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How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults
Many adults seek out an assessment because they are dissatisfied with the symptoms of ADHD. They could lose their jobs due to missed deadlines, struggle with relationships due to impulsive behaviors, or face financial difficulties because they forget to pay bills and don't keep track of purchases.
Ask your doctor or a mental health professional about their experience and training in diagnosing ADHD in adults.
Signs and symptoms
Find a doctor to evaluate your symptoms if you think your child or you is suffering from ADHD. Your evaluation will include both a physical exam and a review your medical history. This will include mental health issues and alcohol abuse. It is important to be forthcoming with the doctor about your issues and how they impact you. Many people with ADHD hide their problems out of fear or shame criticism, but a thorough evaluation will give the doctor an accurate picture of your lifestyle and issues.
Adults are different from children, which is why 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 that are applicable for both children and adults. The doctor can inquire about other people who are part of the patient's life, like the spouse or cohabiting partner or siblings, parents, teachers, and coaches, to describe how the person's behavior has affected them. This can reveal crucial information that may not be found in tests or checklists.
In certain instances the doctor may need to look into other conditions that could cause similar symptoms as ADHD. These can include mood disorders, mental health conditions, as well as physical illnesses or injuries, like head trauma. The doctor will also look at the person's work and personal life to determine how their symptoms interfere with their daily routines.
The symptoms of adult ADHD can range from mild to moderate with moderate symptoms leading to difficulties in work and social situations. A severe condition can affect the performance of a job or school, strain relationships, and make it difficult to live independently.
ADHD can be a problem for everyone, but it's more prevalent in boys and men than in girls. It is unclear the reason for this, but there are probably genetic and environmental factors at play. Studies have shown that certain chemicals and foods can cause ADHD in some individuals, and it is possible that some people are more likely to develop the condition because of certain brain structures that are involved in processing stimuli.
Diagnosis
Finding a diagnosis of ADHD isn't always easy. Many people are ashamed of their symptoms and are unable to open up to an expert in mental health or health care provider. This could make the evaluation process more time-consuming. It is important to talk honestly and openly about your symptoms as well as your previous experiences for an accurate assessment.
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 for diagnosis. Your doctor will also inquire for your family and childhood history along with an extensive description of your work and personal life. Your doctor might also request an examination to determine if there is a medical cause for your symptoms, for example, seizures or thyroid issues.
A physical exam consists of blood tests and a brain scan. These tests can help to identify structural or chemical issues in the brain which could be causing ADHD symptoms. A physical exam can aid in determining other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, such as addiction or depression.
Your doctor may recommend that you take part in an investigation into the effectiveness of new treatments for ADHD in adults. These trials are conducted by research centers like NIMH. Be aware, however, that these studies could pose negative consequences and may not provide the best treatment for you.
It is also important to inform your doctor any other medications you are taking, as they can interact with some stimulants used to treat adults with ADHD. Medications that affect appetite, sleep, heart rate, and blood pressure can affect how effective stimulants are. The NIMH's Medication Interactions page will provide more details on how to discuss other medicines with your doctor.
Treatment
Adults with ADHD may be treated by medications, behavioral therapy and educational support. Most often, it's the combination of these that can help people to achieve success in school, work and other areas. Referrals from primary care doctors or other health professionals are usually the first step in treatment. Check out the professional's qualifications and experience in working with adults with ADHD. If a professional refuses to or is not able to provide you this information, it is recommended to seek out a different professional.
The diagnosis process for adults with ADHD typically involves interviews with the patient's parents or other significant others and teachers. The process of diagnosis may include a medical and family history, as well as a psychiatric assessment. It is essential 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 more than one setting and have a significant impact in the life of the individual for an ADHD diagnosis to be given.
Many adults suffering from untreated ADHD suffer from comorbid conditions such as depression and anxiety. This is particularly true when people with ADHD have an ongoing history of tension or frustration in their lives. Frustration can lead to a self-fulfilling prophecy of underachievement and result in feelings of low self-esteem and a lack of performance.
For certain adults, being diagnosed of ADHD can be a great relief. They can start to understand themselves and realize it wasn't their own responsibility for not being able to build an occupation or make friends. For certain adults, being diagnosed of ADHD can come with feelings of sadness and regret over missed opportunities that went unaddressed.
Adults who suffer from ADHD must always be ready to discuss their concerns openly with supervisors, coworkers and teachers. Consider joining an ADHD support group where people with the condition can share their experiences and get advice. Anyone who have an ADHD diagnosis should look into their insurance coverage and obtain the names and numbers of professionals who specialize in treating adults suffering from ADHD.
Support
A person who is diagnosed with ADHD is able to seek help for symptoms and problems that afflict him or her at work, at home, in school, in relationships and in many other situations. Adult ADHD is typically treated with medication and psychotherapy. Some people find that they also require specialized coaching, which can 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 bad parenting or lazyness. For certain people, being diagnosed with ADHD is the first step in getting the help they need to live more fulfilled lives.
It is simpler to diagnose ADHD in children, however it isn't difficult for adults to have this disorder. Many adults are suffering from undiagnosed ADHD.
A psychiatrist with experience in this condition can identify ADHD in adults by conducting a clinical interview. The interviewer may ask about the patient's social and emotional history, as also their family history. Some doctors use computer programs or brain scans to determine the health of a patient. Most experts agree that a thorough assessment is the best method to diagnose ADHD.
Based on the severity and nature of the individual's problems and co-existing disorders like mood disorders, anxiety, and learning disabilities that typically accompany ADHD Additional tests for neuropsychology and psychological testing could be conducted to determine the presence and effect of these conditions. These tests can also aid in determining the appropriate dosage of medication for an individual.
Asking colleagues and friends to recommend specialists who have expertise in diagnosing ADHD is also a great idea. You should then verify their credentials, including academic degrees and the number of years they've been practicing. They should be able explain their diagnosis process and answer any questions that you might have. You can also search for experts who are certified through the internet or on the phonebook. Find out about their counseling approach and what kind of therapy they may recommend for you.