How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults

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

Ask your health care provider or a mental health professional about their education and experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults.

Symptoms

If you believe that you or your child have ADHD, the first step towards getting help is to find a medical professional who will examine your symptoms. Your evaluation will include both a physical exam and a review your medical history. This will include mental health issues and substance abuse. It is essential that you open up to your doctor about the signs and how they impact your life. Many people suffering from ADHD are reluctant to admit their problems due to shame or fear of being criticized. However an honest assessment can provide your doctor with a more accurate picture of your life.

Adults differ from children, which is why the diagnosis of ADHD can be more difficult than identifying ADHD in children. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), Fifth Edition by the American Psychiatric Association provides guidelines for diagnosis which are valid for both children and adults. The doctor might request others in the patient's life, like a spouse or cohabitating partner or siblings, parents, teachers, and coaches, to describe how the person's behavior has affected them. This may reveal information that might not show up on a checklist or other tests.

In some cases the doctor may want to investigate other conditions that can cause similar symptoms as ADHD. These could include mood disorders, other mental health issues, and physical injuries or illnesses like head trauma. He or she 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 vary from mild to severe with moderate symptoms causing some difficulty in social and work 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 an issue for anyone, but it is more common in males and boys than in girls. It is not clear the reason for this however it is likely that there are genetic and environmental factors at play. Certain chemicals and foods have been found to cause ADHD in a few people. It is also possible that some people are predisposed because of brain structures that are involved in processing stimuli.

Diagnosis

It's not always easy to diagnose ADHD. Many people are embarrassed by their symptoms and have trouble talking to a healthcare doctor or a mental health professional. This could make the evaluation process even longer. It is essential to speak openly and honestly about your symptoms as well as your previous medical background to ensure an accurate assessment.

During the evaluation your doctor will employ standardized behavioral ratings scales and ADHD symptoms checklists to determine if you fulfill the criteria for a diagnosis. Your doctor will also inquire for your family and childhood history, as well as a detailed description of your job and family life. Your doctor may order a physical examination to rule out medical causes for your symptoms, like a thyroid disorder or seizure disorder.

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

Your doctor might suggest that you take part in clinical studies of new treatments for ADHD in adults. These trials are conducted by research centers, such as NIMH. However, you must be aware that these trials may be risky and not result in a solution that is appropriate for you.

Tell your doctor about any other medications that you take, as these could interact with stimulants that are used to treat adhd diagnosis adults 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 on how to discuss other medicines with your doctor.

Treatment

Adults suffering from ADHD are treated with treatment with medication, behavioral therapy and educational support. It's often the combination of these that helps people to achieve success in work, school and other activities. Referrals from primary healthcare providers or other health professionals are often the first step in treatment. Ask the doctor about their expertise and training in working with adults who have ADHD. If a professional refuses or is unable to give you this information, it's best to look for a different one.

The diagnostic process of adult ADHD typically involves interviews with parents, teachers and other people who are significant to the child. It could also include the complete medical and family history as well as a an evaluation of the psychiatric condition. It is crucial that the person being assessed for ADHD be honest and not shy away due to embarrassment, or fear of being judged. There must be a variety of symptoms in two or more settings and must cause significant impairment in the life of the individual to allow an ADHD diagnosis to be made.

Many people with untreated ADHD have comorbid disorders such as depression and anxiety. This is especially relevant for people who suffer from ADHD who have a history chronic stress or a sense of frustration. It can lead to self-fulfilling prophecy that can result in low self-esteem, poor performance and feelings of frustration.

A diagnosis of ADHD may be a relief for some adults. They can begin to understand themselves better and realize it wasn't their fault that they couldn't make friends or establish an occupation. For some adults, the diagnosis of ADHD can trigger feelings of grief and regret about missed opportunities.

Adults with ADHD must be always ready to discuss their concerns with co-workers and supervisors. Consider joining an ADHD support group where those with the condition can share their experiences and get advice. Also, those who have the diagnosis of ADHD should look into their health insurance coverage to see the services covered and to obtain the names and numbers of professionals who specialize in treating adults suffering from ADHD.

Support

A person who is diagnosed with ADHD can seek help for the symptoms and issues that affect them in a variety of settings such as at work, home or at school, in relationships, and many other. Treatments for adult ADHD usually include psychotherapy and medications. Some people may find that they also require specialized coaching, which can provide structure and help in everyday life.

Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD are often relieved to know that their problems weren't due to lazy parenting or a lack of discipline. For certain people, being diagnosed with ADHD is the first step towards getting the support they need to live a better life.

Adults can also suffer from ADHD. It is more difficult to recognize in children. Many adults suffer from undiagnosed ADHD.

A psychiatrist who has experience with this condition can diagnose ADHD in adults by conducting a diagnostic interview. The interviewer might inquire about the patient's social and emotional history, as also his or her family history. Some doctors use brain scans or computer programs to assess a patient's. But most experts agree that the most accurate indication of ADHD is an exhaustive clinical interview. It is also believed it is crucial to take the history of a patient into consideration when diagnosing the disorder.

Based on the nature of a person's difficulties depending on the nature of the problem, additional neuropsychological or psychological testing may be used to assess the presence and impact of co-existing conditions such as anxiety, learning disabilities, and mood disorders that often accompany ADHD. These tests can help determine the proper dosage of medication for an individual.

Asking friends and colleagues to recommend specialists who have had experience in diagnosing ADHD is a good idea. Then check their professional credentials, including their academic degrees and the number of years they have been in practice. They must also be able to explain how their diagnosis process works and answer any questions you have. You can also find professional who are qualified online or in the phone book. Ask them about their philosophy of therapy and what they would recommend for you.