How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults

For many adults, the frustration of living with ADHD symptoms is what drives them to seek an evaluation. They could lose their jobs due to missing deadlines, or struggling with relationships due to their impulsive behavior or are having financial difficulties because they forget bills or don't keep track of purchases.

Ask your doctor or mental health professional if they have experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults.

Signs and symptoms

If you suspect that you or your child have ADHD, the first step to seek assistance is to locate a medical professional who will examine your symptoms. Your assessment will consist of physical examinations as well as a review of your medical background. This includes mental health issues and substance abuse. It is crucial to be honest with your doctor about the signs and how they affect your life. Many people with ADHD are reluctant to talk about their issues because of fear or shame criticism A thorough assessment will provide the doctor with a more complete picture of your life and issues.

Because adulthood is very different from childhood, identifying ADHD in adults is more difficult than diagnosing children with the disorder. The American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5) provides guidelines for diagnosing ADHD that are generally valid for adults as well as children. In addition to examining the patient, the doctor might also ask others who are in the patient's life- such as spouse or co-habitating partners, parents, siblings or coaches and teachers to provide a description of the person's behavior and how it has affected them. This can reveal important information that may not be discovered by tests or checklists.

In certain cases, the doctor will want to investigate 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. He or she will review the individual's work and personal life to determine if the symptoms are interfering with their daily activities.

The signs of adult add diagnosis ADHD can range from mild to moderate, with moderate symptoms causing problems in work and social situations. The severe symptoms can hinder academic or work performance or cause stress in relationships. It can also make it difficult to live an independent life.

ADHD can affect anyone, but it is more frequent in men and boys than in girls. It is unclear 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 trigger ADHD in certain individuals, and it is possible that some individuals are predisposed to develop the condition due to the existence specific brain structures that are involved in the processing of stimuli.

Diagnosis

Being diagnosed with ADHD isn't always easy. Many people are insecure about their symptoms and are unable to speak to an expert in mental health or health care professional. This could make the evaluation process longer. It is crucial to speak openly and honestly about your symptoms and your previous medical background to ensure an accurate evaluation.

During the exam the doctor will use standard behavioral rating scales and ADHD symptoms checklists to determine whether you meet the criteria for a diagnosis of ADHD. Your doctor will ask you about your family history and childhood as well as a thorough description of your home and work. Your doctor may also order an exam to determine if there is a medical cause for your symptoms, like seizures or thyroid issues.

A physical exam involves blood tests and brain scans. These tests can help to identify structural or chemical problems within the brain that may be causing ADHD symptoms. A physical exam can also determine other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as addiction to drugs or depression.

It is possible that your doctor will recommend that you participate in a clinical trial of new treatments for adults ADHD. These trials are conducted by research centers, including NIMH. However, you should be aware that these studies could be risky and not lead to a treatment that is appropriate 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. The effectiveness of stimulants may be affected by medications that affect sleep, appetite and blood pressure. The NIMH's Medication Interactions webpage can provide more details on how to discuss other medications with your physician.

Treatment

Adults suffering from ADHD may be treated by treatment with medication, behavioral therapy and education support. It's often the combination of these that helps people find success in school, work and other areas. Treatment should start with a referral from your primary care physician or another health care professional. Find out about the specialist's training and experience working with adults with ADHD. If a professional is unwilling or not able to provide this information, it's best to look for a different professional.

The diagnosis process for adults with ADHD usually includes interviews with parents, teachers and other important people. It may also include the complete medical and family history, as well as psychotherapy evaluation. It is crucial that the person who is being assessed for ADHD be honest and not hold back due to embarrassment. A person must display symptoms in two or more places and have an impairment that is significant in their life before an ADHD diagnosis can be made.

Many adults suffering from untreated ADHD develop comorbid disorders such as depression and anxiety. This is especially true for those who suffer from ADHD who can diagnose add in adults have a history of chronic anxiety or frustration. The frustration can trigger self-fulfilling prophecy that causes lower self-esteem, low performance, and feelings of anger.

For some adults, a diagnosis of ADHD can be a source of relief. They can begin to understand themselves better and realize that it wasn't their fault that they could not make friends or build a career. For some adults, the diagnosis of adhd Diagnosis process can bring a sense sadness and regret over missed opportunities.

Adults with ADHD should always be prepared to discuss their concerns with their supervisors and colleagues. It's also an excellent idea to think about joining an ADHD support group, where those suffering from the disorder can discuss their experiences and receive help. Finally, those with the diagnosis of ADHD should verify 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 is able to receive assistance for the symptoms and problems that affect them in a variety of situations, including at work, home or at school as well as in relationships and many other. Adult ADHD is usually treated using psychotherapy and medication. 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 issues aren't caused by poor parenting or laziness. A diagnosis can be the first step in receiving the assistance they require.

It is easier to diagnose ADHD in children, but it isn't difficult for adults to be affected by this disorder. Many adults live with undiagnosed ADHD.

A psychiatrist who has experience with this condition can diagnose ADHD in adults through a clinical interview. The interviewer might inquire about the person's social and emotional history, as well as the family history of the person. Some doctors use computer programs or brain scans to evaluate a patient. Most experts agree that an extensive interview is the best method to diagnose ADHD.

Based on the nature and severity of the person's difficulties and co-existing disorders like mood disorders, anxiety, and learning disabilities that often accompany ADHD, additional psychological and neuropsychological tests may be conducted to determine the severity and presence of these conditions. The results of these tests can be useful in determining the appropriate dosage of medications for a particular person.

Asking your friends and colleagues to recommend specialists with had experience in diagnosing ADHD is also a great idea. Then check their professional qualifications, including academic degrees and the number of years they have worked. They must also be able to explain how their diagnosis process works and answer any questions you might have. You can also look for experts who are certified on the internet or in the phonebook. Ask them about their philosophy of therapy and what they would suggest for you.