ADHD Diagnosis For Adults
Finding a reliable diagnosis of ADHD can help you gain control over symptoms that can cause issues at home as well as in your professional life. ADHD symptoms can result in depression and anxiety.
A thorough evaluation will include an in-depth interview with you. It could also include screening questionnaires for different conditions that may look like ADHD or coexist with it, like anxiety or depression. Your healthcare professional may invite you to speak with the family member of yours.
Diagnosis
If you think that you may have ADHD, it is important to be evaluated by an authorized health care professional. This could be a psychologist, psychiatrist, family doctor or nurse practitioner that specializes in mental health issues. The exam will include speaking about your symptoms, the problems they cause and how you've dealt with them. The healthcare provider will look over your medical history, including any prior mental health problems and any other medications you're taking.
adhd uk diagnosis has to be able to recognize at least six signs (traits) of ADHD. They must occur in at least two settings (home or school and social situations) and significantly impair your ability to function. The symptoms should have been present for at minimum 6 months and be consistent. In addition, your healthcare provider must determine whether your symptoms are inattentive, hyperactive/impulsive or a combination of both.
The signs of inattention include forgetting things, losing items, and having difficulty paying attention. Problems with school are also common. People who aren't attentive ADHD may have difficulty following directions, completing assignments or submitting work on time. They aren't able to sit still, paying close attention to others or keeping track of their own activities. They often interrupt and utter answers before the questions are completed. They are often unable to wait for their turn in games or conversations.
Hyperactive/impulsive ADHD symptoms include restlessness, fidgeting or excessively tapping hands and speaking without thinking. This type of ADHD can cause issues at school, home and work. These problems are often linked to financial issues and strained relationships.
The person conducting the assessment is likely to want to talk with your parents and/or teachers and see any records you have of your behavioral issues as a child. They'll probably conduct an examination to rule out any other medical conditions that may be causing your symptoms, including seizures or thyroid issues.
If you have problems at work, in school or with your relationships, they may suggest additional psychological, learning disabilities, and/or neuropsychological testing. These tests do not diagnose ADHD however they could provide useful information regarding the disorder.
Evaluation
If you think you or your child may be suffering from ADHD and you suspect that they may, you should find a qualified medical professional who can examine your symptoms. You can ask your doctor for an appointment. Contact your insurance provider. Or search online for specialists who specialize in ADHD evaluations for adults. You can also seek recommendations from an adult ADHD support group.
During the evaluation the person conducting it may ask you or your child questions about your childhood and present life to help you gain an understanding of what is happening. They might also request to talk to your teachers or others who were with you when you were a child. They might inquire about your medical background and previous illnesses to determine if are suffering from any symptoms that may be related to ADHD, such anxiety or depression.
The evaluator also uses questionnaires and ratings scales to determine the frequency at which you or your child displays certain ADHD behaviors and how severe they are. These tools will help them compare your or your child's symptoms with those of other kids and adults who have been diagnosed with the condition. This will help ensure that you or your child meets the standard criteria for diagnosis. Your child or you might undergo a neurological and physical examination. They may also check for medical conditions that could be a cause of ADHD, such a thyroid problem or seizures.
For children to be diagnosed with ADHD, they need to consistently demonstrate six or more of the behavioral symptoms listed in two categories -- inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity -- over the course of six months. For adults, five established symptoms in one category are needed -- either inattention or hyperactivity/impulsivity. The symptoms are not ascribed to any other mental disorder such as anxiety or mood disorders. Your evaluator will use the results of the testing and interview to determine an official diagnosis of ADHD. The evaluator will write an account of the findings and recommends treatment options. They'll likely give you or your child with a copy the report.
Treatment
ADHD can cause issues at work and within the home. Some of the signs include impulsive or forgetful decisions that can cause financial issues or issues at work or at school. Family and marriage therapy can aid people suffering from ADHD overcome the obstacles they face in their relationships. Individual psychotherapy (also known as talk therapy) can help address the feelings of anger and inadequacy that often accompany a diagnosis of ADHD. It's important to find a therapist that has experience working with individuals with ADHD and can relate to the unique challenges this disorder can bring about.
Health professionals employ a variety of methods to determine whether someone is suffering from ADHD. They might observe the person in different situations, inquire about their symptoms and the effects they have on their lives. They may also review past behavior, conduct psychological and neuropsychological tests, and then conduct a medical exam. They may also consult with caregivers and teachers to obtain an accurate picture of a person's life, including home, work and social settings.
The symptoms should be present in at least two settings and disrupt everyday functioning. They have to be present for at minimum six months. The symptoms must have occurred before the age of 12 and cannot be explained by any other mental disorder, such as anxiety or depression.
Older teens and adults must meet the criteria for both the inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive types of ADHD to be diagnosed with this disorder. They must exhibit at minimum five of the following symptoms in multiple settings:
A therapist can help teach techniques that can alleviate symptoms of ADHD by planning ahead and keeping track of your schedules by using a planner or notebook, and developing and sticking to routines. They can also help with the skills of communication and problem-solving that can help manage symptoms. Treatment options also include medication, lifestyle adjustments and accommodations--tools or changes in the environment that make it easier for people with a condition to function, like step stools that allow short people to reach things that are high up.
Support
For many people, receiving a diagnosis in adulthood can bring relief and a sense of finally having a clear understanding of what's happening. It can also be an emotional time due to missed opportunities in school or work or relationships that have failed. It's particularly difficult for girls and women, those whose symptoms might have been overlooked in their childhood or not fully appreciated as they matured, Matlen said.
A specialist or doctor will look over the life story of the individual, including the adolescent years and childhood. They will examine the person's school and work documents and interview them as well as anyone other person who is familiar with them. They will also ask about the signs. They will make sure that the symptoms aren't better explained by mental health conditions like anxiety or depression.
The specialist may also suggest cognitive behavioral treatment (CBT) in addition to the physical examination. The goal of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is to assist a person change their thoughts and behavior to better manage their ADHD. The therapist will help the person develop strategies to improve their time management, organizational skills and impulse control. The therapist will teach the patient to recognize and avoid triggers that cause ADHD symptoms.
adhd uk diagnosis may recommend the patient to a psychiatrist with experience in treating adults with ADHD. They will be able to discuss the issues the person is experiencing at work, home and in relationships. They will be able recommend support groups and other resources for adults suffering from ADHD.
If a person is having difficulty finding a specialist, they can either contact their primary healthcare provider to refer them to a specialist or search the online directory of their health insurance company. You could also ask family members and friends for suggestions, or contact an adult local ADHD support group. The specialist can help the person find a psychiatrist or neurologist to monitor their medication, and a life coach or therapist who can provide strategies to manage symptoms and make positive changes in their daily lives.