book. Ask them about their approach to therapy and what they would recommend for you.