How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults
For many adults, the frustration of living with ADHD symptoms is what leads people to seek an evaluation. They could lose their jobs due in part to missed deadlines, struggling in relationships due to impulsive behavior or are having financial difficulties because they forget bills or lose track of purchases.
Ask your doctor or a mental health professional about their training and expertise in diagnosing ADHD in adults.
Symptoms
Find a doctor who will assess your symptoms if suspect you or your child may have ADHD. The evaluation will consist of physical examinations as well as a review of your medical background. This includes mental health issues and substance abuse. It is essential that you open up to your doctor about the signs and the way they affect you. Many people with ADHD are reluctant to admit their problems due to shame or fear of criticism. However an honest assessment can give your doctor a better picture of your life.
Adults differ from children, which is why the diagnosis of ADHD is more difficult than identifying 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 applicable for both children and adults. In addition to examining the patient, the doctor could also ask other people in the life of the patient- such as spouse or co-habitating partners, parents, siblings, or teachers and coaches to comment on the person's behavior and how it has affected them. This could reveal information that may not show up on a checklist or other tests.
In certain instances, a doctor may want to examine other conditions which can cause similar symptoms to ADHD. These can include mood disorders, mental health conditions, and physical illnesses or injuries, such as concussion or head trauma. He or she will review the person's personal and work life to determine if their symptoms are affecting their daily activities.
The symptoms 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 school or job performance, strain relationships, and make it difficult to live independently.
ADHD can affect any person, but it is more prevalent in boys and men than in girls. It is unclear the reason for this, but there are probably environmental and genetic factors at play. Certain foods and chemicals have been proven to trigger ADHD in a few people. It is also possible that certain people are predisposed because of brain structures that are involved in processing stimuli.
Diagnosis
It is not always simple to determine ADHD. Many people are embarrassed by their symptoms and are unable to open up to a mental health professional or health care provider. This can delay the process of evaluation. It is crucial to speak openly and honestly about your symptoms and your past background for an accurate evaluation.
During the evaluation your doctor will employ standardized behavioral ratings scales and ADHD symptoms checklists to determine if you fulfill the criteria of a diagnosis. Your doctor will inquire about your family and childhood history, and a detailed description your home and work. Your doctor may also order an examination to determine if there is a medical cause for your symptoms, like thyroid problems or seizure disorders.
A physical exam typically includes blood work and a head scan which can reveal any chemical or structural issues within the brain that could be contributing to your ADHD symptoms. A physical exam may also aid in determining other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as depression or substance abuse.
It is possible that your health care provider might suggest you take part in an investigational trial of new treatments for adult ADHD. These trials are conducted at research centers such as NIMH. However, you must be aware that these research studies can have risks and may not lead to a treatment that is suitable for you.
Discuss with your doctor any other medications that you are taking, as they could interact with stimulants that are 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 page will provide more details about how to discuss other medicines with your doctor.
Treatment
Adults suffering from ADHD can be treated with treatment with medication, behavioral therapy and education support. Often, it's a combination of these that help people achieve success at school, work and other pursuits. Referrals from primary healthcare providers or other health professionals are often the first step in treatment. Find out about the specialist's knowledge and experience working with adults who have ADHD. If a professional refuses or is not able to provide you the information you need, it's recommended to seek out a different professional.
The diagnostic process of adult ADHD usually includes interviews with teachers, parents and other people who are significant to the child. It could also include the complete medical and family history, as well as psychiatric evaluation. It's important that the person being assessed for ADHD be honest and not evading the test due to embarrassment or fear of being criticized. A person must exhibit several symptoms in more than one place and cause significant impairment in their daily life before an ADHD diagnosis is made.
Many adults with untreated ADHD have comorbid disorders such as depression and anxiety. adult adhd diagnosis uk is especially true if those with ADHD have an ongoing history of tension or frustration in their lives. Frustration can cause self-fulfilling prophecy that results in low self-esteem, a lack of performance, and feelings of anger.
For some adults, a diagnosis of ADHD can be a source of relief. They begin to see themselves and realize it wasn't their fault they couldn't establish a career or make friends. For some adults, a diagnoses 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 co-workers and supervisors. Consider joining an ADHD support group where people who suffer from the condition can share their experiences and receive guidance. Additionally, those with the diagnosis of ADHD should verify 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 diagnosed with ADHD can seek treatment for the symptoms and issues that affect them at the workplace, at home, in school, in relationships and in a variety of other settings. Adult ADHD is usually treated with psychotherapy and medication. Some people also require special coaching to provide structure and help for their daily life.
Adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD often feel relieved to learn that their problems aren't normal or because of bad parenting or lazyness. For many, getting a diagnosis is the first step in getting the support they need to live a better life.
Adults may also be affected by ADHD. It's more difficult to recognize in children. In fact, many adults struggle all their lives with unrecognized ADHD.
Diagnosing ADHD in adults requires a thorough medical examination by a psychiatrist who has worked with this condition for a long time. The interview may include questions about the person's family history, as well as his or her own emotional and social background. Some doctors use brain scans or computer programs to evaluate patients. Most experts agree that a thorough assessment is the most effective way to determine the presence of ADHD.
Based on the nature of the difficulties a person is experiencing, additional psychological or neuropsychological testing may be used to determine the effects and presence of co-existing conditions, like anxiety, learning disabilities and mood disorders, which typically occur in conjunction with ADHD. These tests can also aid in determining the appropriate dosage of medication for a person.
Asking colleagues and friends to recommend specialists who have had experience in diagnosing ADHD is also a great idea. Check their qualifications, including academic degrees and the length of time they have worked. They should be able explain their diagnostic process and answer any questions that you might have. You can also find qualified professionals through the internet or on the phonebook. Find out about their counseling approach and what type of therapy they might suggest for you.