How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults
Many adults seek out an assessment because they are dissatisfied with the symptoms of ADHD. They could lose their jobs due to missed deadlines, having trouble with relationships because of impulsive behaviors or are having financial difficulties because they forget to pay their bills or lose track of purchases.
Ask your doctor or an expert in mental health about their experience and training in diagnosing ADHD in adults.
Symptoms
Find a doctor to evaluate your symptoms if you think your child or you may have ADHD. Your assessment will consist of physical examinations and a review of your medical history. This includes mental health issues and substance abuse. It is crucial that you are honest with your doctor about the symptoms and how they affect your life. Many people suffering from ADHD hide the problem out of shame or for fear of criticism. However an honest assessment can provide your doctor with a more accurate picture of your daily life.
Adults are different from children, so diagnosing ADHD can be more difficult 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. In addition to examining the patient, the doctor might also ask other people who are in the patient's life- such as spouse or co-habitating partners parents, siblings or teachers and coaches -- to describe the behavior of the patient and how it has affected them. This can reveal information that might not show up on checklists or other tests.
In certain instances, a doctor may want to look into other conditions that may cause similar symptoms to ADHD. These conditions can include mood disorders, mental health issues, and physical injuries or illnesses like head trauma. He or she will review the individual's personal and professional life to determine if their symptoms are interfering with their daily routine.
The symptoms of adult ADHD range from mild to moderate, with moderate symptoms causing difficulties in work and social situations. Severe symptoms can interfere with 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 frequent in men and boys than in girls. It is not clear why this difference exists however, it is likely that there are genetic and environmental factors in play. Studies have shown that certain foods and chemicals can trigger ADHD in certain people, and it is possible that some individuals are more likely to develop the condition due to the existence of specific brain structures that are involved in processing stimuli.
Diagnosis
It's not always easy to determine ADHD. Many sufferers are embarrassed by their symptoms and have trouble opening up to a healthcare provider or a mental health professional. This can delay the process of evaluation. It is crucial to speak honestly and openly 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 ask for your family history and childhood records and 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, such seizure or thyroid disorder.
A physical exam typically includes blood work and a head scan which can reveal any structural or chemical issues within the brain that may be causing your ADHD symptoms. A physical exam can help identify other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, like depression or substance abuse.
It is possible that your doctor may suggest that you participate in the clinical trials of new treatments for adults ADHD. These trials are conducted by research centers, such as NIMH. You should be aware that these studies could pose risks and not lead to the right treatment for you.
Inform your doctor about any other medications that you are taking, as they could interact with stimulants that are used to treat ADHD in adults. The effectiveness of stimulants can be affected by medications that affect sleep, appetite and blood pressure. NIMH's Medication Interactions webpage provides more details on how to discuss other medications with your health care provider.
Treatment
Adults with ADHD may be treated by medications, behavioral therapy and educational support. Often, it's a combination of these that help people to achieve success in school, work and other activities. Treatment should start with the referral of the primary care provider or another health care professional. Ask the doctor about their expertise and training in working with adults who have ADHD. If a professional is unwilling in a position to give this information, it's best to seek another professional.
The diagnosis process for adults with ADHD usually includes interviews with parents, teachers and other people who are significant to the child. It could also involve the complete medical and family history and an evaluation of the psychiatric condition. It is essential that the person being assessed for ADHD be honest and not hold back due to embarrassment. diagnosis for adhd has to show symptoms in two or more locations and cause a significant impairment in their daily lives before an ADHD diagnosis can be determined.
Untreated ADHD can lead to comorbid disorders such as depression and anxiety. This is particularly relevant for people who suffer from ADHD who have a history of chronic stress or a sense of frustration. Frustration can lead to an unfulfilling prophecy about underachievement and result in feelings of low self-esteem and a lack of performance.
For some adults, a diagnosis of ADHD can be a great relief. They may begin to understand themselves and realize it wasn't entirely their responsibility for not being able to build a career 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 should be prepared to discuss their problems openly with their supervisors, colleagues, and teachers. Consider joining an ADHD support group where people who suffer from the condition can share their experiences and get advice. Also, those who have a diagnosis of ADHD should check their health insurance coverage to find out what services are covered and to obtain the names and numbers of experts who specialize in treating adults with ADHD.
Support
A person diagnosed as ADHD can seek help for the symptoms and issues that affect them in a variety of situations, including at home, work or at school or in relationships, and many other. Adult ADHD is usually treated with medication and psychotherapy. Some people may find that they also require specialized coaching, which can help them with structure and support in everyday life.
Adults diagnosed with ADHD are often relieved to know that their issues aren't caused by poor parenting or laziness. A diagnosis could be the first step to receiving the assistance they require.
Adults may also be affected by ADHD. It is more difficult to identify in children. Many adults suffer from undiagnosed ADHD.
A psychiatrist with experience in this type of disorder can identify ADHD in adults through a clinical interview. The interview might include questions about the person's family history and also the person's own emotional and social history. Some doctors utilize brain scans or computer programs to assess 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 a patient's history into consideration when diagnosing the disorder.
Based on the severity and nature of the person's difficulties and co-existing disorders like 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. These tests can aid in determining the appropriate dosage of medication for an individual.
Asking your friends and colleagues to recommend specialists who have experience diagnosing ADHD is also a great idea. Check their credentials, including their academic degrees and how long they've been in practice. They should be able explain their diagnostic procedure and answer any questions that you might have. You can also search for qualified professionals via the internet or the phone book. Ask about their counseling approach and what kind of therapy they might suggest for you.