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, struggling in relationships because of impulsive behaviors or have financial issues because they forget bills or don't keep track of purchases.

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

Signs and symptoms

If you suspect that you or your child have ADHD The first step towards getting assistance is to find a health care provider who will examine your symptoms. Your evaluation will include both physical examination and a review of your medical history. This will include mental health issues as well as alcohol abuse. It is essential to be honest with your doctor about the symptoms and the way they affect your life. Many people with ADHD are reluctant to talk about their issues because of fear of shame or criticism However, a thorough evaluation will give the doctor a more complete picture of your life and your difficulties.

Adults differ from children, and therefore the diagnosis of ADHD can be more challenging than identifying ADHD in children. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), Fifth Edition published by the American Psychiatric Association provides guidelines for diagnosis which are valid for both adults and children. The doctor may inquire about others who are in the patient's life for example, a spouse or cohabitating partner or parents, siblings or teachers and coaches to discuss how the person's behavior has affected them. This could reveal important information that may not be revealed by tests or checklists.

In some instances the doctor may decide to investigate other conditions that could cause similar symptoms to ADHD. These conditions include mental health issues and physical injuries or illnesses like head trauma. The doctor will look over the individual's work and personal life to determine if their symptoms are hindering their daily activities.

The signs of adult ADHD can range from mild to severe, with moderate symptoms that cause difficulty in work and social situations. In severe cases, symptoms can affect schoolwork or work performance, strain relationships and make it difficult to live a life of independence.

ADHD can be an issue for everyone, but it's more frequent in men and boys than in girls. It is unclear the reason for this however, it is likely that there are genetic and environmental factors at play. Certain chemicals and foods have been shown to cause ADHD in a few people. It is also possible that some people are predisposed because of brain structures involved in processing stimuli.

Diagnosis

Being diagnosed with ADHD isn't always easy. Many people are embarrassed by their symptoms and have difficulty talking to a healthcare doctor or a mental health professional. This can delay the process of evaluation. It is crucial to speak candidly and honestly about your symptoms, as well as your previous background, to ensure a thorough evaluation.

During the evaluation the doctor will use the standardized behavioral rating scales as well as ADHD symptom checklists to determine if you meet the criteria to be diagnosed of ADHD. Your doctor will also inquire for your family history and childhood information along with an extensive description of your work and family life. Your doctor may order an examination of your body to rule out medical reasons for your symptoms, like a thyroid disorder or seizure disorder.

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

It is possible that your health care provider will recommend that you take part in an investigational trial of new treatments for adults ADHD. These trials are conducted by research centers, such as NIMH. However, you should be aware that these research studies can have risks and may not result in a treatment that is appropriate for you.

Discuss with your doctor any other medications you take, as they can 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. NIMH's Medication Interactions page can provide more details on how to discuss other medications with your doctor.

Treatment

For adults diagnosed with ADHD, treatment options include therapy, medication and educational assistance. It's often a combination of these that help people to achieve success in work, school and other activities. Referrals from primary care providers or other health professionals are the first step towards treatment. Ask about the professional's training and experience working with adults suffering from ADHD. If a professional refuses or is unable to provide you the information you need, it's recommended to seek out a different professional.

The process of diagnosing adhd in adults adult ADHD typically involves interviews with parents, teachers and other important people. It could also involve a complete medical and family history and an evaluation of the psychiatric condition. It's important that the person being assessed for ADHD be honest, not holding back due to embarrassment or fear of being criticized. A person must exhibit several symptoms in more than one place and have a significant impairment in their daily lives before an ADHD diagnosis can be made.

Many adults with untreated ADHD develop comorbid disorders, including anxiety and depression. This is particularly relevant for people who suffer from ADHD who have a history of chronic anxiety or frustration. The frustration can cause a self-fulfilling prophecy of underachievement and can lead to feelings of low self-esteem and a poor performance.

A diagnosis of ADHD can be a great relief for certain adults. 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 some adults, a diagnosis of ADHD can bring a sense regret and sadness over missed opportunities.

Adults with ADHD should always be prepared to discuss their issues with supervisors and coworkers. It's also an excellent idea to think about joining an adhd diagnosis for adults support group where people with the disorder can share their experiences and get help. Those with an ADHD diagnosis should check their insurance coverage and request the names and phone numbers of specialists who specialize in treating adults suffering from ADHD.

Support

A person diagnosed with ADHD can receive help for the symptoms and problems that affect him or her in a variety of situations such as at home, work, school as well as in relationships and many more. Adult ADHD is usually treated using psychotherapy and medication. Some people also find they require special coaching to provide structure and support for their daily lives.

Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD often are relieved to know that their problems aren't normal, or due to bad parenting or lazyness. For some, a diagnosis is the first step to receiving the help they require to live better lives.

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

A psychiatrist who has experience with this type of disorder can diagnose ADHD in adults by conducting a clinical interview. The interviewer can inquire about the person's social and emotional history, as well as his or her family history. Some doctors use brain scans or computer programs to evaluate patients. But most experts agree that the most accurate way to determine the presence of ADHD is a thorough clinical interview and it is crucial to take the patient's history into consideration when determining the severity of the disorder.

Based on the severity and nature of the person's difficulties and the co-existing conditions such as mood disorders, anxiety and learning disabilities that often are associated with ADHD additional neuropsychological and psychological tests could be administered to determine the severity and presence of these conditions. The results of these tests can also help in determining the right dosage of medications for an individual.

It is also recommended to ask your friends and colleagues for recommendations to professionals who are skilled in diagnosing ADHD. Verify their credentials, such as their academic degrees and how long they have been practicing. They should be able to explain their diagnostic process and answer any questions that you may have. You can also look for experts who are qualified on the internet or in the phone book. Ask them about their method of therapy and what they would suggest for diagnosing ADHD in adults you.