How to Get an Adult Diagnosis of ADHD
Many people aren't diagnosed with ADHD until they reach adulthood. This may be because they weren't recognized in childhood, they suffer from mild symptoms or the signs were hidden by demands of daily life.
You must have ADHD symptoms before you turn 12. These symptoms must hinder work or social functions and persist for a long time.
The Diagnosis Process
To receive a diagnosis of ADHD, it is necessary to see a health care specialist who specializes in the disorder. In an evaluation, the professional will take a detailed history of the person's symptoms. The doctor will also review the patient's family, medical and mental health history. It is crucial that patients discuss their symptoms in a candid and honest manner with the doctor, avoiding feelings of shame or embarrassment.
The signs of ADHD can be similar to many other mental health conditions and physical ailments, and it is therefore important that a thorough evaluation is conducted by a qualified mental health professional. The evaluation will consist of an exam for medical conditions, a psychological examination and an interview with the individual. The psychiatrist or psychologist will ask the individual to explain their symptoms and how they affect their life. They might also ask questions about the person’s schooling and their childhood. The professional will also consider other factors that could be contributing to the person's issues like stress and other health issues.
Receiving a diagnosis of ADHD in adulthood can be an emotional and stressful experience. Often people feel surprised and awed and can bring up feelings of guilt or shame. But, it is important to remember that the diagnosis of ADHD is not an indication of the person's personality or character. It is a condition that is treated with medications and other treatments.
Certain doctors utilize a standard checklist to identify symptoms of ADHD. These checklists are geared towards children, but it's possible for adults to be able to satisfy the criteria for being diagnosed if they show five or more symptoms of inattention, and/or 6 or more symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity. There are also interviews conducted by doctors with close family members as well as friends and colleagues. This can give valuable insights that are not accessible through questionnaires, and can aid in determining other conditions that may be causing ADHD symptoms.
It is a good idea to ask your friends and family for recommendations when selecting a specialist who can evaluate ADHD. It is important to make sure that the specialist you choose is certified and licensed in your particular area. Visit the office of the specialist to learn more about their qualifications.
Signs and symptoms
Untreated ADHD can cause a variety of issues for people. They may experience difficulties with school, relationships, or work. They may have trouble maintaining healthy eating and sleeping habits. They may have financial problems due to impulse purchases and drug abuse. They may also have health problems like anxiety and depression. The majority of the time, these signs are interpreted by people who are around them as signs of inattention or lack of responsibility. When those suffering from ADHD are diagnosed, they often feel an overwhelming sense of relief and understanding. They can then begin to tackle the issues that are in their lives and have success in many different areas.
A mental health professional will look over the medical records of the patient and examine their symptoms and past. They will also review a physical exam. They will employ adult rating scales or checklists to diagnose the condition. They will ask the patient questions about their life at work and home, as well as how these symptoms affect the rest of the household. The specialist will want to talk to parents teachers, parents, and other individuals who knew the patient as a child.
The symptoms of the disorder are:
Inattention ADHD symptoms may include daydreaming or zoning out in class, or forgetting important details at work or at home, and taking longer than expected to finish tasks. Hyperactive-impulsive ADHD symptoms may involve fidgeting, talking nonstop and difficulty waiting for turn or instructions. Combination presentation ADHD, where there are equal amounts of inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms present, is the most common type of the disorder.
A lot of people with ADHD are incorrectly diagnosed or don't receive a diagnosis at all because they do not meet the diagnostic criteria laid out in the American Psychiatric Association's fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). It is also important to note that stress and certain medications may cause similar symptoms as those associated with ADHD so a thorough evaluation by a health care doctor is necessary to determine the root cause of the person's symptoms. It is also important to inform their doctor any other medications, vitamins, and supplements they take.
Treatment
Adults suffering from ADHD can benefit from a range of treatments that can improve symptoms and boost productivity. However finding the best treatment is a lengthy process. Some professionals specialize in adult ADHD and it's crucial to consult your family doctor or a trusted family member for recommendations. In addition, it may be helpful to contact a local university-based hospital or medical school for suggestions. If there is an adult ADHD support group in your area, it could be helpful to obtain a referral from these members.
Psychotherapies, also referred to as talk therapy, and behavioral therapies are the most effective treatments for adults suffering from ADHD. These therapies teach the family members and patients how to better cope with their symptoms. These therapies may be short-term, goal-oriented, or long-term, in-depth and can focus on specific topics like anger management or learning to manage time and money.
Some professionals employ questionnaires or rating scales to determine the severity of the patient's symptoms. However, the most significant factor in diagnosing adults with ADHD is a clinical interview conducted by a mental health professional who is skilled in evaluating ADHD. During the interview, the mental health professional will look at the person's academic, social and emotional history. They will also examine the current effects that the issues have on relationships, work, and other aspects of your life.
To be diagnosed with executive function , you must have at least five of the inattentive or hyperactive-impulsive symptoms listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The doctor will determine whether the symptoms are predominantly inattentive or primarily hyperactive-impulsive, or if they are a combination. The symptoms must be present for a minimum of six months and affect the daily activities.
Receiving an ADHD diagnosis as an adult can trigger many emotions that are difficult to handle like sadness over missed opportunities or joy that there's a concrete explanation for past difficulties. It is essential that you feel comfortable talking about your concerns with your mental health professional and that you're open and honest during the assessment process.
Support
Many adults live their lives without being diagnosed with ADHD. If left untreated, ADHD can cause stress or frustration at work or in relationships.
Adults may find it difficult to be diagnosed due to the stigma that surrounds the disorder. Certain medical professionals also have preconceived ideas about how someone suffering from ADHD might appear like. This makes it difficult for people of color, women, or those who were assigned female at birth to receive an assessment.
If you are having trouble getting a diagnosis, seek an expert who is trained to diagnose ADHD in adults. You can talk to your doctor or an area hospital that is a part of a university or medical school for suggestions. You can also ask an local ADHD group for suggestions. Word-of-mouth recommendations are often the most reliable way to determine the capacity of a healthcare professional to conduct a thorough ADHD assessment and diagnosis.
To determine if you have ADHD the doctor will look over the symptoms you report and compare them with the criteria outlined by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders which is the reference book that mental health professionals use to make accurate diagnoses. Your physician will inquire about your past and present issues to provide an accurate picture of your challenges. ADHD is also evaluated using ratings scales and questionnaires.
Your doctor will decide if your ADHD symptoms are severe enough to require medication, or if a psychotherapy or other treatment method is more appropriate. You should tell your doctor about any other medications you take, as some medications may affect stimulants negatively. It is also important to inform your doctor about any traumas you have had to endure in the past.
Being diagnosed with ADHD is a major life-changing event for many adults. It can provide relief to finally understand the roots of your issues and a sense of confidence to manage your symptoms. For many, a diagnosis of ADHD can lead to successful careers and fulfilling relationships. Actually, people with ADHD excel in creative professions, where differences in the way their brain works can be beneficial.