How to Diagnose how to get an adult adhd diagnosis in Adults
For many adults, the frustration of being afflicted with ADHD symptoms is what prompts them to seek an assessment. They could lose their jobs due in part to missed deadlines, having trouble with relationships because of impulsive behaviors or having financial trouble because they forget to pay their bills or don't keep track of purchases.
Ask your health care provider or a mental health professional about their education and experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults.
Symptoms
If you suspect that you or your child have ADHD, the first step to seek assistance is to find a health care provider who will assess your symptoms. The assessment will include physical examination as well as an analysis of your medical history, including mental health issues as well as substance use. It is important that you are honest with your doctor about the signs and how they affect you. Many people suffering from ADHD are reluctant to talk about their issues because of fear or shame criticism, but a thorough evaluation will give the doctor a more complete picture of your life and problems.
Since adulthood is different from childhood, diagnosing ADHD in adults can be more complicated 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 that are appropriate for both children and adults. In addition to examining the patient, the doctor might also ask others in the life of the patient- 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 can reveal information that may not show up on a checklist or other tests.
In some cases the doctor may want to examine other conditions that may cause similar symptoms to ADHD. These conditions could include mental health conditions and physical injuries like head trauma. The doctor will also review the person's personal and work life to determine if the symptoms interfere with their daily activities.
The symptoms of adult ADHD can vary from mild to severe with moderate symptoms that cause difficulties in social and work situations. Severe symptoms may interfere with the performance of your work or school, strain relationships and make it difficult to live a life of independence.
ADHD can be an issue for anyone, but it is more frequent in men and boys than in girls. It is unclear why this is the case however it is likely that there are genetic and environmental factors in play. Research has shown that certain foods and chemicals can cause ADHD in certain people, and it is possible that some people are predisposed to develop the condition because specific brain structures that are involved in the processing of stimuli.
Diagnosis
It is not always simple to diagnose ADHD. Many people are insecure about their symptoms and are unable to talk to an expert in mental health or health care professional. This can prolong the process of evaluation. To ensure that you receive a thorough evaluation it is essential to be honest and open about your symptoms as well as your past medical experiences.
During the examination, your doctor will use the standardized behavioral ratings scales as well as ADHD symptoms checklists to determine if you fulfill the criteria for a diagnosis. Your doctor will also ask for your family and childhood history along with an in-depth description of your work and home 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 involves blood work and a head scan, which can help identify any chemical or structural issues in the brain that may be contributing to your ADHD symptoms. A physical can also help identify other conditions that may 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, such as NIMH. It is important to be aware that these studies could carry negative consequences and may not provide the right treatment for you.
Discuss with your doctor any other medications that you are taking, 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. NIMH's Medication Interactions webpage can provide additional information on how you can discuss other medications with your health care provider.
Treatment
Adults suffering from ADHD may be treated by medication, behavioral therapy, and educational assistance. It's often an amalgamation of the three that can help people to succeed at work, school and other endeavors. Treatment should begin with a referral from the primary care provider or other health care professional. Ask about the professional's training and experience in working with adults suffering from ADHD. If the professional is unwilling or is unable to provide you the information you need, it's best to find another professional.
The diagnostic process for adult ADHD typically involves interviews with the patient, parents or other significant people, and teachers. It may also include the complete medical and family history, as well as an evaluation of the psychiatric condition. It is crucial that the person being assessed for ADHD be honest and not evading the test because of embarrassment or fear of criticism. Several symptoms must be present in more than one setting and cause significant impairment in the life of the individual for an ADHD diagnosis to be given.
Untreated ADHD can lead to comorbid disorders such as depression and anxiety. This is especially true when those who suffer from ADHD have an underlying history of chronic tension or frustration in their lives. The frustration can trigger a self fulfilling prophecy that results in low self-esteem, poor performance, and feelings of anger.
A diagnosis of ADHD may be a relief for some adults. They will begin to understand themselves better and realize it wasn't their fault they could not make friends or build a career. For some adults, the diagnoses of ADHD can bring a sense sadness and regret over missed opportunities.
Adults who suffer from ADHD should always be prepared to talk about their problems with co-workers and supervisors. It's also a good idea to consider joining an ADHD support group, where people with the disorder can discuss their experiences and receive help. Finally, those with an diagnosis of ADHD should look into their health insurance coverage to see what services are covered and to obtain the names and numbers of specialists who specialize in treating adults with ADHD.
Support
A person who is diagnosed with ADHD can get help for the symptoms and issues that plague him or her at home, at work at the classroom, in relationships and in many other situations. Treatments for adults with ADHD typically include psychotherapy and medications. Some people discover that they also need special coaching, which can provide structure and help in daily life.
Adults diagnosed with ADHD are often relieved to know their problems weren't due to lazy parenting or a lack of discipline. For some, a diagnosis is the first step to getting the help they need to live more fulfilled lives.
Adults can also suffer from ADHD. It's more difficult to identify in children. Many adults live with undiagnosed ADHD.
A psychiatrist who has experience with this condition can identify ADHD in adults by conducting a clinical interview. The interviewer may ask about the person's social and emotional history, as well their family history. Some doctors use brain scans or computer programs to evaluate a patient. Most experts agree that a thorough assessment is the best way to determine if a patient has ADHD.
Based on the nature of the difficulties a person is experiencing depending on the nature of the problem, additional neuropsychological or psychological tests may be required to assess the presence and impact of co-existing conditions such as anxiety, learning disabilities, and mood disorders that often are associated with ADHD. These tests can aid in determining the appropriate dosage of medication for a person.
Asking friends and colleagues to recommend specialists who have expertise in diagnosing ADHD is a great idea. Examine their credentials, including their academic degrees and how long they've been working. They should be able explain their diagnostic procedure and answer any queries that you may have. You can also search for qualified professionals on the internet or through the phone book. Ask them about their methods of counseling and what kind of therapy they would recommend for you.