How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults

For many adults, the annoyance of living with ADHD symptoms is what prompts them to seek an evaluation. They could be losing their jobs due in part to missed deadlines, or struggling with relationships due to impulsive behavior or have financial issues because they forget to pay their bills or forget to track purchases.

Ask your doctor or mental health professional if they have any training in diagnosing ADHD among adults.

Symptoms

Find a doctor to assess your symptoms if suspect that you or your child may have ADHD. Your evaluation 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 issues and how they impact your life. Many people suffering from ADHD are reluctant to admit their problems because of shame or fear of criticism. However an extensive evaluation will provide your doctor with a clearer picture of your daily life.

Adults are different from children, and therefore diagnosing ADHD is more difficult than identifying ADHD in children. 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 children and adults. The doctor might request other people who are part of the patient's life, such as spouses or cohabiting partners or parents, siblings or teachers and coaches to discuss how the person's behavior has affected them. This could reveal information that might not be found on checklists or nearest other tests.

In some cases the doctor may need to investigate other conditions that can cause similar symptoms to ADHD. These conditions include mental health issues and physical illnesses or 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 interfering with their daily activities.

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

ADHD can affect everyone, but it's more prevalent in boys and men than in girls. There is no clear reason behind this, but it could be due to genetic or environmental factors. Research has revealed that certain chemicals and foods can cause ADHD in certain individuals, and it is possible that some individuals are predisposed to develop the condition because of specific brain structures that are involved in processing stimuli.

Diagnosis

It is not always simple to determine ADHD. Many people are ashamed of their symptoms and find it difficult to talk to an expert in mental health or health care professional. This can make the evaluation process more time-consuming. It is essential to speak candidly and honestly about your symptoms as well as your previous experiences for a thorough evaluation.

During the evaluation, your doctor may use 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 inquire about your family history and childhood, and a detailed description your work and home. Your doctor might also request a physical exam to determine if there is a medical cause for your symptoms, such as seizures or thyroid issues.

A physical exam consists of blood tests and brain scans. These tests can help to identify chemical or structural issues in the brain which may be causing ADHD symptoms. A physical exam can also help rule other conditions out that may cause similar symptoms, [empty] such as depression or addiction to substances.

Your doctor may suggest that you take part in an investigation into the effectiveness 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 potential risks and may not result in the appropriate treatment for you.

Tell your doctor about any other medications that you take, as they could interact with stimulants that are used to treat ADHD in adults. Medications that affect appetite, sleep, heart rate, and blood pressure can all have an effect on the effectiveness of stimulants. The NIMH's Medication Interactions webpage provides more details on how to discuss other medications with your health care provider.

Treatment

For adults who are diagnosed with ADHD treatments include therapy, medication and educational supports. It's often the combination of these that help people to achieve success in school, work and other pursuits. Referrals from primary care doctors or other health professionals are usually the first step to treatment. Ask about the professional's training and experience in working with adults with ADHD. If the professional is unwilling or unable to provide this information, it's best to find a different one.

The diagnostic process of private adult adhd diagnosis ADHD usually includes interviews with teachers, parents and other important people. It could also involve the complete medical and family history and psychotherapy evaluation. It's important that the person being evaluated for ADHD be honest and not evading the test due to embarrassment or fear of being criticized. Multiple symptoms must be evident in a variety of settings and cause significant impairment in the life of the individual to allow an ADHD diagnosis to be established.

Untreated ADHD can lead to the development of comorbid disorders, such as depression and anxiety. This is particularly true for those with ADHD who have a history of chronic stress or frustration. The frustration can trigger an unfulfilled prophecy which causes low self-esteem, a lack of performance and feelings of frustration.

For some adults, a diagnosis of ADHD can be a source of relief. They may begin to understand their own situation and realize that it wasn't entirely their fault that they weren't able to establish a career or make friends. For some adults, the diagnoses of ADHD can cause regret and sadness over missed opportunities.

Adults who suffer from ADHD must always be ready to discuss their issues with their supervisors and colleagues. Consider joining an ADHD support group where people who suffer from the condition can discuss their experiences and receive advice. Anyone who have an ADHD diagnosis should verify their insurance coverage and get the names and numbers of professionals that specialize in treating adults suffering from ADHD.

Support

A person who is diagnosed with ADHD is able to seek help for the symptoms and issues that affect them at home, at work at school, in relationships and in many other settings. Treatments for adults with ADHD usually include psychotherapy and medications. Some people find that they also require special coaching, which can help them with structure and support in daily life.

Adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD often are relieved to know that their troubles weren't just typical or caused by lazy parenting or a lack of discipline. A diagnosis could be the first step in receiving the assistance they require.

Adults may also be affected by ADHD. It is more difficult to recognize in children. Many adults live with undiagnosed ADHD.

A psychiatrist who has experience with this kind of condition can identify adhd diagnosis private in adults through a clinical interview. The interviewer may ask about the patient's social and emotional history, as well as the family history of the person. Some doctors use brain scans or computer programs to evaluate patients. The majority of experts agree that an extensive interview is the best way to diagnose ADHD.

Based on the nature of the issues a person faces depending on the nature of the problem, additional neuropsychological or psychological testing may be used to determine the effects and presence of co-existing conditions, like anxiety, learning disabilities and mood disorders that often accompany ADHD. These tests can also help determine the proper dosage of medication for an individual.

Asking colleagues and friends to recommend specialists who have expertise in diagnosing ADHD is a good idea. Examine their credentials, including their academic degrees and how long they've been working. They should be able to explain their diagnostic process and answer any questions that you might have. You can also look for qualified professionals through the internet or on the phonebook. Find out about their methods of counseling and what type of therapy they may suggest for you.