How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults

For many adults, the annoyance of living with ADHD symptoms is what prompts them to seek an assessment. They could lose their jobs due to missed deadlines, or struggling with relationships because of impulsive behaviors or having financial trouble because they forget to pay their bills or forget to track purchases.

Ask your health care provider or an expert in mental health about their education and experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults.

Symptoms

Find a doctor who can assess your symptoms if suspect you or your child has ADHD. Your evaluation will include both a physical exam and a review your medical history. This will include mental health issues and alcohol abuse. It is essential that you are honest with your doctor about the symptoms and the way they affect you. Many people with ADHD hide the problem because of shame or fear of being judged. However an honest assessment can provide your doctor with a more accurate picture of your life.

Because adulthood is very different from childhood, diagnosing ADHD in adults can be more complicated than diagnosing children with the disorder. The American Psychological Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) provides guidelines for diagnosis that are generally valid for adults as well as children. The doctor can request others who are in the patient's life like a spouse or cohabitating partner or siblings, parents teachers, coaches, and other teachers to discuss how the person's behavior has affected them. This may provide information that might not be found on tests or checklists.

In certain instances, a doctor may want to investigate other conditions that may cause similar symptoms to ADHD. These conditions can include mood disorders, mental health issues and physical injuries or illnesses such as concussions or head trauma. They will also look at the person's personal and professional life to determine how their symptoms affect their daily activities.

The symptoms of adult ADHD can vary from mild to severe with moderate symptoms causing difficulties in social and work situations. The severe symptoms can hinder the performance of a job or school, strain relationships, and make it harder to live a life of independence.

ADHD can be a problem for any person, but it is more frequent in men and boys than in girls. It is not clear why this is the case however it is likely that there are environmental and genetic factors at play. Certain foods and chemicals have been found to trigger ADHD in certain people. It is also possible that certain individuals are predisposed to it due to brain structures that are involved in processing stimuli.

Diagnosis

It is not always simple to determine ADHD. Many people are insecure about their symptoms and are unable to open up to an expert in mental health or health care professional. This can prolong the process of evaluation. It is crucial to speak openly and honestly about your symptoms and your previous medical experiences to ensure a thorough evaluation.

During the examination, your doctor will utilize standard behavioral ratings scales and ADHD symptoms checklists to determine if you fulfill the criteria for diagnosis for adhd in adults. Your doctor will inquire about your family history and childhood, and a detailed description your home and work. Your doctor may request a physical examination to rule out medical reasons for your symptoms, including a thyroid disorder or seizure disorder.

A physical exam consists of blood tests and brain scans. These tests can help to identify chemical or structural issues in the brain which could be causing ADHD symptoms. A physical exam can also rule out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms, like addiction or depression.

Your doctor diagnosing ADHD in adults might suggest taking part in clinical studies of new treatments for ADHD in adults. These trials are conducted at research centers, such as NIMH. You should be aware, however, that these studies could carry negative consequences and may not provide the appropriate treatment for you.

Inform your doctor about any other medications that you take, as these may interact with stimulants used to treat ADHD in adults. The effects of medications on sleep, appetite, heart rate and blood pressure could all affect how effective stimulants are. The NIMH's Medication Interactions webpage provides additional information on how you can discuss other medications with your physician.

Treatment

For adults who are diagnosed with ADHD Treatment options include therapy, medication and educational supports. It's usually a combination of all three that can help people succeed at school, work, and other activities. Treatment should start with an appointment with your primary care physician or other health care professional. Find out about the professional's education and experience working with adults with ADHD. If a professional is unwilling or unable to provide this information, it's best to find a different one.

The diagnosis process for adults with ADHD typically involves interviews with teachers, parents and other important people. The process of diagnosis may include a medical and family history and an assessment of psychiatric issues. It's important that the person being assessed for ADHD be honest, not holding back due to embarrassment or fear of being criticized. Multiple symptoms must be evident in more than one setting and cause significant impairment in the life of the individual for an ADHD diagnosis to be given.

Many adults with untreated ADHD suffer from comorbid conditions such as depression and anxiety. This is particularly relevant for people with ADHD who suffer from chronic stress or frustration. It can lead to an unfulfilled prophecy which causes lower self-esteem, low performance, and feelings of anger.

A diagnosis of ADHD may be a relief for certain adults. They can start to understand themselves and realize it wasn't their own fault they couldn't establish a career or meet new friends. For some adults, a diagnoses of ADHD can cause grief and regret about missed opportunities.

Adults with ADHD should always be ready to discuss their concerns openly with their supervisors, colleagues, and teachers. Consider joining an ADHD support group where those with the condition can share their experiences and get advice. Those with an ADHD diagnosis should verify their insurance coverage and request the names and numbers of professionals that specialize in treating adults who have ADHD.

Support

A person diagnosed with ADHD can seek help for the symptoms and problems that affect them in a variety of settings, including at work, home, school, in relationships, and many more. Treatments for adults with ADHD typically involve psychotherapy and medication. Some people find that they require specialized coaching, which can provide structure and support in daily life.

Adults diagnosed with ADHD are often relieved to learn that their problems weren't due to lazy parenting or a lack of discipline. For some, a diagnosis is the first step towards getting the help they need to live more fulfilled lives.

It is much easier to identify ADHD in children, however it is not impossible for adults to have this disorder. In fact, many adults struggle throughout their lives with undiagnosed ADHD.

A psychiatrist who has expertise in this condition can identify ADHD in adults by conducting a clinical interview. The interview could include questions about the individual's family history and also his or her own social and emotional history. Some doctors utilize brain scans or computer programs to evaluate patients. The majority of experts agree that a thorough interview is the best method to determine if a patient has ADHD.

Depending on the nature of the issues a person faces depending on the nature of the problem, additional neuropsychological or psychological tests can be conducted to assess the presence and impact of co-existing conditions such as anxiety, learning disabilities, and mood disorders that often are associated with ADHD. The results of these tests may also be helpful in determining the appropriate dosage of medication for a particular person.

It's also a good idea to ask colleagues and friends for suggestions to specialists who are experienced in diagnosing ADHD. Check their credentials, including academic degrees and the length of time they've been practicing. They should be able explain their diagnostic procedure and answer any questions you may have. You can also look for professional who are qualified through the internet or on the phone book. Ask them about their philosophy of therapy and what they would suggest for you.