How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults

For many adults, the frustration of being afflicted with ADHD symptoms is what leads them to seek an evaluation. They could lose their jobs because of delayed deadlines, or struggle in relationships due to their impulsive behavior, or face financial issues because they forget bills and forget to track purchases.

Ask your doctor or a mental health professional about their education and experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults.

Symptoms

If you suspect that you or your child suffer from ADHD, the first step in getting assistance is to find an expert in health care who will assess your symptoms. Your assessment will consist of physical examinations and a review of your medical history. This will include mental health issues as well as alcohol abuse. It is important that you open up to your doctor about the signs and the way they affect you. Many people with ADHD are reluctant to admit their problems out of shame or for fear of criticism. However an honest assessment can give your doctor a better picture of your daily life.

Since adulthood is different from childhood, diagnosing ADHD in adults is more complicated than diagnosing children with 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 adults and children. The doctor can inquire about other people in the patient's life, for example, the spouse or cohabiting partner or siblings, parents teachers, coaches, and other teachers to discuss how the behavior of the person has affected them. This can reveal crucial information that isn't found in tests or checklists.

In some cases, a doctor may want to examine other conditions which could cause similar symptoms as ADHD. These conditions can include mood disorders, mental health issues and physical injuries or illnesses like concussions or head trauma. The doctor will also look at the person's personal and work life to determine how their symptoms interfere with their daily routines.

The symptoms of adult ADHD can range from mild to severe, with moderate symptoms that cause difficulties in social and work situations. The severe symptoms can hinder the performance of a job or school as well as strain relationships and make it difficult to live independently.

ADHD can be an issue for anyone, but it is more common in males and boys than in girls. It is unclear why this is the case, but there are probably genetic and environmental factors in play. Certain foods and chemicals have been shown to trigger ADHD in certain individuals. It is also possible that certain individuals are predisposed to it due to brain structures that process stimuli.

Diagnosis

Finding a diagnosis of ADHD isn't always easy. Many sufferers are embarrassed by their symptoms and may have difficulty opening up to a health care doctor or mental health professional. This can delay the process of evaluation. It is important to talk honestly and openly about your symptoms, as well as your previous medical background, to ensure an accurate evaluation.

During the examination, your doctor will use the standardized behavioral ratings scales as well as ADHD symptoms checklists to determine if you fulfill the criteria of a diagnosis. Your doctor may also ask for your family and childhood history, as well as an in-depth description of your work and home life. Your doctor may also order a physical exam to determine the cause of your symptoms, such as thyroid problems or seizure disorders.

A physical exam typically includes blood work and a head scan which can help you identify any chemical or structural problems in the brain that may be contributing to your ADHD symptoms. A physical exam can also help determine other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, including addiction or depression.

Your doctor may suggest that you take part in clinical studies of new treatments for ADHD in adults. These trials are conducted by research centers, including NIMH. However, you must be aware that these research studies may be risky and not result in a treatment that is appropriate for you.

It is also crucial to inform your health care provider about any other medications you are taking, since they could interfere with certain stimulants used to treat adult ADHD. Drugs that affect the appetite, sleep, diagnosing ADHD in adults heart rate and blood pressure may all have an effect on the effectiveness of stimulants. The NIMH's Medication Interactions page will provide you with more information about how to discuss other medications with your physician.

Treatment

Adults with ADHD can be treated with treatment with medication, behavioral therapy and education support. Often, it's the combination of these that helps people find success in work, school and other pursuits. Treatment should start with an appointment with a primary care provider or another health care professional. Check out the professional's qualifications and experience in working with adults suffering from ADHD. If a professional refuses to or is not able to provide you this information, it's best to look for a different one.

The diagnostic process of adult ADHD typically involves interviews with teachers, parents and other important people. It could also involve an extensive medical and family history, as well as psychotherapy evaluation. It is important that the person who is being assessed for ADHD be honest and not be hesitant to avoid embarrassment. Multiple symptoms must be evident in two or more settings and have a significant impact in the life of the individual to allow an ADHD diagnosis to be established.

Untreated ADHD can lead to comorbid disorders such as anxiety and depression. This is particularly the case for those who suffer from ADHD who suffer from chronic stress or frustration. The frustration can trigger a self fulfilling prophecy that results in low self-esteem, poor performance, and feelings of anger.

For those who are adults, the diagnosis of ADHD can be a relief. They may begin to understand themselves and realize it wasn't their own responsibility for not being able to build a career or make friends. For some adults, the diagnoses of ADHD can bring a sense regret and sadness over missed opportunities.

Adults with ADHD must be always ready to discuss their concerns with co-workers and supervisors. It's also an excellent idea to think about joining an ADHD support group, where people with the disorder can talk about their experiences and seek assistance. Anyone who have an ADHD diagnosis should verify their insurance coverage and request the names and numbers of professionals who specialize in treating adults with ADHD.

Support

A person who is diagnosed with ADHD can seek treatment to address the issues and symptoms that affect them at the workplace, at home at school, in relationships and in many other situations. Adult ADHD is usually treated with psychotherapy and medication. Some people discover that they require special coaching, which can help them with structure and support in daily life.

Adults diagnosed with ADHD often feel relieved to learn that their problems aren't normal, or due to lazy parenting or a lack of discipline. For many, getting a diagnosis is the first step towards receiving the help they require to live more fulfilled lives.

Adults may also be affected by ADHD. It's more difficult to diagnose in children. In fact, many adults struggle throughout their lives with undiagnosed ADHD.

A psychiatrist who has experience with this condition can identify ADHD in adults through a clinical interview. The interviewer can inquire about the patient's social and emotional history, as well his or her family history. Some doctors use brain scans or computer programs to assess patients. But most experts agree that the best indication of ADHD is a thorough clinical interview and that it is essential to take the history of a patient into consideration when diagnosing the disorder.

Depending on the severity and nature of the individual's problems and any co-existing issues such as anxiety, mood disorders and learning disabilities that typically accompany ADHD Additional tests for neuropsychology and psychological testing could be administered to determine the effect and severity of these conditions. These tests can help determine the right dosage of medication for a person.

It is also recommended to ask friends and colleagues for recommendations to specialists who are experts in diagnosing ADHD. Check their credentials, including their academic degrees as well as how long they've been working. They should also be able explain how their diagnosis process works and answer any questions you might have. You can also look for experts who are certified on the internet or in the phone book. Ask them about their philosophy of therapy and what advice they would give you.