How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults

For many adults, the stress of living with ADHD symptoms is what prompts them to seek an assessment. They could lose their jobs due to missed deadlines, struggling in relationships due to impulsive behavior or have financial issues because they forget bills or don't keep track of purchases.

Ask your health care provider or an expert in mental health about their education and experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults.

Symptoms

Find a doctor to assess your symptoms if think your child or you is suffering from ADHD. Your assessment will consist of physical examination and a review your medical history. This will include mental health issues and substance abuse. It is important to be forthcoming with the doctor about your symptoms and how they affect you. Many people suffering from ADHD are reluctant to admit their problems out of shame or for fear of criticism. However an honest assessment can provide your doctor with a clearer picture of your life.

Since adulthood is different from childhood, identifying 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 which are valid for both adults and children. In addition to examining the patient, the doctor might also ask other people in the life of the patientlike spouses or co-habitating partner, parents, siblings or coaches and teachers -- to describe the behavior of the patient and how it has affected them. This can reveal important details that aren't discovered by tests or checklists.

In some cases the doctor may want to look into other conditions that could cause similar symptoms as ADHD. These could include mood disorders, mental health issues, and physical injuries or illnesses, like head trauma. The doctor will also look at the person's personal and professional life to determine if their symptoms affect their daily activities.

The symptoms of adult ADHD can vary from mild to severe, with moderate symptoms that cause difficulty in work and social situations. In severe cases, symptoms can affect the performance of your work or school, strain relationships and make it difficult to live a life of independence.

ADHD can be an issue for everyone, but it's more frequent in men and boys than in girls. It is not clear why this difference exists however, it is likely that there are environmental and genetic factors at play. Research has shown that certain chemicals and foods can trigger ADHD in some people, and it is possible that some individuals are predisposed to develop the condition due to the existence specific brain structures that are involved in the processing of stimuli.

Diagnosis

Being diagnosed with ADHD isn't always straightforward. Many people are embarrassed by their symptoms and have trouble speaking to a healthcare doctor or mental health specialist. This can prolong the process of evaluation. It is essential to speak openly and honestly about your symptoms and your previous medical experiences to ensure a thorough evaluation.

In the course of your evaluation, your doctor will use the standardized behavioral ratings scales as well as ADHD symptoms checklists to determine if you meet the criteria for a diagnosis. Your doctor will inquire about your childhood and family history as well as a thorough description of your work and home. 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 a brain scan. These tests can help to identify chemical or structural issues in the brain which could be contributing to ADHD symptoms. A physical exam can also help determine other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, like depression or substance abuse.

Your doctor might suggest that you take part in clinical studies of new treatments for ADHD in adults. These trials are conducted at research centers like NIMH. Be aware, however, that these studies could carry potential risks and may not result in the appropriate treatment for you.

It is also essential to inform your doctor any other medications you are taking, as they can interact with some stimulants used to treat adults with ADHD. The effectiveness of stimulants may be affected by medications that affect sleep, appetite and blood pressure. The NIMH's Medication Interactions page will give you more information on how to discuss other medicines with your physician.

Treatment

Adults with ADHD can be treated with medication, behavioral therapy, and education support. It's usually an amalgamation of the three that can help people achieve success at work, school and in other pursuits. Referrals from primary healthcare providers or other health professionals are usually the first step in treatment. Ask about the professional's training and experience in working with adults with ADHD. If the professional is unwilling or is unable to give you this information, it's best to look for a different one.

The process of diagnosing adult ADHD usually includes interviews with teachers, parents and other important people. It could also include an extensive medical and family history and psychotherapy evaluation. It is crucial that the person being assessed for ADHD be honest and not evading the test due to embarrassment or fear of being criticized. Several symptoms must be present in two or more settings and have a significant impact in the individual's life to allow an ADHD diagnosis to be established.

Many adults with untreated ADHD develop comorbid disorders that include depression and anxiety. This is especially true when people with ADHD have a history of chronic anxiety or discontent in their lives. Discontent can result in a self-fulfilling prophecy of underachievement and result in feelings of low self-esteem and poor performance.

For those Who can diagnose adhd adults are adults, the diagnosis of ADHD can be a source of relief. They may begin to see their own behavior and realize that it wasn't their fault they were unable to make friends or start a career. For some adults, a diagnoses of ADHD can cause sadness and regret over missed opportunities.

Adults suffering from ADHD should always be prepared to discuss their issues openly with supervisors, coworkers and teachers. It's also a good idea to consider joining an ADHD support group, where to get diagnosed for adhd people with the disorder can share their experiences and get assistance. People who have an ADHD diagnosis should verify their insurance coverage and request the names and numbers of the professionals that specialize in treating adults with ADHD.

Support

A person who is diagnosed with ADHD can seek help to address the issues and symptoms that affect him or her in a variety settings that include at home, work at school as well as in relationships and many more. Treatments for adult ADHD usually include psychotherapy and medication. Some people find that they also require specific coaching, which may provide structure and help in daily life.

Adults diagnosed with ADHD are often relieved to know that their issues aren't caused by bad parenting or lazyness. For many, getting a diagnosis is the first step towards getting the help they need to live better lives.

Adults can also suffer from 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 diagnose ADHD in adults through a clinical interview. The interviewer may ask about the person's personal and emotional history, as well as his or her family history. Some doctors utilize brain scans or computer programs to evaluate patients. However, most experts agree that the best indication of ADHD is an extensive clinical interview and that it is essential to take the patient's history into consideration when diagnosing the disorder.

Depending on the severity and nature of the individual's problems and any co-existing issues such as mood disorders, anxiety, and learning disabilities that often are associated with ADHD Additional neuropsychological and psychological tests could be administered to determine the severity and presence of these conditions. The results of these tests can also help in determining the right dosage of medications for a particular person.

Asking friends and colleagues to recommend specialists who have had experience in diagnosing ADHD is a great idea. You should then verify their qualifications, including academic degrees and the length of time they've been practicing. They should be able explain their diagnostic procedure and answer any questions that you may have. You can also find qualified professionals on the internet or through the phone book. Ask them about their philosophy of therapy and what they would suggest for you.