ADHD - Symptoms in Adults
If you feel that you might have ADHD or other disorders, it's crucial to receive a diagnosis. This will be the first step towards managing your symptoms and gaining control over your life.
ADHD self-assessment tools can provide you with the knowledge that you may be suffering from symptoms common to adult ADHD however, a valid diagnosis requires a thorough evaluation by a qualified. This could be a clinical psychologist, a physician (psychiatrist or neurologists) or therapist.
Symptoms
ADHD can affect anyone at any age, however the symptoms may differ slightly in adults. It's also possible for adults with ADHD to be able to turn their symptoms into tools to help them succeed in work and relationships.
Adult ADHD symptoms can be mild, moderate or severe. To be able to receive a diagnosis, the signs must have been present since childhood and continue to cause significant problems in at least two areas of your life. Finding it difficult to keep your focus on your task or recalling information are examples of problems that could be caused by ADHD.
There are online self-tests and rating scales that can aid in determining if you might be suffering from ADHD. The only way to obtain an accurate diagnosis of ADHD for adults is to consult an expert in the disorder. Consult your primary care physician for a referral, or search for an ADHD specialist through your health insurance's online directory.
They will review your medical background including your childhood and how your medical conditions affected your schooling, work, and home. They will also ask about your drug and alcohol use, driving record, and how you interact with family and friends. It's crucial to be open with your examiner. Adults suffering from ADHD might cover up or minimize their symptoms in order to avoid embarrassment or criticism. This can make the evaluation process more difficult.
Certain medical conditions, including thyroid disorders and seizure disorders, may exhibit similar symptoms as ADHD and must be checked out prior to an ADHD diagnosis is established. A physical exam and a detailed neurological history will also be provided.
If your results indicate that you suffer from ADHD Your doctor might prescribe medication. In addition, they could suggest psychotherapy or other behavioral therapies that can assist you in overcoming your ADHD. They may also recommend you make changes to your workplace and employ software for planning and organizing to help you become more efficient.
Diagnosis
To diagnose ADHD, a professional evaluation is required. Your doctor will conduct an extensive history of your symptoms that include when they first started and how they've affected your life. The doctor will also inquire about your family history, as ADHD is often caused by genetics. Your doctor will do a physical exam, in addition to determine if there are any medical issues that may be causing ADHD symptoms, like seizures or thyroid issues.
You'll likely go through an array of psychological tests to determine your functioning such as behavioral rating scales. Your doctor may also ask you to do math or reading tasks using a smartphone or computer to determine how you perform under various conditions. You could also be offered an IQ test to assess your cognitive capabilities.
The American Psychiatric Association has established standards which must be met in order to get the diagnosis of adult ADHD. This includes the presence of at least six months of symptoms and a significant impact on multiple settings in your life, such as school or work. Your doctor will be interested in knowing whether your symptoms caused you serious problems prior to the age of 12.
It's important to realize that many different things can trigger or mimic ADHD. Stress mental health issues, stress, and certain medications, like, can all cause some 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 will want to know if you are taking any medications or if you have ever suffered an injury to your head.
Psychotherapy, or "talk therapy" in the case of ADHD is beneficial for adults struggling with this disorder. This treatment aids in developing better coping strategies and skills to manage your ADHD symptoms so that they do not affect your daily routine. Psychotherapy can be paired with medication or used on its own for adults with ADHD. Ask your primary care provider to recommend you to a mental health specialist who treats adults with ADHD. You can also call your insurance company and ask what specialists are covered. Visit a local support group.
Treatment
Make an appointment with your primary health care provider should you suspect that you suffer from ADHD. Your doctor will refer you to a mental healthcare professional who will carry out an extensive evaluation and determine your problem. During your appointment, you should be honest with your doctor about any issues you're experiencing at work and home. Your doctor will ask about any major problems you've faced like being dismissed or failing a class. Your doctor may also inquire about family history and previous health issues, like depression or anxiety.
You are likely to be asked to complete an assessment, such as the Adult Attention and Hyperactivity Disorder Self-Screening Tool (ASRS). This questionnaire takes approximately five minutes to fill out and consists of 18 questions that ask you to indicate how often you have symptoms of adult ADHD. Your doctor will then take your answers into consideration and give you an assessment that will indicate whether you should take a look at a formal diagnosis.
Additionally, your doctor will inquire about the issues you are having with your relationships at work and home. You might feel embarrassed speaking about these difficulties however it is essential that your doctor is aware about them so they can help you. In some instances your doctor may want to speak with your coworkers or teachers to learn more about the issues you're experiencing. This doesn't mean that your doctor is judging or blaming you. It is simply to help them know how ADHD can affect someone's ability at work or in school.
Your doctor may recommend psychological tests to rule out other conditions out that can cause similar symptoms. For example a learning disorder or mood disorder. You may also undergo an examination to ensure that there are no medical issues that are causing your symptoms.
Your doctor might ask you to bring along any records, such as old reports or performance evaluations at work. It's also beneficial for your doctor to know if you had any ADHD symptoms as a child or adolescent, but they weren't severe enough to have a significant impact on your life at the time.
Support
If you suspect that you may have ADHD and you suspect that you have it, you should speak with a professional who can perform an exhaustive assessment. These professionals are licensed mental health providers such as clinical psychologists and physicians (psychiatrists and neurologists, or family physicians). Many insurance companies provide a list of qualified professionals in the region. You can also seek out local support organizations for help in finding a good provider.
In addition to taking a detailed medical history, your doctor will also inquire about your symptoms and the difficulties they cause in your life. This includes school and work performance, relationships and other aspects of your daily life. Your clinician may wish to meet with your coworkers and teachers, or request old school records. This isn't an attempt to determine your honesty; it's just to get more details. Many adults with ADHD have poor or spotty memories, particularly from childhood. It's important to get the most information you can before making an assessment.
Based on Read Alot more are facing depending on your situation, your doctor might suggest other diagnostic procedures like cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) which is a treatment that helps those suffering from ADHD overcome challenges and increase their power. CBT can be combined with medication for ADHD treatment.
While you wait for a medical assessment, you can evaluate your symptoms using various tools available on Internet. They include the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) and a number of online questionnaires. These tools are neither standardized nor scientifically validated and should be used only as general guidelines.
Undiagnosed ADHD can cause people to become comfortable with their problems, they tend to overlook them. They might believe that they are just not very good or that it's their fault that they are unable to keep up with their social or work commitments. The reality is that symptoms of ADHD are neurological and are not a result of a personal flaw. With the right treatment, you can gain control of your ADHD and transform it into something constructive. This can lead to more success in your career and personal relationships, as well as an improved quality of life for you and your family members.