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How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults Many adults seek an assessment because they are frustrated by the symptoms of ADHD. They may be losing their jobs due to missed deadlines, struggling in relationships due to impulsive behavior or have financial issues because they forget to pay their bills or lose track of purchases. Ask your doctor or mental health professional if they have any experience in diagnosing ADHD among adults. Signs and symptoms If you believe that you or your child suffer from ADHD, the first step towards getting help is to find a health care provider who will evaluate your symptoms. Your evaluation will include physical examination as well as a review of your medical history, including mental health issues and drug use. It is crucial to be honest with the doctor about the symptoms you are experiencing and how they impact you. Many people suffering from ADHD are reluctant to talk about their issues because of fear or shame criticism However, a thorough evaluation will provide the doctor with an accurate picture of your life and issues. Adults are different from children, which is why the diagnosis of ADHD can be more difficult than identifying ADHD in children. The American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) provides guidelines for diagnosing ADHD that are generally applicable for adults as well as children. In addition to examining the patient, the doctor may also ask other people who are in the patient's lifefor example, spouse or co-habitating partner parents, siblings, or teachers and coaches — to describe the behavior of the patient and how it has affected them. This could reveal important details that aren't found in tests or checklists. In certain instances the doctor may need to investigate other conditions that may cause similar symptoms to ADHD. These conditions can include mental health issues and physical injuries or illnesses like concussions or head trauma. He or she will review the individual's personal and professional life to determine whether their symptoms are interfering with their daily routine. The symptoms of adult ADHD vary from mild to moderate, with moderate symptoms causing difficulty in social and work situations. In severe cases, symptoms can affect schoolwork or work performance or cause stress in relationships. It can also make it difficult to live a life of independence. diagnosed with adult adhd can be affected by ADHD It is more common in men and boys than in girls. There is no clear explanation for this difference however it could be due to genetic and environmental factors. Certain foods and chemicals have been proven to trigger ADHD in a few people. It is also possible that some individuals are predisposed to it due to brain structures involved in processing stimuli. Diagnosis It's not always easy to recognize ADHD. Many sufferers are embarrassed by their symptoms and have difficulty speaking to a healthcare specialist or a mental health specialist. This can make the process of evaluation more time-consuming. To ensure that you receive a thorough evaluation it is essential to be honest and open about your symptoms as well as your past medical history. During the evaluation your doctor will utilize the standardized behavioral ratings scales as well as ADHD symptoms checklists to determine if you meet the criteria for diagnosis. Your doctor will also ask for your family history and childhood records, as well as an extensive description of your job and personal life. Your doctor may request an examination to rule out medical causes for your symptoms, including a thyroid disorder or seizure disorder. A physical exam typically involves blood tests and a head scan, which can reveal any chemical or structural issues in the brain that may be contributing to your ADHD symptoms. A physical exam can also help rule other conditions out that could cause similar symptoms, like addiction or depression. It is possible that your doctor will recommend that you participate in a clinical trial of new treatments for adults with ADHD. These trials are conducted by research centers, such as NIMH. However, it is important to be aware that these studies may be risky and not lead to a treatment that is appropriate for you. It is also essential to tell your doctor any other medications you're taking, as they may interact with stimulants that are used to treat adult ADHD. The effectiveness of stimulants may be affected by medications that affect sleep, appetite and blood pressure. The NIMH's Medication Interactions page can provide more details on how to discuss other medications with your physician. Treatment For adults who are diagnosed with ADHD, treatment options include behavioral therapy, medication and educational assistance. It's often a combination of these that help people find success in school, work and other areas. Referrals from primary healthcare providers or other health professionals are often the first step to treatment. Ask the doctor about their expertise and training in working with adults who have ADHD. If a professional refuses or is unable to provide you the information you need, it's best to find another professional. The diagnostic process for adult ADHD typically includes interviews with the patient, parents or other significant others and teachers. The process of diagnosis may include an assessment of family and medical history, as well as an assessment of the psychiatric condition. It is essential that the person being evaluated for ADHD be honest and not be hesitant to avoid embarrassment. There must be a variety of symptoms in two or more settings and have a significant impact in the life of the individual for an ADHD diagnosis to be established. Many people with untreated ADHD have comorbid disorders such as depression and anxiety. This is particularly true when those with ADHD have an ongoing history of stress or frustration in their lives. The frustration can trigger an unfulfilled prophecy which results in low self-esteem, a lack of performance and feelings of frustration. For certain adults, being diagnosed of ADHD can be a great relief. They can begin to understand their own behavior and realize that it wasn't their fault that they couldn't make friends or establish an occupation. For some adults, a diagnoses of ADHD can cause regret and sadness over missed opportunities. Adults with ADHD must always be prepared to discuss their issues openly with co-workers, supervisors and teachers. It's also a good idea to consider joining an ADHD support group in which people who suffer from the disorder can discuss their experiences and receive help. Additionally, those with the diagnosis of ADHD should check their health insurance coverage to determine the services covered and to obtain the names and numbers of specialists who specialize in treating adults suffering from ADHD. Support A person who is diagnosed with ADHD can seek treatment for the symptoms and issues that afflict him or her at the workplace, at home, in school, in relationships and in many other settings. Treatments for adults with ADHD typically include psychotherapy and medications. Some people may find that they also require specific coaching, which may help them with structure and support in everyday life. Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD often are relieved to know that their issues aren't typical or caused by bad parenting or lazyness. A diagnosis could be the first step towards receiving the assistance they require. Adults may also be affected by ADHD. It is more difficult to diagnose in children. Many adults are suffering from undiagnosed ADHD. Diagnosing ADHD in adults requires a thorough medical examination by a psychiatrist who has experience working with this condition. The interviewer might inquire about the patient's social and emotional history, as well as his or her family history. Some doctors use brain scans or computer programs to evaluate a patient. Most experts agree that a thorough interview is the best way to determine the presence of ADHD. Based on the severity and nature of the individual's problems and any co-existing issues like mood disorders, anxiety, and learning disabilities that commonly accompany ADHD additional neuropsychological and psychological tests could be administered to determine the effect and severity of these conditions. The results of these tests may also be helpful in determining the right dosage of medication for an individual. Asking colleagues and friends to recommend specialists with had experience in diagnosing ADHD is a great idea. Examine their credentials, including their academic degrees and how long they've been working. They should also be able to explain how their diagnosis process works and answer any questions you might have. You can also find qualified professionals online or in the phone book. Find out about their approach to counseling and what type of therapy they might suggest for you.