How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults
Many adults seek out an assessment because they are frustrated by the symptoms of ADHD. They may lose their jobs because of late deadlines, have difficulty in relationships due to impulsive behavior or have financial problems due to the fact that they forget bills and forget to track purchases.
Ask your doctor or mental health professional if they have any training in diagnosing ADHD among adults.
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If you believe that you or your child suffer from ADHD, the first step towards getting assistance is to find a medical professional who will assess your symptoms. The assessment will include an examination of your body and an analysis of your medical history, including mental health issues as well as substance use. It is essential to be open with your doctor about your symptoms and how they affect your life. Many people suffering from ADHD conceal their symptoms because of shame or fear of criticism. However, a thorough evaluation can provide your doctor with a clearer picture of your life.
Adults differ from children, and therefore the diagnosis of ADHD can be more challenging than diagnosing ADHD in children. 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. The doctor may ask others who are part of the patient's life, like a spouse or cohabitating partner or parents, siblings teachers, coaches, and other teachers, to describe how the person's behavior has affected them. This can reveal crucial information that may not be discovered by tests or checklists.
In some instances the doctor may decide to look into other conditions that could cause similar symptoms as ADHD. These include mood disorders, other mental health issues, and physical illnesses or injuries, such as concussion or head trauma. The doctor will look over the person's personal and work life to determine whether their symptoms are hindering their daily routine.
The signs of adult ADHD vary from mild to moderate and moderate symptoms causing difficulties in work and social situations. The severe symptoms can hinder the performance of your work or school and can cause tension in relationships, making it difficult to live an independent life.
ADHD can affect everyone, but it's 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 revealed that certain chemicals and foods can cause ADHD in certain individuals, and it is possible that some individuals are more likely to develop the condition due to the existence of specific brain structures that are involved in processing stimuli.
Diagnosis
Finding a diagnosis of ADHD isn't always easy. Many people are embarrassed by their symptoms and have trouble talking to a health care provider or a mental health specialist. This can prolong the evaluation process. To ensure that you receive a thorough evaluation, it is important to be honest and upfront about your symptoms and past circumstances.
During the evaluation your doctor may employ standardized behavioral rating scales and ADHD symptoms checklists to determine if you are able to meet the criteria for a diagnosis of ADHD. Your doctor will ask you about your childhood and family history, and a detailed description your work and home. Your doctor may order an examination to rule out medical causes for your symptoms, such seizures or a thyroid disorder.
A physical exam includes blood tests and a brain scan. These tests can help determine chemical or structural issues in the brain that may be causing ADHD symptoms. A physical exam can also aid in determining other conditions that may cause similar symptoms, such as addiction or depression.
It is possible that your doctor may suggest that you take part in the clinical trials of new treatments for adults with ADHD. These trials are conducted by research centers, including NIMH. However, you must be aware that these trials could be risky and not lead to a treatment that is right for you.
Discuss with your doctor any other medications that you take, as they may interact with stimulants used to treat ADHD in adults. Drugs that affect the appetite, sleep heart rate, sleep and blood pressure could affect how effective stimulants are. The NIMH's Medication Interactions page will provide you with more information on how to discuss other medications with your doctor.
Treatment
For adults diagnosed with ADHD, treatment options include behavioral therapy, medication and educational supports. Often, it's the combination of these that helps people to achieve success in school, work and other activities. Treatment should begin with a referral from a primary care provider or other health professional. Ask about the professional's training and experience working with adults suffering from ADHD. If a professional is unwilling not able to provide this information, it's best to seek another professional.
The diagnosis process for adults with ADHD usually includes interviews with teachers, parents and other significant people. It could also involve a complete medical and family history and psychotherapy evaluation. It's important that the person being evaluated for ADHD be honest and not shy away due to embarrassment or fear of being criticized. Multiple symptoms must be evident in two or more settings and cause significant impairment in the individual's life for an ADHD diagnosis to be given.
Many people with untreated ADHD suffer from comorbid conditions, including anxiety and depression. This is especially relevant for people who suffer from ADHD who have a history of chronic anxiety or frustration. The frustration can cause a self-fulfilling prophecy of underachievement and can lead to feelings of self-doubt and a lack of performance.
A diagnosis of ADHD can be a great relief for some adults. They will begin to understand their own behavior and realize that it wasn't their fault that they couldn't make friends or establish an occupation. For some adults, a diagnosis of ADHD may be accompanied by a sense of grief and regret for missed opportunities that were left unexplored.
Adults suffering from ADHD must always be ready to discuss their concerns with co-workers and supervisors. It's also recommended to think about joining an ADHD support group in which people who suffer from the disorder can discuss their experiences and receive help. Those who have an ADHD diagnosis should look into their insurance coverage and request the names and numbers of professionals who specialize in treating adults who have ADHD.
Support
A person diagnosed with ADHD can seek treatment to address the issues and symptoms that affect them at the workplace, at home, in school, in relationships and in many other settings. Treatments for adult ADHD typically involve medication and psychotherapy. Some people find that they also require specific coaching, which may provide structure and support in daily life.
Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD are often relieved to know that their issues aren't caused by lazy parenting or a lack of discipline. A diagnosis could be the first step to receiving the assistance they require.
Adults can also suffer from ADHD. It's more difficult to identify in children. In fact, many adults struggle throughout their lives with undiagnosed ADHD.
A psychiatrist who has experience with this kind of condition can identify ADHD in adults by conducting a diagnostic interview. The interviewer may ask about the person's social and emotional history, as well their family history. Some doctors utilize brain scans or computer programs to assess patients. Most experts agree that an extensive interview is the best way to determine if a patient has ADHD.
Based on the nature of a person's difficulties depending on the nature of the problem, additional neuropsychological or psychological tests may be required to determine the effects and presence of co-existing disorders, such as anxiety, learning disabilities and mood disorders that often accompany ADHD. These tests can also help determine the right dosage of medication for a person.
Asking friends and colleagues to recommend specialists who have experience diagnosing ADHD is a good idea. You should then verify their qualifications, including academic degrees and the length of time they have been in practice. They should be able explain their diagnostic process and answer any questions that you may have. You can also look for qualified professionals on the internet or in the phone book. Ask them about their approach to therapy and what they would recommend for you.