ADHD - Symptoms in Adults
If you think you may be suffering from ADHD, it's important to be diagnosed. This will allow you to manage your symptoms and gain control over your life.
ADHD self-assessment tools may alert you to the fact that you might have symptoms common to adult ADHD, but a valid diagnosis requires an assessment by a professional. This can be a clinical psychologist, a physician (psychiatrist or neurologists) or therapist.
Symptoms
ADHD affects people of all ages, however symptoms in adults can appear slightly different. Adults suffering from ADHD are able to use their symptoms to succeed at work and in relationships.
The symptoms of adult ADHD can be mild, moderate, or severe. To qualify for a diagnosis, the symptoms must have remained consistent since childhood and continue to cause problems in at least two areas of your life. ADHD can cause problems like having trouble in focusing on a task or forgetting things.
There are self-tests online or rating scales that can help you determine if you might be suffering from ADHD. However the only way to receive an accurate diagnosis is to see a doctor who specializes in diagnosing ADHD in adults. Consult your primary care physician for a referral, or look up an ADHD specialist on the online directory of your health insurance.
If you visit an expert, they'll go over your medical and psychiatric records going all the way back to childhood, and will discuss how your symptoms have affected your work, school and personal life. They'll also inquire about any alcohol or drugs you use, your driving history, and what your relationships with family and friends been. private adult adhd assessment to be open with your examiner. Many adults suffering from ADHD hide or deny their symptoms to others due to being afraid of criticism or are embarrassed. This can make the evaluation process more difficult.
Before the diagnosis of ADHD is made, it is important to rule out any other medical conditions that may cause similar symptoms, such as seizure disorders or thyroid disorders. A physical exam and a detailed neurological history will also be given.
If your results show that you suffer from ADHD, your doctor will likely prescribe medications. They might also suggest therapy or behavioral therapies to aid you in managing your ADHD. They might also recommend accommodations to assist you in working more efficiently, such as making changes to your work environment as well as using tools for organizing and planning.
Diagnosis
To determine ADHD, a thorough evaluation is required. Your doctor will require you to provide an in-depth account of your symptoms. This includes when they began and how they have affected your life. They might also inquire about your family history, since it is common for ADHD to run in families. Your doctor will perform an examination of your body, in addition, to rule out any medical conditions that could mimic ADHD symptoms, such as seizure disorders or thyroid issues.
You'll likely go through several psychological tests to determine your functioning, including behavioral rating scales. You might be asked to complete math or reading tasks using a computer, phone or tablet to assess your performance in various situations. You may even take an IQ test to evaluate your cognitive abilities.
The American Psychiatric Association has established standards that must be met to qualify for an adult diagnosis of ADHD. The symptoms must have been 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 want to know whether your symptoms led to significant issues prior to the age of 12.
It's important to understand that many different factors can trigger or mimic ADHD. For instance, stress, other mental health issues and certain medications can cause certain symptoms as ADHD.
Bring any documentation from previous psychological tests or performance evaluations to your appointment. Your doctor will also want to know the medications you're taking or taking, and if you've ever suffered a head injury or illness.
Adults who suffer from ADHD are able to benefit from psychotherapy or "talk therapy". This treatment helps you develop more effective strategies and techniques to manage your ADHD symptoms so that they don't affect your daily routine. Psychotherapy can be combined with medication or utilized on its own for adults with ADHD. Ask your primary care provider to recommend you to a mental health professional who treats adults suffering from ADHD. You could also contact your insurance company and ask what specialists are covered. You can also join 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 will refer you to a mental healthcare professional who will carry out a full evaluation and diagnose your disorder. During your visit, be open about the issues you are having at work as well as at home. Your doctor will ask about any major problems you have faced, such as being dismissed or failing a class. Your doctor will also inquire about your family history and prior health problems, such as anxiety or depression.
You may be asked to fill out an assessment, such as the Adult Attention and Hyperactivity Disorder Self-Screening Tool (ASRS). This questionnaire is about five minutes long and contains 18 questions which ask you to rate the frequency which you are experiencing adult ADHD symptoms. Your doctor will then take your answers into consideration and provide you with an assessment that will indicate whether you should consider seeking an official diagnosis.
Additionally the doctor will inquire about the issues you face in your relationships at home and at work. It may be embarrassing to discuss these issues, but your doctor needs to know so that they can help. Your doctor may suggest that you talk to your colleagues or teachers in order to understand the difficulties you're facing. This doesn't mean that your doctor is judging you; more so, it's to assist them in understanding the ways in which ADHD can affect someone's ability to perform at work or school.
Your doctor may recommend psychological tests to rule out other conditions that could cause similar symptoms. For instance, a learning disorder or mood disorder. You may also undergo a physical exam to ensure there aren't any medical issues that cause your symptoms.
Your doctor may also request that you bring any records that you have, such as performance evaluations from your job or report cards from your school. It's also beneficial for your doctor to determine if you experienced any ADHD symptoms as a teenager or child, but they weren't severe enough to have a significant impact on your life at the time.
Support
If you suspect you may have ADHD, it is important to consult a professional. They can conduct a thorough assessment. These professionals include licensed mental health professionals such as clinical psychologists, and doctors (psychiatrist or neurologist, or family physician). A lot of insurance plans offer a list of qualified professionals in the region. You can also contact local support organizations for assistance in finding a good provider.
In addition to taking a thorough medical history, your doctor will also inquire about your symptoms and the problems they cause in your daily life. This covers your work and school performance, as well as relationships and other aspects of your daily life. Your clinician may wish to speak with colleagues and teachers, or request old school records. This isn't an attempt to doubt your integrity or your commitment to a particular cause; it's simply to obtain more information. Many adults with ADHD have spotty or poor memories, especially from their childhood. It's important that your specialist obtain as much relevant information as possible to establish a diagnosis.
Depending on your problem, your specialist might suggest other diagnostic procedures like cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) A treatment that assists people suffering from ADHD cope with challenges and increase their power. CBT can be combined with medication to treat your ADHD.
While you wait for a medical assessment, you can evaluate your symptoms using various tools available on the Internet. These include the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) and a variety of online questionnaires. These tools are neither tested or validated scientifically and should be used only as general guidelines.
Many people who aren't diagnosed with ADHD are so accustomed to their difficulties that they take them for granted. They may assume that they're not proficient at certain things or that it's their own fault that they have trouble keeping their social or work commitments on track. The truth is that the symptoms of ADHD are neurological and are not a result of a personal flaw. However, you can gain control over your ADHD with the right treatment and turn it into a positive force. This could lead to greater success in your work and personal relationships and a richer life for you and your family members.