How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults
Many adults seek an assessment because they are dissatisfied with the symptoms of ADHD. They may be losing their jobs due to missed deadlines, struggling in relationships due to impulsive behavior or are having financial difficulties because they forget to pay their bills or lose track of purchases.
Ask your doctor or mental health professional if they have training in diagnosing ADHD among adults.
Symptoms
If you suspect that you or your child suffer from ADHD, the first step to seek assistance is to find an expert in health care who will examine your symptoms. Your assessment will consist of physical examinations and a review your medical background. This includes mental health issues as well as substance abuse. It is important to be honest with your doctor about the symptoms and the way they affect you. Many people with ADHD are reluctant to admit their problems because of shame or fear of criticism. However an honest assessment can provide your doctor with a more accurate picture of your daily life.
Since adulthood is different from childhood, identifying 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 interviewing the patient, the doctor may also ask others who are in the patient's life- such as spouse or co-habitating partners siblings, parents 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 discovered by tests or checklists.
In certain instances doctors may decide to investigate other conditions that may cause similar symptoms to ADHD. These conditions could include mental health issues, and physical injuries or illnesses like head trauma. He or she will review the individual's work and personal life to determine if the symptoms are affecting their daily activities.
The signs of adult ADHD can range from mild to severe, with moderate symptoms that cause difficulty in work and social situations. Severe symptoms may interfere with schoolwork or work performance or cause stress in relationships. It can also make it difficult to live a life of independence.
ADHD can be a problem for everyone, but it's more prevalent in boys and men than in girls. It is unclear the reason for this however it is likely that there are genetic and environmental factors at play. Certain chemicals and foods have been found to trigger ADHD in a few people. It is also possible that certain people are predisposed due to brain structures that are involved in processing stimuli.
Diagnosis
It's not always easy to recognize ADHD. Many people are embarrassed by their symptoms and are unable to speak to an individual who is a mental health professional or health care professional. This can delay the process of evaluation. It is crucial to speak honestly and openly about your symptoms and your previous medical experiences for an accurate assessment.
During the examination, your doctor will use standardized behavioral ratings scales and ADHD symptoms checklists to determine if you meet the criteria of a diagnosis. Your doctor will also ask for your family history and childhood records, as well as a detailed description of your work and family life. Your doctor may also order an examination to rule out medical causes of your symptoms, for example, thyroid problems or seizure disorders.
A physical exam includes blood tests and brain scans. These tests can help to identify chemical or structural issues in the brain that may be causing ADHD symptoms. A physical can also help rule out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, like addiction to drugs or depression.
Your doctor might suggest that you take part in a clinical study of new treatments for ADHD in adults. These trials are conducted by research centers like NIMH. Be aware that these studies could carry potential risks and may not result in the best treatment for you.
It is also essential to tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking, as they may interact with stimulants that are used to treat adult ADHD. Medications that affect the appetite, sleep heart rate, sleep and blood pressure could all have an effect on how effective stimulants are. NIMH's Medication Interactions webpage provides more information on how to discuss other medications with your health care provider.
Treatment
Adults with ADHD may be treated by treatment with medication, behavioral therapy and educational support. It's typically a combination of all three that can help people to succeed at school, work, and other activities. Referrals from primary care doctors or other health professionals are often the first step in treatment. Find out about the specialist's training and experience working with adults with ADHD. If a professional is unwilling or not able to provide this information, it's best to find a different one.
The process of diagnosing adult ADHD usually includes interviews with parents, teachers and other important people. The diagnostic process could also include an assessment of family and medical history and an assessment of psychiatric issues. It is crucial that the person being evaluated for ADHD be honest and not shy away due to embarrassment or fear of being criticized. Multiple symptoms must be evident in more than one setting and must cause significant impairment in the individual's life for an ADHD diagnosis to be given.
Many adults suffering from untreated ADHD have comorbid disorders, including anxiety and depression. This is particularly the case for those who suffer from ADHD who suffer from chronic anxiety or frustration. Discontent can result in an unfulfilling prophecy about underachievement and can lead to feelings of self-doubt and a lack of performance.
For certain adults, being diagnosed of ADHD can be a relief. They begin to see the situation and realize that it wasn't entirely their responsibility for not being able to build an occupation or make friends. For some adults, the diagnoses of ADHD can trigger feelings of sadness and regret over missed opportunities.
Adults who suffer from ADHD must always be ready to discuss their concerns openly with co-workers, supervisors and teachers. Consider joining an ADHD support group where people who suffer from the condition can discuss their experiences and get advice. Also, those who have a diagnosis of ADHD should verify their health insurance coverage to see what services are covered and to find the names and numbers of experts who specialize in treating adults suffering from ADHD.
Support
A person diagnosed with ADHD can receive help for the symptoms and problems that affect him or her in a variety of situations such as at work, home or at school as well as in relationships and many other. adhd uk diagnosis for adult ADHD typically involve medication and psychotherapy. Some people also require specialized coaching to provide structure and help for their daily life.
Adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD often are relieved to know that their troubles weren't just normal or because of lazy parenting or a lack of discipline. A diagnosis could be the first step in getting the help they need.
It is much easier to identify ADHD in children, but it is not impossible for adults to have this disorder. Many adults suffer from undiagnosed ADHD.
A psychiatrist who has experience with this type of disorder can diagnose ADHD in adults through a clinical interview. The interview might include questions about the person's family history, and also the person's own emotional and social history. Some doctors utilize brain scans or computer programs to evaluate patients. However, adult adhd diagnosis uk of experts agree that the most reliable way to determine the presence of ADHD is an exhaustive clinical interview. It is also believed it is crucial to take the patient's history into consideration when determining the severity of the disorder.
Depending on the nature of a person's difficulties and the severity of their issues, additional psycho- or neuropsychological tests may be required to evaluate the effects and presence of co-existing conditions such as anxiety, learning disabilities, and mood disorders, which typically are associated with ADHD. These tests can also help determine the proper dosage of medication for a person.
It's also an excellent idea to ask colleagues and friends for suggestions to specialists who are experienced in diagnosing ADHD. Then check their professional credentials, including academic degrees and the number of years they have been in practice. They should be able to explain their diagnosis process and answer any questions that you might have. You can also find qualified professionals on the internet or in the phone book. Ask them about their philosophy of therapy and what they would suggest for you.