How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults

Many adults seek out an assessment because they are frustrated by the symptoms of ADHD. They could be losing their jobs due to missed deadlines, having trouble with relationships because of impulsive behaviors or are having financial difficulties because they forget bills or don't keep track of purchases.

Ask your doctor or mental health professional if they have any experience in diagnosing ADHD among adults.

Symptoms

Find a doctor who will examine your symptoms if you suspect that you or your child may have ADHD. Your assessment will consist of physical examination and a review your medical background. This will include mental health issues as well as substance abuse. It is important to be open with your doctor about your symptoms and how to get diagnosed with adhd adults they impact your life. Many people suffering from ADHD are reluctant to admit their problems out of shame or for fear of being judged. However, a thorough evaluation can provide your doctor with a more accurate picture of your daily life.

Since adulthood is different from childhood, diagnosing ADHD in adults can be more difficult than diagnosing children with the disorder. The American Psychological 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. In addition to interviewing the patient, the doctor could also ask other people in the life of the patientfor example, spouse or co-habitating partner parents, siblings or teachers and coaches to provide a description of the behavior of the patient and how adhd is diagnosed in adults it has affected them. This can reveal important details that aren't found in tests or checklists.

In some cases the doctor may want 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. They will also review the person's personal and professional life to determine how do you get diagnosed with adhd their symptoms affect their daily routines.

The signs of adult ADHD vary from mild to moderate and moderate symptoms causing problems in work and social situations. The severe symptoms can hinder schoolwork or work performance or cause stress in relationships. It can also make it difficult to live independently.

ADHD can affect anyone, but it is more prevalent in boys and men than in girls. It is not clear why this difference exists, but there are probably genetic and environmental factors in play. Studies have shown that certain foods and chemicals can cause ADHD in some people, and it is possible that some people are predisposed to develop the condition due to the existence specific brain structures that are that are involved in processing stimuli.

Diagnosis

It's not always easy to diagnose ADHD. Many sufferers are embarrassed by their symptoms and have trouble speaking to a health care doctor or mental health professional. This can prolong the process of evaluation. To ensure a thorough assessment it is crucial to be honest and open about your symptoms as well as your past medical history.

During the evaluation your doctor will use the standardized behavioral ratings scales as well as ADHD symptoms checklists to determine if you meet the criteria of a diagnosis. Your doctor will inquire about your childhood and family history as well as a thorough description of your home and work. Your doctor might also request an exam to determine if there is a medical cause for your symptoms, like seizures or thyroid issues.

A physical exam usually includes blood work and a head scan, which can help you identify any structural or chemical issues within the brain that could be causing your ADHD symptoms. A physical exam may also help identify other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, like addiction or depression.

It is possible that your doctor will recommend that you take part in an investigational trial of new treatments for adults with ADHD. These trials are conducted by research centers, such as NIMH. Be aware that these studies may have negative consequences and may not provide the best treatment for you.

Discuss with your doctor any other medications 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 sleep, appetite and blood pressure. The NIMH's Medication Interactions page can provide more details on the best way to discuss other medications with your doctor.

Treatment

Adults with ADHD can be treated with treatment with medication, behavioral therapy and educational assistance. It's often the combination of these that helps people achieve success at work, school and other pursuits. Treatment should begin with the referral of the primary care provider or other health professional. Find out about the specialist's knowledge and experience working with adults suffering from ADHD. If a professional is unwilling unable to provide this information, it's best to find a different one.

The process of diagnosing adult ADHD typically involves interviews with the patient, parents or other significant others and teachers. It could also involve an extensive medical and family history as well as a psychotherapy evaluation. It is important that the person being assessed for ADHD be honest and not hold back due to embarrassment. A person must exhibit several symptoms in more than one place and cause significant impairment in their life before an ADHD diagnosis is made.

Untreated ADHD can result in the development of comorbid disorders, such as depression and anxiety. This is particularly the case for those who suffer from ADHD who have a history chronic stress or a sense of frustration. Frustration can cause a self fulfilling prophecy that can result in lower self-esteem, low performance and feelings of frustration.

For certain adults, being diagnosed of ADHD can be a relief. They may begin to see themselves better and realize it wasn't their fault they could not make friends or build a career. For some adults, a diagnoses of ADHD can bring a sense grief and regret about missed opportunities.

Adults suffering from ADHD should be prepared to discuss their issues openly with their supervisors, colleagues, and teachers. Consider joining an ADHD support group where those who suffer from the condition can discuss their experiences and get advice. Additionally, those with an diagnosis of ADHD should check their health insurance coverage to determine the services covered and to find the names and numbers of specialists who specialize in treating adults suffering from ADHD.

Support

A person who is diagnosed with ADHD can get help to address the issues and symptoms that afflict him or her at the workplace, at home at relationships, at school and in many other settings. Adult ADHD is usually treated using psychotherapy and medication. Some people find that they also need specific coaching, which may provide structure and support in everyday life.

Adults diagnosed with ADHD are often relieved to know their problems aren't due to bad parenting or lazyness. For certain people, being diagnosed with ADHD is the first step in getting the support they need to live more fulfilled lives.

It is easier to diagnose ADHD in children, but it isn't difficult for adults to have this disorder. In fact, many adults struggle all their lives with unrecognized ADHD.

A psychiatrist who has experience with this type of disorder can diagnose ADHD in adults by conducting a diagnostic interview. The interview may include questions about the person's family history, and also the person's own emotional and social background. Some doctors use brain scans or computer programs to determine the health of a patient. But most experts agree that the best indicator of ADHD is a thorough clinical interview and it is vital to take a patient's history into consideration when diagnosing the disorder.

Depending on the severity and nature of the individual's problems and the co-existing conditions like anxiety, mood disorders and learning disabilities that commonly are associated with ADHD Additional neuropsychological and psychological tests could be conducted to determine the effect and severity of these conditions. These tests can help determine the right dosage of medication for a person.

It is also a good idea to ask your friends and colleagues for suggestions to specialists who are experienced in diagnosing ADHD. Check their credentials, including their academic degrees and the length of time they've been working. They should be able to explain their diagnosis procedure and answer any questions that you might have. You can also find experts who are certified online or in the phone book. Ask them about their approach to therapy and what they would suggest for you.