ADHD - Symptoms in Adults
If you think you may have ADHD it is important to receive a diagnosis. This is the first step towards managing symptoms and gaining control over your life.
ADHD self-assessment tools can alert you to the fact that you may be suffering from symptoms common to adult ADHD however, a valid diagnosis requires an assessment by a specialist. This could be a clinical psychologist, a physician (psychiatrist or neurologist) or therapist.
Signs and symptoms
ADHD is a condition that affects people of all ages, however symptoms in adults may look slightly different. It is also possible for people with ADHD to be able to turn their problems into tools to help them achieve success in their work and relationships.
Adult ADHD symptoms can be mild, moderate or severe. To be eligible for an assessment, the symptoms must have persisted since childhood and continue to cause significant problems in at least two different areas of your life. Having a hard time keeping your focus on your task or recalling information are examples of problems that could be caused by ADHD.
If you suspect you may have symptoms of ADHD there are ratings scales and self-tests online that can help determine if you might have the disorder. However, the only way to get an accurate diagnosis is to see a doctor who specializes in diagnosing ADHD in adults. Ask your primary care doctor for a referral, or search for an ADHD specialist through the online directory of your health insurance.
They will go over your medical background including your childhood and how your symptoms have affected your daily life at school at work, home, and school. adhd assessment for adults will also ask about your drug and alcohol usage, driving history and how you relate to family and friends. It is essential to be truthful when speaking to your examiner. Many adults with ADHD hide or deny their symptoms to others because they're scared of criticism or embarrassed. This can make the assessment process more difficult.
Certain medical conditions, like thyroid disorders and seizure disorders, may have similar symptoms to ADHD and should be considered before an ADHD diagnosis is established. A physical exam and a thorough neurological history are also required.
If your tests show that you suffer from ADHD, your doctor will likely prescribe medications. Additionally, they might recommend psychotherapy or other behavioral therapies that can aid you in managing your ADHD. They may also suggest that you change your workplace environment and utilize planning and organizing apps to help you become more efficient.
Diagnosis
To determine if you have ADHD, a professional evaluation is required. Your doctor will ask you to provide an in-depth account of your symptoms. This includes when they started and how they have affected your life. They will also inquire about your family history since ADHD is usually caused by genetics. Your doctor may also conduct an examination of your body to rule out any medical conditions that could cause ADHD symptoms. This includes thyroid issues or seizure disorders.
You may be asked to complete a series tests for your psychological health which include scales for behavioral ratings to evaluate your functioning. Your doctor may also ask you to complete reading or math tasks while using a phone or computer to assess how you do under different conditions. You could also be offered an IQ test in order to determine your cognitive abilities.
The American Psychiatric Association has established guidelines that must be met to qualify for a diagnosis of adult ADHD. These include the presence of at minimum six months of symptoms and their significant impact on various settings in your life, such as work or school. Your doctor will also want to know whether your symptoms led to a significant amount of trouble before age 12.
It's important to realize that a variety of factors can cause or mimic ADHD. For instance stress, stress, other mental health issues, and some medications can all lead to some of the same symptoms as ADHD.
If adhd assessment adults have any documentation from previous psychological tests or performance evaluations, bring them with you to your appointment. Your doctor will also need to know what medications you're taking or taking and if you've had a head injury or illness.
Adults who struggle with ADHD will benefit greatly from psychotherapy or "talk therapy". This type of treatment can help you improve your 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 used in conjunction with medication or used on its own for those 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 which specialists are covered. Visit an organization that offers support locally.
Treatment
Schedule an appointment with your primary healthcare provider should you suspect that you suffer from ADHD. Your doctor may refer you to a mental healthcare specialist who will conduct an extensive evaluation and determine the problem. During your appointment, you should be honest with your doctor about the issues you're experiencing at home and at work. Your doctor will be interested in knowing about any major problems that have led to them, such as being fired from a job or failing classes. Your doctor will also inquire about your family history and any previous health problems, such as anxiety or depression.
You will probably be asked to fill out some sort of questionnaire, like the Adult Attention and Hyperactivity Disorder Self-Screening Tool (ASRS). This test is around five minutes long, and it contains 18 questions which ask you to rate the frequency which you are experiencing adult ADHD symptoms. Your doctor will take into account your answers and provide you with a a score indicating whether you should seek formal diagnosis.
In addition, your doctor will ask you about the problems you are having with your relationships at work and home. You might feel embarrassed speaking about these difficulties but it's important that your doctor is aware about them to assist you. Your doctor might want to discuss your issues with your colleagues or teachers in order to understand the difficulties you're facing. This doesn't mean that your doctor is judging you or accusing you of being a victim. It is simply to help them better comprehend how ADHD can affect a person's performance at work or at school.
Your doctor might also suggest that you get psychological tests to rule out other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, such as a learning disability or a mood disorder. You may also undergo a physical exam to make sure that there aren't any medical issues that are causing your symptoms.
Your doctor may ask you to bring along any records, including old report cards or performance appraisals at work. Your doctor will also want to know if your ADHD symptoms were so severe that they interfered with your daily life as an infant.
Support
If you suspect you have ADHD or other disorders, you should talk to an expert who can provide a full evaluation. These professionals include licensed mental healthcare providers such as clinical psychologists and physicians (psychiatrists or neurologist family physicians). Many insurance plans will have lists of qualified professionals in your area, and you can also reach out to local support groups for assistance in finding a suitable service.
In addition to taking a detailed medical history, your clinician will also ask you questions about your symptoms and the problems they cause in your life. This includes your work and school performance as well as relationships and other aspects of your daily life. Your doctor may request to talk to your coworkers as well as teachers, or ask for old school records. This is not to question your honesty; it's simply to gather additional information. Many adults suffering from ADHD have spotty or poor memories, especially from childhood, and it's essential that your doctor obtain the most relevant information possible to determine the cause.
Depending on the issue you're having, your specialist might suggest other diagnostic methods like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), which helps those suffering from ADHD learn to cope with their challenges and harness their strengths. CBT can be combined with medications to help with ADHD treatment.
While you're waiting for a professional assessment There are many tools on the Internet that let you evaluate your own symptoms. These include the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) and a range of online questionnaires. These tools are neither standardised nor are they scientifically validated, and should only serve as general guidance.
Many people who don't have a diagnosis of ADHD are so accustomed to their difficulties that they tend to take them for granted. They might believe that they are just not very good or that it's their fault that they are unable to keep up with their work or social commitments. The symptoms of ADHD aren't caused by an individual's fault, but are rather neurological. If you are treated properly, however, you can regain control of your ADHD and turn it into something positive. This could lead to greater success in your work and personal relationships and a better life for yourself and those around you.