How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults
For many adults, the annoyance of living with ADHD symptoms is what drives people to seek an evaluation. They could lose their jobs due in part to missed deadlines, or struggling with relationships due to their impulsive behavior or are having financial difficulties because they forget bills or lose track of purchases.
Ask your doctor or mental health professional if they have any experience in diagnosing ADHD among adults.
Signs and symptoms
If you suspect that you or your child suffer from ADHD, the first step in getting assistance is to locate a health care provider who will assess your symptoms. Your evaluation will include both a physical exam and a review your medical background. This will include mental health issues and substance abuse. It is crucial that you open up to your doctor about the signs and how they impact your life. Many people suffering from ADHD are reluctant to talk about their issues because of shame or fear of criticism However, a thorough evaluation will provide the doctor with a more complete picture of your lifestyle and problems.
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) provides guidelines for diagnosing ADHD that are generally applicable for adults as well as children. In addition to interviewing the patient, the doctor could also ask others in the life of the patientfor example, spouse or co-habitating partners parents, siblings or coaches and teachers to provide a description of the person's behavior and how it has affected them. This can provide information that might not be included on tests or checklists.
In certain cases doctors may decide to investigate other conditions that can cause similar symptoms to ADHD. These conditions include mental health issues and physical injuries or illnesses such as concussions or head trauma. He or she will also review the person's personal and work life to determine if their symptoms impact their daily routines.
The symptoms of adult ADHD can vary from mild to severe, with moderate symptoms causing difficulty in work and social situations. The severe symptoms can hinder school or job performance, strain relationships, and make it harder to live independently.
Anyone can have ADHD However, it is more common in men and boys than girls. It is not clear why this difference exists however, it is likely that there are environmental and genetic factors at play. Studies have shown that certain chemicals and foods can cause ADHD in certain people, and it's possible that some individuals are predisposed to develop the condition due to the existence specific brain structures that are involved in the processing of stimuli.
Diagnosis
It's not always easy to diagnose ADHD. People often feel embarrassed about their symptoms and have difficulty opening up to a health care doctor or a mental health professional. This can make the process of evaluation even longer. It is important to talk candidly and honestly about your symptoms and your previous medical history to ensure a thorough evaluation.
During the exam the doctor will use the standardized behavioral rating scales as well as ADHD symptoms checklists to determine if you are able to meet the criteria for a diagnosis of ADHD. Your doctor will inquire about your childhood and family history as well as a thorough description of your home and work. Your doctor may also order an examination to determine if there is a medical cause for your symptoms, like seizures or thyroid issues.
A physical exam typically includes blood tests and a head scan which can help identify any structural or chemical issues in the brain that may be causing your ADHD symptoms. A physical exam can also aid in determining other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, like depression or substance abuse.
It is possible that your doctor might suggest you participate in a clinical trial of new treatments for adults ADHD. These trials are conducted at research centers like NIMH. However, you must be aware that these trials can have risks and may not result in a treatment that is suitable for you.
Inform your doctor about any other medications you take, as these can interact with stimulants used to treat ADHD in adults. The effectiveness of stimulants can be affected by medications that affect sleep, appetite and blood pressure. The NIMH's Medication Interactions webpage provides more details on how to discuss other medications with your doctor.
Treatment
Adults suffering from ADHD may be treated by treatment with medication, behavioral therapy and educational support. Often, it's a combination of these that can help people find success in school, work and other areas. Treatment should begin with a referral from a primary care provider or another health care professional. Find out about the specialist's training and experience working with adults with ADHD. If the professional is unwilling or not able to give this information, it's best to find a different one.
The diagnostic process of adult ADHD typically involves interviews with parents, teachers and other significant people. The process of diagnosis may include an assessment of family and medical history and a psychiatric assessment. It is crucial that the person being assessed for ADHD be honest and not shy away due to embarrassment, or fear of criticism. A person must exhibit several symptoms in two or more locations and cause an impairment that is significant in their daily life before an ADHD diagnosis can be determined.
Many adults with untreated ADHD suffer from comorbid conditions such as depression and anxiety. how to get an adult adhd diagnosis is particularly true when people with ADHD have an ongoing history of anxiety or discontent in their lives. The frustration can trigger a self fulfilling prophecy that causes low self-esteem, poor performance and feelings of frustration.
A diagnosis of ADHD could be a source of relief for certain adults. They will begin to understand themselves better and realize that it wasn't their fault they couldn't make friends or establish an occupation. For some adults, the diagnoses of ADHD can trigger feelings of regret and sadness over missed opportunities.
Adults suffering from ADHD should always be prepared to discuss their issues with their supervisors and colleagues. It's also a good idea to consider joining an ADHD support group in which people who suffer from the disorder can discuss their experiences and receive assistance. Finally, those with an diagnosis of ADHD should verify their health insurance coverage to see what services are covered and to get names and numbers of specialists who specialize in treating adults suffering from ADHD.
Support
A person diagnosed as ADHD can seek help for the symptoms and problems that affect them in a variety of situations that include at work, home, school, in relationships, and many more. Treatments for adult ADHD typically include psychotherapy and medications. Some people also require special coaching to provide structure and help for their daily life.
Adults diagnosed with ADHD are often relieved to learn that their issues aren't caused by lazy parenting or a lack of discipline. A diagnosis can be the first step in getting the help they need.
Adults also have the potential to suffer from ADHD. It's more difficult to identify in children. In fact, many adults struggle throughout their lives with undiagnosed ADHD.
Diagnosing ADHD in adults requires a thorough medical examination by a psychiatrist who has experience working with this condition. The interview may include questions about the person's family history as well as their own personal social and emotional history. Some doctors utilize brain scans or computer programs to determine the health of a patient. The majority of experts agree that a thorough assessment is the most effective way to determine if a patient has ADHD.
Based on the nature of the issues a person faces depending on the nature of the problem, additional neuropsychological or psychological testing may be used to evaluate the effects and presence of co-existing conditions, such as learning disabilities, anxiety and mood disorders, which often are associated with ADHD. These tests can also help determine the proper dosage of medication for a person.
It is also recommended to ask friends and colleagues for recommendations to specialists who are experts in diagnosing ADHD. Verify their credentials, such as their academic degrees and how long they've been working. They should be able explain their diagnosis procedure and answer any queries that you may have. You can also look for experts who are certified through the internet or on the phonebook. Ask them about their counseling approach and what kind of therapy they may recommend for you.