ADHD - Symptoms in Adults
If you suspect that you may be suffering from ADHD it is important to be diagnosed. This will help you manage symptoms and take control of your life.
ADHD self-assessment tools may alert you to the fact that you might have symptoms common to adult ADHD, but a valid diagnosis requires a thorough evaluation by a specialist. This could be a clinical psychologist, physician (psychiatrist or neurologist) or therapist.
Symptoms
ADHD is a problem that affects all ages, but symptoms in adults may look slightly different. Adults with ADHD may also utilize their symptoms to succeed at work and in relationships.
Adult symptoms of ADHD can be mild, moderate or severe. To be eligible for an assessment, the symptoms must have persisted since childhood and continue to cause significant issues in at least two areas of your life. ADHD can cause problems such as difficulty focussing on a task, or a tendency to forget things.
If you think you have symptoms of ADHD There are self-tests and ratings scales available online to help you determine whether or not you might have the disorder. However, the only way to receive a definitive diagnosis is to visit an expert in diagnosing ADHD in adults. Consult your primary care physician for a referral, or search for an ADHD specialist through your health insurance's online directory.
They will go over your medical history including your childhood and how your health issues affected your life at school at work, home, and school. They'll also ask you about any alcohol or drug use, your driving history, and how your relationships with family and friends have been. It is essential to be honest when you are speaking with your examiner. Adults with ADHD might conceal or minimize symptoms to avoid embarrassment or criticism. This can make the evaluation process more difficult.
Certain medical conditions, like seizure disorders and thyroid disorders, can have similar symptoms to ADHD and should be ruled out prior to an ADHD diagnosis is established. A physical exam and a detailed neurological history will also be provided.
If your results show that you have ADHD Your doctor will likely prescribe medications. They may also recommend psychotherapy or behavioral therapies to assist you in managing your ADHD. They may also suggest that you change your workplace and employ tools for planning and organizing to make you more efficient.
Diagnosis
A professional assessment is necessary to get a diagnosis of ADHD. Your doctor will take a comprehensive history of your symptoms that include when they first began and how they have affected your life. They might also inquire about your family history, as it's common for ADHD to be a family trait. Your doctor will conduct physical examinations as well, to rule out any medical conditions that could mimic ADHD symptoms, like seizure disorders or thyroid issues.
You'll likely be asked to take an array of tests in the field of psychology that include behavioral ratings scales to evaluate your ability to function. Your doctor might also ask you to complete math or reading tasks on a computer or phone to see how you perform under various conditions. You could even be asked to take an IQ test in order to assess your cognitive capabilities.
The American Psychiatric Association has established standards that must be met for an adult diagnosis of ADHD. These include the presence of at least six months of symptoms, and their significant impact on a variety of situations in your life, like school or work. Your doctor will want to know whether your symptoms caused you serious problems prior to the age of 12.
It's important to realize that many different things can trigger or mimic ADHD. Stress mental health issues and certain medications, for example, can all cause some of the symptoms similar to ADHD.
Bring any documentation from previous psychological tests or performance evaluations to your appointment. Your doctor will need to know if you're taking any medication and the last time you suffered an injury to your head.
Adults who suffer from ADHD can benefit greatly from psychotherapy or "talk therapy". This treatment can help you develop better coping strategies and skills to manage your ADHD symptoms so that they do not affect your daily routine. Psychotherapy can be used in conjunction with medication or used on its own for those suffering from ADHD. Ask your primary care provider to refer you to a mental health specialist who treats adults with ADHD. You can also call your insurance provider and inquire what specialists are covered. You can also join an organization that offers support locally.
Treatment
If you think you may have ADHD, the first step is to set an appointment with your primary care physician. Your doctor will refer you to a mental healthcare specialist who will conduct a full evaluation and diagnose your problem. During your appointment, be honest with your doctor about the problems you're having at work and home. The doctor will ask you about any major problems you've faced, such as being dismissed or failing in a class. Your doctor will ask about your family history as well as any previous health issues such as depression or an anxiety disorder.
You are likely to be asked to fill out an assessment, such as the Adult Attention and Hyperactivity Disorder Self-Screening Tool (ASRS). This questionnaire is about five minutes long and includes 18 questions that ask you to rate the frequency at that you experience adult ADHD symptoms. Your doctor will then take your answers into consideration and give you an assessment that will indicate whether you need to consider seeking an official diagnosis.
Your doctor may also inquire about your issues in your relationships at home and at work. It might be uncomfortable to discuss these issues, but your doctor needs to know about it so that they can help. assessment of adult adhd may suggest that you speak with your coworkers or teachers to understand the issues you're confronting. This doesn't mean your doctor is judging you or blaming you. It is simply to help them better comprehend the ways ADHD can impact a person's performance at work or at school.
Your doctor might also suggest that you get psychological tests to determine if there are other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, like a learning disability or mood disorder. You can also have a physical exam to make sure that there are no medical issues that are causing your symptoms.
Your doctor might also ask that you bring any records with you, such as performance evaluations from your job or report cards from school. Your doctor will also be interested in knowing if your ADHD symptoms were so severe that they interfered with your life as when you were a child.
Support
If you suspect that you may have ADHD, you should consult a professional who can perform an extensive evaluation. These professionals are licensed mental health providers like physicians and clinical psychologists (psychiatrists, neurologist, or family physicians). Many insurance companies provide a list of qualified professionals in the region. You can also seek out local support organizations for help in finding a suitable provider.
Your clinician will also ask you about the symptoms you are experiencing and how they affect your daily life. This covers your work and school performance as well as your relationships and other aspects of your daily life. Your clinician may ask to speak with your co-workers or teachers, or request old school records. This isn't to question your honesty, it's to get additional information. Many people with ADHD have spotty or poor memories, particularly from their childhood. It's essential that your doctor obtain as much pertinent information as possible to make a diagnosis.
Depending on the issue you're experiencing, your doctor might suggest other diagnostic methods such as cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), which helps people with ADHD learn to manage their challenges and harness their strengths. CBT may be coupled with medication to treat your ADHD.
While you're waiting for a professional evaluation There are a variety of tools on the Internet that allow you to assess your own symptoms. The Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale and other online tests are available. These tools aren't standardized or scientifically validated, and should be used only for general guidance.
Many people who aren't diagnosed with ADHD are so accustomed to their difficulties that they tend to take them for granted. They might believe that they're just not doing their best or that it's their fault that they are unable to keep up with their social or work commitments. The symptoms of ADHD are not caused by an individual's failure and are more neurological. You can, however, get control of your ADHD with the right treatment and turn it into an asset. This will lead to greater satisfaction in your professional and personal relationships as well as a richer life for you and others around you.