How to Get a Diagnosis of ADHD
For many adults, being diagnosed of ADHD can be a challenge. Some feel relief at finally being able to recognize their challenges, while others feel grief that they missed out on life opportunities because of the symptoms that went untreated for so long.
A mental health specialist or health care professional can diagnose ADHD in the mood of a person, their present and past mental and medical conditions as well as their childhood behaviors and experiences at school. The evaluation often includes ADHD symptoms checklists as well as standard scales of rating.
Signs and symptoms
People suffering from ADHD are unable to complete tasks that require mental effort or focus on detail. Most of the time, these issues result from other underlying issues like depression or substance use disorders. The first step to control issues that can cause chaos on both a personal and professional level is to obtain a proper ADHD diagnosis.
ADHD symptoms usually begin in the early years of childhood and continue throughout adulthood. To be diagnosed with ADHD, the symptoms must cause significant impairment in at least two aspects of a person's daily life (home, school, and at work). To meet these criteria the symptoms must have been present for at least six months and are not better explained by other mental disorders like mood disorders, anxiety disorders, dissociative disorders or personality disorders.
In addition to examining the patient's symptoms and health issues, the doctor will also review their medical history and mental health history. He or she will talk to the person, and if possible their family members, to gain a perspective on childhood behavior. The health care professional might also review the patient's current working and home environments, and discuss the patient's schooling with them.
The American Psychiatric Association provides clinical guidelines for the diagnosis of ADHD in its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition. To be diagnosed with the inattentive type of ADHD, one must exhibit six or less symptoms of inattention that are severe enough to affect their daily activities. To be diagnosed with the hyperactive/impulsive type of ADHD, an individual must have six of the following symptoms:
A health professional will usually identify a person suffering from ADHD through an exhaustive psychiatric examination. This includes a thorough interview with the person and their family and any caregivers or teachers, as well as answering questionnaires and scales. The health professional will also go over the person's medical, psychiatric and family histories and might refer the person for a physical examination to rule out any other reasons for their symptoms. He or she will also examine the person's sleeping habits as well as their diet, work and home environment to determine any stressors that may be contributing to their symptoms.
Diagnosis
If you suspect you have ADHD is important to visit a health care specialist who is trained in the disorder. Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and how they affect your life. They'll want to know if are having trouble completing tasks, if you frequently lose things, or if you forget where you left your keys. They might also inquire about whether or not these problems create stress at work, at home or in relationships. Your doctor will also review your medical history and physical examination. This will help them identify other conditions that could mimic the symptoms of ADHD, such as sleep disorders, depression and anxiety or thyroid issues.
It's likely that your healthcare professional will ask family members, friends and other caregivers regarding your behavior. They'll also discuss how you behave in different situations, like at work and school, or with your scout or religious leaders. Your doctor might also request that you fill out an assessment or self-test to assess your symptoms. They are available online, but they shouldn't be used in lieu for a face-to-face appointment with your doctor.
For adults who are diagnosed with ADHD requires you to meet a lower threshold of symptoms than children - five out of nine symptoms over an entire six-month period. You'll also have to make a significant impact on your work, school and home 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 look at the way your brain functions and can help determine if you have co-existing mental disorders, such as depression or anxiety.
Receiving a diagnosis of ADHD as an adult can trigger complicated emotions. Matlen's emotions ranged from sadness over missed opportunities to relief that she had a solid reason for her problems. Consult your doctor or local support group to recommend you to a health professional who can conduct ADHD tests on adults. You can also call your insurance provider to find out which doctors are included.
Treatment
Medication is often the first option for many patients suffering from ADHD. Drugs like amphetamine or methylphenidate increase or balance levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters, which regulate attention and behaviors. They can help some people with ADHD concentrate better and stay organized and in control of their impulses. They can also help them make more reasonable decisions, improve communication and relationships and reduce impulsive behavior.
Nonstimulant drugs, like atomoxetine and certain antidepressants, work slower than stimulants. However they can be effective in treating patients with ADHD. The type of medication that is best for a person may change over time. It is crucial to discuss with the medical professional who is who is conducting the evaluation all possible options.
A medical professional with expertise in ADHD will conduct a comprehensive assessment. This may include an interview, the submission of questionnaires, scales, and a review family history, mood disorders, and medical conditions like sleep disorders and other physical illnesses. A referral for an examination by a doctor could be included as well to determine if there is a medical reason for the ADHD symptoms.
The assessment will likely to take some time, particularly in the case of an adult who has struggled to manage symptoms for a long period of time. The assessment should be thorough and therefore, the patient should bring old report cards and copies of their performance assessments at work or school. The healthcare professional may request permission to speak with family members or friends to get a better understanding of the individual's past behaviors and experiences.
A diagnosis of ADHD in adults can be life-changing. It is normal for people to feel various emotions, from relief finally having a concrete explanation for their struggles to grief over the loss of opportunities and relationships that were damaged by untreated ADHD. Matlen, however, says that after receiving a diagnosis she was able to make a change in her life, which included her career and her relationships.
Counseling
Many people suffering from ADHD need assistance from a therapist is an essential step. Finding the right therapist is not always straightforward. There are a variety of ways to locate a specialist in the area. Ask your regular doctor to refer you. He or she may have an extensive list of specialists who are familiar with ADHD and can treat it effectively. You can also check online. There are a variety of websites which list doctors, as well as information about their specialties and areas of interest. Asking your family or friends for recommendations is another option. You can also reach out to your local mental health center, or an ADHD support group to get suggestions.
When you see a therapist who is experienced in treating ADHD, it is important to be as transparent as possible. This includes discussing the ways in which ADHD symptoms impact your life and the impact they have on other people. It is also essential to discuss your past and current medical history. This will help your therapist rule out other conditions that might have similar symptoms, such as depression or anxiety.
In addition to monitoring an individual's behavior, the therapy therapist may conduct interviews and employ standardized rating scales to gauge the severity of symptoms. The therapist might also solicit other caregivers for their input for example, teachers, religious leaders or scouts and scout leaders to get an accurate picture of the behavior of an individual in different situations.
Adults suffering from ADHD frequently feel angry and embarrassed by their symptoms and may be reluctant to discuss their symptoms. This can affect the accuracy and reliability of the diagnosis. adhd in adults undiagnosed who has experience in working with adults with ADHD is usually able to assist them in overcoming these obstacles.
It is crucial to understand that the diagnosis of ADHD does not mean that a therapist will prescribe medication. While certain individuals with ADHD might require medication however, behavioral therapy is an alternative option that is extremely effective. These treatment methods can be utilized alongside medication or as an alternative treatment.