How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults

For many adults, the annoyance of being afflicted with ADHD symptoms is what leads them to seek an assessment. They could be losing their jobs due to missing deadlines, having trouble with relationships due to impulsive behavior or having financial trouble because they forget bills or forget to track purchases.

Ask your doctor or a mental health professional about their training and expertise in diagnosing ADHD in adults.

Signs and symptoms

If you suspect that you or your child has ADHD The first step to seek assistance is to find a health care provider who will examine your symptoms. Your evaluation will include both a physical exam and a review your medical background. This includes mental health issues as well as alcohol abuse. It is important to be honest with the doctor about your issues and how they impact your life. Many people suffering from ADHD hide their problems out of fear of shame or criticism A thorough assessment will give the doctor more of a complete picture of your lifestyle and problems.

Adults differ from children, which is why the diagnosis of ADHD can be more challenging than identifying ADHD in children. The American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5) offers guidelines for diagnosing ADHD that are generally applicable for adults as well as children. The doctor test may ask others who are in the patient's life for example, a spouse or cohabitating partner or parents, siblings, teachers, and coaches to explain how the person's behavior has affected them. This could provide information that might not be included on a checklist or other tests.

In some cases the doctor may want to investigate other conditions that could cause similar symptoms as ADHD. These can include mood disorders, mental health conditions, as well as physical injuries or illnesses, like head trauma. The doctor will also examine the individual's personal and professional life to determine if their symptoms impact their daily activities.

The signs of adult ADHD can range from mild to moderate and moderate symptoms causing difficulties in work and social situations. In severe cases, symptoms can affect academic 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 common in males and boys than in girls. It is not clear why this difference exists however it is likely that there are genetic and environmental factors in play. Certain foods and chemicals have been found to cause ADHD in a few people. It is also possible that some people are predisposed due to brain structures involved in processing stimuli.

Diagnosis

Getting a diagnosis of ADHD isn't always straightforward. Many people are insecure about their symptoms and find it difficult to speak 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 health issues as well as your past medical circumstances.

During the evaluation your doctor will employ the standardized behavioral ratings scales as well as ADHD symptoms checklists to determine if you fulfill the criteria for diagnosis. Your doctor will also ask for your family history and childhood records, as well as an in-depth description of your job and home life. Your doctor could also recommend a physical exam to determine if there is a medical cause for your symptoms, like seizures or thyroid issues.

A physical exam consists of blood tests and an examination of the brain. These tests can help determine structural or chemical issues within the brain that could be causing ADHD symptoms. A physical exam can also aid in determining other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, like depression or addiction to substances.

Your doctor might suggest taking part in an investigation into the effectiveness of new treatments for ADHD in adults. These trials are conducted by research centers such as NIMH. However, you must be aware that these studies may be risky and not lead to a treatment that is suitable for you.

Discuss with your doctor any other medications that you take, as these may interact with stimulants used to treat ADHD in adults. The effectiveness of stimulants may be affected by medications that affect appetite, sleep and blood pressure. The NIMH's Medication Interactions page can provide more details about how to discuss other medications with your doctor.

Treatment

Adults suffering from ADHD can be treated with medication, behavioral therapy, and educational assistance. It's usually a combination of the three that can help people succeed in school, work and other endeavors. Referrals from primary care providers or other health professionals are usually the first step in treatment. Ask about the professional's training and experience working with adults with ADHD. If a professional refuses or is unable to provide you this information, it is best to find another professional.

The diagnosis process for adults with ADHD usually includes interviews with parents, teachers and other significant people. The diagnostic process could also include a medical and family history and a psychiatric assessment. It's important that the person being evaluated for ADHD be honest and not evading the test because of embarrassment or fear of criticism. A person has to show symptoms in more than one place and exhibit significant impairment in their daily lives before an adhd diagnosis adults diagnosis is made.

Many people with untreated ADHD develop comorbid disorders, including anxiety and depression. This is particularly the case for those who suffer from ADHD who have a history chronic stress or a sense of frustration. Discontent can result in a self-fulfilling prophecy of underachievement and can lead to feelings of self-doubt and a lack of performance.

For some adults, a diagnosis of ADHD can be a relief. They may begin to understand their own situation and realize that it wasn't their fault that they weren't able to establish an occupation or make friends. For certain adults, a diagnosis of ADHD may be accompanied by an emotional ache and regret over lost opportunities that were not addressed.

Adults suffering from ADHD should be prepared to discuss their issues openly with supervisors, coworkers and teachers. Consider joining an ADHD support group where people with the condition can share their experiences and receive guidance. Additionally, those with a diagnosis of ADHD should look into their health insurance coverage to determine what services are covered, and to get names and numbers of professionals who specialize in treating adults suffering from ADHD.

Support

A person diagnosed with ADHD can seek help for the symptoms and problems that affect them in a variety settings, including at work, home or at school, in relationships, and many other. Treatments for adult ADHD typically include psychotherapy and medication. Some people discover that they require specific coaching, which may provide structure and help in everyday life.

Adults diagnosed with ADHD often feel relieved to learn that their troubles weren't just normal or because of lazy parenting or a lack of discipline. A diagnosis could be the first step to receiving the help they require.

Adults may also be affected by ADHD. It is more difficult to diagnose in children. Many adults live with undiagnosed ADHD.

A psychiatrist who has expertise in this kind of condition can diagnose ADHD in adults by conducting a diagnostic interview. The interviewer can inquire about the person's social and emotional history, as well his or her family history. Some doctors utilize brain scans or computer programs to evaluate patients. The majority of experts agree that a thorough assessment is the most effective way to determine if a patient has ADHD.

Depending on the severity and nature of the person's difficulties and any co-existing issues like mood disorders, anxiety, and learning disabilities that typically accompany ADHD additional psychological and neuropsychological tests may be conducted to determine the severity and presence of these conditions. The results of these tests may be useful in determining the appropriate dosage of medications for an individual.

Asking colleagues and friends to recommend specialists with expertise in diagnosing ADHD is also a great idea. You should then verify their qualifications, 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 have. You can also find professional who are certified on the internet or in the phone book. Ask them about their approach to therapy and what they would suggest for you.