ADHD Diagnosis For Adults
People suffering from ADHD might suffer from symptoms that are similar to depression or anxiety. This is why it is essential to undergo an extensive evaluation by a mental health professional or health care professional.
Your specialist will ask about your symptoms from childhood. You may be asked to fill out questionnaires or have interviews with professionals and teachers who know you.
Signs and symptoms
The symptoms of ADHD can make it difficult to manage everyday tasks, like managing your schedule and planning ahead. Undiagnosed ADHD can cause people to struggle at work, to be unable to keep up in schools, and to notice that their relationships suffer because they tend to miss important dates or show up late to events. They might also have difficulty staying focused in conversations or seem to be distracted by a glazed-over look.
The diagnosis of ADHD is based on an assessment of the symptoms. They should have been present for at least 6 months and cause problems in multiple areas of their life. Adults with undiagnosed ADHD might not be aware that they have a problem, however, everyday stress can cause them to seek help. They may start to slip behind in their work because they miss deadlines or fail to concentrate during meetings or lectures. Friendships can suffer when they blow off plans or fail to listen to their partners and their family lives can be fraught because of their inability to stay on track on household chores.
In addition to a thorough interview, a professional can conduct psychological, neuropsychological or learning disabilities tests as needed. These tests can help in determining how ADHD affects a person, and also if comorbid conditions are present. Anxiety can cause symptoms that are similar to ADHD and depression is often associated with ADHD.
It is important to select a specialist who has expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD. Clinical psychologists, doctors or clinical social workers are trained professionals. It is possible to locate a specialist through recommendations from friends or colleagues, but it is recommended to conduct some research to ensure that the professional you select is certified and licensed in your state. You can also research the background of a specialist and request references from past patients or clients. These steps will assist you in finding the right person to test your child or you for ADHD. Many adults feel happy once they receive the diagnosis. They can stop worrying about whether their problems result from laziness or a lack of intelligence and instead concentrate on learning how to manage their symptoms.
Diagnosis
It isn't easy for adults to obtain an accurate diagnosis of ADHD. Many symptoms of ADHD can be attributed other factors, such as stress or medical issues. Genre, gender, and even race can influence the diagnosis of a person. For instance women and those of color may be diagnosed with the disorder less frequently than whites and men. This means that some adults who are struggling with the symptoms of ADHD do not receive the assistance they require until later in life.
A mental health professional can confirm an ADHD diagnosis through a comprehensive evaluation of the person's history of symptoms and behavior. They will inquire about the symptoms and also consult with people who are familiar with them. For instance, they might ask the person's parents, spouse as well as coworkers and friends about how the symptoms affect their lives. The person will fill out questionnaires, and may be tested with an array of tests, including a psychological assessment as well as an interview.
To be diagnosed, the patient has to prove that they've suffered from a variety of symptoms for at least 12 months and that they are currently causing impairment in two areas of their lives like work, school, or relationships. The person will need to have at least five persistent symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity-impulsivity to qualify for a diagnosis. It is also essential that the specialist establish that these symptoms existed before the age of 12.
During the evaluation, an examiner will review the patient's medical history including family history, anxiety and mood disorders, other mental health issues, alcohol abuse, as well as other physical conditions. It is not uncommon for these disorders to overlap with ADHD.
It is crucial to find a professional who has expertise in treating adults with ADHD. The majority of professionals are willing to share their expertise and training in treating adults with ADHD. If a professional is unwilling to divulge this information, you should not work with them.
Treatment
Unlike when someone is a child, the decision whether or not to tackle ADHD as an adult is solely up to the individual. Although a diagnosis can be daunting but there are a myriad of options available to adults who want to improve their performance and manage their symptoms.
Most health care professionals employ an extensive evaluation process to determine the condition of a patient. This may include a description of the symptoms provided by the individual or his close friends, family members and teachers; completion of questionnaires and scales, an extensive medical and psychiatric history; and, sometimes, an appointment with a physician for a physical exam.
A doctor will follow diagnostic guidelines established by the American Psychiatric Association in its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5) that requires an individual to demonstrate at least five indicators of hyperactivity, inattention or the tendency to be impulsive. Symptoms must also have been present prior to the age of 12. The evaluation will look at how the symptoms impact the person's life. Examples of impairment include losing a job due to issues at work, excessive conflict in relationships, financial difficulties or not paying bills on-time.
A complete assessment may include along with the clinical interview tests for psychological testing that assess working memory, executive function (abilities such as making decisions and planning), visual and spatial capabilities, as well as reasoning abilities. These tests can be conducted by a psychologist or psychiatrist who is skilled in ADHD treatment.
For some people the use of behavioral therapy could help in reducing their symptoms. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a good example. It teaches a person how to manage his own behavior and how to increase confidence in himself. It also helps the individual learn how to manage the underlying issues that cause his symptoms worse.
Some people with ADHD decide to participate in a clinical study, which is a research project designed to test new methods to detect and treat or prevent diseases. Talk to your healthcare doctor about the potential risks and benefits of participating in a trial.
Counseling
Many adults diagnosed with ADHD have been suffering from the condition for many years. The strain of living with ADHD, whether it's an issue with their job or issues with relationships, could eventually lead someone to realize they need professional assistance. If you are an adult with ADHD, a therapist specializing in the disorder could help you. A psychiatrist or neurologist can prescribe medication. If you're not sure where to look for these professionals, contact your primary care physician or the CHADD. CHADD.
In the initial assessment the mental health professional will inquire with you about your symptoms and how they impact your life. The therapist might also look over your medical background to determine if physical or emotional problems could have contributed to the onset of your ADHD. They will then conduct an interview with you and your partner, if applicable. Both spouses or partners are required to participate in the test. This will help them better understand each the other's ADHD symptoms and how they affect their relationship.
The therapist will assess the symptoms you present with the diagnostic criteria laid out by the American Psychiatric Society's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th edition). The therapist will determine whether you have moderate, mild, or severe ADHD. They'll also discuss the impact of your ADHD on your social interactions, work and at home.
After assessing your health issues, your health care provider may suggest various treatment options. These can include therapy, lifestyle changes and medication. Your doctor may recommend cognitive-behavioral therapy, which can boost your self-esteem and assist you in changing negative thinking patterns. They can also refer you for neurofeedback or brain training, which are non-pharmacological treatments that increase concentration and reduce the impulsivity.
Online telehealth services like Amwell can connect you with specialists in ADHD for assessments and medication management. Amwell works with over 40insurance companies and typically requires a here co-pay or covers your deductible for out-of-pocket visits. Thriveworks is another option which provides online counseling, and can help you manage medication.