ADHD - Symptoms in Adults
It's important to receive a proper diagnosis if you suspect that you might be suffering from ADHD. This is the first step in 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 the diagnosis is only possible through an assessment by a professional. This could be a psychologist, neurologist or psychiatrist.
Signs and symptoms
ADHD affects people of all ages, however symptoms in adults might appear different. Adults who suffer from ADHD can also use their symptoms to achieve success at work and in relationships.
The symptoms of adult ADHD can be mild, moderate, or severe. To qualify for a diagnosis, the symptoms must have remained consistent since childhood and continue to cause problems in at least two different areas of your life. ADHD can cause problems such as difficulty focusing on a task or even forgetting things.
There are online self-tests or rating scales that can help you determine if you might be suffering from ADHD. The only way to obtain a definitive diagnosis of ADHD in adults is to consult an expert in the disorder. Consult your primary care physician for a referral, or search for an ADHD specialist through the online directory of your health insurance.
When you go to see an expert, they'll go over your medical and psychiatric history dating all the way back to childhood, and will discuss how your symptoms have impacted your school, work and personal life. They will also ask about your drug and alcohol usage, driving history and how you relate to your family and friends. It is crucial to be truthful when you are speaking with your examiner. Many adults suffering from ADHD are unable to conceal or minimize their symptoms from others because they're scared of criticism or embarrassed. This can make the assessment process more difficult.
Certain medical conditions, like seizure disorders and thyroid disorders, may exhibit similar symptoms as ADHD and must be checked out prior to an ADHD diagnosis is made. A detailed neurological history and physical examinations will also be conducted.
If your tests show that you have ADHD your doctor is likely to prescribe medication. They might also suggest therapy or behavioral therapies to assist you in managing your ADHD. They may also suggest that you make changes to your work environment and use tools for planning and organizing to make you more efficient.
Diagnosis
To determine ADHD, a professional evaluation is required. Your doctor will ask you to provide an in-depth account of your symptoms. This includes when they started and how it has affected your life. The doctor might also inquire about your family history, as it's common for ADHD to run in families. Your doctor will also conduct an examination of your body to rule out medical conditions that could cause ADHD symptoms. These include thyroid problems or seizure disorders.
You'll likely be subject to an array of psychological tests to determine your functioning and performance, including scales for behavioral ratings. private adhd assessment adults may be asked to perform math or reading tasks using the phone, computer or tablet to assess how you perform in different situations. You may even be given an IQ test to assess your cognitive capabilities.
The American Psychiatric Association established criteria for diagnosing adult ADHD. This includes the presence of at least six months of symptoms and their significant impact on multiple situations in your life, such as school or work. Your doctor will be looking to determine if your symptoms caused you significant issues prior to the age of 12.
It is important to recognize that a variety of factors can cause or mimic ADHD. Stress mental health issues, stress, and certain medications, for instance can all trigger some of the symptoms similar to ADHD.
Bring any records of previous psychological tests or performance evaluations to your appointment. Your doctor will also need to know what medications you're taking in the event of a need and if you've suffered a head injury or illness.
Psychotherapy, also known as "talk therapy" in the case of ADHD is beneficial for adults who are struggling with this disorder. This treatment aids in developing more effective strategies and techniques to manage your ADHD symptoms so that they do not affect your daily routine. Psychotherapy can be paired with medication or used alone for adults with ADHD. You can find a mental health professional who specializes in treating adults with ADHD by asking your primary healthcare provider for a referral, or calling your insurance company to check which specialists they cover or by visiting a local support group.
Treatment
If you suspect that you have ADHD, the first step is to schedule an appointment with your primary care provider. Your doctor will be able to refer you to a mental health professional who will conduct a thorough evaluation to diagnose your condition. During your appointment, be honest with your doctor about the issues you're experiencing at work and home. Your doctor will ask about any major problems you've had to face, such as being dismissed or failing in a class. Your doctor may also inquire about your family history and prior health issues, like anxiety or depression.
You are likely to be asked to fill out a survey such as the Adult Hyperactivity Disorder Self Screening Tool (ASRS). This questionnaire is about five minutes long and contains 18 questions which ask you to rate the frequency that you experience adult ADHD symptoms. Your doctor will then take your answers into consideration and give you scores that indicate whether you need to take a look at a formal diagnosis.
Your doctor will also inquire about your concerns in your relationships at home and at work. You may feel embarrassed talking about these difficulties, but it is important for your doctor to know about them to assist you. Your doctor might want to talk to your colleagues or teachers to better understand the challenges you're facing. This doesn't mean that your doctor is judging you, more so, it's to aid them in understanding the ways in which ADHD can impact a person's ability to function at school or work.
Your doctor might recommend psychological tests to rule other conditions out that can cause similar symptoms. For instance the mood disorder or learning disorder. You can also have an examination to ensure there aren't any medical conditions that are causing your symptoms.
Your doctor might ask you to bring any records, including old reports or performance evaluations from your workplace. It's also helpful for your doctor to know if you've had any ADHD symptoms in your adolescent or childhood, but they weren't severe enough to affect your life at that time.
Support
If you suspect you may have ADHD, it is important to speak with an expert. They can conduct a complete evaluation. These professionals include licensed mental health providers like clinical psychologists and physicians (psychiatrist, neurologist or family physician). Many insurance plans will have lists of licensed professionals in your region, and you can also reach out to local support groups to assist in locating a suitable provider.
In addition to taking a thorough medical history, your doctor will also inquire about your symptoms and the issues they cause in your life. This includes work and school performance as well as relationships and other aspects of your life. Your clinician may ask to talk to your coworkers or teachers, or request old school records. This is not to question your honesty, it's to gain additional information. Many adults with ADHD have poor or spotty memories, particularly from childhood. It is essential to gather the most information you can before making the diagnosis.
Based on the issue you're facing, your physician might suggest other diagnostic methods like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) which aids those suffering from ADHD overcome their challenges and harness their strengths. CBT can be combined with medications for ADHD treatment.
While you wait for a medical evaluation, you can assess your symptoms using a variety of tools available on the Internet. The Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale and other online questionnaires are also available. These tools aren't standardized or scientifically validated and should be used only to provide general guidance.
Many people who don't have a diagnosis of ADHD are so accustomed to their problems that they are able to ignore them. They might believe 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 symptoms of ADHD are not caused by an individual's failure, but are rather neurological. With the right treatment you can get back control over your ADHD and transform it into something constructive. This can result in greater success in your career, improved personal relationships and an improved quality of life for your family and friends who are around you.