How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults
Many adults seek an assessment because they are dissatisfied with the symptoms of ADHD. They could lose their jobs due to missed deadlines, struggle in relationships due to their impulsive behavior or have financial problems due to the fact that they forget bills and forget to track purchases.
Ask your health care provider or a mental health professional about their training and expertise in diagnosing ADHD in adults.
Symptoms
Find a doctor to examine your symptoms if you think your child or you may have ADHD. Your assessment will consist of physical examinations and a review your medical background. This will include mental health issues and alcohol abuse. It is crucial that you are honest with your doctor about the symptoms and the way they affect you. Many people with ADHD hide their problems out of fear or shame criticism, but a thorough evaluation will provide the doctor with a more complete picture of your lifestyle and problems.
Adults differ from children, and therefore 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 that are appropriate for both adults and children. The doctor may ask other people who are in the patient's life such as the spouse or cohabiting partner or parents, siblings teachers, coaches, and other teachers, to describe how the person's behavior has affected them. This may provide information that might not show up on tests or checklists.
In some instances the doctor may decide to look into other conditions that could cause similar symptoms to ADHD. These conditions include mood disorders, mental health issues and physical injuries or illnesses like head trauma. He or she will also look at the person's work and personal life to determine how their symptoms impact their daily routines.
The symptoms of adult ADHD can vary from mild to severe with moderate symptoms causing some difficulties in social and work situations. adhd uk diagnosis may interfere with academic or work performance or cause stress in relationships. It can also make it difficult to live independently.
ADHD can be a problem for anyone, but it is more common in males and boys than in girls. It is unclear the reason for this however, it is likely that there are genetic and environmental factors in play. Studies have shown that certain chemicals and foods can cause ADHD in certain individuals, and it is possible that some individuals are more likely to develop the condition due to the existence of specific brain structures involved in the processing of stimuli.
Diagnosis
Finding a diagnosis of ADHD isn't always straightforward. Many people are insecure about their symptoms and are unable to talk to a mental health professional or health care provider. This can make the evaluation process even longer. It is essential to speak honestly and openly about your symptoms, as well as your previous experiences to ensure an accurate evaluation.
During the evaluation your doctor will utilize the standardized behavioral ratings scales as well as ADHD symptoms checklists to determine if you fulfill the criteria for a diagnosis. Your doctor may also ask for your family history and childhood information along with an extensive description of your job and personal life. Your doctor may also order an exam to determine if there is a medical cause for your symptoms, for example, seizures or thyroid issues.
A physical exam typically involves blood tests and a head scan, which can help identify any structural or chemical issues within the brain that may be contributing to your ADHD symptoms. A physical exam can also help identify other conditions that may cause similar symptoms, such as depression or substance abuse.
Your doctor may suggest taking part in clinical studies of new treatments for ADHD in adults. These trials are conducted by research centers, such as NIMH. Be aware that these studies could pose potential risks and may not result in the right treatment for you.
It is also essential to tell your doctor any other medications you are taking, as they can interact with stimulants that are used to treat adult ADHD. The effects of medications on sleep, appetite, heart rate, and blood pressure can all affect the effectiveness of stimulants. 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 medications, behavioral therapy and educational support. Most often, it's a combination of these that can help people find success in school, work and other areas. Referrals from primary care doctors or other health professionals are usually the first step in treatment. Ask the professional about their knowledge and experience working with adults suffering from ADHD. If a professional is unwilling or not able to provide this information, you should look for a different professional.
The diagnosis process for adults with ADHD typically includes interviews with the patient, parents or other significant people, and teachers. The diagnostic process may also include a medical and family history as well as an assessment of psychiatric issues. It is important that the person who is being assessed for ADHD be honest and not be hesitant to avoid embarrassment. Several symptoms must be present in two or more settings and have a significant impact in the individual's life to allow an ADHD diagnosis to be established.
Untreated ADHD can cause the development of comorbid disorders, such as anxiety and depression. This is especially true for those who suffer from ADHD who have a history chronic anxiety or frustration. Frustration can cause self-fulfilling prophecy that causes lower self-esteem, low performance and feelings of frustration.
A diagnosis of ADHD can be a great relief for certain adults. They may begin to understand themselves and realize it wasn't their responsibility for not being able to build a career or meet new friends. For some adults, a diagnosis of ADHD can bring a sense sadness and regret over missed opportunities.
Adults suffering from ADHD must always be ready to talk about their problems with their supervisors and colleagues. It's also recommended to think about joining an ADHD support group, where people with the disorder can discuss their experiences and receive advice. Anyone with an ADHD diagnosis should look into their insurance coverage and obtain the names and numbers of professionals who specialize in treating adults suffering from ADHD.
Support
A person who is diagnosed with ADHD can get help to address the issues and symptoms that afflict him or her at work, at home at school, in relationships and in a variety of other settings. Treatments for adults with ADHD usually include psychotherapy and medication. Some people also require special coaching to provide structure and help for their daily lives.
Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD are often relieved to learn that their problems aren't due to poor parenting or laziness. A diagnosis could be the first step in receiving the assistance they require.
It is easier to diagnose ADHD in children, however it isn't impossible for adults to be affected by this disorder. Many adults suffer from undiagnosed ADHD.
A psychiatrist who has expertise in this kind of condition can identify ADHD in adults through a clinical interview. The interview may include questions about the individual's family history and also their own personal social and emotional history. Some doctors use computer programs or brain scans to evaluate a patient. Most experts agree that a thorough interview is the best way to determine if a patient has ADHD.
Depending on the nature of a person's difficulties, additional psychological or neuropsychological testing may be used to determine the presence and impact of co-existing conditions like learning disabilities, anxiety and mood disorders that often accompany ADHD. The results of these tests may also help in determining the proper dosage of medication for a particular person.
Asking friends and colleagues to recommend specialists with experience diagnosing ADHD is a great idea. Examine their credentials, including their academic degrees and how long they have been practicing. They should be able to explain their diagnostic process and answer any questions that you might have. You can also look for experts who are qualified via the internet or the phone book. Ask them about their philosophy of therapy and what they would recommend for you.