ADHD - Symptoms in Adults
It is essential to receive a proper diagnosis if you suspect that you might be suffering from ADHD. This will help you manage symptoms and take control of your life.
ADHD self-assessment tools can help you recognize that you might have symptoms common to adult ADHD but a proper diagnosis requires an evaluation by a specialist. This could be a neurologist, psychologist or psychiatrist.
Symptoms
ADHD can affect anyone at any age, however the symptoms might be different for adults. It is also possible for people with ADHD to be able to transform their issues into tools that allow them to succeed in work and relationships.
Adult symptoms of ADHD can be mild, moderate, or severe. For a diagnosis to be recognized, the symptoms must have been present from childhood and cause difficulties in two different areas of daily life. Trouble keeping your focus on your task or recalling information are examples of problems that could be caused by ADHD.
If you think you might have symptoms of ADHD, there are ratings scales and self-tests available online to help you determine if you could be suffering from the disorder. However the only way to receive a definitive diagnosis is to visit a doctor who specializes in diagnosing ADHD in adults. Ask your primary care doctor for a referral or search for an ADHD specialist in the online directory of your health insurance.
They'll review your medical background, including your childhood, and how your health issues have affected your daily life at school at work, home, and school. They'll also ask you about any alcohol or drugs you use, driving history and what your relationships with family and friends have been. It is important to be honest when you're speaking to your examiner. Adults with ADHD might cover up or minimize symptoms to avoid criticism or embarrassment. This can make the assessment process more difficult.
Some medical conditions, including seizures and thyroid disorders, may exhibit similar symptoms as ADHD and should be ruled out before an ADHD diagnosis is made. A physical exam and a detailed neurological history will also be provided.
If your results show that you have ADHD Your doctor is likely to prescribe medication. Additionally, they might recommend psychotherapy or other therapies that can aid you in managing your ADHD. They might also recommend accommodations to help you work more efficiently, for example, making changes to your surroundings and utilizing planning and organizing apps.
Diagnosis
To determine ADHD, a thorough 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 may also ask about your family history, as it is common for ADHD to run in families. Your doctor will perform an examination of your body, in addition, to determine if there are any medical issues that may be causing ADHD symptoms, such as thyroid issues or seizure disorders.
You'll likely go through an array of psychological tests to determine your functioning, including behavioral rating scales. You could be asked to complete math or reading tasks on the phone, computer or tablet to see your performance in various situations. You could also be offered an IQ test to determine your cognitive abilities.
The American Psychiatric Association has established criteria which must be met in order to get the diagnosis of adult ADHD. The symptoms must be present for at least six consecutive months 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 led to a significant amount of trouble before age 12.
It's important to understand that there are a variety of factors that can cause or mimic ADHD. Stress mental health issues and certain medications, like are all possible causes of the symptoms that are similar to ADHD.
Bring any documentation from previous psychological tests or performance evaluations to your appointment. adhd adult assessment will also need to know what medications you're taking in the event of a need, and if you've ever suffered a head injury, or illness.
Psychotherapy, also known as "talk therapy" for those suffering from ADHD is beneficial for adults struggling with this disorder. This form of treatment helps you learn better coping skills and strategies to manage your ADHD symptoms to ensure they don't hinder your ability to function in your everyday life. Psychotherapy can be used alone or in conjunction with medication for adults suffering from ADHD. Ask your primary care provider to recommend you to a mental health specialist who can treat adults suffering from ADHD. You can also call your insurance provider and inquire what specialists are covered. Or, visit an area support group.
Treatment
If you suspect that you have ADHD, the first step is to schedule an appointment with your primary healthcare provider. Your doctor can refer you to a mental healthcare professional who will carry out a full evaluation and diagnose the condition. During your visit, you should be honest about the difficulties you're having at work and at home. Your doctor will want to know about any major issues that have resulted in being dismissed from a job or failing classes. Your doctor may also inquire about your family history and any previous health issues, like anxiety or depression.
You will likely 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 includes 18 questions which ask you to rate the frequency which you are experiencing adult ADHD symptoms. Your doctor will take into account your answers and provide you with a an overall score that will indicate whether you should seek a formal diagnosis.
Your doctor will also inquire about your problems in your relationships at home and at work. It might be uncomfortable to discuss these issues but your doctor has to know so that they can help. Your doctor may want to discuss your issues with your colleagues or teachers to understand the difficulties you're confronting. This doesn't mean that your doctor is judging or blaming you. It's simply to help them understand how ADHD can affect someone's ability to perform at work or in school.
Your doctor may also recommend that you undergo psychological tests to determine if there are other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, for example a learning disability or a mood disorder. You may also be asked to undergo a physical examination to ensure that your symptoms are not caused by medical conditions.
Your doctor may also ask to see any records with you, such as performance evaluations from your job or report cards from school. It is also helpful for your doctor to know if you've had any ADHD symptoms as a teenager or child however they weren't serious enough to impact your life at that time.
Support
If you suspect that you may have ADHD, you should consult an expert who can provide an extensive assessment. These experts include licensed mental health providers like doctors and clinical psychologists (psychiatrists and neurologists, or family physicians). Many insurance plans provide the names of qualified professionals in the area. You can also seek out local support groups for assistance in finding a suitable provider.
Your clinician will also ask you about the symptoms you are experiencing and how they impact your daily life. This includes your work and school performance as well as relationships and other aspects in your daily life. Your physician may decide to speak with colleagues and teachers or to request old school records. This is not a way to question your sincerity but to gather more information. Many adults suffering from ADHD suffer from weak or spotty memories, particularly from childhood. It is crucial to collect the most information you can before making an assessment.
Depending on your problem, your specialist might suggest other diagnostic procedures like cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), a treatment that assists people suffering from ADHD overcome obstacles and maximize their strengths. CBT can be used in conjunction with medication to treat ADHD.
While you're waiting for a professional assessment There are many tools on the Internet which allow you to assess your own symptoms. The Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale and other online tests are available. These tools aren't tested or validated scientifically and should only serve as general guidelines.
Many people with undiagnosed ADHD are so used to their difficulties that they take them for granted. They might think that they're not proficient at certain things or that it's their responsibility for not maintaining their work or social commitments on track. The reality is that symptoms of ADHD are neurological and not a fault of the individual. You can, however, get control of your ADHD by implementing the correct treatment and turn it into an asset. This can lead to more success in your work and personal relationships as well as a richer life for you and your family members.