ADHD - Symptoms in Adults
If you suspect that you might have ADHD or other disorders, it's crucial to be diagnosed. This is the first step to managing symptoms and gaining control over your life.
ADHD self-assessment tools can alert you that you may have symptoms that are common to adults with ADHD. However, a valid diagnosis can only be made with an assessment by a professional. This could be a clinical psychologist, a physician (psychiatrist or neurologist) or therapist.
Symptoms
ADHD affects people of all ages, but symptoms in adults can appear slightly different. Adults who suffer from ADHD are able to use their symptoms to help succeed in their work and relationships.
Symptoms of adult 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. ADHD can cause problems like having trouble focussing 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 online that can help determine whether or not you might have the disorder. The only way to receive a definitive diagnosis of ADHD in adults is to consult an expert doctor who is trained to treat the disorder. Ask your primary physician for a recommendation or search online for an ADHD specialist through your health insurance directory.
When you visit 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 affected your school, work and personal life. They will also ask about your alcohol and drug usage, driving history and how you interact with your family and friends. It's essential to be open with your examiner. Many people with ADHD are unable to conceal or cover up their symptoms from others because they're scared of criticism or embarrassed. This can make the assessment process more difficult.
Some medical conditions, like seizures and thyroid disorders, may have similar symptoms to ADHD and must be checked out before an ADHD diagnosis is established. A thorough neurological history as well as a physical exam will also be conducted.
If your results suggest that you have ADHD Your doctor might prescribe medication. They may also recommend therapy or behavioral therapies to help you manage your ADHD. They might also suggest that you make changes to your workplace environment and utilize planning and organizing apps to help you be more efficient.
Diagnosis
To diagnose ADHD, a professional evaluation is required. Your doctor will take an extensive history of your symptoms and the time they started and how they've affected your life. The doctor might also inquire about your family history as it's common for ADHD to occur in families. Your doctor will also conduct a physical examination to rule out medical conditions that could cause ADHD symptoms. This includes thyroid issues or seizure disorders.
You'll likely be subject to a series of psychological tests to assess your functioning and performance, including scales for behavioral ratings. You might be asked to perform math or reading tasks using a computer, phone or tablet to determine your performance in various situations. You may even be given an IQ test in order to evaluate your cognitive abilities.
The American Psychiatric Association has established criteria that must be met to qualify for a diagnosis of adult ADHD. The symptoms must be present for at minimum six consecutive months and be having significant effects in several areas of your life, such as school or work. Your doctor will be interested in knowing whether your symptoms caused you serious problems prior to the age of 12.
It is important to recognize that many different factors can cause or mimic ADHD. For instance stress, stress, other mental health issues, and some medications can cause the same symptoms as ADHD.
If you have records from previous psychological testing or performance evaluations Bring them to your appointment. Your doctor will also need to know what medications you're taking or taking and if you've suffered a head injury or illness.
Adults who struggle with ADHD can benefit greatly from psychotherapy or "talk therapy". This type of treatment can help you learn better coping skills and strategies to manage your ADHD symptoms and ensure that they don't interfere with your ability to live your daily life. 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 suffering from ADHD. You can also contact your insurance provider and inquire which specialists are covered. Or, visit a local support group.
Treatment
Schedule 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 an exhaustive evaluation and identify your disorder. During your appointment, be honest with your doctor about the issues you're having at home and at work. Your doctor will be looking for any major problems that have led to them, such as being fired from the job or failing to pass classes. Your doctor will ask about your family history and any previous health issues such as anxiety or depression.
You are likely to be asked to fill out a questionnaire like the Adult Hyperactivity Disorder Self Screening Tool (ASRS). The questionnaire is approximately five minutes long and includes 18 questions which ask you to rate the frequency which you are experiencing adult ADHD symptoms. assessment of adult adhd will consider your answers and give you a score indicating whether you need to seek a formal diagnosis.
In addition the doctor will ask you about the problems you are having with your relationships at work and home. It might be uncomfortable to talk about these problems but your doctor has to know about them so that they can assist. Your doctor may suggest that you discuss your issues with your colleagues or teachers in order to understand the difficulties you're facing. This doesn't mean your doctor is judging your behavior; rather, it is to assist them in understanding the ways in which ADHD can affect a person's ability to function at work or school.
Your doctor might also suggest that you undergo psychological tests to determine if there are other conditions that may cause similar symptoms, for example a learning disability or a mood disorder. You could also be asked to undergo a physical exam to confirm that your symptoms are not caused by medical conditions.
Your doctor may also request that you bring any records with you, like performance evaluations from your workplace or old report cards from school. It is also helpful for your doctor to determine if you experienced any ADHD symptoms as a child or adolescent but they weren't severe enough to have a significant impact on your life at that time.
Support
If you think you may be suffering from ADHD, it is important to seek out an expert. They can conduct a thorough assessment. These professionals include licensed mental health professionals like clinical psychologists and doctors (psychiatrist, neurologist or family physician). Many insurance plans provide the names of qualified professionals in the area. You can also contact local support organizations for help in finding a good provider.
In addition to taking a detailed medical history, your physician will ask you about your symptoms and the issues they cause in your life. This includes work and school performance, relationships and other aspects of your life. Your clinician may wish to speak with colleagues and teachers, or request old school records. This isn't an attempt to doubt your integrity; it's just to get more information. Many people with ADHD have spotty or poor memories, particularly from their childhood. It's important that your specialist obtain the most relevant information possible to establish a diagnosis.
Depending on the problem you're experiencing, your doctor might suggest other diagnostic methods such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), which helps people with ADHD learn to cope with their challenges and harness their strengths. CBT can be paired with medications for ADHD treatment.
While you wait for a medical evaluation, you can rate your symptoms using a variety of tools on the Internet. The Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale and other online questionnaires are also available. These tools aren't standardized nor scientifically validated and should only serve as general guidelines.
Many people who don't have a diagnosis of ADHD are so accustomed to their difficulties that they are able to ignore them. They may think that they're not proficient at certain things or that it's their own fault that they have trouble keeping their social or work commitments in order. The truth is that the symptoms of ADHD are neurological and not a fault of the individual. You can, however, regain control over your ADHD with the proper treatment and turn it into a positive force. This could lead to greater success in your job as well as improved relationships with your family and friends. a more meaningful life for you and those who are around you.