How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults

For many adults, the frustration of being afflicted with ADHD symptoms is what leads them to seek an assessment. They could lose their jobs because of late deadlines, have difficulty in relationships due to their impulsive behaviors, or face financial difficulties because they forget bills and lose track of purchases.

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

Symptoms

If you suspect that you or your child have ADHD, the first step to seek assistance is to find a health care provider who will evaluate your symptoms. Your assessment will consist of physical examinations as well as a review of your medical background. This will include mental health issues and alcohol abuse. It is important to be forthcoming with the doctor about your symptoms and How To Be Diagnosed With Adhd In Adults they affect your life. Many people with ADHD hide the problem out of shame or for fear of criticism. However an honest assessment can give your doctor a better picture of your life.

Since adulthood is different from childhood, diagnosing ADHD in adults can be more complicated 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 diagnosis that are generally applicable for adults as well as children. The doctor may ask others who are in the patient's life like spouses or cohabiting partners or parents, siblings or teachers and coaches to discuss how the behavior of the person has affected them. This may reveal information that might not show up on tests or checklists.

In some instances the doctor may want to examine other conditions that could cause similar symptoms as ADHD. These could include mood disorders, other mental health conditions, as well as physical illnesses or injuries, such as concussion or head trauma. The doctor will also look at the person's personal and professional life to determine if their symptoms impact their daily routines.

The signs of adult ADHD can range from mild to moderate and moderate symptoms causing 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 harder to live an independent life.

ADHD can be a problem for any person, but it is more common in males and boys than in girls. It is unclear why this difference exists however it is likely that there are genetic and environmental factors at play. Research has shown that certain foods and chemicals can trigger ADHD in some individuals, and it is possible that some individuals are predisposed to develop the condition because of specific brain structures that are involved in processing stimuli.

Diagnosis

It is not always simple to recognize ADHD. People often feel embarrassed about their symptoms and may have difficulty opening up to a healthcare provider or mental health professional. This could make the evaluation process longer. It is important to talk honestly and openly about your symptoms, as well as your previous medical history to ensure a thorough evaluation.

During the evaluation your doctor may employ standardized behavioral rating scales and ADHD symptom checklists to determine if you are able to meet the criteria to be diagnosed of ADHD. Your doctor may also ask for your family history and childhood information, as well as a detailed description of your work and home life. Your doctor may order an examination to rule out medical causes for your symptoms, like seizure or thyroid disorder.

A physical exam consists of blood tests and a brain scan. These can help identify structural or chemical problems in the brain which may be causing ADHD symptoms. A physical exam may also help rule other conditions out that could cause similar symptoms, like depression or addiction to substances.

It is possible that your doctor will recommend that you participate in the clinical trials of new treatments for adults ADHD. These trials are conducted by research centers like NIMH. It is important to be aware that these studies could carry negative consequences and may not provide the appropriate treatment for you.

Discuss with your doctor any other medications that you are taking, as they can interact with stimulants used to treat ADHD in adults. The effects of medications on appetite, sleep, heart rate and blood pressure may all have an effect on the effectiveness of stimulants. The NIMH's Medication Interactions page can provide more details on how to discuss other medications with your physician.

Treatment

Adults with ADHD are treated with medications, behavioral therapy and education support. It's typically an amalgamation of all three that helps people succeed in school, work and other endeavors. Treatment should begin with a referral from your primary care physician or another health care professional. Find out about the professional's education and experience working with adults with ADHD. If a professional is unwilling not able to provide this information, you should find a different one.

The diagnostic process of adult ADHD usually includes interviews with teachers, parents and other people who are significant to the child. The process of diagnosis may include an assessment of family and medical history as well as a psychiatric assessment. It is crucial that the person being evaluated for ADHD be honest and not shy away due to embarrassment, or fear of being judged. Multiple symptoms must be evident in more than one setting and cause significant impairment in the life of the individual for an ADHD diagnosis to be established.

Untreated ADHD can cause co-occurring disorders like anxiety and depression. This is particularly true when those with ADHD have an ongoing history of stress or frustration in their lives. Frustration can cause an unfulfilled prophecy which causes low self-esteem, a lack of performance and feelings of frustration.

A diagnosis of ADHD may be a relief for some adults. They begin to see themselves and realize it wasn't entirely their fault they couldn't establish a career or meet new friends. However, for certain adults, being diagnosed of ADHD can be accompanied by feelings of sadness and regret over lost opportunities that went unaddressed.

Adults suffering from ADHD must be always ready to discuss their concerns with supervisors and coworkers. Consider joining an ADHD support group where those who suffer from the condition can share their experiences and receive guidance. Finally, those with an diagnosis of ADHD should check their health insurance coverage to determine what services are covered and to find the names and numbers of specialists who specialize in treating adults with ADHD.

Support

A person get diagnosed with adhd with ADHD is able to seek help to address the issues and symptoms that affect them at home, at work, in relationships, at school and in many other settings. Adult ADHD is usually treated using medication and psychotherapy. Some people find that they require special coaching, which can provide structure and support in daily life.

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

It is easier to diagnose ADHD in children, however it isn't impossible for adults to be affected by this disorder. Many adults suffer from undiagnosed ADHD.

A psychiatrist who has experience with this condition can identify ADHD in adults through a clinical interview. The interview could include questions regarding the patient's family history, and also the person's own emotional and social background. Some doctors utilize brain scans or computer programs to assess patients. Most experts agree that a thorough assessment is the most effective way to determine the presence of ADHD.

Depending on the nature of the difficulties a person is experiencing and the severity of their issues, additional psycho- or neuropsychological tests can be conducted to determine the presence and effects of co-existing conditions like anxiety, learning disabilities and mood disorders that often occur in conjunction with ADHD. The results of these tests may also help in determining the proper dosage of medications for an individual.

It is also a good idea to ask your friends and colleagues for suggestions to specialists who are skilled in diagnosing ADHD. Verify their credentials, such as their academic degrees and the length of time they've been in practice. They should be able explain their diagnostic procedure and answer any queries that you might have. You can also search for professional who are qualified online or in the phonebook. Find out about their methods of counseling and what type of therapy they may suggest for you.