ADHD - Symptoms in Adults
If you suspect that you might have ADHD it is important to get a proper diagnosis. This will help you manage symptoms and gain control over your life.
ADHD self-assessment tools can alert you that you might have symptoms that are common to adults with ADHD. However an accurate diagnosis is only possible through an evaluation by a professional. This can be a clinical psychologist, a physician (psychiatrist or neurologists) or therapist.
Symptoms
ADHD can be a problem for anyone of any age, but the symptoms may be slightly different in adults. Adults with ADHD can also use their symptoms to help succeed in their work and relationships.
Adult ADHD symptoms may be mild, moderate or severe. To be eligible for a diagnosis, the signs must have remained consistent since childhood and continue to cause significant issues in at least two areas of your life. Finding it difficult to keep your attention on tasks or having trouble recalling information are examples of issues that could be caused by ADHD.
If you think you might have symptoms of ADHD There are ratings scales and self-tests online that can help determine if you may be suffering from the disorder. The only way to get a definitive diagnosis of ADHD in adults is to see an expert in the disorder. Ask your primary doctor for a referral, or search for an ADHD specialist through your health insurance directory.
When you visit a specialist, they'll review your medical and psychiatric history dating all the way back to childhood, and will discuss the way your illness has affected your work, school and family life. They will also ask about your alcohol and drugs use, driving record and how you relate to your family and friends. It is essential to be truthful when speaking to your examiner. Many people with ADHD are unable to conceal or cover up their symptoms from others due to being afraid of criticism or are embarrassed. This can make the assessment process more difficult.
Some medical conditions, including seizure disorders and thyroid disorders, may have similar symptoms to ADHD and must be checked out before an ADHD diagnosis is determined. A thorough neurological history as well as physical examinations will also be performed.
If your tests show that you suffer from ADHD If your doctor suspects that you have ADHD, they may prescribe medication. In addition, they may suggest psychotherapy or other behavioral treatments that will help you learn to manage your ADHD. They might also suggest that you make changes to your workplace and employ tools for planning and organizing to make you more efficient.
Diagnosis
To determine if you have ADHD, a professional evaluation is required. Your doctor will require you to provide a detailed history of your symptoms. This includes when they first started and how it has affected your life. He or she will also inquire about your family history as ADHD is usually inherited. Your doctor will conduct an examination of your body, as well, to rule out any medical conditions that may cause ADHD symptoms, like seizures or thyroid issues.
You'll likely be asked to complete an array of tests for your psychological health which include scales for behavioral ratings, in order to assess your ability to function. Your doctor might also ask you to complete math or reading exercises using a phone or computer to see how you perform under different conditions. You may even be given an IQ test to evaluate your cognitive abilities.
The American Psychiatric Association has established criteria that must be met to qualify for a diagnosis of adult ADHD. These include having at minimum six months of symptoms and a significant impact on various settings in your life such as work or school. Your doctor will want to know if your symptoms caused you significant issues prior to the age of 12.
It is important to recognize that a variety of factors can trigger or mimic ADHD. For example, stress, other mental health issues and certain medications can all lead to certain symptoms as ADHD.
Bring any records of previous psychological tests or performance evaluations to your appointment. Your doctor will also need to know what medications you're taking in the event of a need and if you've had a head injury or illness.
Adults with ADHD are able to benefit from psychotherapy or "talk therapy". This treatment helps you develop more effective strategies for coping and to manage your ADHD symptoms so that they don't affect your daily routine. Psychotherapy can be combined with medication or used on its own for people suffering from ADHD. You can locate a mental health professional who is specialized in treating adults suffering from ADHD by asking your primary care physician for a referral, or calling your insurance company to check which specialists they cover or visiting an organization that offers support locally.
Treatment
Schedule an appointment with your primary health care provider if you suspect you have ADHD. Your doctor can refer you to an expert in mental health that will conduct a thorough evaluation to determine the cause of your disorder. During your visit, you should be honest about the problems you're experiencing at work as well as at home. Your doctor will inquire about any major issues you've had to face like being dismissed or failing a class. Your doctor will also ask about your family history and prior health issues, like depression or anxiety.
You are likely to be asked to fill out a questionnaire such as the Adult Hyperactivity Disorder Self Screening Tool (ASRS). This questionnaire takes approximately five minutes to fill out and consists of 18 questions that ask you to indicate how often you are experiencing symptoms of adult ADHD. Your doctor will then take your answers into consideration and provide you with scores that indicate whether you should seek a formal diagnosis.
In addition your doctor will also ask you about the problems you have in relationships at work and home. It might be uncomfortable to talk about these problems however, your doctor needs to know about them so that they can assist. Your doctor might want to talk to your colleagues or teachers to understand the issues you're confronting. This doesn't mean your doctor is judging you or blames you. It's just to help them understand the ways ADHD can affect a person's ability at work or in school.
Your doctor may recommend psychological tests to rule other conditions out that can cause similar symptoms. For example, a learning disorder or mood disorder. You could also be asked to undergo a physical exam to ensure that your symptoms are not caused by medical issues.
Your doctor might ask you to bring any records, such as old report cards or performance evaluations from your workplace. Your doctor may also want to know if your ADHD symptoms were so severe that they interfered with your life as a child.
Support
If you suspect you may have ADHD If you suspect that you may have ADHD, it is essential to consult an expert. They can conduct a thorough evaluation. These professionals include licensed mental healthcare providers like doctors and clinical psychologists (psychiatrists and neurologists, or family physicians). A lot of insurance plans have lists of qualified professionals in your area, and you can also contact local support groups for assistance in finding an appropriate provider.
Your clinician will also ask you about the symptoms that you are experiencing and how they impact your life. This includes school and work performance as well as relationships and other aspects of your daily life. Your physician may decide to meet with your coworkers and teachers, or request old school records. This isn't to question your honesty; it's simply to gather additional information. Many adults suffering from ADHD have poor or spotty memories, particularly from childhood. It is crucial to collect as much information as possible before making a diagnosis.
Depending on your problem depending on your situation, your doctor might suggest other diagnostic procedures, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) which is a treatment that helps people with ADHD overcome obstacles and harness their strength. CBT may be combined with medication to treat ADHD.
While you wait for a professional evaluation, you can assess your symptoms using a variety of tools on the Internet. The Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale and other online questionnaires are also available. These tools are not standardised nor are they scientifically validated, and should only serve as general guidance.
Undiagnosed ADHD can make people so comfortable with their problems that they ignore them. I Am Psychiatry may think that they're not very good or that it is their fault that they are unable to keep up with their work or social commitments. The symptoms of ADHD aren't caused by a personal failure and are more neurological. If you are treated properly, you can get back control over your ADHD and transform it into something constructive. This could result in greater success in your job and personal relationships, as well as a more fulfilling life for those around you.