ADHD - Symptoms in Adults
It's important to receive the correct diagnosis if you suspect you might have ADHD. This is the first step towards managing your symptoms and gaining control over your life.
ADHD self-assessment tools can alert you that you might have symptoms that are common to adults with ADHD. However, a valid diagnosis is only possible through an evaluation by a professional. This could be an expert in clinical psychology, a physician (psychiatrist or neurologists) or therapist.
Symptoms
ADHD is a condition that affects people of all ages, however symptoms in adults may look slightly different. Adults who suffer from ADHD can also use their symptoms to help them succeed in their work and relationships.
Adult ADHD symptoms can be mild, medium or severe. To be eligible for an assessment, the symptoms must have remained consistent since childhood and continue to cause issues in at least two different areas of your life. ADHD can cause issues such as difficulty focusing on a task or even forgetting things.
There are online self-tests or rating scales that can help you determine if you might be suffering from ADHD. The only way to receive an accurate diagnosis of ADHD in adults is to see a doctor who specializes on the disorder. Ask your primary physician for a referral, or search online for an ADHD specialist in your health insurance directory.
They'll review your medical history including your childhood and how your symptoms affected your life at school as well as at work and at home. They'll also inquire about any alcohol or drugs you use, driving history and what your relationship with family and friends been. It's important to be honest with your examiner. Adults with ADHD might conceal or minimize their symptoms in order to avoid criticism or embarrassment. This can make the evaluation process more difficult.
Some medical conditions, like seizures and thyroid disorders, may exhibit similar symptoms as ADHD and should be ruled out prior to an ADHD diagnosis is made. 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. In addition, they could recommend psychotherapy or other behavioral treatments that will assist you in overcoming your ADHD. They might also recommend accommodations to assist you in working more efficiently, for example, making changes to your surroundings and utilizing software for planning and organizing.
Diagnosis
A professional evaluation is needed to determine the presence of ADHD. Your doctor will conduct an extensive history of your symptoms and the time they began and how they have affected your life. They will also inquire about your family history, as ADHD is typically inherited. Your doctor will also conduct a physical examination to rule out medical conditions that could cause ADHD symptoms. These could include thyroid problems or seizure disorders.
You'll likely be subject to several psychological tests to determine your performance such as behavioral rating scales. Your doctor may also ask you to complete reading or math tasks while on a computer or phone to see how you perform under various conditions. You could even be asked to take an IQ test to measure your cognitive abilities.
The American Psychiatric Association established criteria for diagnosing adult ADHD. The symptoms must have been present for at minimum six months consecutively and be having significant effects in several areas of your life, such as school or work. Your doctor will also want to know if your symptoms caused a significant amount of discomfort prior to age 12.
It's important to realize that a variety of factors can trigger or mimic ADHD. For instance stress, stress, mental health issues, and some medications can cause the same symptoms as ADHD.
Bring any evidence of previous psychological tests or performance evaluations to your appointment. Your doctor will also need to know which medications you're taking in the event of a need, and if you've ever suffered a head injury or illness.
Adults with ADHD can benefit greatly from psychotherapy or "talk therapy". This form of treatment helps you improve your coping skills and strategies to manage your ADHD symptoms to ensure they don't hinder your ability to function in your daily life. Psychotherapy can be used on its own or together with medications for adults suffering from ADHD. Consult your primary care doctor to refer you to a specialist in mental health who treats adults suffering from ADHD. You can also contact your insurance company and ask which specialists are covered. You can also join an organization that offers support locally.
Treatment
Make an appointment with your primary healthcare professional if you suspect you have ADHD. Your doctor can refer you to an expert in mental health who will conduct a thorough evaluation to diagnose your condition. During your appointment, you should be honest with your doctor about the issues you are experiencing at home and at work. Your doctor will be interested in knowing about any major issues that have arisen in being dismissed from an employment or failing classes. Your doctor may also inquire about family history and previous health issues, such as 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 takes approximately five minutes to fill out and is comprised of 18 questions that ask you to rate the frequency with which you are experiencing symptoms of adult ADHD. Your doctor will consider your answers and provide you with a an assessment of whether you need to seek a formal diagnosis.
Additionally your doctor will also ask you about the problems you face in your relationships at home and at work. You may feel embarrassed talking about these difficulties, but it is important for your doctor to be aware about them in order to help you. Your doctor may suggest that you speak with your coworkers or teachers to understand the difficulties you're confronting. This does not mean that your doctor is judging or accusing you of being a victim. It's simply to help them know how ADHD can affect a person's ability at work or in school.
Your doctor may recommend psychological tests to rule other conditions out that can cause similar symptoms. For example, a mood disorder or learning disorder. You might also be required to undergo a physical examination to make sure that your symptoms aren't caused by medical conditions.
Your doctor might also ask to see any records with you, such as performance evaluations from your workplace or old report cards from your school. Your doctor may also want to know if you're ADHD symptoms were severe enough to interfere with your life as when you were a child.
Support
If you suspect you have ADHD or other disorders, you should talk to an expert who can conduct an extensive assessment. These professionals include licensed mental health specialists like clinical psychologists and physicians (psychiatrist, neurologist or family doctor). A lot of insurance plans offer a list of qualified professionals in the area. You can also reach out to local support groups for assistance in locating a suitable provider.
Your physician will also talk to you about the symptoms that you are experiencing and how they affect your life. This includes school and work performance as well as other aspects of your daily life. Your physician may request that you speak with your co-workers or teachers, or request old school records. This isn't a way to doubt your integrity; it's just to get more information. adhd assessment adults suffering from ADHD suffer from weak or sporadic memories, especially from childhood. It is crucial to collect the most information you can before making the diagnosis.
Based on your specific issue Your doctor may suggest other diagnostic procedures, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), a treatment that helps those suffering from ADHD overcome obstacles and maximize their strengths. CBT could be combined with medication to treat ADHD.
While you wait for a medical evaluation, you can rate your symptoms using a variety of tools on the Internet. They include the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) and a number of online questionnaires. These tools aren't standardized or scientifically validated and should only be used to provide general guidance.
Undiagnosed ADHD can cause people to be so comfortable with their problems that they begin to overlook them. They might think that they're simply not proficient at certain things or that it's their own fault for having trouble maintaining their work or social commitments on track. The reality is that the symptoms of ADHD are neurological and are not a result of a personal flaw. However, you can get control of your ADHD by implementing the correct treatment and turn it into an effective force. This can lead to greater success in your job, improved personal relationships and a more meaningful life for your family and friends who are around you.