Getting Diagnosed With ADHD As an Adult
Many people suffer from mild or moderate ADHD symptoms. If their issues are serious enough that they interfere with the work environment or relationships they could be diagnosed.
They may feel stressed at work or school or feel embarrassed about procrastinating. You could consult your primary care physician for recommendations, or search on the internet for health professionals who perform ADHD assessments.
What is the Diagnosis Process?
The diagnosis process begins with an extensive interview that delves into the medical history of the person. This includes family history as well as significant life events such as relationships, work and school performance, drug use and driving records. It also includes lifestyle habits like diet, sleep, and exercise, as along with any supplements or vitamins the individual is taking.
The physician then reviews the symptoms of the patient and compares them to the diagnostic criteria set forth by the American Psychiatric Association in its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). These include symptoms of inattention and impulsivity that are present for at minimum six months, and are significant enough to cause problems with school or work and are not better explained by a different mental health condition. Adults have a lower threshold for diagnosis: only five of nine criteria are needed to determine a mental health condition.
A physical exam is typically next, since some conditions such as thyroid problems and seizure disorders can trigger symptoms similar to ADHD. This test helps the physician narrow down possible causes. It also assists them create a "suspects list" which they then evaluate by conducting additional tests. These tests can range from brain imaging, blood tests and cognitive tests. These tests can take some time but they are vital to ensure that your doctor does not miss any issue that could be causing ADHD symptoms.
After the list has been narrowed down, a final diagnosis is established. The doctor will go over the results and suggest treatment according to their findings. A diagnosis can be a life-altering event for a lot of people. It can provide a reason for years of struggle and problems that were unfairly attributed by some to laziness or lack of competence. It can also help them to appreciate their strengths and how to utilize them to their advantage. Some may experience an ache of regret when they reflect on the opportunities missed due to their symptoms not being addressed.
If you'd like to be diagnosed with ADHD then it is recommended to get a specialist assessment on the NHS, which should include a full mental health assessment as well as an ADHD assessment, along with the referral to your GP for shared management. It can be difficult to get a diagnosis in private but certain GPs will accept it in exchange for a private consultation.
What are the signs?
Adults who suffer from ADHD tend to manage their symptoms and live productive and satisfying lives. If their symptoms become more severe, however, they may be unable to keep an occupation and maintain healthy relationships or deal with the pressures of everyday life. Financial problems may also arise due to absences from doctor's appointments, late fees or impulsive purchases. This can lead to feelings of failure and low self-esteem.
If you suspect that you may have ADHD as an adult, it's important to talk with your health care professional. They can provide advice on treatment options and recommend you to a specialist when necessary. Your healthcare provider will use the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) to diagnose you. It is the book that lists the symptoms of mental health issues.
To be diagnosed with ADHD, you must have experienced several inattentive symptoms and five or more of the hyperactivity-impulsivity symptoms before age 12. The symptoms must also be present in more than one setting and impact your ability to function at work, school or socially.
Inattention-related symptoms are a lack of attention to tasks, losing details, or failing to follow instructions. You could also lose items such as eyeglasses, keys and documents. Hyperactivity-impulsive symptoms include fidgeting or tapping feet, leaving your seat in situations when it's not appropriate, talking too much, or feeling restless.
A person with ADHD is also prone to having difficulty keeping a schedule or staying organized. They may also have difficulty finishing chores and homework. They may also have difficulty remembering appointments or dates and become easily distracted by people or activities.
A diagnosis of ADHD is empowering, as it helps you understand that your problems aren't entirely your responsibility. You can then alter your behavior and improve how you handle time, money and other tasks. You can also learn strategies for coping to help you manage your symptoms. Your health professional may prescribe lifestyle changes in addition to medications. This can include an appropriate diet, regular exercise and a healthy lifestyle. It is important to get enough rest and avoid caffeine, sugar and other stimulants prior to bedtime.
What is the treatment procedure?
Getting diagnosed with ADHD as an adult requires more than simply finding the correct medication. People who suffer from the condition have to change their behavior and lifestyles, and they may need counseling to help them cope with their symptoms.
When an adult sees an expert in healthcare for an ADHD evaluation, he / must be open about any issues they're having that could be due to ADHD like relationship issues, problems at work, or difficulties at school. They are likely to be asked to complete a questionnaire asking for information regarding these areas, and they may be given permission to have their family members or close friends complete the same. The answers could be a valuable source of insight into whether a person's problems are caused by ADHD or other factors, such as physical or mental stress, for example depression.
The evaluator will also take into consideration the past of the individual including their childhood experiences and any traumas that they may have endured. They may ask the person to fill out one or more standardized behavior rating scales that measure the behaviors of individuals with and without ADHD. Psychological tests are often used to test working memory, executive function and spatial and visual abilities.
If a medical professional believes that an individual has ADHD, they will usually refer him or her to a specialist who is experienced with the condition in adults. These specialists can be found by asking their primary doctor to recommend a specialist or searching the online directory for a mental health professional who is familiarized with ADHD. You can also join an adult ADHD support group and connect with others who have had the same experience.
A diagnosis of ADHD in adults can trigger a range of emotions, such as relief that there is finally a reason for their symptoms and frustration that they went undiagnosed for so long. Some people might even struggle with feelings of guilt that they did not make more effort or achieve better results in their lives, but this guilt can be overcome by recognizing that their difficulties are not the result of their own fault and finding the correct treatment options to improve their lives.
What is the Support Process?
If an adult is diagnosed with ADHD, they may feel a range of emotions. They might be relieved that they have a reason to their difficulties, or sad about missed opportunities that would have been avoided if the diagnosis was been earlier, or frustrated that their symptoms were ignored for too long. But, having treatment can help you overcome the challenges and reach your goals. It's essential to talk to a health care professional who has experience treating adults suffering from ADHD. They can assist you in setting realistic expectations, find effective ways to improve your everyday life, and help get family members on the same page.
You can attempt to test yourself or rate your own performance using online questionnaires. However these tools can't provide you with a definitive diagnosis. A conversation with your primary care doctor for a referral to an ADHD specialist or using the online directory of your health insurance company to find a specialist who has experience treating adults is the best way to get an accurate diagnosis.
Once you find a medical professional, you should prepare for your appointment by obtaining any documents that pertain to your specific situation. These could include old school reports as well as copies of psychological tests and evaluations of performance at workplace. Then, be prepared to answer questions regarding your personal issues at home and in work as well as your use of alcohol or other drugs, and your relationships with friends and family. You may also have to bring records of other professionals such as psychologists, neurologists or a psychiatrist.
Adults who seek a diagnosis of ADHD usually do so because they are struggling to perform well in their personal and professional lives, and want to understand what's going on. They might feel that their productivity is down or their relationships are strained or they may be suffering from an unrelenting sadness that is not explained by any other reason.
It isn't easy for some people to get an assessment, as health experts have preconceived notions of what ADHD symptoms appear to be. This is particularly the case for people of color, born female and non-native English speaking people. There is adhd diagnosis adult growing awareness of these biases as well as efforts to address them.