ADHD - Symptoms in Adults
If you feel that you may have ADHD or other disorders, it's crucial to get a proper diagnosis. This will be the first step towards controlling your symptoms and taking control over your life.
ADHD self-assessment tools may alert you to the possibility of having symptoms typical of adult ADHD. However, a valid diagnosis is only possible with an evaluation by a professional. This could be a neurologist, psychologist or psychiatrist.
Signs and symptoms
ADHD can affect anyone of any age, but the symptoms might be different for adults. It's also possible for adults with ADHD to to turn their symptoms into tools that help them succeed in relationships and work.
Adult ADHD symptoms can be mild, moderate or severe. To be eligible for a diagnosis, the signs must have remained consistent since childhood and continue to cause issues in at least two different areas of your life. ADHD can cause problems such as difficulty focusing on a task or a tendency to forget things.
There are online self-tests or rating scales that can aid in determining if you might be suffering from ADHD. The only way to obtain an accurate diagnosis of ADHD in adults is to consult an expert doctor who is trained to treat the disorder. Ask your primary physician for a recommendation or search online for an ADHD specialist through your health insurance directory.
They'll review your medical background, including your childhood, and how your symptoms affected your life at school at work, home, and school. They'll also inquire about any alcohol or drug use, your driving history, and how your relationships with your family and friends have been. It is essential to be truthful when you're speaking to your examiner. Adults with ADHD may hide or minimize symptoms to avoid embarrassment or criticism. This can make the assessment process more difficult.
Certain medical conditions, including seizures and thyroid disorders, may exhibit similar symptoms to ADHD and must be checked out before an ADHD diagnosis is established. A detailed neurological history and physical examinations will be also conducted.
If your results suggest that you have ADHD, then your doctor may prescribe medication. They might also suggest therapy or behavioral therapies to help you manage your ADHD. They may also suggest that you change your workplace environment and utilize software for planning and organizing to help you become more efficient.
Diagnosis
A professional assessment is necessary to determine the presence of ADHD. Your doctor will take complete notes on your symptoms that include when they first began and how they have affected your life. The doctor will also ask you about your family history as ADHD is often caused by genetics. Your doctor will conduct an examination of your body, as well to determine if there are any medical issues that could mimic ADHD symptoms, such as thyroid issues or seizure disorders.
You'll likely be subject to several psychological tests to assess your performance such as behavioral rating scales. You could be asked to perform math or reading tasks using a computer, phone or tablet to assess your performance in different situations. You could even be asked to take an IQ test to evaluate your cognitive abilities.
The American Psychiatric Association has established standards that must be met for an adult diagnosis of ADHD. The symptoms must be present for at least six consecutive months and be having an impact on multiple areas of your life, such as work or school. Your doctor will want to know whether your symptoms caused you significant issues prior to the age of 12.
It's important to understand that many different things can trigger or mimic ADHD. For example stress, stress, mental health issues and certain medications can cause some of the same symptoms as ADHD.
Bring any records of previous psychological tests or performance evaluations to your appointment. Your doctor will also need to know which medications you're taking in the event of a need and if you've suffered a head injury or illness.
Adults with ADHD can benefit greatly from psychotherapy or "talk therapy". assessments for adhd in adults of treatment can help you learn better coping skills and strategies to manage your ADHD symptoms and ensure that they don't affect your ability to function in your daily life. Psychotherapy can be used in conjunction with medication or utilized on its own for people suffering from ADHD. You can find a mental health professional who specializes in treating adults suffering from ADHD by asking your primary healthcare provider for a referral, or calling your insurance company to check for the specialists they cover, or going to an organization that offers support locally.
Treatment
Make an appointment with your primary healthcare professional if you suspect you have ADHD. Your doctor will refer you to a mental health professional who will perform an extensive evaluation and determine your problem. During your appointment, be open about the issues you are having at work and at home. Your doctor will ask about any major problems you've faced, such as being fired or failing in a class. Your doctor will also ask about your family history and prior health issues, like depression or anxiety.
You may be asked to fill out an assessment, such as the Adult Attention and Hyperactivity Disorder Self-Screening Tool (ASRS). This test is around five minutes long and includes 18 questions that ask you to rate the frequency at that you experience adult ADHD symptoms. Your doctor will consider your answers and provide you with a a score indicating whether you need to seek a formal diagnosis.
Your doctor will also ask about your issues in your relationships at home and at work. It might be uncomfortable to talk about these problems however, your doctor needs to know about it so that they can assist. Your doctor may suggest that you discuss your issues with your colleagues or teachers in order to understand the difficulties you're facing. This doesn't mean that your doctor is judging you, more so, it's to help them understand the ways in which ADHD can affect a person's ability to perform at work or in school.
Your doctor may also recommend that you undergo psychological tests to rule out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms, for example a learning disability or mood disorder. You could also be asked to undergo a physical examination to make sure that your symptoms are not caused by medical conditions.
Your doctor might request any documents, like old report cards or performance evaluations at work. Your doctor may also be interested in knowing if your ADHD symptoms were so severe that they interfered with your daily life as an infant.
Support
If you suspect ADHD or other disorders, you should talk to an expert who can provide an exhaustive evaluation. These professionals include licensed mental health specialists like clinical psychologists and physicians (psychiatrist or neurologist, or family physician). assessments for adhd in adults offer 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 you are experiencing and how they impact your life. This includes your school and work performance, as well as relationships and other aspects in your daily life. Your clinician may ask to speak with your co-workers, teachers, or request old school records. This isn't to question your honesty, it's to gather additional information. Many people with ADHD have poor or spotty memories, particularly from childhood. It is essential to gather the most information you can before making an assessment.
Based on the issue you're experiencing, your doctor may suggest other diagnostic procedures like cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) which aids people suffering from ADHD overcome their challenges and develop their strengths. CBT can be used in conjunction with medication to treat your ADHD.
While you wait for a medical evaluation, you can rate your symptoms using several tools available on the Internet. They include the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) and a range of online questionnaires. These tools aren't standardized or scientifically validated and should only be used to provide general guidance.
Undiagnosed ADHD can make people so comfortable with their problems that they begin to take them for granted. They may think that they're just not very good or that it is their fault that they can't keep up with their work or social commitments. The truth is that the symptoms of ADHD are neurological and are not a personal failing. However, you can gain control over your ADHD with the right treatment and transform it into an asset. This will result in greater success in your career and personal relationships, as well as a more meaningful life for those who are around you.
