ADHD - Symptoms in Adults
It is essential to receive an accurate diagnosis if you suspect that you may have ADHD. This is the first step to controlling your symptoms and taking control over your life.
ADHD self-assessment tools can inform you that you might have symptoms common to adult ADHD. However, assessments for adhd in adults is only possible with an evaluation by a professional. This can be a clinical psychologist, a physician (psychiatrist or neurologist) or therapist.
Symptoms
ADHD can affect people of all ages, but the symptoms may be different for adults. It's also possible for adults with ADHD to to turn their symptoms into tools that allow them to achieve success in their work and relationships.
Symptoms of adult ADHD can be mild, moderate, or severe. To be able to receive a diagnosis, 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 a tendency to forget things.
There are self-tests online or rating scales that can aid in determining if you might have ADHD. However, the only way to get an accurate diagnosis is to see an expert in diagnosing ADHD in adults. Ask your primary care doctor for a referral or search for an ADHD specialist on your health insurance's online directory.
If you visit a specialist, they'll review your medical and psychiatric history going back to childhood, including the way your illness has affected your work, school and home life. They'll also ask you about any alcohol or drugs you use, your driving history, and how 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 conceal or minimize their symptoms in order to avoid embarrassment or criticism. This can make the evaluation process more difficult.
Certain medical conditions, like seizures and thyroid disorders, can have similar symptoms as ADHD and must be checked out prior to an ADHD diagnosis is established. A thorough neurological history as well as a physical exam will be also conducted.
If your results suggest that you have ADHD, then your doctor might prescribe medication. In addition, they may suggest psychotherapy or other behavioral treatments that will help you learn to manage your ADHD. They may also recommend adjustments to assist you in working more efficiently, for example, making changes to your surroundings and using planning and organizing apps.
Diagnosis
To determine if you have ADHD, a professional evaluation is required. Your doctor will conduct complete notes on your symptoms that include when they first began and how they have affected your life. He or she will also ask you about your family history as ADHD is usually passed down through the family. Your doctor will perform physical examinations in addition, to rule out any medical problems that may be causing ADHD symptoms, such as thyroid issues or seizure disorders.
You'll likely be asked to complete several tests in the field of psychology which include scales for behavioral ratings to evaluate your functioning. Your doctor might also ask you to perform reading or math tasks while using a phone or computer to determine how you perform under various conditions. You could also be offered an IQ test to assess your cognitive capabilities.
The American Psychiatric Association established criteria to determine if an adult suffers from ADHD. The symptoms must be present for at minimum six months consecutively and have an impact on multiple areas of your life, such as work or school. Your doctor will also want to know whether your symptoms caused a significant amount of trouble before age 12.
It's important to realize that a variety of factors can trigger or mimic ADHD. For instance, stress, other mental health issues, and some medications can all lead to certain symptoms as ADHD.
If you have any records from previous psychological testing or performance evaluations, bring them with you to your appointment. Your doctor will also need to know which medications you're taking or taking, 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 treatment aids in developing better coping strategies and skills to manage your ADHD symptoms so that they do not interfere with your everyday life. Psychotherapy can be utilized on its own or together with medications for adults suffering from ADHD. Ask your primary care physician to refer you to a mental health professional who can treat adults suffering from ADHD. You can also call your insurance company and ask what specialists are covered. You can also join a local support group.
Treatment
If you think you have ADHD, the first step is to make an appointment with your primary care physician. Your doctor can refer you to a mental health professional who can conduct a full assessment to determine the cause of your condition. During your appointment, you should be honest with your doctor about the issues you're experiencing at home and at work. Your doctor will ask about any major issues you've faced like being fired or failing in a class. Your doctor will ask about your family history and any previous health issues, such as anxiety disorders or depression.
You may be asked to complete a questionnaire, such as the Adult Attention and Hyperactivity Disorder Self-Screening Tool (ASRS). The questionnaire takes around five minutes to fill out and comprises 18 questions asking you to rate the frequency with which you experience symptoms of adult ADHD. Your doctor will review your answers and provide you with a a score indicating whether you need to seek a formal diagnosis.
Your doctor will also ask about your issues in your relationships at home and at work. It can be embarrassing to talk about these problems however, your doctor needs to know about them so that they can assist. In certain instances your doctor may want to talk to your coworkers or teachers to learn more about the issues you're facing. This does not mean that your doctor is judging you or blames you. It's just to help them better know the ways ADHD can affect a person's ability at work or in school.
Your doctor may also suggest that you get psychological tests to rule out 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 ensure that your symptoms aren't caused by medical conditions.
Your doctor might ask you to bring any records, such as old report cards or performance evaluations at work. It's also helpful for your doctor to know if you had any ADHD symptoms as a child or adolescent however they weren't serious 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 speak with a professional. They can conduct a thorough assessment. These professionals include licensed mental health specialists like clinical psychologists and doctors (psychiatrist or neurologist, or family physician). A lot of insurance plans offer lists of professionals who are qualified in your region, and you can also contact local support groups for help in finding an appropriate provider.
Your doctor will also inquire with you about the symptoms that you are experiencing and how they affect your daily life. This covers your work and school performance, as well as relationships and other aspects in your daily life. Your physician may decide to meet with your coworkers and teachers, or request old school records. This is not a way to question your sincerity; it's just to get more information. Many adults suffering from ADHD have poor or inconsistent memories, especially from childhood. It is essential to gather as much information as possible before making the diagnosis.
Depending on the problem you're having, your specialist might suggest other diagnostic methods like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which aids people with ADHD learn to manage their challenges and develop their strengths. CBT can be combined with medications to aid in ADHD treatment.
While you wait for a medical evaluation, you can assess your symptoms using various tools available on Internet. The Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale and other online tests are available. These tools are neither standardized nor scientifically validated and should be used only as general guidance.
Many people who aren't diagnosed with ADHD are so accustomed to their problems that they tend to take them for granted. They may assume that they're simply not proficient at certain things or that it's their own responsibility for not keeping their work or social commitments on track. The symptoms of ADHD are not caused by a personal failure and are more neurological. With the right treatment however, you can regain control over your ADHD and turn it into something constructive. This will lead to greater success in your career and personal relationships, as well as a better life for yourself and others around you.