ADHD - Symptoms in Adults
If you feel that you may be suffering from ADHD, it's important to receive a diagnosis. This will be the first step in managing your symptoms and gaining control over 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 assessment by a specialist. This could be a neurologist, psychologist or psychiatrist.
Symptoms
ADHD can affect people of any age, but the symptoms might be slightly different in adults. It is also possible for people with ADHD to to transform their issues into tools to help them succeed in relationships and work.
Adult ADHD symptoms can be mild, moderate or severe. To be able to receive an assessment, the symptoms must have persisted since childhood and continue to cause issues in at least two areas of your life. ADHD can cause problems such as difficulty focusing on a task or a tendency to forget things.
If you suspect you may have symptoms of ADHD There are self-tests and ratings scales available online to help you determine if you might have the disorder. The only way to get a definitive diagnosis of ADHD in adults is to see an expert doctor who is trained to treat the disorder. Ask assessment adhd adults for a referral or search for an ADHD specialist in the online directory of your health insurance.
When you visit an expert, they'll go over your medical and psychiatric history dating back to childhood, highlighting the way your illness has affected your work, school and personal life. They'll also ask you about any drug or alcohol use, your driving history, and what your relationships with family and friends have been. It is essential to be honest when you are speaking with your examiner. Adults suffering from ADHD might cover up or minimize symptoms to avoid criticism or embarrassment. This can make the assessment process more difficult.
Before the diagnosis of ADHD is established, it is crucial to rule out any other medical conditions that could cause similar symptoms, such as thyroid disorders or seizure disorders. A physical exam and a detailed neurological history will also be provided.
If your tests show that you have ADHD your doctor will likely prescribe medications. In addition, they could recommend psychotherapy or other behavioral therapies that can assist you in overcoming your ADHD. They may also suggest that you make changes to your workplace and employ tools for planning and organizing to help you be 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 began and how it has affected your life. The doctor will also inquire about your family history, as ADHD is typically inherited. Your doctor will perform a physical exam, as well, to rule out any medical problems that may cause ADHD symptoms, like thyroid issues or seizure disorders.
You'll likely be subject to several psychological tests to evaluate your functioning such as behavioral rating scales. You could be asked to complete reading or math tasks on the phone, computer or tablet to assess how you perform in different 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 for a diagnosis of adult ADHD. This includes the presence of at least six months of symptoms and a significant impact on a variety of settings in your life, such as school or work. Your doctor will be interested in knowing whether your symptoms caused you significant issues prior to the age of 12.
It's important to recognize that there are a variety of things that can trigger or mimic ADHD. Stress, mental health issues, and certain medications, for instance are all possible causes of the symptoms similar to ADHD.
If you have any documentation from previous psychological testing or performance evaluations Bring them to your appointment. Your doctor will also want to know the medications you're taking or taking, and if you've ever had a head injury or illness.
Psychotherapy, or "talk therapy" for those suffering from ADHD is beneficial for adults suffering from this disorder. This treatment method helps you learn better coping skills and strategies to manage your ADHD symptoms to ensure they don't interfere with your ability to live your daily life. Psychotherapy can be combined with medication or used on its own for people suffering from ADHD. Consult your primary care doctor to refer you to a specialist in mental health who can treat adults suffering from ADHD. You can also call your insurance company and inquire what specialists are covered. You can also join a local support group.
Treatment
Make an appointment with your primary healthcare professional should you suspect that you suffer from ADHD. Your doctor will refer you to a mental health specialist who will conduct a full evaluation and diagnose the problem. During your appointment, you should be honest with your doctor about the issues you're having at home and at work. The doctor will ask you about any major issues you have faced, such as being dismissed or failing a class. Your doctor will also inquire about your family history and any previous health problems, such as anxiety or depression.
You will likely be asked to complete a questionnaire such as the Adult Hyperactivity Disorder Self Screening Tool (ASRS). This questionnaire is about five minutes long, and it contains 18 questions that require you to rate the frequency that you experience adult ADHD symptoms. Your doctor will then consider your answers and provide you with an assessment that will indicate whether you need to seek a formal diagnosis.
Additionally your doctor will also inquire about the issues you are having with your relationships at home and at work. It might be uncomfortable to talk about these problems, but your doctor needs to know about them so they can assist. Your doctor might want to speak with your coworkers or teachers to understand the issues you're confronting. This doesn't mean that your doctor is judging your behavior; rather, it is to aid them in understanding the ways in which ADHD can affect a person's ability to function at work or in school.
Your doctor might recommend psychological tests to rule out other illnesses that may cause similar symptoms. For instance a mood disorder or learning disorder. You may also undergo an examination to ensure that there aren't any medical issues causing 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 severe enough to interfere with your life as a child.
Support
If you suspect ADHD, you should consult an expert who can provide an exhaustive evaluation. These professionals are licensed mental health providers such as doctors and clinical psychologists (psychiatrists or neurologist family physicians). Many insurance plans provide an inventory of professionals who are qualified in the area. You can also seek out local support organizations for help in finding a good provider.
Your clinician will also ask 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 relationships and other aspects of your daily life. Your doctor may want to meet with your coworkers and teachers, or request old school records. This isn't an attempt to question your sincerity but to gather more information. Many adults suffering from ADHD have poor or inconsistent memories, especially from childhood. It is essential to gather as much information as you can before making an assessment.
Depending on the issue you're facing, your physician may suggest other diagnostic procedures like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps people with ADHD learn to manage their challenges and harness their strengths. CBT is often combined with medication to help with ADHD treatment.
In the meantime, while you wait for a professional assessment There are many tools on the Internet that allow you to assess your own symptoms. They include the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) and a number of online questionnaires. These tools aren't standardized nor scientifically validated and should be used only as general guidance.
Undiagnosed ADHD can cause people to be so comfortable with their problems, they tend to ignore them. They might think that they're not skilled at something or that it's their fault that they have trouble keeping their work or social commitments on track. The reality is that symptoms of ADHD are neurological and are not a fault of the individual. You can, however, gain control over your ADHD with the right treatment and turn it into an asset. This can bring you more success in your career and personal relationships, as well as an improved quality of life for those who are around you.