ADHD - Symptoms in Adults
If you suspect that you may be suffering from ADHD it is important to get a proper diagnosis. This will be the first step in controlling your symptoms and taking control over your life.
ADHD self assessment tools can provide you with the knowledge that you may be suffering from symptoms common in adult ADHD but a proper diagnosis requires a thorough evaluation by a specialist. This can be a clinical psychologist, physician (psychiatrist or neurologist) or therapist.
Symptoms
ADHD can be a problem for anyone at any age, however the symptoms can be slightly different in adults. It is also possible for adults with ADHD to to transform their issues into tools to help them succeed in work and relationships.
Adult ADHD symptoms may be mild, moderate or severe. To be adhd assessment adults for an assessment, the symptoms must have persisted since childhood and continue to cause significant problems in at least two areas of your life. Having a hard time keeping your attention on tasks or having trouble recalling information are examples of issues that could be caused by ADHD.
If you think you have symptoms of ADHD there are ratings scales and self-tests available online to help you determine whether or not you could be suffering from the disorder. However the only way to receive an accurate diagnosis is to see a specialist in diagnosing ADHD in adults. Ask your primary physician for a recommendation or search for an ADHD specialist through your health insurance directory.
They will review your medical history, including your childhood, and how your medical conditions affected your life at school, work, and home. They'll also ask you about any alcohol or drug use, your driving history, and what your relationship with family and friends been. It's essential to be open with your examiner. Adults with ADHD may hide or minimize symptoms to avoid embarrassment or criticism. This can make the evaluation process more difficult.
Some medical conditions, such as seizures and thyroid disorders, may have similar symptoms as ADHD and must be checked out prior to an ADHD diagnosis is established. A thorough neurological history and physical examinations will also be performed.
If your results suggest that you have ADHD If your doctor suspects that you have ADHD, they might prescribe medication. Additionally, they might recommend psychotherapy or other therapies that can aid you in managing your ADHD. They may also recommend adjustments to help you work more efficiently, including making changes to your work environment and utilizing software for planning and organizing.
Diagnosis
A professional evaluation is needed to get a diagnosis of ADHD. Your doctor will require you to provide an in-depth account of your symptoms. This includes when they started and how it has affected your life. They will also inquire about your family history, since it's common for ADHD to occur in families. Your doctor will also conduct physical exams to rule out any medical conditions that could mimic ADHD symptoms. This includes thyroid issues or seizure disorders.
You'll likely be subject to several psychological tests to determine your functioning such as behavioral rating scales. You may be asked to complete reading or math tasks on the phone, computer or tablet to assess your performance in various situations. You could even be asked to take an IQ test to assess your cognitive capabilities.
The American Psychiatric Association established criteria for diagnosing adult ADHD. These include having at minimum six months of symptoms and their significant impact on multiple situations in your life, such as school or work. Your doctor will also want to know if your symptoms caused a substantial amount of trouble before age 12.
It's important to realize that a variety of factors can trigger or mimic ADHD. Stress mental health issues and certain medications, like can all trigger some of the symptoms that are similar to ADHD.
Bring any documentation from previous psychological tests or performance evaluations to your appointment. Your doctor will also want to know the medications you're taking, if any and if you've suffered a head injury, or illness.
Adults who suffer from ADHD are able to benefit from psychotherapy or "talk therapy". This treatment helps you develop better coping strategies and skills to manage your ADHD symptoms so that they do not interfere with your daily life. Psychotherapy can be used in conjunction with medication or utilized on its own for those suffering from ADHD. You can find a mental health professional who specializes in treating adults with ADHD by asking your primary care physician for a referral, calling your insurance company to inquire which specialists they cover or visiting an organization that offers support locally.
Treatment
If you think you may have ADHD, the first step is to schedule an appointment with your primary care physician. Your doctor can refer you to an expert in mental health that can perform a full evaluation to determine the cause of your disorder. During your appointment, be honest with your doctor about any issues you're having at home and at work. Your doctor will be looking for any major problems that have arisen from being fired from a job or failing classes. Your doctor will inquire about your family history as well as any previous health issues, such as depression or an anxiety disorder.
You may be asked to fill out a questionnaire such as the Adult Hyperactivity Disorder Self Screening Tool (ASRS). This test is around five minutes long, and it contains 18 questions that ask you to rate the frequency at which you are experiencing adult ADHD symptoms. Your doctor will take into account your answers and provide you with a an assessment of whether you should seek formal diagnosis.
Your doctor will also inquire about your problems in your relationships at home and at work. It may be embarrassing to talk about these problems but your doctor has to know so that they can help. In certain instances your doctor may decide to talk with your co-workers or teachers to find out more about the challenges you are having. This doesn't mean your doctor is judging you or accusing you of being a victim. It's simply to help them better understand the ways ADHD can affect someone's ability to perform at work or in school.
Your doctor might recommend psychological tests to rule other conditions out that can cause similar symptoms. For instance, a mood disorder or learning disorder. You may also undergo a physical exam to ensure there aren't any medical issues causing your symptoms.
Your doctor may also request to see any records with you, such as performance evaluations from your job or old report cards from your school. Your doctor may also be interested in knowing if your ADHD symptoms were severe enough to interfere with your daily life as an infant.
Support
If you think you may have ADHD If you suspect that you may have ADHD, it is essential to speak with a professional. They can conduct a complete evaluation. These professionals include licensed mental health specialists like clinical psychologists and doctors (psychiatrist, neurologist or family doctor). Many insurance companies provide an inventory of professionals who are qualified in the area. You can also reach out to local support organizations for assistance in locating a suitable provider.
In addition to taking a thorough medical history, your clinician will also inquire about your symptoms and the problems they create in your life. This includes your work and school performance as well as relationships and other aspects in your daily life. Your physician may request that you speak with your co-workers, teachers, or request old school records. This isn't to question your honesty, but to gather additional information. Many adults with ADHD have shaky or faulty memories, especially from their childhood. It's crucial that your specialist gathers as much relevant information as possible to make a diagnosis.
Depending on your problem, your specialist might suggest other diagnostic methods such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), a treatment that helps those suffering from ADHD overcome obstacles and harness their strength. CBT is often combined with medication to help with ADHD treatment.
If 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 range of online questionnaires. These tools aren't standardised nor are they scientifically validated, and should only serve as general guidance.
Many people who don't have a diagnosis of ADHD are so accustomed to their problems that they take them for granted. They might believe that they're not very good or that it is their fault that they are unable to keep up with their social or work commitments. The symptoms of ADHD are not caused by a personal failure or a lack of motivation, but rather a result of a neurological. You can, however, gain control over your ADHD with the proper treatment and turn it into an effective force. This can lead to more success in your career and personal relationships and a richer life for you and those around you.