ADHD - Symptoms in Adults
It is essential to receive an accurate diagnosis if you suspect you might have ADHD. This will be the first step towards managing symptoms and gaining control over your life.
ADHD self-assessment tools may alert you to the possibility of having symptoms common to adult ADHD. However the diagnosis is only possible with a professional evaluation. This can be a neurologist, psychologist or psychiatrist.
Symptoms
ADHD is a condition that affects people of all ages, but symptoms in adults can appear slightly different. It is also possible for adults with ADHD to to turn their problems into tools to help them succeed in work and relationships.
The symptoms of adult ADHD can be mild, moderate or severe. To be diagnosed, made, symptoms must persist from childhood and cause problems in two areas of your life. ADHD can cause issues like difficulty in focusing on a task or forgetting things.
There are self-tests online or rating scales that can help you determine if you may be suffering from ADHD. The only way to get a definitive diagnosis of ADHD in adults is to consult a doctor who specializes on the disorder. Ask your primary doctor for a referral or look online for an ADHD specialist in your health insurance directory.
They will go over your medical history including your childhood and how your symptoms affected your life at school as well as at work and at home. They'll also inquire about your alcohol and drug use, driving record and how you relate to family and friends. It's essential to be open with your examiner. Many adults with ADHD hide or cover up their symptoms from others because they're scared of criticism or embarrassed. This can make the assessment process more difficult.
Before a diagnosis of ADHD is established, it is crucial to rule out any other medical conditions that may cause similar symptoms, such as seizures or thyroid disorders. A physical exam and a detailed neurological history will also be provided.
If your results show that you suffer from ADHD, your doctor is likely to prescribe medication. In addition, they may recommend psychotherapy or other treatments that will assist you in overcoming your ADHD. They may also suggest accommodations to help you work more efficiently, for example, making changes to your surroundings and utilizing tools for organizing and planning.
Diagnosis
A professional evaluation is needed to determine if you suffer from ADHD. Your doctor will conduct a comprehensive history of your symptoms that include when they first started and how they've affected your life. The doctor may also ask about your family history, since it's common for ADHD to occur in families. Your doctor will conduct physical examinations as well to rule out any medical problems that may cause ADHD symptoms, like seizures or thyroid issues.
You will likely be asked to complete an array of tests in the field of psychology which include scales for behavioral ratings for assessing your functioning. You may be asked to perform math or reading tasks on phones, computers or tablet to see your performance in different situations. You could even be asked to take an IQ test to measure your cognitive abilities.
The American Psychiatric Association established criteria for determining adult ADHD. This includes the presence of at minimum six months of symptoms, and their significant impact on multiple settings in your life, such as school or work. Your doctor will also want to know whether your symptoms caused a significant amount of discomfort prior to age 12.
It's important to understand that many different factors can trigger or mimic ADHD. Stress, mental health issues, and certain medications, for instance can all trigger some of the symptoms similar to ADHD.
If you have any records from previous psychological testing or performance evaluations bring them to your appointment. private adhd assessment for adults will want to know if you are taking any medication and whether you've ever suffered an injury to your head.
Psychotherapy, also known as "talk therapy" in the case of ADHD is extremely beneficial for adults struggling with this disorder. This treatment method helps you develop better coping strategies and strategies to manage your ADHD symptoms, so that they don't hinder your ability to function in your daily life. Psychotherapy can be combined with medication or utilized on its own for those suffering from ADHD. Consult your primary care doctor to recommend you to a mental health specialist who treats adults with ADHD. You can also contact your insurance company and ask what specialists are covered. Visit an organization that offers support locally.
Treatment
Make an appointment with your primary healthcare professional should you suspect that you suffer from ADHD. Your doctor will be able to refer you to a mental health professional who can perform a full evaluation to determine the cause of your disorder. During your appointment, you should be honest with your doctor about any issues you're experiencing at work and home. The doctor will ask you about any major problems you've had to face like being dismissed or failing a class. Your doctor will also inquire about your family history and any previous health issues, such as depression or anxiety.
You are likely to be asked to complete a questionnaire such as the Adult Hyperactivity Disorder Self Screening Tool (ASRS). The questionnaire takes around five minutes to fill out and comprises 18 questions that ask you to rate the frequency with which you are experiencing symptoms of adult ADHD. Your doctor will then take your answers into consideration and give you a score that indicates whether you should take a look at a formal diagnosis.
In addition the doctor will ask you about the problems you face in your relationships at home and at work. It might be uncomfortable to discuss these issues, but your doctor needs to know about them so they can assist. Your doctor may want to discuss your issues with your colleagues or teachers to understand the difficulties you're facing. This doesn't mean that your doctor is judging you or blaming you. It is simply to help them understand the ways ADHD can affect someone's ability to perform at work or in school.
Your doctor might recommend psychological tests to rule other conditions that could cause similar symptoms. For example a learning disorder or mood disorder. You may also undergo a physical exam to ensure there aren't any medical conditions that cause your symptoms.
Your doctor may also ask to bring any documents with you, such as performance evaluations from your job or old report cards from school. It is also helpful for your doctor to know if you've had any ADHD symptoms in your adolescent or childhood but they weren't severe enough to impact your life at the time.
Support
If you suspect ADHD and you suspect that you have it, you should speak with an expert who can conduct an exhaustive assessment. These experts include licensed mental health providers like physicians and clinical psychologists (psychiatrists, neurologist, or family physicians). Many insurance plans will have lists of licensed professionals in your area, and you can also contact local support groups for help in locating a suitable provider.
Your doctor will also inquire with you about the symptoms that you are experiencing and how they affect your life. This includes your school and work performance as well as relationships and other aspects of your daily life. Your physician may decide to meet with your coworkers and teachers or to request old school records. This isn't meant to challenge your honesty, but to get additional information. Many adults with ADHD have spotty or poor memories, particularly from childhood, and it's important that your specialist obtain the most relevant information possible to determine the cause.
Based on the issue you're experiencing, your doctor might suggest other diagnostic methods like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), which helps people suffering from ADHD overcome their challenges and tap into their strengths. CBT can be combined with medication to treat your ADHD.
While you wait for a medical assessment, you can evaluate your symptoms using several tools on the Internet. They include the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) and a number of online questionnaires. These tools aren't standardized or scientifically validated and should be used only for general guidance.
Undiagnosed ADHD can cause people to be so comfortable with their problems that they begin to overlook them. They may think that they are just not good enough or that it's their fault for not being able to keep up with their work or social commitments. The reality is that symptoms of ADHD are neurological and are not a fault of the individual. However, you can gain control over your ADHD with the proper treatment and turn it into an asset. This can lead to more satisfaction in your professional and personal relationships and a better life for yourself and your family members.