How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults
For many adults, the stress of being afflicted with ADHD symptoms is what leads people to seek an evaluation. They may be losing their jobs due in part to missed deadlines, or struggling with relationships because of impulsive behaviors or are having financial difficulties because they forget to pay their bills or forget to track purchases.
Ask enquiry or an expert in mental health about their education and experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults.
Signs and symptoms
If you suspect that you or your child have ADHD, the first step in getting help is to find an expert in health care who will assess your symptoms. Your evaluation will include both a physical exam as well as a review of your medical background. This will include mental health issues and alcohol abuse. It is important to be honest with your doctor about the signs and the way they affect your life. Many people with ADHD hide the problem out of shame or for fear of criticism. However an honest assessment can give your doctor a better picture of your life.
Adults differ from children, and therefore diagnosing ADHD is 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. In addition to examining the patient, the doctor might also ask others in the person's life -- such as spouse or co-habitating partners, parents, siblings or teachers and coaches -- to describe the behavior of the patient and how it has affected them. This could reveal important details that aren't revealed by tests or checklists.
In certain cases doctors may decide to look into other conditions that can cause similar symptoms to ADHD. These conditions can include mood disorders, mental health issues, and physical injuries like concussions or head trauma. They will also review the individual's personal and professional life to determine if the symptoms are affecting their daily activities.
The symptoms of adult ADHD can range from mild to moderate and moderate symptoms causing difficulty in social and work situations. In severe cases, symptoms can affect the performance of your work or school or cause stress in relationships. It can also make it difficult to live independently.
ADHD can be a problem for any person, but it is more frequent in men and boys than in girls. It is not clear the reason for this however it is likely that there are genetic and environmental factors at play. Research has 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
It's not always easy to recognize ADHD. Many people are ashamed of their symptoms and find it difficult to talk to an individual who is a mental health professional or health care provider. This could make the evaluation process longer. To ensure a thorough assessment it is crucial to be honest and open about your symptoms as well as your past medical circumstances.
During the examination, your doctor will employ standard behavioral ratings scales and ADHD symptoms checklists to determine if you fulfill the criteria of a diagnosis. Your doctor may also ask for your family history and childhood records along with an extensive description of your work and personal life. Your doctor could also recommend an examination to determine the cause of your symptoms, for example, seizures or thyroid issues.
A physical exam typically includes blood tests and a head scan, which can reveal any chemical or structural issues in the brain that may be contributing to your ADHD symptoms. A physical exam may also help identify other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, like depression or substance abuse.
Your doctor may recommend taking part in a clinical study of new treatments for ADHD in adults. These trials are conducted by research centers, including NIMH. It is important to be aware that these studies could carry negative consequences and may not provide the best treatment for you.
It is also crucial to inform your doctor any other medications you are taking, as they can interfere with certain stimulants used to treat adult ADHD. The effectiveness of stimulants may be affected by medications that affect sleep, appetite and blood pressure. The NIMH's Medication Interactions page can give you more information on how to discuss other medicines 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 help people achieve success at work, school and other activities. Referrals from primary care doctors or other health professionals are often the first step to treatment. Find out about the professional's education and experience working with adults with ADHD. If the professional is unwilling or is not able to provide you this information, it's best to find another professional.
The diagnostic process for adult ADHD typically includes interviews with the patient's parents or other significant others, as well as teachers. It could also include a complete medical and family history, as well as psychotherapy evaluation. It's important that the person being evaluated for ADHD be honest and not evading the test due to embarrassment, or fear of criticism. Multiple symptoms must be evident in a variety of settings and have a significant impact in the life of the individual for an ADHD diagnosis to be established.
Many people with untreated ADHD suffer from comorbid conditions, including anxiety and depression. This is especially true if those with ADHD have a history of chronic anxiety or discontent in their lives. The frustration can trigger a self fulfilling prophecy that can result in low self-esteem, poor performance, and feelings of anger.
A diagnosis of ADHD can be a great relief for some adults. They may begin to understand their own situation and realize that it wasn't their own fault they couldn't establish a career or make friends. However, for certain adults, being diagnosed of ADHD can come with an emotional ache and regret over missed opportunities that went unaddressed.
Adults with ADHD must be always ready to talk about their problems with their supervisors and colleagues. Consider joining an ADHD support group where people who suffer from the condition can discuss their experiences and receive guidance. Anyone with an ADHD diagnosis should verify their insurance coverage and get the names and numbers of professionals that specialize in treating adults suffering from ADHD.
Support
A person who is diagnosed with ADHD is able to seek help for the symptoms and issues that affect them at home, at work, in school, in relationships and in a variety of other settings. Adult ADHD is usually treated using psychotherapy and medications. Some people may find that they also require specialized coaching, which can provide structure and support in daily life.
Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD are often relieved to know that their problems aren't due to lazy parenting or a lack of discipline. For certain people, being diagnosed with ADHD is the first step to getting the support they need to live more fulfilled lives.
It is simpler to diagnose ADHD in children, however it is not impossible for adults to be affected by this disorder. Many adults live with undiagnosed ADHD.
The diagnosis of ADHD in adults requires a thorough medical examination by a psychiatrist who has worked with this condition for a long time. The interviewer might inquire about the person's personal and emotional history, as well as the family history of the person. Certain doctors employ brain scans or computer programs to assess patients. But most experts agree that the best indication of ADHD is an extensive clinical interview and it is vital to take the patient's history into consideration when diagnosing the disorder.
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 determine the presence and effects of co-existing conditions like anxiety, learning disabilities, and mood disorders, which often are associated with ADHD. These tests can help determine the right dosage of medication for an individual.
It's also recommended to ask friends and colleagues for recommendations to professionals who are experienced in diagnosing ADHD. Check their credentials, including academic degrees and the length of time they have been in practice. They should also be able to explain how they diagnose and answer any questions you might have. You can also search for experts who are qualified via the internet or the phone book. Ask them about their approach to therapy and what they would recommend for you.