How to Get an Adult Diagnosis of ADHD

Many people don't receive the diagnosis of ADHD until adulthood. This may be because they weren't recognized in childhood, they have a mild form or the signs were masked by the demands of life.

To be diagnosed with ADHD, you must have experienced ADHD symptoms prior to the age of 12 years old. These symptoms must hinder social or work activities and last for a period of time.

The Diagnosis Process

To receive a diagnosis of ADHD, it is necessary to visit a health care specialist who is specialized in the disorder. During an examination, the specialist will take a detailed history of the person's symptoms. The doctor will review the patient's medical, family and psychiatric history. It is crucial that patients discuss their concerns candidly and honestly with the doctor, avoiding feelings of shame or embarrassment.

Symptoms of ADHD are often very similar to other mental health disorders as well as physical conditions, and it is therefore crucial that an accurate assessment is made by a qualified mental health professional. The evaluation will include an examination for medical reasons as well as a psychological exam and an interview with the individual. The psychiatrist or psychologist will ask the person to describe their symptoms and how they impact their lives. They might also ask questions about the person’s schooling and their childhood. The professional will also consider other factors that could be contributing to the person's issues, such as stress and other health issues.

It can be a difficult and emotional experience to receive an diagnosis of ADHD as an adult. Many people are shocked and astonished and this can cause feelings of guilt or shame. It is important to keep in mind that a diagnosis of ADHD does not reveal the person's personality or character. It is a condition that can be treated with medication and other therapies.

Some doctors use a checklist to identify the symptoms of ADHD. These checklists were developed for children. However adults can also meet the criteria in the event that they show 5 or more signs of inattention, or 6 or more for hyperactivity or the tendency to be impulsive. Certain doctors conduct interviews with close family members, close friends and coworkers. This can provide valuable insights that are not available from questionnaires and can help identify other conditions that could be causing ADHD symptoms.

It is a good practice to ask your friends and family for recommendations when selecting an expert who can assess ADHD. It is also important to ensure that the specialist you select has a certificate and license in your area. You can learn more about the qualifications of a specialist by visiting their office.

Symptoms

People who suffer from untreated ADHD frequently face a variety of issues in their lives. They may have difficulties with school, relationships or work. They may have trouble maintaining an appropriate diet or sleeping. They may have financial problems due to impulsive purchases and substance abuse. They may also have health problems like anxiety and depression. Many times, these symptoms are misinterpreted by those who are around them as signs of laziness or irresponsibility. When people suffering from ADHD are diagnosed, they usually feel relief and understanding. They can then begin to deal with the issues affecting their daily lives and be successful in a variety of areas.

A mental health professional will go through the patient's medical records and look at their symptoms as well as their past. They will also conduct the physical exam. They will use adult rating scales or checklists in order to identify the issue. They will ask the patient questions about their day-to-day life at work and home, diagnosing ADHD in adults as well as how these symptoms affect other members of the household. The doctor will speak with parents teachers, parents, and other individuals who knew the patient as a child.

The symptoms include:

Attention-deficit ADHD symptoms may include being distracted by thoughts or ideas in class, or forgetting important details at home or at work, and taking longer than expected to finish tasks. Hyperactive-impulsive ADHD symptoms may involve fidgeting, talking nonstop and difficulty waiting for turn or instructions. Combination presentation ADHD, where there are equal amounts of inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms present, is the most common type of the disorder.

Many people suffering from ADHD are misdiagnosed, or worse, they don't receive a diagnosis due to the fact that they don't meet the diagnostic criteria outlined in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders by the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-5). Certain medications and stress may cause symptoms similar to ADHD. A thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider is essential to determine the reason for a person's symptoms. Individuals should also disclose to their doctor any other medications, vitamins, and supplements they are taking.

Treatment

Adults with ADHD can benefit from a variety of treatments that can reduce symptoms and increase productivity. However finding the best treatment can take time. Ask your family doctor or trusted friend for a recommendation. Some professionals are experts in treating adults with ADHD. It may also be helpful to request recommendations from a medical school in your area or hospital associated with a university. It might be beneficial to seek out members of an adult ADHD support group for a referral.

Psychotherapies, also referred to as talk therapy, or behavioral therapies are among the most effective treatment options for adults suffering from ADHD. These therapies can teach people and their families how to better cope with their symptoms. These therapies can be short-term and focussed on goals, or more extensive and long-term and concentrate on specific issues like anger management, learning to manage time and money better or enhancing the ability to organize.

Some professionals employ rating scales or questionnaires to assess the severity of the patient's symptom. The most important factor for diagnosing ADHD in adults is a clinical evaluation conducted by a mental healthcare professional who is experienced in the evaluation of ADHD. During the interview the mental health professional will review the person's social, emotional and academic history. They will also examine the effects of the issues on relationships, work and other aspects of daily life.

To be diagnosed with ADHD, you must have at least five of the inattentive or hyperactive-impulsive symptoms listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The doctor will determine whether the symptoms are predominantly inattentive or primarily hyperactive-impulsive, or if they are a combination. Additionally the symptoms must persist for at least six months, and they must significantly interfere with daily functioning.

Receiving an ADHD diagnosis as an adult can trigger many emotions that are difficult to handle, such as grief over missed opportunities or joy that there is now a concrete explanation for past problems. It is essential that you feel comfortable talking about your concerns with your mental health professional and be honest and open throughout the evaluation process.

Support

Many adults go through life without a proper diagnosis for ADHD. They might be suffering from an ongoing stress and anger in their work or relationships, but have no idea that their issues result from untreated ADHD.

It can be difficult to diagnose ADHD for adults due to the stigma associated with the disorder. Some medical professionals have preconceived notions about what someone with ADHD might appear like. This can make it difficult for women or people of color, or women who are born female to receive an accurate diagnosis.

If you're having difficulty finding a diagnosis, try seeking an expert who is trained to diagnose ADHD in adults. You can seek suggestions from your doctor or a local hospital or medical school. You can also connect with the local ADHD support group for referrals. The best method to determine if a health professional is able to accurately diagnose ADHD and evaluation of it is through word-of-mouth referrals.

To determine if you have ADHD, your clinician will look over the symptoms you have reported and compare them with the criteria laid out by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, which is the book mental health professionals employ to determine the most accurate diagnosis. Your clinician will also ask about your previous experiences and current issues in order to obtain a complete picture of your struggles. ADHD is also assessed using questionnaires and rating scales.

Your doctor will determine whether your ADHD symptoms are severe enough to warrant medication, or if psychotherapy or a different treatment option is more appropriate. It's important to disclose any other medications you're taking, as certain medications can interact with stimulants. It is also important to inform your doctor about any traumas you have experienced in the past.

Being diagnosed with ADHD is a life-changing event for many adults. It can be a sigh of relief to finally understand your struggles and allow you to manage these issues. For many, being diagnosed with ADHD can lead to successful career paths and satisfying relationships. Actually, people with ADHD excel in creative fields and professions where differences in the way their brain works can be advantageous.