How to Get a Diagnosis of ADHD
For many adults, a diagnosis of ADHD can be difficult. Some people feel relief that they have finally come to terms with their difficulties while others experience sorrow for having missed out on opportunities in their lives because of symptoms that went untreated so long.
A mental health healthcare professional or health care provider can diagnose ADHD in the person's mood, present and past mental and physical ailments, as well as their childhood behavior and experiences at school. The test usually includes ADHD symptoms checklists and standard rating scales.
Symptoms
People suffering from ADHD have difficulty completing tasks that require concentration or focus on detail. Often, these issues also result from other underlying issues such as depression or addiction disorders. The first step to control symptoms that cause havoc on both a personal and professional scale is to get an accurate ADHD diagnosis.
ADHD symptoms typically begin in childhood and last into adulthood. In order for a person to be granted an diagnosis of the disorder and be diagnosed with it, their symptoms must interfere with their lives in two or more areas (home, school and work) and cause significant impairment. For symptoms to be considered to meet the criteria to be considered severe, they must have been present for at least six month and cannot be caused by other mental disorders such as anxiety disorders, mood disorders dissociative disorder or personality disorders.
In addition to looking into the patient's symptoms and health issues, the doctor will also review their medical history and mental health history. They will also talk to the patient, and if possible their family members, to gain an understanding of childhood behavior. The health care provider may also review the patient's current workplace and home environment and talk with their teachers.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition, published by the American Psychiatric Association, provides guidelines for diagnosing ADHD. To be diagnosed with the inattentive version of ADHD, a person must exhibit six or less symptoms of inattention that are severe enough to interfere in their daily activities. To be diagnosed with the hyperactive/impulsive type of ADHD, an individual must have six of the following symptoms:
A health care professional can usually identify a person suffering from ADHD through an extensive psychiatric assessment. This involves an extensive interview with the person and their parents, and any other caregivers or teachers, in addition to answering questionnaires or scales. The health professional may examine the patient's medical, psychiatric and family history and refer the person for a physical examination to rule out any other causes of symptoms. The doctor will also examine the person's sleeping patterns, diet, and the home and work environments to determine if stressors may be causing their symptoms.
Diagnosis
If you suspect that you may have ADHD it is essential to see a health care provider who specializes in the disorder. Your doctor will inquire about your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. They will likely be interested in knowing how often you have trouble finishing tasks and how often you misplace things or forget to put away your keys, and if these issues create stress at home, work or in relationships. Your doctor will also look over your medical history and physical examination. This information will help your doctor rule out other conditions which may mimic the symptoms of ADHD, such a depression, sleep disorders anxiety, thyroid disorders or anxiety.
It's likely your healthcare professional will ask family members as well as other caregivers about your behavior. They'll also discuss how you behave in different environments, such as at work, school or with your scout or religious leaders. Your doctor may also ask you to fill out a self-test or rating scale to evaluate your symptoms. You can find these on the internet, but they should not be used as a substitute for a face-to-face appointment with your doctor.
Adults must have an lower threshold than children to be diagnosed with ADHD -- five of nine symptoms in a six-month time period. Additionally, you must be able to show significant impact in your work, school and at home.
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 test how your brain functions, and determine if there are mental disorders that coexist such as depression or anxiety.
Receiving a diagnosis of ADHD as an adult can trigger complicated emotions. adult diagnosis adhd of Matlen ranged from sadness at missed opportunities to relief she had a reason for her problems. Consult your doctor or a local support group to refer you to a health professional who can conduct ADHD assessments for adults. You can also call your insurance company to find out the providers that are listed.
Treatment
Medication is often the first option for many people with ADHD. Drugs like amphetamine or methylphenidate boost or balance levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters, which regulate attention and behaviors. They can help people who have ADHD concentrate and remain organized. They also help control their impulses and make more rational choices enhance communication, and decrease the impulsive behavior.
There are also non-stimulant drugs such as atomoxetine and certain antidepressants that are slower than stimulants but can still be effective for people suffering from ADHD. The kind of medication that is most effective for a particular person can change over time, which is why it is essential to discuss all possible options with your healthcare professional conducting the evaluation.
A health care professional with experience in ADHD will conduct an assessment which includes an interview with the patient as well as the completion of questionnaires and scales by the person and an examination of the family history of mood disorders, as well as medical conditions, like sleep disorders and other physical ailments. A referral to a medical exam may also be included to rule out any medical reasons for the ADHD symptoms.
It is likely that the evaluation will take some time. This is especially the case when you are an adult who has had to struggle to manage symptoms for several years. The evaluation should be thorough, so the individual should bring old report cards and copies of their performance evaluations from school or at work. The healthcare professional might ask permission to talk with close friends or relatives to obtain a complete understanding of the individual's past experiences and behaviours.
For adults, receiving an diagnosis of ADHD can be a life-changing experience. People typically experience a variety of emotions, ranging from relief to finally have an explanation for their struggles, to sadness over the missed opportunities and relationships caused by untreated ADHD. However, Matlen says that once she was diagnosed she was able to make changes in her life and move forward with her career and relationships.
Counseling
Many people suffering from ADHD are aware that seeking help from a therapist is a crucial step. Finding the right therapist could be difficult. There are many ways to locate a specialist in the area. Begin by asking your regular doctor for an appointment. He or she might have a list of specialists who are skilled in treating ADHD. You can also search online. There are many websites which list doctors, as well as information about their specialties and areas of focus. Asking family members or friends for recommendations is another option. You can also reach out to your local mental health center or an ADHD support group to receive suggestions.
It is essential to be honest when you visit the therapist who is experienced in treating ADHD. It is essential to discuss the ways that ADHD affects your life and the lives of others. It is also essential to discuss your past and current medical history. This helps the therapist to determine if you have any conditions like anxiety or depression that could have similar symptoms.
The therapist will also conduct interviews and employ standardized scales to gauge the severity of symptoms. The therapist may also ask for input from other caregivers like teachers, Scout and religious leaders, to get an accurate assessment of the person's behavior in different settings.
Adults with ADHD often feel frustrated and ashamed of their condition and may be reluctant to discuss their symptoms. This can affect the quality of the assessment and the accuracy of the diagnosis. A therapist with experience working with adults who have ADHD can assist them in overcoming these challenges.
It is crucial to understand that having a diagnosis of ADHD doesn't mean that the therapist will prescribe medications. While certain people who suffer from ADHD may require medication, behavioral therapy is another option that can be extremely effective. These treatments can be used with medication or as standalone treatments.