How to Get a Diagnosis of ADHD
A diagnosis of ADHD is a challenge for a lot of adults. Some feel relief in understanding their struggles, while others feel remorse that they missed opportunities to live their lives because of symptoms that went untreated for so long.
A health professional or mental health professional can diagnose ADHD by analyzing the person's mood and past mental and physical health conditions as well as their childhood behavior and school experience. The assessment usually includes ADHD symptoms checklists as well as standard rating scales.
Symptoms
People suffering from ADHD are unable to complete tasks that require concentration or focus on detail. Often, adhd diagnosis adult are a result of other issues like depression or addiction disorders. The first step in tackling the symptoms that cause trouble on a personal and professional level is to obtain a valid ADHD diagnosis.
The symptoms of ADHD typically begin in childhood and last into adulthood. To be diagnosed with ADHD, symptoms must cause significant impairment in at least two aspects of one's life (home, school and work). To be able to meet these requirements the symptoms must have been present for at least six months. They cannot be explained better by other mental disorders such as anxiety disorders, mood disorders dissociative disorders, or personality disorders.
The health care provider will also look over the patient's mental and medical history. The doctor will also interview the patient as well as, if possible, family members to get perspective on childhood behaviors. The health care provider will also talk to the patient's teachers and review their current home and work settings.
The American Psychiatric Association provides clinical guidelines for the diagnosis of ADHD in its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition. In general, to be diagnosed with the type of inattention of ADHD, a person must show at least six symptoms of inattention that are serious enough to interfere with their life. To be diagnosed with the hyperactive/impulsive type of ADHD, an individual must have six of the following symptoms:
A thorough psychiatric examination is typically enough for a health professional to recognize someone suffering from ADHD. This will include an extensive interview with the individual, his or her parents, and any caregivers or teachers, as well as answering questionnaires or scales. The health care professional will examine the patient's medical, psychiatric or family history and refer the person to a physical exam to determine the cause of symptoms. They will look at the person's sleep patterns, diet, workplace and home environments to assess stressors which could be contributing to their symptoms.
Diagnosis
If you think you might have ADHD it is recommended that you consult a specialist doctor in the disorder. Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and the impact on your life. They'll want to know if you are having trouble completing tasks, if you often lose items, or are unable to remember where you left your keys. They may also ask a question about whether or not these problems create stress at work, at home, or in relationships. Your doctor will also look over your medical history and conduct a physical exam. This information will allow them to determine if there are other conditions that may mimic the symptoms of ADHD, such as depression, sleep disorders and anxiety or a thyroid issue.
Your health care provider may interview caregivers, family members and friends about your conduct. They'll also inquire about how you behave in different settings, such as at work and school, or with your scout or religious leaders. You may be asked to complete a self-test to determine your symptoms. These are available online, however, they shouldn't be used in lieu of an in-person visit with your doctor.
For adults, a diagnosis of ADHD is based on an upper threshold of symptoms than for kids -- five out of nine symptoms over an entire six-month period. Additionally, you'll need to have a significant impact on your work, school and family life.
If your symptoms are severe, your doctor may recommend neuropsychological or psychological testing to determine if you have the inattentive or hyperactive-impulsive subtype of ADHD. These tests usually examine the way your brain works and may help determine if you have coexisting mental disorders such as anxiety or depression.
When you are diagnosed with ADHD as an adult, it may create a variety of emotions. The emotions of Matlen ranged from anger over missed opportunities to relief that she found a clear explanation for her troubles. Ask your doctor or a local support group to refer you to a medical professional who performs ADHD assessments for adults. You can also contact your insurance company to find out which doctors are included.
Treatment
Medication is often the first option for many people suffering from ADHD. Stimulants like methylphenidate or amphetamine boost or regulate levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters which regulate attention and behavior. They can help those with ADHD focus and stay organized. They can also control their impulses and make more rational choices enhance communication, and lessen impulsive behavior.
There are also nonstimulant medicines like atomoxetine or antidepressants which work slower than stimulants but can still be effective for some people suffering from ADHD. The type of medication that is most effective for a particular person can change over time, so it is essential to discuss all possible options with your healthcare professional conducting the test.
A health professional who has expertise in ADHD will conduct an assessment that includes an interview with the person in addition to the completion of questionnaires and scales by the individual as well as a review of family history of mood disorders, as well as medical conditions, such as sleep disorders and physical ailments. A referral to medical examinations could be included to rule out a possible medical cause for the ADHD symptoms.
adult diagnosis of adhd is likely that the test will take some time. This is especially true when you are an adult who has had to struggle to cope with symptoms over a long time. The evaluation should be as thorough as possible, which implies that the individual should bring copies of performance evaluations from their school or job and other information like old report cards. adhd diagnosis in adults can ask for permission to speak with close family members or friends to gain more information about the person's previous behavior and experiences.
For adults, receiving diagnosed with ADHD can be a life-changing experience. It is normal for people to feel various emotions, from relief at finally getting a reason for their struggles to grief over the loss of opportunities and relationships that were damaged by untreated ADHD. Matlen however, claims that after being diagnosed, she was able to make positive changes in her life, including her work and relationships.
Counseling
Counseling is a vital step for a lot of people suffering from ADHD. Finding the right therapist is not always straightforward. There are a variety of ways to find a therapist in the area. Begin by asking your physician for a referral. He or she may have a list of specialists who are experienced in treating ADHD. You can also look on the internet. There are many websites that provide directories of doctors that include information on their areas of expertise and specialization. Asking friends or family for suggestions is another option. You can also contact your local mental health clinic or an ADHD support group to get recommendations.
It is crucial to be honest when visiting a therapist with experience in treating ADHD. It is important to discuss how ADHD symptoms impact your life and on others. It's also important to talk about your medical background. This helps the therapist rule out other conditions that could have similar symptoms, like anxiety or depression.
The therapist may also conduct interviews and use standardized scales to measure the severity of the symptoms. The therapist could also ask other caregivers to provide their feedback for example, teachers, religious leaders, or scout and scout leaders in order to get an accurate picture of the behavior of a person in different situations.
Adults with ADHD might feel overwhelmed and irritated by their problems and may are reluctant to discuss them. This can affect the accuracy and validity of the diagnosis. A therapist who has experience in working with adults with ADHD can generally assist them to overcome these obstacles.
It is important to know that the diagnosis of ADHD does not mean a therapist will prescribe medication. While some people suffering from ADHD might require medication, behavioral therapy is another option that can be extremely effective. These treatment methods can be used in conjunction with medication or used as standalone treatments.