How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults
Many adults seek out an assessment due to being dissatisfied with 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 bills or lose track of purchases.
Ask your doctor or a mental health professional about their education and experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults.
Signs and symptoms
Find a doctor to assess your symptoms if suspect you or your child may have ADHD. The evaluation will consist of physical examination and a review your medical history. This includes mental health issues as well as substance abuse. It is essential to be honest with the doctor about the symptoms you are experiencing and how they affect you. Many people with ADHD hide the problem because of shame or fear of being criticized. However, a thorough evaluation can provide your doctor with a clearer picture of your daily life.
Adults are different from children, so diagnosing ADHD can be more challenging than diagnosing ADHD in children. The American Psychological Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5) offers guidelines for diagnosing ADHD that are generally valid for adults as well as children. The doctor can inquire about other people who are part of the patient's life, such as the spouse or cohabiting partner or siblings, parents, teachers, and coaches to explain how the patient's behavior has affected them. This can provide information that might not be included on checklists or other tests.
In certain cases the doctor may decide to look into other conditions that can cause similar symptoms as ADHD. These could include mood disorders, mental health issues, and physical injuries or illnesses like concussions or head trauma. He or she will review the person's personal and work life to determine if the symptoms are interfering with their daily routine.
The symptoms of adult ADHD can range from mild to moderate, with moderate symptoms causing difficulty in social and work situations. The severe symptoms can hinder work or school performance as well as strain relationships and make it difficult to live a life of independence.
ADHD can be an issue for anyone, but it is more prevalent in boys and men than in girls. It is unclear why this is the case however it is likely that there are genetic and environmental factors at play. Certain foods and chemicals have been shown to trigger ADHD in certain people. It is also possible that certain individuals are predisposed to it due to brain structures that are involved in processing stimuli.
Diagnosis
Being diagnosed with ADHD isn't always straightforward. Many people are embarrassed by their symptoms and are unable to speak to a mental health professional or health care provider. This can prolong the evaluation process. adhd uk diagnosis is crucial to speak openly and honestly about your symptoms as well as your previous history to ensure a thorough evaluation.
In the course of your evaluation, your doctor will utilize the standardized behavioral ratings scales as well as ADHD symptoms checklists to determine if you fulfill the criteria for a diagnosis. Your doctor will also inquire for your family and childhood history, as well as a detailed description of your work and home life. Your doctor could also recommend 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 a brain scan. These can help identify structural or chemical issues in the brain which could be contributing to ADHD symptoms. A physical exam can help identify other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, like depression or addiction to substances.
Your doctor may suggest you participate in a clinical studies of new treatments for ADHD in adults. These trials are conducted by research centers, such as NIMH. Be aware, however, that these studies could pose risks and not lead to the appropriate treatment for you.
Tell adhd uk diagnosis about any other medications you take, as they could interact with stimulants that are used to treat ADHD in adults. Medications that affect the appetite, sleep heart rate, appetite, and blood pressure can all have an effect on the effectiveness of stimulants. NIMH's Medication Interactions webpage can provide more information on how to discuss other medications with your health care provider.
Treatment
For adults diagnosed with ADHD treatments include therapy, medication and educational supports. It's typically an amalgamation of all three that helps people succeed in school, work and other endeavors. Referrals from primary care providers or other health professionals are usually the first step in treatment. Ask the professional about their expertise and training in working with adults suffering from ADHD. If a professional is unwilling in a position to give this information, it's best to look for a different professional.
The process of diagnosing adult ADHD typically involves interviews with parents, teachers and other people who are significant to the child. The diagnostic process could also include a medical and family history as well as an assessment of the psychiatric condition. It's important 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 more than one place and have a significant impairment in their daily lives before an ADHD diagnosis can be made.
Untreated ADHD can cause the development of comorbid disorders, such as anxiety and depression. This is especially true when those with ADHD have a history of chronic anxiety or discontent in their lives. Frustration can lead to an unfulfilling prophecy about underachievement and can lead to feelings of low self-esteem and poor performance.
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 diagnoses of ADHD can cause sadness and regret over missed opportunities.
Adults who suffer from ADHD must always be ready to discuss their concerns openly with co-workers, supervisors and teachers. Consider joining an ADHD support group where those who suffer from the condition can share their experiences and receive guidance. Anyone with an ADHD diagnosis should verify their insurance coverage and obtain the names and phone numbers of specialists who specialize in treating adults suffering from ADHD.
Support
A person diagnosed with ADHD is able to receive assistance to address the issues and symptoms that affect them in a variety of situations such as at home, work at school as well as in relationships and many more. Adult ADHD is usually treated using psychotherapy and medications. Some people find that they also need specific coaching, which may provide structure and help in everyday life.
Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD often are relieved to know that their issues aren't typical or caused by lazy parenting or a lack of discipline. For certain people, being diagnosed with ADHD is the first step towards receiving the help they require to live more fulfilled lives.
It is much easier to identify ADHD in children, however it isn't impossible for adults to be affected by this disorder. In fact, many adults have struggled throughout their lives with undiagnosed ADHD.
A psychiatrist who has expertise in this kind of condition can identify ADHD in adults by conducting a clinical interview. The interview may include questions regarding the patient's family history and also their own personal emotional and social history. Certain doctors employ brain scans or computer programs to evaluate patients. But most experts agree that the most reliable indication of ADHD is an exhaustive clinical interview. It is also believed it is vital to take the patient's history into consideration when determining the severity of the disorder.
Depending on the severity and nature of the person's difficulties and the co-existing conditions such as mood disorders, anxiety, and learning disabilities that commonly are associated with ADHD, additional psychological and neuropsychological tests may be administered to determine the effect and severity of these conditions. The results of these tests can also help in determining the proper dosage of medications for a particular person.
It's also an excellent idea to ask colleagues and friends for suggestions to specialists who are experts in diagnosing ADHD. Check their credentials, including their academic degrees and the length of time they have been in practice. They should also be able to explain how they diagnose and answer any questions you might have. You can also find experts who are certified online or in the phonebook. Ask about their approach to counseling and what type of therapy they may recommend for you.