ADHD Diagnosis For Adults
People suffering from ADHD may have symptoms similar to those experienced by people suffering from anxiety or depression. This is why a thorough assessment by a health care professional or mental health professional is necessary.
Your doctor will inquire about your symptoms from childhood. You might also be asked to complete questionnaires or take part in interviews with teachers and other professionals who are familiar with you.
Signs and symptoms
ADHD symptoms can make it hard to manage daily tasks, such as scheduling and managing time. Undiagnosed ADHD can cause people to struggle at work, struggle to keep up with school, and to find that their relationships suffer since they tend to overlook important dates or show up late to events. They may also have difficulty keeping track of conversations or appear distracted with a glazed over look.
The diagnosis of ADHD is dependent on the evaluation of the symptoms. They must have been present for at least 6 months and have caused problems in various areas of their life. Adults who have not been diagnosed with ADHD may not be aware that they have a problem but their daily struggles can cause them to seek help. They may fall behind in their work because they miss important deadlines or are unable to concentrate during meetings and lectures. Their friendships may suffer because they sabotage plans or fail to listen to their partners, and their family life may be a struggle due to their inability to keep up on household chores.
A qualified professional can also conduct testing for learning disabilities, psychological disorders, or neuropsychological disorders. Based on the individual's particular issues, these tests may provide valuable information on the ways that ADHD affects the person and determine whether or not co-occurring conditions exist. For example, anxiety can cause similar symptoms as ADHD and depression frequently is a result of ADHD.
It is important to choose a specialist with experience treating adults suffering from ADHD. Qualified professionals can include doctors, clinical psychologists or clinical social professionals. It is possible to locate an expert through recommendations from colleagues or friends, but it is recommended to conduct some research to make sure the expert you select is certified and licensed in your state. You can also research the background of the expert and ask for references of past patients or clients. These steps can aid you in finding the most suitable person to evaluate your child or you for ADHD. When a diagnosis is made, it can be a great relief to many adults. They can stop worrying about their shortcomings being because of laziness or a lack in intelligence, and instead focus on addressing their symptoms.
Diagnosis
It isn't easy for adults to receive a diagnosis of ADHD. A lot of symptoms of ADHD can be attributed other factors, such as stress or medical conditions. adult adhd diagnosis uk ADHD Diagnosis , gender or race may influence a person's diagnosis. People of color and women, for example, may be diagnosed less often with the disorder than males and whites. Some adults with ADHD symptoms are diagnosed later in life.
A mental health professional can confirm the ADHD diagnosis by conducting a thorough examination of the patient's history of symptoms and behavior. They will ask the person about their symptoms, and will also speak with people who know them well. They may ask their spouse or parents of the patient how the symptoms have affected their lives. The patient is expected to fill out questionnaires and may be subjected to a series of tests, which could include the psychological assessment and an interview.
To be diagnosed, one must prove that at least five symptoms have been present for a minimum of 12 months, and that the symptoms are causing problems in two different areas of life such as school, work or relationships. The person will need to have at least five persistent symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity-impulsivity to qualify for a diagnosis. It's also important that the specialist establish that these symptoms were present prior to the age of 12.
During the evaluation, the examiner will examine the person's family and personal background and medical history, their mood and anxiety disorders, other mental health issues, and their substance use and other physical ailments. It's not uncommon for these issues to overlap with ADHD.
It is important to locate a mental health professional who has worked with adults with ADHD. Most qualified professionals will be willing to discuss their training and expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD. If a professional is reluctant to divulge this information, it's not a good idea to work with them.
Treatment
As opposed to a child, the decision whether or to treat ADHD as an adult is entirely up to the person. Although receiving a diagnosis can be intimidating at first, there are a number of options available to adults to manage their symptoms and improve their functioning.
The majority of health care professionals will employ a thorough evaluation process to determine the condition of an individual. This may include a description of the symptoms provided by the individual or his close family, friends members, and teachers; the completion of questionnaires and scales, an extensive medical and psychiatric history; and occasionally an appointment with a physician for a physical examination.
A doctor will refer to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5) which was published by the American Psychiatric Association, which requires that a person exhibit at least five symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention or an impulsive behavior. The symptoms must also be present prior to age 12. The evaluation will examine how the symptoms affect the life of the individual. Examples of impairment include losing a job due to issues at work, excessive conflict in relationships, financial difficulties or not making payments on-time.
In addition to a clinical interview, a complete assessment will often consist of psychological tests to determine executive functioning, working memory (abilities like planning and decision-making) spatial and visual abilities, and reasoning. These tests are conducted by a psychiatrist or psychologist who is skilled in ADHD treatment.
Behavioral therapy can be beneficial in managing symptoms for some people. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a good example. It helps a person learn how to control his own behavior and how to increase his self-esteem. It can also instruct the person how to deal with the root of issues that make his symptoms worse.
Some people suffering from ADHD decide to participate in a clinical trial, which is a study designed to test the effectiveness of new ways to prevent and treat diseases and conditions. Patients should speak to their doctor about the risks and benefits of taking part in an clinical trial.
Counseling
Many people diagnosed with ADHD have been living with the condition for many years. The stress of living with ADHD or frustration at work or relationship issues, may eventually lead someone to realize they need professional help. If you are an adult with ADHD or ADD, a therapist that specializes in the disorder could help you. A neurologist or psychiatrist may prescribe medication. If you're not sure how to locate these health specialists, consult your primary physician or the CHADD organization CHADD for suggestions.
In the initial assessment, a mental health professional might ask you questions regarding your symptoms and their impact on your life. The therapist will also review your medical records to determine whether physical or emotional issues may be contributing to your ADHD. The therapist will speak with you as well as, if necessary your significant other. It's important that both partners or spouses participate in the assessment to gain more understanding of their respective ADHD symptoms and the impact they have on their relationship.
The therapist will evaluate the symptoms you present using the diagnostic criteria established by the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th edition). The therapist will determine whether you suffer from mild, moderate, or severe ADHD. They'll also talk about the impact of your ADHD on your work, social interactions and at home.
After assessing your health issues, the health care professional will recommend treatment options. This could include medications, lifestyle changes and therapy. Your doctor may suggest cognitive-behavioral therapy, which can boost your self-esteem and assist you in changing negative thinking patterns. They can also refer you for brain training or neurofeedback, which are non-pharmacological treatments that improve concentration and reduce impulsivity.
Amwell, an online telehealth service, can connect you to a provider who specializes in ADHD for assessments and medication. Amwell has a relationship with more than 40+ insurance companies and typically requires a copay or covers your deductible for out-of-pocket visits. Another alternative is Thriveworks, which offers online therapy and can provide medication management.