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How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults
For many adults, the stress of being afflicted with ADHD symptoms is what drives them to seek an evaluation. They may lose their jobs due to missed deadlines, struggle with relationships due to impulsive behavior, or face financial issues because they forget to pay bills and don't keep track of purchases.
Ask your health care provider or an expert in mental health about their training and expertise in diagnosing ADHD in adults.
Signs and symptoms
Find a doctor who will evaluate your symptoms if you think your child or you may have ADHD. The assessment will include a physical examination and an analysis of your medical history, which includes mental health issues and drug use. It is essential to be honest with your doctor about the signs and how they impact you. Many people with ADHD hide the problem because of shame or fear of being criticized. However an extensive evaluation will provide your doctor with a clearer picture of your daily life.
Since adulthood is different from childhood, identifying ADHD in adults can be more difficult than diagnosing children with 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 adults and children. In addition to examining the patient, the doctor could also ask others who are in the patient's life- 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 may provide information that might not show up on tests or checklists.
In certain cases the doctor may want to investigate other conditions that can cause similar symptoms to ADHD. These conditions include mood disorders, mental health issues, and physical injuries like concussions or head trauma. The doctor will also look at the person's work and personal life to determine how their symptoms affect their daily activities.
The signs of adult ADHD can range from mild to severe, with moderate symptoms that cause difficulty in work and social situations. Severe symptoms may interfere with schoolwork or work performance or cause stress in relationships. It can also make it difficult to live an independent life.
Anyone can have ADHD, but it is more common in men and boys than girls. It is unclear the reason for this, but there are probably genetic and environmental factors in play. Studies have shown that certain chemicals and foods can cause ADHD in certain people, and it is possible that some people are more likely to develop the condition due to the existence specific brain structures that are that are involved in processing stimuli.
Diagnosis
It is not always simple to diagnose ADHD. Many sufferers are embarrassed by their symptoms and may have difficulty speaking to a healthcare doctor or mental health professional. This can make the process of evaluation longer. To ensure you get a thorough evaluation, it is important to be honest and transparent about your symptoms and past circumstances.
During the evaluation your doctor may employ standard behavioral rating scales and ADHD symptom checklists to determine whether 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 might also request an examination to rule out medical causes of your symptoms, like seizures or thyroid issues.
A physical exam usually includes blood work and a head scan which can reveal any structural or chemical problems in the brain that could be contributing to your ADHD symptoms. A physical exam can also rule out other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, including depression or substance abuse.
It is possible that your health care provider might suggest you participate in an investigational trial of new treatments for adult ADHD. These trials are conducted by research centers, such as NIMH. You should be aware, however, that these studies may have risks and not lead to the best treatment for you.
It is also important to inform your doctor any other medications you're taking, as they may interfere with certain stimulants used to treat adult ADHD. The effectiveness of stimulants can be affected by medications that affect appetite, sleep and blood pressure. The NIMH's Medication Interactions page can provide more details on how to discuss other medications with your physician.
Treatment
For adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD Treatment options include medication, behavioral therapy and educational assistance. It's usually a combination of the three that can help people succeed at work, school, and other activities. Treatment should begin with a referral from the primary care provider or other health care professional. Ask the doctor about their training and experience working with adults who have ADHD. If the professional is unwilling or is not able to provide you the information you need, it's best to find another professional.
The diagnostic process of adult ADHD typically involves interviews with parents, teachers and other significant people. It may also include the complete medical and family history and an evaluation of the psychiatric condition. It is important that the person being evaluated for ADHD be honest and not hold back to avoid embarrassment. Several symptoms must be present in a variety of settings and must cause significant impairment in the life of the individual to allow an ADHD diagnosis to be made.
Untreated ADHD can cause comorbid disorders such as anxiety and depression. This is particularly true for those with ADHD who have a history of chronic anxiety or frustration. It can lead to an unfulfilled prophecy which results in low self-esteem, a lack of performance, and feelings of anger.
A diagnosis of ADHD can be a great relief for certain adults. They can begin to understand themselves better and realize it wasn't because of them that they could not make friends or build an occupation. For some adults, the diagnosis of ADHD can trigger feelings of regret and sadness over missed opportunities.
Adults suffering from ADHD must always be prepared to discuss their issues openly with co-workers, supervisors and teachers. Consider joining an ADHD support group where those who suffer from the condition can discuss their experiences and receive advice. Anyone with an ADHD diagnosis should look into their insurance coverage and request the names and numbers of professionals who specialize in treating adults with ADHD.
Support
A person diagnosed with ADHD can get help for symptoms and problems that afflict him or her at work, at home, in school, in relationships and in many other situations. Adult ADHD is usually treated using medication and psychotherapy. Some people may find that they require special coaching, which can help them with structure and support in daily life.
Adults diagnosed with ADHD are often relieved to know their issues aren't caused by bad parenting or lazyness. A diagnosis could be the first step towards receiving the assistance they require.
It is much easier to identify ADHD in children, however it isn't difficult for adults to suffer from this disorder. Many adults are suffering from undiagnosed ADHD.
The diagnosis of ADHD in adults requires a thorough medical examination by a psychiatrist who has had experience working with this disorder. The interviewer might inquire about the person's social and emotional history, as also their family history. Some doctors use computer programs or brain scans to assess a patient's. The majority of experts agree that a thorough interview is the most effective way to diagnose ADHD.
Based on the nature of the difficulties a person is experiencing and the severity of their issues, additional psycho- or neuropsychological testing may be used to evaluate the effects and presence of co-existing conditions, like anxiety, learning disabilities, and mood disorders that often are associated with ADHD. The results of these tests may also be helpful in determining the appropriate dosage of medications for an individual.
It is also a good idea to ask friends and colleagues for recommendations to professionals who are experts in diagnosing ADHD. You should then verify their qualifications, including academic degrees and the number of years they have been in practice. They should 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 qualified on the internet or through the phone book. Ask them about their method of here therapy and what advice they would give you.