ADHD - Symptoms in Adults
If you suspect that you might have ADHD, it's important to be diagnosed. This is the first step to managing symptoms and gaining control over your life.
ADHD self-assessment tools can provide you with the knowledge that you may have symptoms that are common to adults with ADHD, but a valid diagnosis requires an assessment by a professional. This could be a clinical psychologist, a physician (psychiatrist or neurologist) or therapist.
Signs and symptoms
ADHD is a problem that affects all ages, but symptoms in adults can appear slightly different. Adults with ADHD may also utilize their symptoms to help succeed at work and in relationships.
Adult ADHD symptoms can be mild, medium or severe. For a diagnosis to be made, symptoms must persist from childhood and cause difficulties in two different areas of life. Having a hard time keeping your attention to your work or recalling information are examples of issues that could be caused by ADHD.
There are online self-tests or rating scales that can aid in determining if you might be suffering from ADHD. However the only way to make an accurate diagnosis is to visit an expert in diagnosing ADHD in adults. Ask your primary care physician for a referral or search for an ADHD specialist on your health insurance's online directory.
They will review your medical background, including your childhood, and how your symptoms have affected your daily life at school at work, home, and school. They will also ask about your drug and alcohol usage, driving history and how you relate to your family and friends. It is essential to be truthful when speaking to your examiner. click for info with ADHD might conceal or minimize symptoms to avoid criticism or embarrassment. This can make the assessment process more difficult.
Before a diagnosis of ADHD is made, it is important to rule out other medical conditions that may cause similar symptoms, like seizure disorders or thyroid disorders. A physical exam and a thorough neurological history are also required.
If your results suggest that you suffer from ADHD If your doctor suspects that you have ADHD, they might prescribe medication. In addition, they may recommend psychotherapy or other treatments that will assist you in overcoming your ADHD. They may also suggest accommodations to aid you in working more efficiently, such as making changes to your environment and utilizing tools for organizing and planning.
Diagnosis
A professional evaluation is needed to determine the presence of ADHD. Your doctor will take a comprehensive history of your symptoms and the time they began and how they have affected your life. The doctor will also inquire about your family history, since it is common for ADHD to occur in families. Your doctor will also conduct an examination of your body to rule out any medical conditions that may be causing ADHD symptoms. These could include thyroid problems or seizure disorders.
You'll likely go through a series of psychological tests to determine your functioning and performance, including scales for behavioral ratings. You could be asked to perform math or reading tasks on a computer, phone or tablet to see your performance in different situations. You could even be asked to take an IQ test to measure your cognitive capabilities.
The American Psychiatric Association established criteria to determine if an adult suffers from ADHD. The symptoms must be present for at minimum six months consecutively and have significant effects in several areas of your life, such as school or work. Your doctor will be looking to determine if your symptoms led to a significant amount of problems prior to the age of 12.
It's important to understand that there are a variety of factors that can cause or mimic ADHD. Stress mental health issues, stress, and certain medications, for instance can all trigger some of the symptoms that are similar to ADHD.
Bring any records of previous psychological tests or performance evaluations to your appointment. Your doctor will also want to know the medications you're taking or taking, and if you've ever suffered a head injury or illness.
Adults who struggle with ADHD will benefit greatly from psychotherapy or "talk therapy". This type of treatment can help you improve your coping skills and strategies to manage your ADHD symptoms, so that they don't hinder your ability to live your daily life. Psychotherapy can be utilized on its own or in conjunction with medication for adults suffering from ADHD. Ask your primary care provider to recommend you to a mental health professional who can treat adults suffering from ADHD. You can also call your insurance company and ask which specialists are covered. Visit a local support group.
Treatment
If you suspect that you have ADHD the first step is to set an appointment with your primary care provider. Your doctor may refer you to a mental healthcare professional who will carry out a full evaluation and diagnose the condition. During your appointment, be honest with your doctor about the issues you are experiencing at home and at work. Your doctor will ask about any major problems you've faced, such as being dismissed or failing a class. Your doctor will ask about your family history as well as any previous health issues, such as anxiety or depression.
You will likely be asked to complete a questionnaire like the Adult Hyperactivity Disorder Self Screening Tool (ASRS). The questionnaire takes around five minutes to fill out and comprises 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 need to consider seeking a formal diagnosis.
In addition, your doctor will inquire about the issues you are having with your relationships at home and at work. It can be embarrassing to talk about these problems however, your doctor needs to know about them so that they can help. In some cases, your doctor will want to talk with your co-workers or teachers to find out more about the issues you are having. This doesn't mean that your doctor is judging or accusing you of being a victim. It's simply to help them better understand the ways ADHD can affect a person's ability at work or in school.
Your doctor may suggest psychological tests to rule other illnesses that may cause similar symptoms. For instance the mood disorder or learning disorder. You could also be asked to undergo a physical examination to make sure that your symptoms aren't caused by medical issues.
Your doctor might ask you to bring along any documents, like old report cards or performance evaluations at work. Your doctor will also be interested in knowing if your ADHD symptoms were severe enough to interfere with your daily life as an infant.
Support
If you suspect you have ADHD and you suspect that you have it, you should speak with an expert who can provide a full assessment. These professionals include licensed mental health professionals such as clinical psychologists, and physicians (psychiatrist, neurologist or family physician). Many insurance plans offer lists of qualified professionals in your area. you can also contact local support groups to assist in finding a suitable service.
In addition to obtaining a thorough medical history, your physician will also inquire about your symptoms and the difficulties they cause in your daily life. This includes work and school performance as well as other aspects of your daily life. Your doctor may want to meet with your coworkers and teachers or to request old school records. This isn't meant to challenge your honesty, it's to gather additional information. Many people with ADHD have poor or inconsistent memories, particularly from their childhood. It's essential that your doctor obtain as much pertinent information as 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 assists people suffering from ADHD overcome obstacles and increase their power. CBT can be combined with medication for ADHD treatment.
While you're waiting for a professional evaluation, there are several tools available on the Internet that allow you to assess your own symptoms. These include the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) and a number of online questionnaires. These tools are not standardized or scientifically validated and should only be used to provide general guidance.
Many people with undiagnosed ADHD are so accustomed to their challenges that they tend to take them for granted. They may assume that they're simply not proficient at certain things or that it's their own fault that they have trouble keeping their social or work commitments in order. The truth is that the symptoms of ADHD are neurological and not a result of a personal flaw. However, you can gain control over your ADHD with the right treatment and transform it into a positive force. This can bring you greater success in your job, improved personal relationships and an improved quality of life for those around you.