Adults Diagnosis of ADHD
A diagnosis of ADHD could be the first step to managing symptoms that cause havoc at home, work and in relationships. It's also a great opportunity to gain a new perspective on problems which have been confusing and frustrating over the many years.
During the process of evaluation mental health professionals utilize standardized behavior rating scales and ADHD symptoms checklists to determine if an adult meets diagnostic criteria. They can also conduct interviews with family members and significant others to gain further insight.
1. Talk to your Health Care Provider
Talking with your doctor is the first step in finding out the cause. Your doctor will help you understand your symptoms and may refer you to a specialist should you require it.
You can also ask your family members, friends, and co-workers for recommendations for specialists in ADHD evaluations for adults. You may also get information from your insurance provider about professionals in your region. Another option is to go to an ADHD support group and talk with other people who are facing the same challenges and learn about how they deal with them.
Many adults decide to seek a diagnosis because they're frustrated that their symptoms hinder their everyday functioning, whether at work or in their personal lives. They're fed up of losing their keys, being late for meetings and struggling to keep their jobs or maintain healthy relationships. You can control these symptoms by seeking a diagnosis.
Be honest when talking to your doctor about the symptoms. Do not hide your feelings as you do not want to appear weak or irresponsible. Your doctor will require a complete picture of your problems and how they've affected your work performance and personal life.
Be prepared to discuss your views regarding medication when your doctor suggests it. Some adults aren't keen to use medication and prefer other methods of treatment including psychotherapy (the medical term for mental health therapy) and lifestyle adjustments that are referred to as accommodations. Like a step stool can help someone who is short attain the same heights that other people achieve accommodations help those with ADHD to achieve their goals and be successful.
Your doctor will inquire about your experience with ADHD. It is recommended to remember particulars from your childhood, since this is when the disorder will most likely show up. Depending on where you live, you may need to collect copies of your school records or speak to teachers or other adults who knew you in your youth However, keep in mind that these records don't necessarily indicate a diagnosis.
2. Request a Referral
Your family doctor will be able to recommend you for an ADHD evaluation and treatment if there are any concerns about the way your behavior is affecting your work, school or relationships. They might be able to offer you referrals to other specialists, such as psychologists and psychiatrists that specialize in treating adults suffering from ADHD.
When you visit a specialist for an evaluation, be sure to be honest and honestly about your issues that may be related to ADHD. It is crucial to not hide information for fear of fear of shame or being judged. Your history will determine the accuracy of your assessment as well as the effectiveness of any treatment suggestions.
The examiner will review your social, emotional and academic history as well as discuss how these problems affect you today. The examiner will also review the diagnostic guidelines of the American Psychiatric Association in the "Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They will inquire about your current symptoms as well as any other symptoms you might have had in the past. They will interview you and when possible, talk to people who knew you before you were a kid.
adhd undiagnosed in adults will also determine if your symptoms could be better explained by another medical condition or mental health issue, such as depression or an anxiety disorder. They will also determine if there is an intellectual disability or any other neurodevelopmental disorder.
If a doctor doesn't believe that you suffer from ADHD they will explain the other conditions or issues that could be causing problems and why they don't think you are suffering from ADHD. This does not mean you must accept the diagnosis, but it may help you plan your future treatment.
In most cases, an adult diagnosed with ADHD will receive assistance not just from other adults who suffer from ADHD, but also their families, friends teachers, coworkers, and coaches. They may also benefit by taking classes in the art of communication, or marriage and couple counseling. Counseling can be beneficial for those who suffer from ADHD who have difficulty gaining confidence. It can help them improve their interpersonal skills.
3. Request a Consultation
ADHD is caused due to a deficiency or an imbalance in neurotransmitters that regulate brain activity. This can affect an individual's focus and ability to complete tasks. Adults who are not treated for ADHD may struggle in their work as well as in other areas of their lives. If you suspect you may be suffering from ADHD, speak to your doctor or ask for recommendations to see a psychiatrist or psychologist who specializes in mental illnesses.
A mental health professional will employ an assessment system to determine whether you suffer from ADHD symptoms. They may also speak with important people in your life, such as spouses, and complete the symptom checklist. A thorough evaluation may include psychological tests that test working memory, executive function (the capacities involved in planning and making decisions), visual and spatial ability, and reasoning skills. The results can be used to determine if there are any conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as anxiety or depression.
During the examination your doctor will also consider how you've managed your symptoms over time. If you are prone to forgetting appointments, make decisions impulsively, and miss deadlines, your doctor could suggest classes or therapy to assist you in learning how to better manage these challenges. Your doctor may also recommend medication. The most popular stimulant medications used to treat ADHD in adults are extremely efficient. They aren't for all people and may have side consequences. Nonstimulant drugs that don't have the potential for abuse are now available and can be just as effective as stimulants.
While finding a diagnosis and a treatment is crucial for adults with ADHD It's also beneficial to make others aware of the condition. Many people suffering from ADHD struggle to get their spouses, parents, and their colleagues to understand their behavior. The ability to educate others can improve relationships and boost support systems. There are ADHD support groups in a variety of communities as well as online.
It can be challenging to diagnose ADHD in adults however it is a possibility. Begin by talking to your GP, who will be able to guide you to the best service for your needs.
4. Schedule for an Evaluation
It can take some time to obtain an accurate assessment and diagnosis. If your GP is unable or does not agree to refer you to a health professional, you can ask for an appointment. You can contact your local chapter of National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) or CHADD to determine which chapter in your area is specialized in adult ADHD. Also, you can contact professional organizations that help adults with ADHD.
Once you've been referred to an evaluator, be prepared for a lengthy and detailed interview about your symptoms and how they impact your life. The evaluator will examine your medical family, personal, and medical history along with any current health issues. They'll also ask whether the symptoms have affected your financial situation, relationships, or work performance. They may use standard rating scales that compare your behavior with those of people without ADHD. These ratings can help determine whether your symptoms are related to ADHD or if they're more likely to be explained by other disorders, such as depression and anxiety.
Your evaluator could also conduct cognitive tests to determine if you have learning or intellectual disabilities which could be the reason for your struggles at school or at work. Some evaluators screen for conditions that can produce symptoms similar to ADHD like thyroid disorders or seizures disorders.
The evaluators might request additional physical exams or laboratory testing, such as blood work and brain imaging to rule out any other health issues. They may request you to complete the questionnaire to determine specific symptoms such as difficulties in planning and organizing or being too energetic and hyperactive. They could also ask a friend or family member about your childhood in order to find out if there are any clues that suggest you suffer from ADHD.
It's important to be honest and transparent during the interview. Many adults are embarrassed to ask for a diagnosis, and they may not divulge information, believing that it will make their appearance worse. But, it is essential to get a positive diagnosis that the evaluator receives exact information about your issues with organizational skills, impulse control, and relationships.