ADHD - Symptoms in Adults
If you feel that you may have ADHD, it's important to get a proper diagnosis. This is the first step towards managing symptoms and gaining control over your life.
ADHD self-assessment tools can inform you that you may have symptoms typical of adult ADHD. However the diagnosis is only possible with an assessment by a professional. This could be a psychologist, neurologist or psychiatrist.
Symptoms
ADHD can affect anyone at any age, however the symptoms can be different for adults. It's also possible for adults with ADHD to to transform their issues into tools that allow them to achieve success in their work and relationships.
Adult ADHD symptoms can be mild, moderate or severe. To be adhd assessments for adults for a diagnosis, the signs must have been present since childhood and continue to cause issues in at least two areas of your life. Finding it difficult to keep your attention on tasks or having trouble remembering things are examples of issues that could be caused by ADHD.
There are self-tests online or rating scales that can help you determine if may be suffering from ADHD. However the only way to make an accurate diagnosis is to see a doctor who specializes in diagnosing ADHD in adults. Ask your primary physician for a recommendation or look online for an ADHD specialist in your health insurance directory.
If you visit a specialist, they'll review your medical and psychiatric history dating all the way back to childhood, and will discuss how your symptoms have affected your school, work and family life. They'll also ask you about any drug or alcohol use, your driving history, and how your relationships with your family and friends have been. It is important to be honest when speaking to your examiner. Adults suffering from ADHD might cover up or minimize their symptoms to avoid criticism or embarrassment. This can make the evaluation process more difficult.
Before the diagnosis of ADHD is made, it is important to rule out any other medical conditions that may cause similar symptoms, such as seizures or thyroid disorders. A thorough neurological history and a physical exam will also be conducted.
If your tests show that you have ADHD If your doctor suspects that you have ADHD, they might prescribe medication. In addition, they could recommend psychotherapy or other behavioral treatments that will assist you in overcoming your ADHD. They might also suggest you make changes to your work environment and use tools 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 ask you to provide an in-depth account of your symptoms. This includes when they first started and how they have affected your life. The doctor will also inquire about your family history, since it is common for ADHD to run in families. Your doctor will also perform a physical examination to rule out any medical conditions that may be causing ADHD symptoms. This includes thyroid issues or seizure disorders.
You'll likely be subject to an array of psychological tests to evaluate your functioning and performance, including scales for behavioral ratings. Your doctor may also ask you to perform math or reading tasks using a smartphone or computer to assess how you do in various situations. You could even be asked to take an IQ test to measure your cognitive capabilities.
The American Psychiatric Association established criteria for determining adult ADHD. These include the presence of at least six months of symptoms and their significant impact on multiple settings in your life, such as work or school. Your doctor will be interested in knowing if your symptoms caused you significant issues prior to the age of 12.
It's important to understand that many different factors can cause or mimic ADHD. Stress mental health issues, stress, and certain medications, for example are all possible causes of the symptoms similar to ADHD.
Bring any documentation from previous psychological tests or performance evaluations to your appointment. Your doctor will need to be aware of whether you are taking any medications or if you have ever suffered a head injury.
Adults who struggle with ADHD will benefit greatly from psychotherapy or "talk therapy". This treatment method helps you learn better coping skills and strategies to manage your ADHD symptoms to ensure they don't affect your ability to live your daily life. Psychotherapy can be used on its own or in conjunction with medication for adults suffering from ADHD. Ask your primary care provider to recommend you to a specialist in mental health who can treat adults suffering from ADHD. You could also contact your insurance company and ask which specialists are covered. Or, visit an organization that offers support locally.
Treatment
If you suspect that you have ADHD, the first step is to schedule an appointment with your primary care provider. Your doctor can refer you to an expert in mental health that will conduct a thorough evaluation to diagnose your condition. During your appointment, be honest with your doctor about the issues you are experiencing at work and home. Your doctor will ask about any major issues you've faced, such as being fired or failing in a class. Your doctor may also inquire about your family history and prior health issues, such as depression or anxiety.
You will probably be asked to fill out some sort of questionnaire, like the Adult Attention and Hyperactivity Disorder Self-Screening Tool (ASRS). The questionnaire is approximately five minutes long, and it contains 18 questions which ask you to rate the frequency which you are experiencing adult ADHD symptoms. Your doctor will then take your answers into consideration and provide you with scores that indicate whether you need to seek an official diagnosis.
Your doctor may also inquire about your problems in your relationships at home and at work. It can be embarrassing to discuss these issues however, your doctor needs to know about it so that they can assist. In certain instances your doctor may want to talk to your coworkers or your teachers to learn more about the issues you are having. This doesn't mean that your doctor is judging you or blames you. It's just to help them better understand the ways ADHD can impact a person's performance at work or at school.
Your doctor may also recommend to undergo psychological tests to determine if there are other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, like a learning disability or mood disorder. You may also be asked to undergo a physical exam to ensure that your symptoms aren't caused by medical issues.
Your doctor may also request to bring any documents with you, like performance evaluations from your job or old report cards from school. adhd assessment adult will also want to know if you're ADHD symptoms were so severe that they interfered with your daily life as when you were a child.
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 evaluation. These professionals are licensed mental health providers like doctors and clinical psychologists (psychiatrists or neurologist family physicians). A lot of insurance plans have lists of professionals who are qualified in your region, and you can also reach out to local support groups for assistance in locating a suitable provider.
In addition to obtaining a thorough medical history, your clinician will ask you about your symptoms and the problems they cause in your life. This includes your school and work performance as well as relationships and other aspects of your daily life. Your doctor may want to speak with colleagues and teachers or to request old school records. This isn't a way to determine your honesty; it's just to get more information. Many adults suffering from ADHD suffer from weak or sporadic memories, especially from childhood. It is essential to gather as much information as possible before making the diagnosis.
Based on the issue you are facing depending on your situation, your doctor might suggest other diagnostic methods such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), a treatment that assists people suffering from ADHD cope with challenges and harness their strength. CBT can be paired with medication for ADHD treatment.
If you're waiting for a professional evaluation There are many tools available on the Internet which allow you to assess your own symptoms. The Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale and other online tests are available. These tools aren't standardized or scientifically validated and should only be used for general guidance.
Undiagnosed ADHD can cause people to be so comfortable with their problems, they tend to ignore them. They might think that they're not good at things or that it's their own fault for having trouble keeping their work or social commitments on the right track. The reality is that symptoms of ADHD are neurological and not a fault of the individual. You can, however, gain control over your ADHD by implementing the correct treatment and turn it into an asset. This can lead to more success in your career and personal relationships as well as a better life for yourself and those around you.