How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults

For many adults, the frustration of living with ADHD symptoms is what prompts people to seek an evaluation. They could lose their jobs due to missing deadlines, struggling in relationships due to impulsive behavior or are having financial difficulties because they forget to pay their bills or don't keep track of purchases.

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

Symptoms

If you believe that you or your child has ADHD, the first step in getting assistance is to locate a health care provider who will assess your symptoms. Your assessment will consist of physical examinations as well as a review of your medical background. This includes mental health issues as well as alcohol abuse. It is crucial that you open up to your doctor about the signs and how they impact you. Many people with ADHD are reluctant to admit their problems because of shame or fear of being criticized. However an honest assessment can provide your doctor with a clearer picture of your daily life.

Adults are different from children, so diagnosing ADHD is more difficult than diagnosing ADHD in children. The American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5) provides guidelines for diagnosing ADHD that are generally applicable for adults as well as children. The doctor can inquire about others who are part of the patient's life, such as the spouse or cohabiting partner or parents, siblings teachers, coaches, and other teachers to explain how the person's behavior has affected them. This can provide information that might not show up on tests or adhd adult diagnosis checklists.

In certain instances doctors may decide to investigate other conditions that may cause similar symptoms to ADHD. These can include mood disorders, other mental health conditions, and physical illnesses or injuries, such as concussion or head trauma. The doctor will look over the person's personal and work life to determine whether their symptoms are affecting their daily activities.

The signs of adult ADHD can vary from mild to severe, with moderate symptoms that cause difficulties in social and work situations. Severe symptoms can interfere with the performance of a job or school as well as strain relationships and make it difficult to live a life of independence.

Everyone can be affected by ADHD, but it is more prevalent in males and boys than girls. It is not clear why this is the case however, it is likely that there are genetic and environmental factors at play. Research has revealed that certain chemicals and foods can trigger ADHD in certain individuals, and it is possible that some people are predisposed to develop the condition because of specific brain structures that are involved in processing stimuli.

Diagnosis

It is not always simple to diagnose ADHD. Many people are embarrassed by their symptoms and have trouble opening up to a health care specialist or mental health specialist. This can delay 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 evaluation your doctor will use standard behavioral ratings scales and adhd Adult diagnosis symptoms checklists to determine if you meet the criteria for a diagnosis. Your doctor will inquire about your family and childhood history, and a detailed description your home and work. Your doctor may request an examination of your body to rule out medical causes for your symptoms, including a thyroid disorder or seizure disorder.

A physical exam includes blood tests and an examination of the brain. These tests can help to identify structural or chemical problems within the brain that may be causing ADHD symptoms. A physical exam can help identify other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, like depression or substance abuse.

Your doctor may suggest that you take part in an investigation into the effectiveness 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 pose potential risks and may not result in the right treatment for you.

Tell 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 appetite, sleep heart rate, sleep and blood pressure could all have an effect on how effective stimulants are. The NIMH's Medication Interactions webpage provides more information on how to discuss other medications with your physician.

Treatment

For adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD, treatment options include medication, behavioral therapy and educational assistance. It's typically a combination of all three that helps people to succeed at work, school, and other activities. Treatment should begin with a referral from a primary care provider or another health care professional. Ask about the professional's training and experience in working with adults suffering from ADHD. If a professional is unwilling not able to provide this information, it's best to look for a different professional.

The diagnosis process for adults with ADHD typically includes interviews with the patient's parents or other significant others, as well as teachers. The process of diagnosis may include a medical and family history, as well as an assessment of psychiatric issues. It's important that the person being evaluated for ADHD be honest and not shy away due to embarrassment, or fear of being criticized. A person has to show symptoms in two or more places and exhibit significant impairment in their daily life before an ADHD diagnosis can be determined.

Many adults with untreated ADHD develop comorbid disorders such as depression and anxiety. This is especially true for those who suffer from ADHD who have a history of chronic stress or frustration. The frustration can trigger an unfulfilled prophecy which can result in low self-esteem, poor performance and feelings of frustration.

For certain adults, being diagnosed of ADHD can be a relief. They can begin to understand their own behavior and realize that it wasn't because of them that they couldn't make friends or establish an occupation. For some adults, a diagnoses of ADHD can bring a sense sadness and regret over missed opportunities.

Adults suffering from ADHD must always be ready to discuss their concerns openly with supervisors, coworkers and teachers. Consider joining an ADHD support group where people who suffer from the condition can discuss their experiences and receive guidance. People who have an ADHD diagnosis should verify their insurance coverage and obtain the names and phone numbers of specialists that specialize in treating adults with ADHD.

Support

A person who is diagnosed with ADHD can seek treatment for the symptoms and issues that afflict him or her at home, at work, in school, in relationships and in many other situations. Adult ADHD is typically treated with medication and psychotherapy. Some people may find that they also need special coaching, which can provide structure and support in everyday life.

Adults diagnosed with ADHD often feel relieved to learn that their troubles weren't just normal or because of bad parenting or lazyness. A diagnosis can be the first step in receiving the help they require.

Adults also have the potential to suffer from ADHD. It's more difficult to diagnose in children. Many adults live with undiagnosed ADHD.

A psychiatrist who has expertise in this condition can diagnose ADHD in adults by conducting a diagnostic interview. The interview might include questions about the individual's family history and also their own personal social and emotional background. Some doctors use brain scans or computer programs to evaluate patients. Most experts agree that a thorough interview is the most effective way to diagnose ADHD.

Depending on the nature and severity of the individual's issues and co-existing disorders such as mood disorders, anxiety, and learning disabilities that commonly are associated with ADHD Additional tests for neuropsychology and psychological testing could be conducted to determine the effect and severity of these conditions. The results of these tests could be useful in determining the right dosage of medications for an individual.

It is also an excellent idea to ask colleagues and friends for suggestions to specialists who are experienced in diagnosing ADHD. You should then verify their credentials, including academic degrees and the number of years they have worked. They must also be able to explain how their diagnosis process works and answer any questions you may have. You can also search for experts who are certified online or in the phone book. Ask them about their approach to therapy and what advice they would give you.