How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults
For many adults, the annoyance of living with ADHD symptoms is what drives them to seek an assessment. They could be losing their jobs due in part to missed deadlines, having trouble with relationships due to impulsive behavior or have financial issues due to the fact that they forget to pay bills or forget to track purchases.
Ask your doctor or a mental health professional about their experience and training in diagnosing ADHD in adults.
Signs and symptoms
If you suspect that you or your child has ADHD, the first step to seek help is to find an expert in health care who will evaluate your symptoms. Your evaluation will include both physical examinations and a review of your medical background. This will include mental health issues and substance abuse. It is essential to be open with your doctor about your issues and how they impact you. Many people suffering from ADHD are reluctant to admit their problems out of shame or for fear of being criticized. However an extensive evaluation will provide your doctor with a more accurate picture of your daily life.
Because adulthood is very 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 which are valid for both adults and children. In addition to examining the patient, the doctor may also ask others who are in the patient's life- such as spouse or co-habitating partners, parents, siblings or teachers and coaches to comment on the behavior of the patient and how it has affected them. This could reveal information that may not be included on tests or checklists.
In certain cases doctors may decide to examine other conditions which may cause similar symptoms to ADHD. These include mood disorders, other mental health conditions, as well as physical injuries or illnesses, like concussions or head trauma. They will also review the individual's personal and professional life to determine whether their symptoms are hindering their daily routine.
The symptoms of adult ADHD range from mild to moderate and moderate symptoms causing difficulty in social and work situations. The severe symptoms can hinder the performance of a job or school and can cause tension in relationships. They also make it difficult to live an independent life.
Anyone can suffer from ADHD, but it is more prevalent in men and boys than in girls. It is unclear the reason for this however it is likely that there are genetic and environmental factors at play. Certain chemicals and foods have been found to trigger ADHD in certain people. It is also possible that some people are predisposed due to brain structures that process stimuli.
Diagnosis
Finding a diagnosis of ADHD isn't always easy. People often feel embarrassed about their symptoms and have trouble speaking to a health care specialist or a mental health specialist. This can prolong the evaluation process. It is crucial to speak openly and honestly about your symptoms as well as your previous history, to ensure an accurate evaluation.
In the course of your evaluation, your doctor will use the standardized behavioral ratings scales as well as ADHD symptoms checklists to determine if you fulfill the criteria for diagnosis. Your doctor will ask you about your childhood and family history, and a detailed description your work and home. Your doctor may also order a physical exam to determine the cause of your symptoms, such as seizures or thyroid issues.
A physical exam involves blood tests and an examination of the brain. These tests can help determine structural or chemical issues within the brain that could be contributing to ADHD symptoms. A physical exam can also aid in determining other conditions that may cause similar symptoms, like depression or addiction to substances.
Your doctor may 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.
Inform your doctor about any other medications that you take, as they may interact with stimulants used to treat ADHD in adults. The effectiveness of stimulants may be affected by medications that affect sleep, appetite and blood pressure. The NIMH's Medication Interactions page will provide more details on the best way to discuss other medications with your physician.
Treatment
For adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD treatments include behavioral therapy, medication and educational assistance. It's often an amalgamation of all three that helps people achieve success at school, work, and other activities. 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 or unable to provide this information, it's best to look for a different professional.
The diagnosis process for adults with ADHD typically involves interviews with teachers, parents and other important people. It could also involve an extensive medical and family history as well as a psychiatric evaluation. It is essential that the person being evaluated for ADHD be honest and not be hesitant due to embarrassment. Several symptoms must be present in two or more settings and cause significant impairment in the individual's life to allow an ADHD diagnosis to be made.
Many adults with untreated ADHD suffer from comorbid conditions such as depression and anxiety. This is particularly the case for those with ADHD who have a history chronic stress or frustration. The frustration can cause a self-fulfilling prophecy of underachievement and lead to feelings of self-doubt and poor performance.
For those who are adults, the diagnosis of ADHD can be a relief. They can start to understand themselves and realize it wasn't entirely their fault that they weren't able to establish an occupation or make friends. For some adults, a diagnosis of ADHD can bring a sense regret and sadness over missed opportunities.
Adults with ADHD must always be ready to talk about their problems with co-workers and supervisors. Consider joining an ADHD support group where people with the condition can share their experiences and get advice. Finally, those with a diagnosis of ADHD should look into their health insurance coverage to see what services are covered and to obtain the names and numbers of professionals 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 affect them at home, at work at school, in relationships and in many other situations. adhd diagnosing for adult ADHD typically involve medication and psychotherapy. Some people also require specialized coaching to provide structure and support for their daily lives.
Adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD often feel relieved to learn that their issues aren't normal or because of bad parenting or lazyness. A diagnosis can be the first step towards receiving the assistance they require.
It is easier to diagnose ADHD in children, but it isn't difficult for adults to have this disorder. Many adults are suffering from undiagnosed ADHD.
The diagnosis of ADHD in adults requires a thorough clinical interview by a psychiatrist who has had experience working with this disorder. The interviewer can inquire about the person's social and emotional history, as well his or her family history. Some doctors utilize brain scans or computer programs to assess patients. Most experts agree that a thorough interview is the best way to determine the presence of ADHD.
Based on the nature of the issues a person faces, additional psychological or neuropsychological testing may be used to evaluate the effects and presence of co-existing conditions, such as anxiety, learning disabilities and mood disorders that often accompany ADHD. These tests can help determine the right dosage of medication for a person.
Asking friends and colleagues to recommend specialists who have expertise in diagnosing ADHD is a good idea. Check their credentials, including their academic degrees as well as how long they've been working. They should be able explain their diagnosis process and answer any questions you may have. You can also search for qualified professionals on the internet or in the phone book. Find out about their methods of counseling and what type of therapy they would recommend for you.