How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults
Many adults seek out an assessment because they are annoyed by the symptoms of ADHD. They may be losing their jobs due in part to missed deadlines, struggling in relationships due to their impulsive behavior or having financial trouble because they forget to pay their bills or forget to track 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
Find a doctor who can examine your symptoms if you suspect that you or your child may have ADHD. The evaluation will consist of physical examination as well as a review of your medical history, which includes mental health issues and drug use. It is crucial to be honest with the doctor about your symptoms and how they impact your life. Many people with ADHD are reluctant to admit their problems because of shame or fear of criticism. However an honest assessment can provide your doctor with a clearer picture of your life.
Adults differ from children, which is why diagnosing ADHD is 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 that are appropriate for both children and adults. In addition to interviewing the patient, the doctor might also ask others in the life of the patient- such as spouse or co-habitating partner parents, siblings or coaches and teachers -- to describe the person's behavior and how it has affected them. This can reveal crucial information that may not be found in tests or checklists.
In some cases the doctor may want to look into other conditions that can cause similar symptoms as ADHD. These conditions could include mental health issues, and physical injuries or illnesses like concussions or head trauma. They will also review the individual's work and personal life to determine if their symptoms are interfering with their daily routine.
The signs of adult ADHD can range from mild to moderate with moderate symptoms leading to problems in work and social situations. A severe condition can affect the performance of a job or school and can cause tension in relationships. They also make it difficult to live an independent life.
ADHD can be an issue for anyone, but it is more prevalent in boys and men than in girls. There is no clear explanation for this difference however it could be due to genetic or environmental factors. Certain chemicals and foods have been shown to cause ADHD in certain 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 may have difficulty speaking to a healthcare provider or a mental health professional. This can delay the process of evaluation. It is important to talk openly and honestly about your symptoms, as well as your previous medical background for an accurate evaluation.
In the course of your evaluation, your doctor will use the standardized behavioral ratings scales as well as ADHD symptoms checklists to determine if you meet the criteria for diagnosis. Your doctor will also ask for your family history and childhood records and an in-depth description of your work and family life. Your doctor may also order an examination to determine the cause of your symptoms, for example, thyroid problems or seizure disorders.
A physical exam consists of blood tests and an examination of the brain. These can help identify chemical or structural issues in the brain that could be causing ADHD symptoms. A physical exam can also help identify other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, like depression or substance abuse.
It is possible that your health care provider may suggest that you participate in the clinical trials of new treatments for adult ADHD. These trials are conducted by research centers like NIMH. It is important to be aware, however, that these studies could pose potential risks and may not result in the best treatment for you.
Inform your doctor about any other medications you are taking, as they could interact with stimulants that are used to treat ADHD in adults. Medications that affect the appetite, sleep heart rate, appetite and blood pressure could all have an effect on how effective stimulants are. The NIMH's Medication Interactions page can provide more details on how to discuss other medications with your health care provider.
Treatment
Adults with ADHD may be treated by medication, behavioral therapy, and educational support. Often, it's the combination of these that can help people achieve success at school, work and other activities. Treatment should start with a referral from your primary care physician or other health professional. Ask the professional about their training and experience working with adults suffering from ADHD. If a professional refuses or is unable to give you the information you need, it's recommended to seek out a different professional.
The diagnosis process for adults with ADHD usually includes interviews with parents, teachers and other people who are significant to the child. It may also include an extensive 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, not holding back because of embarrassment or fear of criticism. Several symptoms must be present in more than one setting and must cause significant impairment in the person's life to allow an ADHD diagnosis to be given.
Untreated ADHD can lead to the development of comorbid disorders, such as depression and anxiety. This is especially true if those who suffer from ADHD have an underlying history of chronic anxiety or discontent in their lives. The frustration can cause a self-fulfilling prophecy of underachievement and result in feelings of self-doubt and 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 entirely their fault they couldn't establish an occupation or make friends. For certain adults, being diagnosed of ADHD can be accompanied by a sense of grief and regret for missed opportunities that were not addressed.
Adults who suffer from ADHD must always be ready to discuss their issues with co-workers and supervisors. Consider joining an ADHD support group where people who suffer from the condition can share their experiences and receive advice. Also, those who have an diagnosis of ADHD should look into their health insurance coverage to see what services are covered, and to find the names and numbers of specialists who specialize in treating adults with ADHD.
Support
A person diagnosed as ADHD is able to receive assistance to address the issues and symptoms that affect him or her in a variety settings such as at home, work or at school, in relationships, and many other. Treatments for adults with ADHD typically involve psychotherapy and medication. Some people may find that they require specialized coaching, which can provide structure and help in everyday life.
Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD often feel relieved to discover that their issues aren't normal, or due to poor parenting or laziness. A diagnosis could be the first step to getting the help they need.
Adults may also be affected by ADHD. It's more difficult to diagnose in children. Many adults suffer from undiagnosed ADHD.
Diagnosing ADHD in adults requires a thorough medical examination by a psychiatrist who has had experience working with this disorder. The interview might include questions about the individual's family history, and also his or her own emotional and social history. Some doctors utilize brain scans or computer programs to evaluate a patient. The majority of experts agree that a thorough assessment is the best method to determine the presence of ADHD.
Depending on the severity and nature of the individual's issues and any co-existing issues like mood disorders, anxiety, and learning disabilities that often are associated with ADHD, additional tests for neuropsychology and psychological testing could be conducted to determine the presence and effect of these conditions. These tests can also help determine the proper dosage of medication for a person.
It's also recommended to ask friends and colleagues for recommendations to specialists who are skilled in diagnosing ADHD. adult adhd diagnosis uk www.iampsychiatry.uk should then verify their credentials, including their academic degrees and the number of years they have worked. They should also be able to explain the process of diagnosis and answer any questions you might have. You can also look for professional who are qualified through the internet or on the phone book. Ask about their methods of counseling and what kind of therapy they would recommend for you.