ADHD - Symptoms in Adults
If you feel that you may have ADHD, it's important to receive a diagnosis. This will allow you to manage your symptoms and take control of your life.
ADHD self-assessment tools can inform you that you may have symptoms that are common to adults with ADHD. However, a valid diagnosis is only possible through an assessment by a professional. This could be an expert in clinical psychology, a physician (psychiatrist or neurologists) or therapist.
Symptoms
ADHD is a problem that affects all ages, but the symptoms in adults can appear slightly different. Adults with ADHD are able to use their symptoms to help them succeed at work and in relationships.
Adult symptoms of ADHD can be mild, moderate or severe. To be able to receive a diagnosis, the symptoms must have remained consistent since childhood and continue to cause issues in at least two different areas of your life. ADHD can cause issues like having trouble focussing on a task, or even forgetting things.
There are online self-tests and rating scales that can aid in determining if you might have ADHD. The only way to obtain an accurate diagnosis of ADHD for adults is to see an expert in the disorder. Ask your primary doctor for a referral or search online for an ADHD specialist in your health insurance directory.
When you go to see an expert, they'll look over your medical and psychiatric history going back to childhood, including how your symptoms have impacted your school, work and personal life. They will also ask about your alcohol and drugs use, driving record and how you relate to family and friends. It's crucial to be honest with your examiner. Adults with ADHD may hide or minimize their symptoms to avoid embarrassment or criticism. This can make the assessment process more difficult.
Before the diagnosis of ADHD is established, it is crucial to rule out any other medical conditions that could cause similar symptoms, such as seizures or thyroid disorders. A thorough neurological history as well as physical examinations will also be conducted.
If your tests show that you have ADHD, then your doctor may prescribe medication. In addition, they could recommend psychotherapy or other behavioral treatments that will assist you in overcoming your ADHD. They may also suggest you make changes to your workplace and employ software for planning and organizing to make you more efficient.
Diagnosis
To determine ADHD, a professional evaluation is required. Your doctor will ask you to give an in-depth account of your symptoms. This includes when they began and how they have affected your life. They will also ask you about your family history as ADHD is usually inherited. Your doctor will also perform a physical examination to rule out medical conditions that could mimic ADHD symptoms. These could include thyroid problems or seizures.
You will likely be asked to complete a series psychological tests that include behavioral ratings scales for assessing your functioning. Your doctor might also ask you to perform math or reading tasks using a phone or computer to see how you perform under various conditions. You could also be offered an IQ test in order to evaluate your cognitive abilities.
The American Psychiatric Association established criteria to determine if an adult suffers from ADHD. The symptoms must have been present for at least six consecutive months and be having a significant impact in multiple areas of your life, such as school or work. Your doctor will be looking to determine if your symptoms caused a substantial amount of problems prior to the age of 12.
It is important to realize that there are many factors that can cause or mimic ADHD. Stress mental health issues and certain medications, for example are all possible causes of the symptoms that are similar to ADHD.
If you have any records from previous psychological testing or performance evaluations, bring them with you to your appointment. Your doctor must know if you're taking any medications and the last time you suffered an injury to your head.
Psychotherapy, or "talk therapy" in the case of ADHD, can be extremely beneficial for adults struggling with this disorder. This type of treatment can help you develop better coping strategies and strategies to manage your ADHD symptoms, so that they don't interfere with your ability to live your daily life. Psychotherapy can be paired with medication or used alone for those suffering from ADHD. Consult your primary care doctor to recommend you to a specialist in mental health who treats adults suffering from ADHD. You can also contact your insurance provider and inquire which specialists are covered. Or, visit 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 can refer you to a mental healthcare professional who will carry out an exhaustive evaluation and identify the disorder. During your visit, you should be honest about the problems you're experiencing at work and at home. Your doctor will be interested in knowing about any major issues that have resulted, such as being fired from the job or failing to pass classes. Your doctor will ask about your family history as well as any health issues you have had previously, such as anxiety disorders or depression.
You may be asked to fill out a survey such as the Adult Hyperactivity Disorder Self Screening Tool (ASRS). This test is around five minutes long and includes 18 questions that ask you to rate the frequency that you experience adult ADHD symptoms. Your doctor will consider your answers and give you an assessment of whether you need to seek a formal diagnosis.
In addition your doctor will also ask you about the problems you are having with your relationships at work and home. It might be uncomfortable to talk about these problems, but your doctor needs to know so they can assist. In some cases, your doctor will want to speak with your coworkers or teachers to learn more about the difficulties you're facing. This does not mean that your doctor is judging you or blames you. It is simply to help them better know how ADHD can affect a person's performance at work or at school.
Your doctor may recommend psychological tests to rule out other illnesses that may cause similar symptoms. For instance a mood disorder or a learning disorder. You could also undergo an examination for physicals to ensure that there are no medical issues that cause your symptoms.
Your doctor may also request to see any records with you, such as performance evaluations from your workplace or old report cards from school. Your doctor will also want to know if you're ADHD symptoms were severe enough to interfere with your daily life as an infant.
Support
If you suspect that you may have ADHD and you suspect that you have it, you should speak with an expert who can conduct an extensive evaluation. These experts include licensed mental health providers like clinical psychologists and physicians (psychiatrists and neurologists, or family doctors). A lot of insurance plans offer lists of licensed professionals in your region, and you can also contact local support groups for assistance in finding a suitable service.
Your physician will also talk to you about the symptoms that you are experiencing and how they affect your daily life. This includes school and work performance, relationships and other aspects of your daily life. Your physician may decide to talk with co-workers and teachers or to request old school records. This isn't to question your honesty, but to gather additional information. Many adults suffering from ADHD have poor or inconsistent memories, especially from childhood. It's essential that your doctor obtain the most relevant information possible to determine the cause.
Depending on your problem, your specialist might suggest other diagnostic methods such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) A treatment that helps people with ADHD cope with challenges and maximize their strengths. CBT could be combined with medication to treat ADHD.
While adhd assessment adult wait for a professional assessment, you can evaluate your symptoms using several tools on the Internet. These include the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) and a range of online questionnaires. These tools are neither standardised nor are they scientifically validated, and should be used only as general guidelines.
Many people with undiagnosed ADHD are so used to their challenges that they tend to take them for granted. They may think that they're not good enough or that it is their fault that they can't keep up with their work or social commitments. The reality is that 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.