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How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults

Many adults seek out an assessment because they are frustrated by the symptoms of ADHD. They could lose their jobs due to missing deadlines, struggling in relationships because of impulsive behaviors or have financial issues because they forget to pay their bills or lose track of purchases.

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

Signs and symptoms

Find a doctor who can assess your symptoms if suspect that you or your child may have ADHD. The evaluation will consist of a physical examination and an analysis of your medical history, which includes mental health issues and substance use. It is essential to be open with your doctor about your issues and how they affect you. 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 life.

Adults are different from children, so the diagnosis of ADHD can be 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. In addition to interviewing the patient, the doctor may also ask others in the person's life -- such as spouse or co-habitating partners parents, siblings or teachers and coaches -- to describe the person's behavior and how it has affected them. This can reveal important information that may not be revealed by tests or checklists.

In certain cases, a doctor may want to investigate other conditions that could cause similar symptoms as ADHD. These could include mood disorders, other mental health issues, and physical injuries or illnesses like head trauma. The doctor will look over the individual's personal and professional life to determine if the symptoms are affecting their daily activities.

The signs of adult ADHD vary from mild to moderate, with moderate symptoms causing difficulty in social and work situations. Severe symptoms can interfere with school or job performance as well as strain relationships and make it difficult to live a life of independence.

ADHD can affect anyone, but it is more prevalent in boys and men than in girls. There is no clear reason for this, but it could be due to genetic or environmental factors. Studies have shown that certain foods and chemicals can cause ADHD in certain people, and it is possible that some people are more likely to develop the condition due to the existence of certain brain structures that are involved in processing stimuli.

Diagnosis

It's not always easy to diagnose ADHD. Many people are embarrassed by their symptoms and have difficulty talking to a healthcare specialist or a mental health specialist. This can make the process of evaluation more time-consuming. To ensure you get a thorough evaluation, it is important to be honest and open about your health issues as well as past experiences.

During the evaluation your doctor will utilize the standardized behavioral ratings scales as well as ADHD symptoms checklists to determine if you meet the criteria for diagnosis. Your doctor will ask you about your childhood and family history as well as a thorough description of your work and home. Your doctor might order a physical examination to rule out medical reasons for your symptoms, such seizures or a thyroid disorder.

A physical exam consists of blood tests and a brain scan. These tests can help determine structural or chemical problems in the brain that could be causing ADHD symptoms. A physical exam can also help determine other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, like addiction or depression.

It is possible that your health care provider might suggest you participate in an investigational trial of new treatments for adults with ADHD. These trials are conducted by research centers such as NIMH. However, it is important to be aware that these studies may be risky and not result in a treatment that is suitable for you.

Tell your doctor about any other medications that you take, as they can interact with stimulants used to treat ADHD in adults. The effectiveness of stimulants can be affected by medications that affect sleep, appetite and blood pressure. The NIMH's Medication Interactions page can provide you with more information about the best way to discuss other medications with your physician.

Treatment

Adults suffering from ADHD can be treated with treatment with medication, behavioral therapy and educational assistance. It's often an amalgamation of the three that can help people achieve success in school, work, and other activities. Referrals from primary care providers or other health professionals are the first step in treatment. Find out about the professional's education and experience in working with adults suffering from ADHD. If the professional is unwilling or in a position to give this information, you should seek another professional.

The diagnostic process for adult ADHD typically includes interviews with the patient's parents or other significant others and teachers. The process of diagnosis may include an assessment of family and medical history as well as an assessment of the psychiatric condition. It is crucial that the person being evaluated for ADHD be honest and not shy away due to embarrassment or fear of criticism. Several symptoms must be present in two or more settings and must cause significant impairment in the person's life for an ADHD diagnosis to be made.

Many people with untreated ADHD suffer from comorbid conditions, including anxiety and depression. This is particularly the case for those with ADHD who have a history of chronic stress or a sense of frustration. The frustration can cause self-fulfilling prophecy of failure and can lead to feelings of low self-esteem and poor performance.

A diagnosis of ADHD may be a relief for certain adults. They may begin to understand the situation and realize that it wasn't entirely their responsibility for not being able to build a career or meet new friends. For some adults, a diagnosis of ADHD can bring a sense sadness and regret over missed opportunities.

Adults with ADHD must be always ready to talk about their problems with their supervisors and colleagues. Consider joining an ADHD support group where those who suffer from the condition can discuss their experiences and receive advice. Anyone who have an ADHD diagnosis should check their insurance coverage and request the names and numbers of the professionals who specialize in treating adults who have ADHD.

Support

A person diagnosed with ADHD can receive help for the symptoms and problems that affect him or her in a variety of settings, including at home, work at school or in relationships, and many others. Adult ADHD is usually treated with psychotherapy and medications. Some people also require specialized coaching to provide structure and help for their daily life.

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

It is much easier to identify ADHD in children, however it isn't impossible for adults to suffer from this disorder. Many adults suffer from undiagnosed ADHD.

A psychiatrist who has expertise in this condition can diagnose ADHD in adults through a clinical interview. The interview could include questions regarding the patient's family history, as well as the person's own emotional and social history. Certain doctors employ brain scans or computer programs to assess patients. However, the majority of experts agree that the most reliable indicator of ADHD is an extensive clinical interview and it is vital to take the patient's history into consideration when diagnosing the disorder.

Based on the severity and nature of the individual's issues and any co-existing issues such as anxiety, mood disorders and learning disabilities that commonly accompany ADHD, additional tests for neuropsychology and psychological testing could be conducted to determine the effect and severity of these conditions. These tests can also help determine the proper dosage of medication for an individual.

It is also recommended to ask your friends and colleagues for recommendations to professionals who are experienced in diagnosing ADHD. Check their credentials, including their academic degrees and how long they have been practicing. They should also be able to explain how to get diagnosed with add as an adult they diagnose and answer any questions you may have. You can also look for professional who are certified on the internet or through the phone book. Ask them about their methods of counseling and what kind of therapy they would recommend for you.