ADHD Diagnosis For Adults
A proper diagnosis of ADHD can aid in reducing the symptoms that can cause trouble at home and in your professional life. The symptoms can also result in anxiety and depression.
A thorough examination could include a detailed interview and screening questionnaires that help to determine other disorders, like anxiety or depression that might coexist or resemble ADHD. Your healthcare professional could also suggest an interview with your loved ones.
Diagnosis
It is important to have a licensed health professional evaluate you if you suspect that you might have ADHD. adhd diagnosis adults I Am Psychiatry could be a psychologist, psychiatrist or family doctor nurse practitioner with specialized knowledge in mental disorders. The exam will include speaking about your symptoms, problems they cause, and how you've tried to deal with them. The healthcare provider will review your medical background, including any previous mental health issues as well as any other medications you are taking.
The healthcare professional must be able identify at least six indicators (traits) of ADHD. They are present in at minimum two environments (home or school, as well as social situations) and also significantly impairing your functioning. The symptoms must be present for at least 6 months and be consistent. In addition, your healthcare provider must determine whether your symptoms are inattentive, hyperactive/impulsive or a combination of both.
Inattentive symptoms include trouble paying attention, losing track of details, and losing things. Problems in school are also common. People who aren't attentive ADHD may have difficulty adhering to instructions and completing assignments, or making sure that work is submitted on time. They may have difficulty sitting still, paying attention to others or focusing on their personal possessions. They frequently interrupt and scream out answers before they have finished. They are often unable to wait for their turn in conversations or games.
Hyperactive/impulsive ADHD symptoms include restlessness, fidgeting or excessively tapping hands and speaking without thinking. This type of ADHD can cause issues at school, home and at work. These problems are often related to a breakdown in relationships or having financial problems.
The person who is conducting the assessment might want to talk with your parents or teachers, and look at any evidence of your behavioral issues as a child. They will likely perform an examination of your body to rule out any other medical conditions that may be causing the symptoms you are suffering from, like seizures or thyroid problems.
They may recommend additional psychological, neuropsychological and/or learning disabilities testing when the issues you're having at school, at work or in your relationships require it. These tests aren't able to diagnose ADHD but they could provide you with important information about the disorder.
Evaluation
If you suspect that your child or you is suffering from ADHD It is important to find a qualified health professional who can assess your symptoms. Ask your doctor for a referral. Contact your insurance provider. Or search online for specialists who specialize in ADHD assessments of adults. You can also join an adult ADHD support group to get recommendations.
During the test, the person conducting it will talk to you or your child about your childhood and current life to gain a better understanding of what's going on. They may also want to talk to teachers or others who knew you as a kid. They could inquire about your medical history and previous illnesses to determine if you are suffering from any issues that look like symptoms of ADHD, such as depression or anxiety.
The evaluator can also employ questionnaires and rating scales to determine the severity of certain ADHD behaviors, and how often they occur. These tools allow them to examine your child's or your child's symptoms with the symptoms of other children and adults who have been diagnosed. This is to make sure you or your child is in line with the standard criteria for diagnosis. You or your child may be subject to a neurological or physical exam. They may also look for a medical issue that could be mimicking ADHD, such as seizures or thyroid issues.
For children to be diagnosed with ADHD, they need to consistently demonstrate six or more of the behavioral symptoms listed in two categories -- inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity -- over the course of six months. For adults, five established symptoms in one category are needed -- either inattention or hyperactivity/impulsivity. The symptoms cannot be better explained by another mental disorder, such as depression or anxiety. The evaluator analyzes the results of the tests and interview to diagnose ADHD. The evaluator will write a report outlining his or her findings and suggests treatments. They may provide you or your child with a copy the report.
Treatment
ADHD can cause issues at work and within the family. Some of the signs include impulsivity and forgetfulness which can cause financial issues or issues at work or school. Family and marriage therapy can help address the challenges that people with ADHD have to face in their relationships. Individual psychotherapy (also called talk therapy) can help alleviate the feelings of frustration and inadequacy that often accompany an diagnosis of ADHD. Finding a therapist with experience working with ADHD patients and who understands their specific challenges is essential.
Health care professionals use different methods to determine whether someone has ADHD. They can observe the person in various environments, inquire about their symptoms and the effects they have on their lives. They may also review past behavior and conduct neuropsychological and psychological testing, and perform a medical exam. They may also consult teachers and caregivers in order to get a full picture of the person's life. This includes their work, home and social surroundings.
The symptoms are required to be present in at least two different settings and disrupt the daily activities. They must be present for at least six months. The symptoms must have occurred since before age 12, and they cannot be better explained by other mental disorders, such as depression or anxiety.
Older teens and adults must meet the criteria for both the inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive types of ADHD to be diagnosed with this disorder. They must demonstrate at minimum five of the following symptoms in multiple settings:
A therapist can assist in teaching techniques that can reduce symptoms of ADHD. This includes planning ahead and keeping track of your schedules and using notebooks, planners or a diary and also establishing and sticking to routines. They can also help with communication and problem-solving skills which can help with managing symptoms. Treatment options also include medication, lifestyle adjustments and accommodations--tools or changes in the environment that make it easier for people with a condition to function, like step stools that allow short people to reach things that are high up.
Support
Many people feel relieved after receiving a diagnosis as an adult. They feel that they have finally figured out what's wrong. It can also be a time of sadness regardless of the missed opportunities in school or in the workplace or for relationships that have gone awry. It's particularly difficult for women and girls, who's symptoms may be missed in the early years or not appreciated as they grew older, Matlen said.
A specialist or doctor will review the life history of the person, including the adolescent years and childhood. They will examine the records of work and school, interview the person and anyone who knows them well and ask questions about their symptoms. They will ensure that the symptoms aren't better explained by mental health issues such as anxiety or depression.
The specialist may also suggest cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in addition to the physical test. The goal of CBT is to help the person change their thoughts and actions to help them manage their ADHD more effectively. The therapist will assist the client develop strategies to improve their time management, organizational skills and impulse control. They will also show the patient how to recognize and avoid triggers for their ADHD symptoms.
Some doctors might refer the person to a psychiatrist or psychologist who has expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD. They will be able to discuss the problems the person is experiencing at work, home and in relationships. They will be able recommend support groups and other resources for adults suffering from ADHD.
If a person has difficulty finding an expert they can contact their primary healthcare provider to refer them or search the directory online of their health insurance company. You can also ask your family and friends for suggestions, or contact a local adult ADHD support group. The specialist can also help the person find an neurologist or psychiatrist to monitor their medication and a therapist or life coach to provide them with practical strategies to manage their symptoms and make positive changes in their daily lives.