ADHD - Symptoms in Adults
It is essential to receive a proper diagnosis if you suspect that you might be suffering from ADHD. This will be the first step to managing symptoms and gaining control over your life.
ADHD self-assessment tools may alert you to the possibility of having symptoms that are common to adults with ADHD. However, a valid diagnosis is only possible through an evaluation by a professional. This can be a psychologist, neurologist or psychiatrist.
Signs and symptoms
ADHD affects people of all ages, however symptoms in adults can appear slightly different. Adults who suffer from ADHD may also utilize their symptoms to achieve success at work and in relationships.
Adult symptoms of ADHD can be mild, moderate or severe. To be able to receive an assessment, the symptoms must have remained consistent since childhood and continue to cause significant issues in at least two different areas of your life. ADHD can cause problems like having trouble focusing on a task or even forgetting things.
There are online self-tests or rating scales that can aid in determining if you might be suffering from ADHD. However the only way to receive a definitive diagnosis is to see an expert in diagnosing ADHD in adults. Ask your primary care doctor for a referral, or search for an ADHD specialist on the online directory of your health insurance.
When you visit an expert, they'll go over your medical and psychiatric records going back to childhood, highlighting how your symptoms have impacted your school, work and family life. They'll also inquire about your alcohol and drugs use, driving record, and how you relate to family and friends. It's important to be open with your examiner. Many adults suffering from ADHD cover up or deny their symptoms to others because they're scared of criticism or embarrassed. This can make the assessment process more difficult.
Before the diagnosis of ADHD is made, it is important to rule out any other medical conditions that could cause similar symptoms, such as seizures or thyroid disorders. A detailed neurological history and a physical exam will also be performed.
If your results indicate that you have ADHD your doctor may prescribe medications. Additionally, they might recommend psychotherapy or other treatments that will help you learn to manage your ADHD. They may also suggest accommodations to assist you in working more efficiently, including making changes to your surroundings and using software for planning and organizing.
Diagnosis
To diagnose ADHD an evaluation by a professional is required. Your doctor will conduct an extensive history of your symptoms, including when they first began and how they have affected your life. The doctor might also inquire about your family history, since it's common for ADHD to run in families. Your doctor will conduct physical examinations in addition, to determine if there are any medical issues that could mimic ADHD symptoms, such as seizure disorders or thyroid issues.
You'll likely go through an array of psychological tests to evaluate your functioning such as behavioral rating scales. You could be asked to complete math or reading tasks using a computer, phone or tablet to determine your performance in various situations. You could also be offered an IQ test in order to evaluate your cognitive abilities.
The American Psychiatric Association established criteria for determining adult ADHD. The symptoms must have been present for at minimum six months consecutively and be having a significant impact in multiple areas of your life, such as school or work. Your doctor will also want to know if your symptoms caused a significant amount of discomfort prior to age 12.
It is important to realize that there are many different things that can cause or mimic ADHD. For instance stress, stress, other mental health issues, and certain medications can all lead to the same symptoms as ADHD.
If you have any documentation from previous psychological testing or performance evaluations, bring them with you to your appointment. Your doctor will also need to know which medications you're taking in the event of a need, and if you've ever suffered a head injury, or illness.
Adults who suffer from ADHD will benefit greatly from psychotherapy or "talk therapy". This treatment method helps you learn better coping skills and strategies to manage your ADHD symptoms and ensure that they don't affect your ability to function in your daily life. Psychotherapy can be utilized on its own or in conjunction with medication for adults suffering from ADHD. Ask your primary care physician to recommend you to a specialist in mental health who can treat adults suffering from ADHD. You could also contact your insurance company and ask what specialists are covered. Or, visit an organization that offers support locally.
Treatment
If you think you have ADHD, the first step is to make an appointment with your primary care physician. Your doctor will be able to refer you to an expert in mental health who can conduct a full assessment to diagnose your condition. During your appointment, you should be honest with your doctor about the issues you are experiencing at home and at work. Your doctor will want to know about any major problems that have resulted in being dismissed from an employment or failing classes. Your doctor will ask about your family history and any health issues that you've had in the past, such as anxiety or depression.
You will probably be asked to complete an assessment, such as the Adult Attention and Hyperactivity Disorder Self-Screening Tool (ASRS). This questionnaire takes approximately five minutes to complete and consists of 18 questions that ask you to rate how often you experience symptoms of adult ADHD. Your doctor will then consider your answers and provide you with scores that indicate whether you need to consider seeking an official diagnosis.
Additionally the doctor will ask you about the problems you are having with your relationships at work and home. It can be embarrassing to talk about these problems but your doctor has to know so that they can assist. Your doctor might want to discuss your issues with your colleagues or teachers to understand the difficulties you're having to face. This doesn't mean your doctor is judging you or accusing you of being a victim. It's just to help them know the ways ADHD can impact a person's performance at work or at school.
Your doctor may also recommend that you get psychological tests to rule out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as an intellectual disability or mood disorder. You could also undergo an examination for physicals to ensure there aren't any medical conditions that cause your symptoms.
Your doctor might ask you to bring any documents, like old reports or performance appraisals at work. Your doctor may also want to know if you're ADHD symptoms were so severe that they interfered with your life as an infant.
Support
If you suspect that you may have ADHD or other disorders, you should talk to an expert who can provide an exhaustive evaluation. These professionals include licensed mental health providers like clinical psychologists and doctors (psychiatrist, neurologist or family physician). A lot of insurance plans offer a list of qualified professionals in the region. You can also contact local support organizations for assistance in finding a good provider.
In addition to taking a detailed medical history, your clinician will also inquire about your symptoms and the problems they create in your life. This includes work and school performance as well as relationships and other aspects of your daily life. Your doctor may request to talk to your coworkers or teachers, or request old school records. This isn't a way to doubt your integrity but to gather more details. Many adults suffering from ADHD suffer from weak or inconsistent memories, especially from childhood. undiagnosed adhd adults to get as much information as you can before making the diagnosis.
Depending on the problem you're facing, your physician may suggest other diagnostic procedures such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), which helps people with ADHD learn to manage their challenges and develop their strengths. CBT can be combined with medication for ADHD treatment.
If you're waiting for a professional evaluation, there are several tools on the Internet that allow you to evaluate your own symptoms. They include the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) and a variety of online questionnaires. These tools are not standardized or scientifically validated and should only be used for general guidance.
Many people with undiagnosed ADHD are so used to their difficulties that they tend to take them for granted. They might think that they're just not doing their best or that it's their fault that they can't keep up with their work or social commitments. The symptoms of ADHD are not caused by an individual's fault and are more neurological. However, you can get control of your ADHD with the proper treatment and transform it into an effective force. This could bring you greater success in your career and personal relationships, as well as a more fulfilling life for you and those around you.