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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 in part to missed deadlines, having trouble with relationships due to their impulsive behavior or having financial trouble because they forget to pay their bills or lose 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 Find a doctor who will examine your symptoms if you suspect that you or your child may have ADHD. Your evaluation will include both physical examinations as well as a review of your medical history. This will include mental health issues as well as alcohol abuse. It is crucial that you are honest with your doctor about the symptoms and how they impact you. Many people with ADHD shy away from their problems because of shame or fear of criticism, but a thorough evaluation will give your doctor a more complete picture of your lifestyle and issues. Since adulthood is different from childhood, identifying ADHD in adults can be more difficult than diagnosing children suffering from the disorder. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), Fifth Edition published by the American Psychiatric Association provides guidelines for diagnosis that are appropriate for both children and adults. 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 partner siblings, parents or coaches and teachers -- to describe the person's behavior and how it has affected them. This may provide information that might not be included on a checklist or other tests. In some cases, the doctor will want to examine other conditions that could cause similar symptoms to ADHD. These conditions can include mental health issues and physical injuries or illnesses such as concussions or head trauma. He or she will review the individual's work and personal life to determine if their symptoms are affecting their daily routine. The symptoms of adult ADHD vary from mild to moderate and moderate symptoms causing difficulty in social and work situations. The severe symptoms can hinder academic or work performance or cause stress in relationships. It can also make it difficult to live independently. Anyone can have ADHD, but it is more common in men and boys than 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 chemicals and foods can cause ADHD in certain individuals, and it is possible that some people are more likely to develop the condition due to the existence of specific brain structures that are involved in processing stimuli. Diagnosis It is not always simple to diagnose ADHD. Many people are embarrassed by their symptoms and have trouble speaking to a health care doctor or mental health professional. This can make the process of evaluation even longer. It is crucial to speak candidly and honestly about your symptoms and your past history, to ensure an accurate evaluation. During the evaluation, your doctor may use the standardized behavioral rating scales as well as ADHD symptoms checklists to determine if you are able to meet the criteria for a diagnosis of ADHD. Your doctor will inquire about your family history and childhood as well as a thorough description of your home and work. Your doctor could also recommend a physical exam to rule out medical causes of your symptoms, like thyroid problems or seizure disorders. Your doctor might suggest you participate in a clinical studies of new treatments for ADHD in adults. These trials are conducted by research centers like NIMH. It is important to be aware, however, that these studies could pose negative consequences and may not provide the appropriate treatment for you. Inform your doctor about any other medications you take, as these can interact with stimulants used to treat ADHD in adults. The effects of medications on appetite, sleep, heart rate, and blood pressure can all affect how effective stimulants are. The NIMH's Medication Interactions page will provide more details on the best way to discuss other medications with your doctor. Treatment
For adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD treatments include behavioral therapy, medication and educational support. Most often, it's the combination of these that help people to achieve success in school, work and other activities. Referrals from primary care providers or other health professionals are usually the first step in treatment. Ask about the professional's training and experience in working with adults suffering from ADHD. If a professional is unwilling not able to provide this information, you should look for a different professional. The diagnosis process for adults with ADHD usually includes interviews with teachers, parents and other people who are significant to the child. It may also include an extensive medical and family history and psychiatric evaluation. It is essential that the person being evaluated for ADHD be honest and not evading the test due to embarrassment or fear of being judged. A person has to show symptoms in two or more places and cause an impairment that is significant in their daily lives before an ADHD diagnosis can be determined. Many adults suffering from untreated ADHD develop comorbid disorders, including anxiety and depression. This is especially true for those with ADHD who suffer from chronic stress or frustration. The frustration can trigger a self fulfilling prophecy that results in low self-esteem, a lack of performance, and feelings of anger. A diagnosis of ADHD could be a source of relief for some adults. They may begin to see themselves better and realize it wasn't their fault they were unable to make friends or start an occupation. For some adults, a diagnosis of ADHD can be accompanied by an emotional ache and regret for missed opportunities that were not addressed. Adults suffering from ADHD must be always ready to talk about their problems with supervisors and coworkers. Consider joining an ADHD support group where those who suffer from the condition can share their experiences and receive guidance. Anyone who have an ADHD diagnosis should check their insurance coverage and request the names and numbers of the professionals that specialize in treating adults suffering from ADHD. Support A person diagnosed with ADHD can seek help to address the issues and symptoms that affect him or her in a variety of situations, including at work, home at school, in relationships, and many more. Treatments for adults with ADHD usually include psychotherapy and medications. Some individuals also discover they need specialized coaching to provide structure and help for their daily life. Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD are often relieved to know their problems aren't due to bad parenting or lazyness. A diagnosis could be the first step towards getting the help they need. Adults may also be affected by ADHD. It is more difficult to identify in children. Many adults live with undiagnosed ADHD. Diagnosing ADHD in adults requires a thorough and thorough interview by a psychiatrist who has worked with this condition for a long time. The interviewer can inquire about the person's personal and emotional history, as also his or her family history. Certain doctors employ brain scans or computer programs to assess patients. However, the majority of experts agree that the most reliable indication of ADHD is an extensive clinical interview and that it is essential to take the history of a patient into consideration when determining the severity of the disorder. Depending on the nature and severity of the person's difficulties and any co-existing issues such as anxiety, mood disorders and learning disabilities that typically accompany ADHD additional tests for neuropsychology and psychological testing could be conducted to determine the effect and severity of these conditions. The results of these tests could also be helpful in determining the right dosage of medication for a particular person. It's also recommended to ask your friends and colleagues for recommendations to professionals who are skilled in diagnosing ADHD. Examine their credentials, including their academic degrees as well as how long they have been practicing. They should be able to explain their diagnosis procedure and answer any queries that you may have. You can also find qualified professionals online or in the phone book. Ask about their methods of counseling and what kind of therapy they would suggest for you. |
