How to Get an Adult Diagnosis of ADHD
Many people don't get an diagnosis of ADHD until the age of adulthood. It could be due to the fact that the symptoms weren't recognized in the early years or are mild.
You must exhibit ADHD symptoms before you turn 12. These symptoms must interfere in social or work activities and last for a period of time.
Diagnosis Process
To get a proper diagnosis of ADHD, you will need to talk with a specialist who is specialized in this disorder. During the evaluation the doctor will have the patient describe their symptoms in detail. The doctor will also review the patient's medical, mental health and family history. It is crucial for patients to discuss their symptoms with their doctor in a candid and honestly, without feeling embarrassed or ashamed.
ADHD symptoms may be similar to those of a variety of mental disorders and physical conditions. It is crucial that the mental health professional conducts an exhaustive assessment. The evaluation will consist of medical examination, psychological examination and an interview. The psychologist or psychiatrist may ask the person to describe symptoms and how these affect their lives. They may also ask about the person's childhood behavior and school experiences. The professional will also consider other factors that may be contributing to the person's issues like stress or other health problems.
Receiving a diagnosis of ADHD in adulthood can be a difficult and stressful experience. It can be a challenging and emotional experience to receive the diagnosis of ADHD as an adult. It is crucial to remember that the diagnosis of ADHD is not an indication of a person's character or personality. It is a condition that is treated with medications and other treatments.
Some doctors use a standardized checklist to help them identify the symptoms of ADHD. These checklists were developed for children. However adults may meet the criteria if they exhibit five or more signs of inattention or 6 or more for hyperactivity and the tendency to be impulsive. Some doctors conduct interviews with close friends, family members and coworkers. This can give valuable insights that aren't available through questionnaires, and can aid in determining other conditions that could be causing ADHD symptoms.
When choosing a doctor to assess for ADHD, it is recommended to ask for recommendations from trusted colleagues. You should also ensure that the doctor you select has a certificate and license in the area you are looking for. Contact the office of the specialist to find out more about their credentials.
Signs and symptoms
People who suffer from untreated ADHD often experience many types of problems in their lives. They may struggle with relationships, work or school. They may have difficulty maintaining an energizing diet or sleeping well. They could be facing financial difficulties due to impulse purchases and abuse of substances. They could also suffer from health problems like anxiety and depression. Many times, these symptoms are misinterpreted by those around them as signs of inattention or lack of responsibility. When those with ADHD are diagnosed they usually feel relief and understanding. They can then take action to address the issues that affect their daily lives and attain success in a variety of arenas.
A mental health professional will review the patient's symptoms and their history, as well as examine a physical exam and medical record. To diagnose the illness, they will use adult rating checklists or scales. They will also ask the patient about their working and home life, and how these symptoms affect the rest of the family. The doctor may also meet with teachers, parents and other individuals who knew the patient when he or she was a child.
The symptoms include:
Inattentional ADHD may include the ability to drift off into a dream, or forgetting important information in class. It can cause you to take longer than usual to complete tasks. Hyperactive-impulsive ADHD symptoms may involve fidgeting, talking nonstop and difficulty waiting for turn or instructions. Combination presentation ADHD, where there are equal amounts of inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms present, is the most common type of the disorder.
Many people suffering from ADHD are misdiagnosed, or worse, they don't receive an official diagnosis because they don't fit the criteria for diagnosis set out in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders by the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-5). It is also important to note that stress and certain medications may cause similar symptoms as those associated with ADHD so an in-depth assessment by a healthcare professional is required to determine the root of the problem. Individuals should also disclose to their doctor any other medicines, vitamins, or supplements they are taking.
Treatment
Adults suffering from ADHD can benefit from a myriad of treatments that can reduce symptoms and improve productivity. However finding the best treatment is a lengthy process. Consult your family physician or a trusted friend for a recommendation. Certain professionals specialize in treating adult ADHD. It might also be helpful to seek recommendations from a medical school in your area or hospital associated with a university. If there is an adult ADHD support group in your area, it may also be helpful to get a referral from these members.
The most effective treatment options for adult ADHD are usually psychotherapies (also known as talk therapy) and behavioral therapies that teach people and their families how to manage their symptoms. These therapies may be short-term, goal-oriented or longer-term, in-depth, and concentrate on specific issues like anger management or learning to manage time and finances.
Some professionals employ rating scales or questionnaires to assess the severity of a patient's symptom. However, the most significant factor in diagnosing adults with ADHD is a clinical interview conducted by a mental health professional who is experienced in the evaluation of ADHD. During the interview, the mental health professional will review the person's social, emotional and academic background. how is adhd diagnosed in adults will also look at the effects that current issues have on relationships, work and other aspects of your life.
To be diagnosed with ADHD, you must have at least five of the inattentive or hyperactive-impulsive symptoms listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The doctor will determine whether the symptoms are predominantly inattentive or primarily hyperactive-impulsive, or if they are a combination. In addition the symptoms should be present for at least six months, and they must significantly interfere with everyday functioning.
If you are given an ADHD diagnosis in your adulthood it can trigger many complex emotions. You might feel sadness over missed opportunities, or feel relief that your previous struggles are explained clearly. Regardless, it is essential that you feel comfortable talking about your concerns and that you are honest and open with your mental health professional during the assessment process.
Support
Many adults go through their lives without obtaining an ADHD diagnosis. They might be experiencing chronic stress and frustration in their relationships or at work and are unaware that their problems are caused by untreated ADHD.
Getting diagnosed can be difficult for adults because of the stigma surrounding the disorder. Some medical professionals also have preconceived ideas about how someone suffering from ADHD could look like. This can make it difficult for women and people of color as well as women who are born female to receive a proper diagnosis.
If you're having trouble finding a diagnosis, try seeking out a specialist trained to diagnose ADHD in adults. You can talk to your doctor or a local university-based hospital or medical school for recommendations. You can also contact a local ADHD support group for referrals. The best way to determine if a healthcare professional can accurately diagnose ADHD and the best way to evaluate it is through word-of mouth referrals.
To diagnose ADHD, your clinician will review the symptoms you report and compare them with the criteria outlined by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders that is the reference book that mental health professionals utilize to make precise diagnoses. Your doctor will inquire about your past and present concerns to get an accurate picture of your struggles. Rating scales and questionnaires are also used to measure ADHD.
Your doctor will determine if your ADHD symptoms are sufficient to warrant medication or if psychotherapy or other methods of treatment are more suitable. It is important to inform your doctor about any other medications you are taking because certain medications may interact with stimulants. You should also tell your doctor about any traumas that you have experienced in the past.
Receiving a diagnosis of ADHD is a major life-changing event for many adults. It can be a relief to be able to recognize your issues and empower you to manage these issues. A diagnosis of ADHD can lead to a successful career and fulfilling relationships. People with ADHD are often better at creative careers, where their brain function differences can be beneficial.