How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults

Many adults seek out an assessment because they are annoyed by the symptoms of ADHD. They could be losing their jobs due to missed deadlines, or struggling with relationships because of impulsive behaviors or having financial trouble due to the fact that they forget to pay bills or forget to track 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 to examine your symptoms if you suspect that you or your child may have ADHD. Your evaluation will include both physical examinations and a review your medical background. This will include mental health issues and substance abuse. It is crucial to be forthcoming with the doctor about the symptoms you are experiencing and how they impact you. Many people with ADHD conceal their symptoms because of shame or fear of criticism. However, a thorough evaluation can give your doctor a better picture of your life.

Because adulthood is very different from childhood, identifying ADHD in adults is more difficult than diagnosing children suffering from the disorder. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), Fifth Edition by the American Psychiatric Association provides guidelines for diagnosis that are appropriate for both children and adults. In addition to interviewing the patient, the doctor may also ask other people who are in the patient's lifefor example, spouse or co-habitating partner siblings, parents or coaches and teachers to provide a description of the person's behavior and how it has affected them. This can reveal crucial information that may not be found in tests or checklists.

In some instances the doctor may decide to examine other conditions that could cause similar symptoms as ADHD. These conditions could include mood disorders, mental health conditions and physical injuries such as concussions or head trauma. He or she will review the individual's work and personal life to determine if their symptoms are hindering their daily activities.

The symptoms of adult ADHD can vary from mild to severe, with moderate symptoms causing some difficulty in social and work situations. In severe cases, symptoms can affect schoolwork or work performance and can cause tension in relationships, making it difficult to live an independent life.

ADHD can be an issue for any person, but it is more frequent in men and boys than in girls. There is no definitive reason for this however it could be due to genetic and environmental factors. Studies have shown that certain chemicals and foods can trigger ADHD in certain people, and it's possible that some individuals are more likely to develop the condition due to the existence of specific brain structures involved in the processing of stimuli.

Diagnosis

It's not always easy to diagnose ADHD. Many people are embarrassed by their symptoms and have difficulty talking to a healthcare doctor or a mental health professional. This can make the process of evaluation longer. To ensure you get a thorough evaluation it is crucial to be honest and transparent about your symptoms as well as past history.

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

A physical exam involves blood tests and an examination of the brain. These tests can help to identify structural or chemical issues in the brain that could be contributing to ADHD symptoms. A physical exam can also aid in determining other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as depression or substance abuse.

Your doctor may suggest taking part in clinical studies of new treatments for ADHD in adults. These trials are conducted by research centers, such as NIMH. Be aware that these studies could pose potential risks and may not result in the appropriate treatment for you.

Tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking, as they may interact with stimulants used to treat ADHD in adults. 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 the best way to discuss other medications with your doctor.

Treatment

For adults diagnosed with ADHD treatments include medication, behavioral therapy and educational supports. Often, it's a combination of these that can help people find success in school, work and other pursuits. Referrals from primary care doctors or other health professionals are often the first step to treatment. Ask the doctor about their knowledge and experience working with adults suffering from ADHD. If a professional refuses to or is unable to give you the information you need, it's best to find another professional.

The diagnostic process of adult ADHD usually includes interviews with parents, teachers and other significant people. The diagnostic criteria for adhd in adults process may also include an examination of the family and medical history and an assessment of psychiatric issues. It is crucial that the person being evaluated for ADHD be honest, not holding back due to embarrassment or fear of criticism. A person must display symptoms in two or more places and cause an impairment that is significant in their daily life before an ADHD diagnosis for adhd in adults can be made.

Untreated ADHD can cause the development of comorbid disorders, such as anxiety and depression. This is especially true if those with ADHD have an ongoing history of anxiety or discontent in their lives. The frustration can cause an unfulfilling prophecy about underachievement and lead to feelings of low self-esteem and poor performance.

For some adults, a diagnosis of ADHD can be a source of relief. They begin to see their own situation and realize that it wasn't their fault they couldn't establish a career or make friends. However, for some adults, a diagnosis adhd adults of ADHD may be accompanied by feelings of sadness and regret over missed opportunities that went unaddressed.

Adults with ADHD should always be prepared to discuss their concerns with their supervisors and colleagues. Consider joining an ADHD support group where those who suffer from the condition can discuss their experiences and get advice. Anyone who can diagnosis adhd have an ADHD private diagnosis of adhd should check their insurance coverage and get the names and numbers of the professionals that specialize in treating adults suffering from ADHD.

Support

A person diagnosed as ADHD can receive help to address the issues and symptoms that affect him or her in a variety of situations that include at home, work, school or in relationships, and many others. Adult ADHD is usually treated using psychotherapy and medications. Some individuals also discover they need specialized coaching to provide structure and support 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. For some, a diagnosis is the first step towards getting the support they need to live better lives.

It is easier to diagnose ADHD in children, however it is not impossible for adults to be affected by this disorder. Many adults are suffering from undiagnosed ADHD.

The diagnosis of ADHD in adults requires a thorough clinical interview by a psychiatrist with experience working with this condition. The interview could include questions regarding the patient's family history as well as their own personal social and emotional background. Some doctors utilize computer programs or brain scans to determine the health of a patient. Most experts agree that a thorough assessment is the best method to diagnose ADHD.

Depending on the nature and severity of the individual's problems and any co-existing issues like mood disorders, anxiety, and learning disabilities that commonly are associated with ADHD Additional psychological and neuropsychological tests may be conducted to determine the presence and effect of these conditions. These tests can help determine the right dosage of medication for a person.

Asking friends and colleagues to recommend specialists with experience diagnosing ADHD is a good idea. Examine their credentials, including their academic degrees and how long they've been working. They must also be able to explain the process of diagnosis and answer any questions you may have. You can also look for experts who are qualified via the internet or the phone book. Ask them about their approach to therapy and what they would suggest for you.