How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults
For many adults, the frustration of living with ADHD symptoms is what prompts them to seek an evaluation. They could lose their jobs due in part to missed deadlines, having trouble with relationships because of impulsive behaviors or having financial trouble because they forget bills or don't keep track of purchases.
Ask your doctor or a mental health professional about their experience and training in diagnosing ADHD in adults.
Symptoms
Find a doctor who can examine your symptoms if you think your child or you is suffering from ADHD. The evaluation will consist of a physical exam and a review your medical background. This will include mental health issues as well as alcohol abuse. It is important to be open with your doctor about the symptoms you are experiencing and how they impact you. Many people with ADHD conceal their symptoms out of shame or for fear of criticism. However an extensive evaluation will give your doctor a better picture of your life.
Because adulthood is very different from childhood, diagnosing ADHD in adults can be more complicated than diagnosing children with the disorder. The American Psychological Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5) offers guidelines for diagnosing ADHD that are generally applicable for adults as well as children. In addition to examining the patient, the doctor might also ask others in the life of the patient- such as spouse or co-habitating partner siblings, parents or coaches and teachers -- to describe the person's behavior and how it has affected them. This can reveal information that might not show up on a checklist or other tests.
In certain cases the doctor may want to investigate other conditions that may cause similar symptoms as ADHD. These include mood disorders, mental health issues, and physical injuries or illnesses like head trauma. He or she will also examine the individual's personal and professional life to determine if their symptoms affect their daily activities.
The signs of adult ADHD can range from mild to severe with moderate symptoms that cause difficulty in social and work situations. Severe symptoms can interfere with work or school performance, strain relationships, and make it harder to live an independent life.
Everyone can be affected by ADHD, but it is more prevalent in men and boys than girls. It is not clear why this is the case however, it is likely that there are genetic and environmental factors in play. Certain chemicals and foods have been proven to cause ADHD in certain individuals. It is also possible that some people are predisposed due to brain structures involved in processing stimuli.
Diagnosis
Finding a diagnosis of ADHD isn't always easy. Many sufferers are embarrassed by their symptoms and have difficulty talking to a healthcare provider or a mental health professional. This can make the process of evaluation longer. It is essential to speak openly and honestly about your symptoms and your previous background to ensure a thorough evaluation.
During the exam your doctor may employ standard behavioral rating scales and ADHD symptom checklists to determine if you meet the criteria to be diagnosed of ADHD. 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 also order a physical exam to determine if there is a medical cause for your symptoms, like seizures or thyroid issues.
A physical exam consists of blood tests and an examination of the brain. These tests can help to identify structural or chemical problems within the brain that could be contributing to ADHD symptoms. A physical exam can also help identify other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, like addiction to drugs or depression.
It is possible that your health care provider might suggest you take part in an investigational trial of new treatments for adults with ADHD. These trials are conducted by research centers like NIMH. Be aware that these studies could pose risks and not lead to the right treatment for you.
Tell your doctor about any other medications you take, as these can interact with stimulants used to treat ADHD in adults. Medications that affect appetite, sleep, heart rate and blood pressure could all have an effect on how effective stimulants are. The NIMH's Medication Interactions page can provide you with more information about how to discuss other medicines with your doctor.
Treatment
For adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD Treatment options include medication, behavioral therapy and educational support. It's often a combination of these that help people find success in school, work and other pursuits. Referrals from primary care doctors or other health professionals are the first step in treatment. Check out the professional's qualifications and experience in working with adults with ADHD. If the professional is unwilling or not able to give this information, you should seek another professional.
The diagnosis process for adults with ADHD typically involves interviews with the patient, parents or other significant others and teachers. The process of diagnosis may include an examination of the family and medical history and an assessment of the psychiatric condition. It is crucial that the person being assessed for ADHD be honest and not hold back due to embarrassment. adhd uk diagnosis must exhibit several symptoms in two or more locations and exhibit an impairment that is significant in their life before an ADHD diagnosis can be made.
Untreated ADHD can result in comorbid disorders such as anxiety and depression. This is particularly true when those with ADHD have an underlying history of chronic stress or frustration in their lives. The frustration can trigger a self fulfilling prophecy that causes lower self-esteem, low performance, and feelings of anger.
A diagnosis of ADHD may be a relief for certain adults. They will begin to understand themselves better and realize that it wasn't because of them that they were unable to make friends or start a career. However, for certain adults, a diagnosis of ADHD may be accompanied by feelings of sadness and regret for missed opportunities that went unaddressed.
Adults suffering from ADHD must always be ready to discuss their issues with their supervisors and colleagues. It's also an excellent idea to think about joining an ADHD support group in which people who suffer from the disorder can share their experiences and get assistance. Finally, those with a diagnosis of ADHD should check their health insurance coverage to determine what services are covered, and to get names and numbers of specialists who specialize in treating adults with ADHD.
Support
A person who is diagnosed with ADHD can get help for symptoms and problems that afflict him or her at home, at work, in the classroom, in relationships and in many other settings. Treatments for adult ADHD typically include psychotherapy and medication. Some people may find that they also need special coaching, which can provide structure and help in everyday life.
Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD often feel relieved to learn that their troubles weren't just normal or because of poor parenting or laziness. A diagnosis can be the first step towards receiving the help they require.
Adults also have the potential to suffer from ADHD. It's more difficult to recognize in children. Many adults suffer from undiagnosed ADHD.
Diagnosing ADHD in adults requires a thorough clinical interview by a psychiatrist with had experience working with this disorder. The interviewer may ask about the person's social and emotional history, as well as his or her family history. Some doctors use brain scans or computer programs to evaluate patients. However, most experts agree that the best indication of ADHD is an exhaustive clinical interview. It is also believed it is vital to take a patient's history into consideration when determining the severity of the disorder.
Depending on the nature of a person's difficulties, additional psychological or neuropsychological testing may be used to evaluate the effects and presence of co-existing disorders, like anxiety, learning disabilities and mood disorders, which often occur in conjunction with ADHD. These tests can also aid in determining the appropriate dosage of medication for an individual.
Asking friends and colleagues to recommend specialists who have had experience in diagnosing ADHD is a great idea. Check their credentials, including their academic degrees and the length of time they have been practicing. They should be able explain their diagnostic procedure and answer any queries that you might have. You can also search for experts who are qualified on the internet or through the phone book. Ask them about their philosophy of therapy and what they would suggest for you.