ADHD - Symptoms in Adults
If you think you might have ADHD it is important to receive a diagnosis. This will allow you to manage your symptoms and improve the quality of your life.
ADHD self-assessment tools can inform you that you might have symptoms typical of adult ADHD. However the diagnosis is only possible through an evaluation by a professional. This can be a clinical psychologist, a physician (psychiatrist or neurologists) or therapist.
Signs and symptoms
ADHD is a condition that affects people of all ages, however symptoms in adults might appear different. Adults with ADHD can also use their symptoms to succeed at work and in relationships.
The symptoms of adult ADHD can be mild, moderate or severe. To be able to receive a diagnosis, the symptoms must have persisted since childhood and continue to cause significant problems in at least two different areas of your life. Finding it difficult to keep your attention to your work or remembering things are examples of issues that could be caused by ADHD.
There are online self-tests and rating scales that can help you determine if may be suffering from ADHD. However the only way to make a definitive diagnosis is to see an expert in diagnosing ADHD in adults. Ask your primary care physician for a referral or search for an ADHD specialist on the online directory of your health insurance.
When you visit an expert, they'll go over your medical and psychiatric history dating back to childhood, including how your symptoms have impacted your work, school and family life. They'll also ask you about any alcohol or drugs you use, your driving history, and what your relationship with family and friends been. It's crucial to be honest with your examiner. Adults suffering from ADHD might cover up or minimize symptoms to avoid embarrassment or criticism. This can make the evaluation process more difficult.
Some medical conditions, such as seizure disorders and thyroid disorders, can have similar symptoms as ADHD and must be checked out before an ADHD diagnosis is established. A physical exam and a thorough neurological history will also be given.
If your results show that you have ADHD Your doctor may prescribe medications. In addition, they could recommend psychotherapy or other behavioral treatments that will assist you in overcoming your ADHD. They might also recommend accommodations to assist you in working more efficiently, including making changes to your work environment and using tools for organizing and planning.
Diagnosis
A professional evaluation is needed to determine the presence of ADHD. Your doctor will take an extensive history of your symptoms that include when they first began and how they have affected your life. He or she will also inquire about your family history as it's common for ADHD to be a family trait. Your doctor may also conduct an examination of your body to rule out any medical conditions that could mimic ADHD symptoms. These include thyroid problems or seizure disorders.
You may be asked to complete several tests for your psychological health that include behavioral ratings scales, in order to assess your performance. You may be asked to complete math or reading tasks using phones, computers or tablet to assess your performance in various situations. You might even have an IQ test to measure your cognitive capabilities.
The American Psychiatric Association established criteria for determining adult ADHD. The symptoms must be present for at minimum six months consecutively and be having significant effects in several areas of your life such as school or work. Your doctor will be looking to determine if your symptoms led to a significant amount of problems prior to the age of 12.
It's important to understand that a variety of factors can trigger or mimic ADHD. Stress mental health issues and certain medications, for instance can all trigger some of the symptoms that are similar to ADHD.
If you have records from previous psychological tests or performance evaluations bring them to your appointment. Your doctor will want to know if you're taking any medications or whether you've ever suffered a head injury.
Adults who struggle with ADHD will benefit greatly from psychotherapy or "talk therapy". This treatment aids in developing more effective strategies and techniques to manage your ADHD symptoms to ensure that they do not interfere with your everyday life. Psychotherapy can be used on its own or together with medications for adults suffering from ADHD. Consult your primary care doctor to refer you to a mental health specialist who can treat adults suffering from ADHD. You could also contact your insurance provider and inquire what specialists are covered. Or, visit an area support group.
Treatment
If you think you may have ADHD, the first step is to schedule an appointment with your primary care physician. Your doctor will refer you to a mental health professional who will carry out a full evaluation and diagnose the problem. During your appointment, you should be honest with your doctor about the issues you're having at home and at work. Your doctor will be interested in knowing about any major issues that have led to them, such as being fired from an employment or failing classes. Your doctor will inquire about your family history and any previous health issues such as depression or an anxiety disorder.
You are likely to be asked to fill out a survey such as the Adult Hyperactivity Disorder Self Screening Tool (ASRS). This questionnaire takes approximately five minutes to fill out and is comprised of 18 questions that ask you to rate how often you are experiencing symptoms of adult ADHD. Your doctor will consider your answers and give you a score indicating whether you need to seek a formal diagnosis.
In addition your doctor will also inquire about the issues you are having with your relationships at work and home. You might feel embarrassed speaking about these issues however it is essential that your doctor is aware about them to help you. Your doctor may suggest that you speak with your coworkers or teachers to understand the difficulties you're having to face. This doesn't mean that your doctor is judging or blames you. It's just to help them understand the ways ADHD can impact a person's ability at work or in school.
Your doctor might also suggest that you get psychological tests to rule out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, for example a learning disability or a mood disorder. You can also have an examination for physicals to make sure that there aren't any medical issues that are causing your symptoms.
Your doctor might ask you to bring along any records, including old report cards or performance evaluations from your workplace. It's also beneficial for your doctor to know if you had any ADHD symptoms as a child or adolescent however they weren't serious enough to have a significant impact on your life at the time.
Support
If you suspect ADHD or other disorders, you should talk to an expert who can provide an exhaustive evaluation. These professionals include licensed mental healthcare providers, such as physicians and clinical psychologists (psychiatrists, neurologist, or family physicians). Many insurance plans offer lists of licensed professionals in your region, and you can also reach out to local support groups to assist in locating a suitable provider.
In addition to obtaining a thorough medical history, your physician will ask you about your symptoms and the difficulties they cause in your life. This includes school and work performance, relationships and other aspects of your daily life. Your doctor may want to talk with co-workers and teachers or to request old school records. This is not a way to question your sincerity; it's just to get more details. Many adults suffering from ADHD suffer from weak or sporadic memories, especially from childhood. It is essential to gather the most information you can before making the diagnosis.
Based on the issue you're having, your specialist might suggest other diagnostic methods like cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) which aids people with ADHD learn to manage their challenges and develop their strengths. CBT can be paired with medications for ADHD treatment.
While you're waiting for a professional evaluation There are a variety of tools on the Internet which allow you to evaluate your own symptoms. The Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale and other online questionnaires are also available. These tools are not standardized or scientifically validated, and should be used only to provide general guidance.
adult adhd assessment belfast who don't have a diagnosis of ADHD are so accustomed to their challenges that they take them for granted. They might believe that they're just not very good or that it's their fault for not being able to keep up with their social or work commitments. The truth is that the symptoms of ADHD are neurological and not a personal failing. With the right treatment, you can get back control over your ADHD and turn it into something constructive. This can lead to more satisfaction in your professional and personal relationships and a richer life for you and your family members.