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How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults For many adults, the frustration of living with ADHD symptoms is what drives them to seek an assessment. They could lose their jobs because of delayed deadlines, or struggle with relationships due to impulsive behavior, or face financial issues because they forget bills and lose track of purchases. Ask your doctor or mental health professional if they have any training in diagnosing ADHD in adults. Signs and symptoms Find a doctor who will examine your symptoms if you think your child or you is suffering from ADHD. The evaluation will consist of an examination of your body and an analysis of your medical history, which includes mental health issues as well as substance use. It is important to be honest with your doctor about the signs and the way they affect you. Many people with ADHD hide the problem because of shame or fear of criticism. However an extensive evaluation will provide your doctor with a clearer picture of your daily life. Since adulthood is different from childhood, diagnosing ADHD in adults can be more complicated than diagnosing children with the disorder. The American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) offers guidelines for diagnosing ADHD that are generally applicable for adults as well as children. The doctor can ask other people who are part of the patient's life, like the spouse or cohabiting partner or parents, siblings, teachers, and coaches, to describe how the patient's behavior has affected them. This could reveal important details that aren't revealed by tests or checklists. In certain cases the doctor may want to investigate other conditions that could cause similar symptoms to ADHD. These conditions include mental health conditions and physical injuries like concussions or head trauma. They will also review the person's personal and work life to determine whether their symptoms are interfering with their daily routine. The symptoms of adult ADHD can range from mild to moderate, with moderate symptoms causing difficulties in work and social situations. Severe symptoms may interfere with academic or work performance, strain relationships and make it difficult to live a life of independence. ADHD can affect anyone, but it is more prevalent in boys and men than in girls. It is not clear why this difference exists however it is likely that there are genetic and environmental factors at play. Research has shown that certain chemicals and foods can cause ADHD in some individuals, and it is possible that some people are more likely to develop the condition due to the existence of certain brain structures that are involved in processing stimuli. Diagnosis Getting a diagnosis of ADHD isn't always straightforward. Many people are embarrassed by their symptoms and have difficulty speaking to a healthcare provider or a mental health specialist. This can prolong the evaluation process. It is essential to speak openly and honestly about your symptoms and your past experiences for an accurate evaluation. During the evaluation your doctor may employ standardized behavioral rating scales and ADHD symptoms checklists to determine whether you meet the criteria for a diagnosis of ADHD. Your doctor will inquire about your family and childhood history, and a detailed description your home and work. Your doctor may also order an exam to rule out medical causes of your symptoms, for example, seizures or thyroid issues. A physical exam consists of blood tests and a brain scan. These tests can help to identify chemical or structural issues in the brain which could be causing ADHD symptoms. A physical can also help identify other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, including addiction or depression. Your doctor may recommend taking part in a clinical study of new treatments for ADHD in adults. how to get diagnosed with adult adhd are conducted at research centers such as NIMH. It is important to be aware, however, that these studies could pose risks and not lead to the right treatment for you. Inform your doctor about any other medications you take, as they can interact with stimulants used to treat ADHD in adults. The effects of medications on the appetite, sleep heart rate, appetite, and blood pressure can all affect the effectiveness of stimulants. The NIMH's Medication Interactions page can give you more information about how to discuss other medicines with your doctor. Treatment For adults diagnosed with ADHD treatments include behavioral therapy, medication and educational support. It's usually a combination of the three that can help people to succeed at school, work and in other pursuits. Referrals from primary healthcare providers or other health professionals are usually the first step in treatment. Find out about the specialist's knowledge and experience working with adults who have ADHD. If a professional is unwilling in a position to provide this information, you should find a different one. The process of diagnosing adult ADHD typically includes interviews with the patient, parents or other significant people, and teachers. It may also include an extensive medical and family history and psychotherapy evaluation. It is crucial that the person being evaluated for ADHD be honest and not evading the test due to embarrassment or fear of criticism. Multiple symptoms must be evident in two or more settings and cause significant impairment in the individual's life for an ADHD diagnosis to be established. Many people with untreated ADHD have comorbid disorders, including anxiety and depression. This is particularly the case for those with ADHD who suffer from chronic stress or frustration. Frustration can cause a self fulfilling prophecy that results in low self-esteem, poor performance, and feelings of anger. A diagnosis of ADHD may be a relief for some adults. They begin to see themselves and realize it wasn't their fault they couldn't establish a career or meet new friends. For some adults, a diagnoses of ADHD can cause grief and regret about missed opportunities. Adults suffering from ADHD should be ready to discuss their concerns openly with co-workers, supervisors and teachers. It's also recommended to think about joining an ADHD support group where people with the disorder can share their experiences and get advice. Finally, those with an diagnosis of ADHD should verify their health insurance coverage to determine the services covered and to find the names and numbers of experts who specialize in treating adults suffering from ADHD. Support A person diagnosed with ADHD is able to receive assistance for the symptoms and problems that affect him or her in a variety of situations such as at home, work, school as well as in relationships and many others. Treatments for adult ADHD usually include psychotherapy and medications. Some people discover that they also require specific coaching, which may help them with structure and support in daily life. Adults diagnosed with ADHD often are relieved to know that their issues aren't normal, or due to bad parenting or lazyness. For some, a diagnosis is the first step towards receiving the help they require to live more fulfilled lives. Adults may also be affected by ADHD. It's more difficult to diagnose in children. Many adults live with undiagnosed ADHD. A psychiatrist with experience in this condition can diagnose ADHD in adults by conducting a diagnostic interview. The interviewer can inquire about the person's personal and emotional history, as well as the family history of the person. Certain doctors employ brain scans or computer programs to evaluate patients. But most experts agree that the best way to determine the presence of ADHD is an extensive clinical interview and it is vital to take the history of a patient into consideration when determining the severity of the disorder. Based on the nature of the difficulties a person is experiencing and the severity of their issues, additional psycho- or neuropsychological testing may be used to assess the presence and impact of co-existing conditions, like learning disabilities, anxiety and mood disorders, which often are associated with ADHD. The results of these tests can be useful in determining the appropriate dosage of medication for an individual. It is also a good idea to ask friends and colleagues for suggestions to specialists who are skilled in diagnosing ADHD. You should then verify their credentials, including their academic degrees and the number of years they've been practicing. They should be able explain their diagnostic procedure and answer any questions you may have. You can also find qualified professionals via the internet or the phone book. Ask them about their methods of counseling and what kind of therapy they would suggest for you.