How to Get a Diagnosis of ADHD
A diagnosis of ADHD is a challenge for a lot of adults. Some people feel relief that they can finally comprehend their struggles, while other people feel sadness because they missed out on opportunities due to symptoms that were not treated for so long.
A health care provider or mental health professional can diagnose ADHD by looking at the mood of a person as well as their past and current mental and physical health conditions as well as their childhood behavior and school experiences. The assessment usually includes ADHD symptoms checklists and standardized scales of rating.
Symptoms
People suffering from ADHD are unable to complete tasks that require concentration or concentration. Often, these issues also stem from other underlying problems such as depression or substance use disorders. Making sure you are diagnosed with ADHD is the first step to gaining control over symptoms that wreak destruction in both professional and personal life.
ADHD symptoms typically start in childhood and last throughout adulthood. In order for a person to be granted an diagnosis of the disorder, their symptoms must interfere with their lives in at least two areas (home school, home and work) and cause significant impairment. To be eligible symptoms must be present for at least six months. They cannot be explained better by other mental disorders, such as mood disorders, anxiety disorders and dissociative disorders.
In addition to examining the person's symptoms, the health care provider will review their medical history and mental health history. They will also talk with the person, and if possible their family members, to gain an understanding of the behavior of children. The health professional will also meet with the patient's teachers and review their current work and home environment.
The American Psychiatric Association provides clinical guidelines for diagnosing ADHD in its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition. To be diagnosed with the inattentive version of ADHD, one 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 determine if a person has ADHD by conducting a thorough psychiatric evaluation. This involves an extensive interview with the person and their parents, as well as any caregivers or teachers, as well as taking questionnaires or scales. The health care provider will also go over the person's medical, psychiatric and family history and might refer the person to a physical exam in order to rule out any other reasons for their symptoms. He or she will also take a look at the person's sleep habits as well as their diet, work and the home environment to identify any stressors contributing to their symptoms.
Diagnosis
If you suspect you have ADHD is important to see a health care provider who specializes in the disorder. Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and the impact on your daily life. They'll likely be interested in how often you have trouble finishing tasks, how often you lose items or forget where you put your keys, and if these issues cause stress at work, home, or in relationships. Your doctor will also look over your medical history and physical exam. This information will help them identify other conditions that can mimic the symptoms of ADHD, such as depression, sleep disorders and anxiety or thyroid issues.
It's likely that your health care provider will question family members, friends and other caregivers regarding your behavior. They will also discuss your behavior in various settings such as at school, at work or with scouts or religious leaders. You might be asked to complete self-tests to identify your symptoms. They are available on the internet, but they shouldn't be used in lieu for a face-to-face interview with your doctor.
For adults who are diagnosed with ADHD requires you to meet the threshold of symptoms lower than for kids - five out of nine symptoms in a six-month period. You must also be able demonstrate a significant impact in your school, work 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 examine the way your brain functions and can determine if there are any mental disorders that coexist, such as depression or anxiety.
Receiving a diagnosis of ADHD as an adult can bring up complex emotions. Matlen's emotions ranged from sadness over missed opportunities to relief that she finally had a solid explanation for her troubles. Consult your doctor or local support group to refer you to a health professional who can perform ADHD evaluations on adults. You can also inquire with your insurance company to find out which providers are on its list.
Treatment
Medication is often the first option for a lot of patients suffering from ADHD. Stimulants such as methylphenidate and amphetamine work by increasing or balancing levels of neurotransmitters in the brain which regulate behavior and attention. They can help those with ADHD focus and stay organized. They can also manage their impulses, make more rational decisions, improve communication, and decrease the risk of impulsive behavior.
There are also nonstimulant medications such as atomoxetine and certain antidepressants that are slower than stimulants but can still be effective for people with ADHD. The type of medication that is most effective for a particular person will change over time. It is essential to discuss with the health professional conducting the evaluation all options.
A health care professional who has expertise in ADHD will conduct an assessment which includes an interview with the patient, answering questionnaires and completing scales by the person, and an examination of the family history of mood disorders, as well as medical conditions, such as sleep disorders and physical ailments. A appointment to a medical exam may also be included to rule out any medical causes for the ADHD symptoms.
The test is likely to take a while, especially in the case of an adult who has been struggling to cope with symptoms for a long period of time. The assessment should be thorough, so the individual should bring their old report cards and copies of their performance evaluations at school or at work. The healthcare professional might ask permission to talk with relatives or close friends to obtain a complete understanding of the individual's past experiences and behavior.
A diagnosis of ADHD in adults can be life-changing. It is common for people to feel an array of emotions, ranging from relief at finally having a concrete explanation for their problems to sadness over lost opportunities and relationships that have been damaged due to untreated ADHD. However, Matlen says that once she was diagnosed she was able to begin making changes in her life and progress with her career and relationships.
Counseling
Getting help from a counselor is a vital step for a lot of people suffering from ADHD. Finding the right therapist isn't always easy. There are many ways to find a specialist in the area. Request adult adhd diagnoses to refer you. He or she may have an extensive list of specialists who are acquainted with ADHD and can treat it effectively. You can also check online. There are many websites that provide directories of doctors that include details about their areas of interest and specialization. Asking your family or friends for suggestions is another option. You can also contact your local mental health center or ADHD support group to get recommendations.
If you visit an experienced therapist in treating ADHD and other disorders, it is essential to be as truthful as possible. This includes discussing the ways in which ADHD symptoms affect your life and the effect they have on other people. It is important to discuss your medical history. This allows the therapist to determine if you have any conditions like anxiety or depression that may exhibit similar symptoms.
The therapist will also conduct interviews and utilize standard scales to assess the severity of the symptoms. The therapist may also ask other caregivers to provide their feedback like teachers, religious leaders, or scout and scout leaders in order to get an accurate picture of the behavior of the individual in different situations.
Adults suffering from ADHD might feel dissatisfied and embarrassed by their issues and be reluctant to talk about the issues. This can affect the quality of the evaluation and the accuracy of the diagnosis. A therapist with experience working with adults with ADHD can assist them in overcoming these obstacles.
It is important to know that a diagnosis of ADHD does not mean that the therapist will prescribe medications. While some individuals who suffer from ADHD do need to take medication but there are plenty of treatment options that are effective, including behavioral therapy. These treatments can be used in conjunction with medication or as separate treatments.