ADHD - Symptoms in Adults
If you think you may have ADHD it is important to be diagnosed. This will allow you to manage your symptoms and improve the quality of your life.
ADHD self-assessment tools may alert you to the fact that you may have symptoms common in adult ADHD but a proper diagnosis requires a thorough evaluation by a professional. This can be a clinical psychologist, physician (psychiatrist or neurologist) or therapist.
Signs and symptoms
ADHD can be a problem for anyone at any age, however the symptoms might differ slightly in adults. It's also possible for adults with ADHD to to transform their issues into tools to help them succeed in relationships and work.
Adult symptoms of ADHD can be mild, moderate, or severe. To qualify for a diagnosis, the symptoms must have persisted since childhood and continue to cause issues in at least two areas of your life. ADHD can cause issues like having trouble in focusing on a task or forgetting things.
If you suspect you may have symptoms of ADHD there are self-tests and ratings scales online that can help determine if you may be suffering from the disorder. The only way to receive a definitive diagnosis of ADHD in adults is to speak with an expert in the disorder. Ask your primary doctor for a referral or search online for an ADHD specialist through your health insurance directory.
When you go to see a specialist, they'll review your medical and psychiatric history going back to childhood, highlighting how your symptoms have affected your work, school and personal life. They will also ask about your drug and alcohol use, driving record, and how you relate to family and friends. It's important to be honest with your examiner. Adults with ADHD might cover up or minimize their symptoms in order to avoid criticism or embarrassment. This can make the evaluation 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, like seizures or thyroid disorders. A physical exam and a detailed neurological history are also required.
If your results indicate that you have ADHD Your doctor is likely to prescribe medication. Additionally, they might suggest psychotherapy or other behavioral treatments that will assist you in overcoming your ADHD. They may also recommend that you change your workplace environment and utilize tools for planning and organizing to help you be more efficient.
Diagnosis
A professional evaluation is required to get a diagnosis of ADHD. Your doctor will ask you to give an in-depth account of your symptoms. This includes when they first started and how they have affected your life. He or she might also inquire about your family history as it's common for ADHD to occur in families. Your doctor will also conduct physical exams to rule out medical conditions that may be causing ADHD symptoms. This includes thyroid issues or seizure disorders.
You'll likely undergo several psychological tests to evaluate your functioning such as behavioral rating scales. Your doctor might also ask you to perform math or reading exercises on a computer or phone to determine how you perform in various situations. You could even be asked to take an IQ test to evaluate your cognitive abilities.
The American Psychiatric Association has established standards that must be met to qualify for an adult diagnosis of ADHD. The symptoms must have been present for at least six consecutive months and have a significant impact in multiple areas of your life such as work or school. Your doctor will be interested in knowing whether your symptoms led to significant issues prior to the age of 12.
It is important to realize that there are a variety of factors that can cause or mimic ADHD. Stress mental health issues, stress, and certain medications, like, can all cause some of the symptoms similar to ADHD.
If you have any records from previous psychological testing or performance evaluations Bring them to your appointment. Your doctor will want to know if you're taking any medication and if you have ever suffered a head injury.
Psychotherapy, or "talk therapy" for those suffering from ADHD, can be extremely beneficial for adults who are suffering from this disorder. This treatment helps you develop more effective strategies and techniques to manage your ADHD symptoms to ensure that they do not interfere with your everyday life. Psychotherapy can be used on its own or together with medication for adults with ADHD. Ask your primary care provider to recommend you to a specialist in mental health who treats adults with ADHD. You can also contact your insurance company and ask which specialists are covered. Or, visit an organization that offers support locally.
Treatment
Make an appointment with your primary health care provider if you suspect you have ADHD. Your doctor will be able to refer you to a mental health professional who will conduct a thorough evaluation to diagnose your disorder. During your appointment, you should be honest with your doctor about the issues you are experiencing at work and home. The doctor will ask you about any major issues you've faced like being dismissed or failing a class. Your doctor may also inquire about your family history and any previous health issues, like depression or anxiety.
You are likely to be asked to complete some sort of questionnaire, like the Adult Attention and Hyperactivity Disorder Self-Screening Tool (ASRS). This test is around five minutes long and includes 18 questions that ask you to rate the frequency which you experience adult ADHD symptoms. Your doctor will then take your answers into consideration and give you scores that indicate whether you need to consider seeking an official diagnosis.
Your doctor will also ask about your issues in your relationships at home and at work. You may feel embarrassed talking about these difficulties but it's important for your doctor to be aware about them to assist you. In some instances your doctor may want to speak with your coworkers or teachers to learn more about the challenges you're experiencing. This doesn't mean your doctor is judging you or blaming you. It is simply to help them understand how ADHD can affect someone's performance at work or at school.
Your doctor may suggest psychological tests to rule other conditions out that can cause similar symptoms. For instance, a learning disorder or mood disorder. assessing adhd in adults may also be asked to undergo a physical examination to make sure that your symptoms are not caused by medical conditions.
Your doctor may ask you to bring along any records, such as old reports or performance appraisals at work. It's also beneficial for your doctor to know if you've had any ADHD symptoms as a child or adolescent but they weren't severe enough to impact your life at the time.
Support
If you suspect you have ADHD or other disorders, you should talk to an expert who can conduct a full evaluation. These experts include licensed mental health providers, such as doctors and clinical psychologists (psychiatrists and neurologists, or family physicians). Many insurance plans have lists of professionals who are qualified in your area, and you can also contact local support groups for help in locating a suitable provider.
Your physician will also talk to you about the symptoms that you are experiencing and how they affect your daily life. This includes your work and school performance as well as your relationships and other aspects of your daily life. Your clinician may ask to talk to your coworkers, teachers, or request old school records. This is not a way to determine your honesty; it's just to get more information. Many people with ADHD suffer from weak or sporadic memories, especially from childhood. It's important to get the most information you can before making an assessment.
Based on the issue you're having, your specialist might suggest other diagnostic procedures like cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) which can help people with ADHD learn to cope with their challenges and harness their strengths. CBT could be combined with medication to treat ADHD.
While you wait for a professional assessment, you can evaluate your symptoms using a variety of tools available on Internet. The Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale and other online questionnaires are available. These tools aren't standardized or scientifically validated and should only be used for general guidance.
Many people who aren't diagnosed with ADHD are so accustomed to their problems that they are able to ignore them. They may assume that they're just not very good at things or that it's their own responsibility for not keeping their social or work commitments on track. The truth is that the symptoms of ADHD are neurological and not a fault of the individual. With the right treatment however, you can regain control over your ADHD and turn it into something constructive. This will result in greater success in your career and personal relationships, as well as an improved quality of life for your family and friends around you.