ADHD - Symptoms in Adults
If you think you may be suffering from ADHD, it's important to receive a diagnosis. This will allow you to manage your symptoms and gain control over your life.
ADHD self-assessment tools can provide you with the knowledge that you might have symptoms common to adult ADHD, but a valid diagnosis requires an assessment by a specialist. This can be an expert in clinical psychology, a physician (psychiatrist or neurologist) or therapist.
Symptoms
ADHD can be a problem for anyone of any age, but the symptoms can differ slightly in adults. Adults who suffer from ADHD can also use their symptoms to help achieve success at work and in relationships.
The symptoms of adult ADHD can be mild, moderate, or severe. For a diagnosis to be made, symptoms must persist from childhood and cause issues in two areas of your life. Finding it difficult to keep your attention to your work or remembering things are two examples of issues that could be caused by ADHD.
There are online self-tests or rating scales that can help you determine if might be suffering from ADHD. The only way to receive an accurate diagnosis of ADHD in adults is to see a doctor who specializes on the disorder. Ask your primary care physician for a referral, or look up an ADHD specialist on the online directory of your health insurance.
If you visit a specialist, they'll review your medical and psychiatric history dating back to childhood, highlighting how your symptoms have impacted your work, school and personal life. They'll also ask you about any alcohol or drugs you use, driving history and what your relationships with your family and friends have been. It is important to be truthful when you are speaking with your examiner. Many adults suffering from ADHD hide or cover up their symptoms from others because they're afraid of criticism or are embarrassed. This can make the evaluation process more difficult.
Before the diagnosis of ADHD is made, it is important to rule out other medical conditions that could cause similar symptoms, for example, seizures or thyroid disorders. A physical exam and a detailed neurological history are also required.
If your results indicate that you suffer from ADHD, then your doctor might prescribe medication. In addition, they may recommend psychotherapy or other therapies that can aid you in managing your ADHD. They may also suggest accommodations to help you work more efficiently, including making changes to your surroundings and utilizing tools for organizing and planning.
assessing adhd in adults
To diagnose ADHD, a professional evaluation is required. Your doctor will conduct a comprehensive history of your symptoms, including when they first began and how they have affected your life. He or she will also ask you about your family history as ADHD is often caused by genetics. Your doctor will also perform a physical examination to rule out medical conditions that could mimic ADHD symptoms. This includes thyroid issues or seizures.
You will likely be asked to complete a series tests in the field of psychology that include behavioral ratings scales to evaluate your functioning. You may be asked to complete reading or math tasks on phones, computers or tablet to determine your performance in various situations. You might even have an IQ test to evaluate your cognitive abilities.
The American Psychiatric Association has established standards that must be met for the diagnosis of adult ADHD. This includes the presence of at least six months of symptoms and their significant impact on a variety of settings in your life, such as school or work. Your doctor will be looking to determine if your symptoms caused a substantial amount of problems prior to the age of 12.
It's important to understand that many different things can trigger or mimic ADHD. Stress mental health issues, stress, and certain medications, like can all trigger some of the symptoms that are similar to ADHD.
Bring any documentation from previous psychological tests or performance evaluations to your appointment. Your doctor will also want to know the medications you're taking, if any, and if you've ever had a head injury or illness.
Psychotherapy, or "talk therapy" in the case of ADHD is extremely beneficial for adults suffering from this disorder. This type of treatment can help you improve your coping skills and strategies to manage your ADHD symptoms to ensure they don't interfere with your ability to live your daily life. Psychotherapy can be combined with medication or used alone for those suffering from ADHD. Ask your primary care provider to refer you to a specialist in mental health who treats adults suffering from ADHD. You can also contact your insurance provider and inquire what specialists are covered. Visit an organization that offers support locally.
Treatment
Make an appointment with your primary healthcare provider if you suspect you have ADHD. Your doctor may refer you to a mental healthcare specialist who will conduct a full evaluation and diagnose the disorder. During your appointment, you should be honest with your doctor about the issues you're experiencing at home and at work. The doctor will ask you about any major problems you've faced, such as being dismissed or failing a class. Your doctor will ask about your family history as well as any health issues you have had previously such as anxiety disorders or depression.
You may be asked to fill out some sort of questionnaire, like the Adult Attention and Hyperactivity Disorder Self-Screening Tool (ASRS). This test is around five minutes long and contains 18 questions that ask you to rate the frequency at which you experience adult ADHD symptoms. Your doctor will consider your answers and give you an overall score that will indicate whether you should seek a formal diagnosis.
In addition, your doctor will be looking for the issues you face in your relationships at home and at work. It may be embarrassing to discuss these issues, but your doctor needs to know about it so that they can help. In some cases, your doctor will want to speak with your coworkers or teachers to find out more about the issues you're facing. This doesn't mean that your doctor is judging or accusing you of being a victim. It's simply to help them better know how ADHD can impact a person's ability at work or in school.
Your doctor may recommend psychological tests to rule other illnesses that may cause similar symptoms. For instance, a mood disorder or a learning disorder. You can also have an examination for physicals to ensure that there aren't any medical conditions causing your symptoms.
Your doctor may also request that you bring any records with you, like performance evaluations from your workplace or old report cards from your school. Your doctor will also want to know if you're ADHD symptoms were severe enough to interfere with your life as an infant.
Support
If you suspect you might have ADHD If you suspect that you may have ADHD, it is essential to consult an expert. They can conduct a complete evaluation. These professionals are licensed mental health providers such as physicians and clinical psychologists (psychiatrists or neurologist family physicians). Many insurance companies provide the names of qualified professionals in the area. You can also reach out to local support organizations for help in finding a suitable provider.
Your physician will also talk to you about the symptoms you are experiencing and how they affect your life. This includes school and work performance as well as relationships and other aspects of your daily life. Your clinician may wish to meet with your coworkers and teachers or to request old school records. This isn't a way to determine your honesty; it's just to get more information. Many adults suffering from ADHD suffer from weak or inconsistent memories, especially from childhood. It is crucial to collect the most information you can before making an assessment.
Depending on the problem you're experiencing, your doctor might suggest other diagnostic procedures like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which can help those suffering from ADHD learn to cope with their challenges and harness their strengths. CBT is often combined with medication to help with ADHD treatment.
While you wait for a professional assessment, you can evaluate your symptoms using a variety of tools on the Internet. These include the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) and a range of online questionnaires. These tools are not tested or validated scientifically and should be used only as general guidelines.
Many people with undiagnosed ADHD are so accustomed to their challenges that they take them for granted. They may think that they are just not doing their best or that it is their fault that they can't keep up with their social or work commitments. The reality is that the symptoms of ADHD are neurological and not a personal failing. If you are treated properly, you can gain control of your ADHD and turn it into something constructive. This will bring you greater success in your job and personal relationships, as well as a more meaningful life for your family and friends who are around you.