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How to Diagnose diagnose adult adhd in Adults For many adults, the annoyance of being afflicted with ADHD symptoms is what leads people to seek an evaluation. They may lose their jobs due to missed deadlines, struggle in relationships due to impulsive behavior, or face financial issues due to the fact that they forget bills and forget to track purchases. Ask your doctor or a mental health professional about their training and expertise in diagnosing ADHD in adults. Symptoms Find a doctor who can examine your symptoms if you suspect you or your child is suffering from ADHD. The assessment will include a physical examination and an analysis of your medical history, including mental health issues and drug use. It is important that you are honest with your doctor about the symptoms and how they impact you. Many people with ADHD hide their problems out of fear or shame criticism, but a thorough evaluation will provide the doctor with more of a complete picture of your life and your issues. Adults differ from children, which is why the diagnosis of ADHD is more difficult than identifying ADHD in children. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), Fifth Edition by the American Psychiatric Association provides guidelines for diagnosis that are appropriate for both children and adults. In addition to interviewing the patient, the doctor might also ask others in the life of the patient- such as spouse or co-habitating partner parents, siblings or coaches and teachers — to describe the person's behavior and how it has affected them. This can provide information that might not be found on a checklist or other tests. In some cases the doctor may decide to look into other conditions that may cause similar symptoms as ADHD. These conditions could include mood disorders, mental health conditions and physical injuries like concussions or head trauma. He or she will also look at the person's personal and professional life to determine if their symptoms interfere with their daily activities. The symptoms of adult ADHD can vary from mild to severe with moderate symptoms causing some difficulty in social and work situations. In severe cases, symptoms can affect schoolwork or work performance and can cause tension in relationships, making it difficult to live independently. Anyone can have ADHD However, it is more prevalent in males and boys than in girls. It is not clear the reason for this however it is likely that there are genetic and environmental factors in play. Certain foods and chemicals have been found to trigger ADHD in certain individuals. It is also possible that certain people are predisposed due to brain structures that are involved in processing stimuli. Diagnosis Finding a diagnosis of ADHD isn't always easy. Many people are ashamed of their symptoms and find it difficult to open up to an individual who is a mental health professional or health care provider. This can make the process of evaluation longer. It is essential to speak candidly and honestly about your symptoms as well as your past history, to ensure an accurate evaluation. During the exam the doctor will use standardized behavioral rating scales and ADHD symptom checklists to determine if you meet the criteria for a diagnosis of ADHD. Your doctor will inquire about your childhood and family history, and a detailed description your work and home. Your doctor could also recommend an examination to determine the cause of your symptoms, like seizures or thyroid issues. A physical exam typically includes blood tests and a head scan which can help you identify any structural or chemical issues in the brain that could be contributing to your ADHD symptoms. A physical exam can also help identify other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, including depression or substance abuse. It is possible that your doctor may suggest that you participate in the clinical trials of new treatments for adults with ADHD. These trials are conducted at research centers, such as NIMH. However, you must be aware that these trials may be risky and not lead to a treatment that is suitable for you. It is also crucial to tell your health care provider about any other medications you're taking, as they can interact with stimulants that are used to treat adult ADHD. Drugs that affect sleep, appetite heart rate, sleep and blood pressure may all have an effect on how effective stimulants are. The NIMH's Medication Interactions page will give you more information about how to discuss other medicines with your physician. Treatment For adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD, treatment options include medication, behavioral therapy and educational assistance. Often, it's a combination of these that helps people achieve success at work, school and other pursuits. Referrals from primary care providers or other health professionals are usually the first step towards treatment. Find out about the specialist's training and experience working with adults suffering from ADHD. If a professional refuses to or is unable to give you this information, it is recommended to seek out a different professional. The process of diagnosing adult ADHD typically includes interviews with the patient's parents or other significant others, as well as teachers. The diagnostic process could also include an examination of the family and medical history, as well as an assessment of the psychiatric condition. It is essential that the person being evaluated for ADHD be honest and not be hesitant to avoid embarrassment. A person has to show symptoms in two or more places and exhibit a significant impairment in their daily lives before an ADHD diagnosis can be made. Untreated ADHD can cause comorbid disorders such as anxiety and depression. This is particularly true when those who suffer from ADHD have an underlying history of chronic tension or frustration in their lives. Frustration can cause a self fulfilling prophecy that causes low self-esteem, poor performance and feelings of frustration. A diagnosis of ADHD can be a great relief for some adults. They may begin to see themselves better and realize it wasn't their fault they couldn't make friends or establish an occupation. For some adults, a diagnosis of ADHD can cause sadness and regret over missed opportunities. Adults suffering from ADHD must be always ready to discuss their issues with co-workers and supervisors. Consider joining an ADHD support group where people with the condition can share their experiences and receive advice. People with an ADHD diagnosis should look into their insurance coverage and obtain the names and phone numbers of specialists who specialize in treating adults suffering from ADHD. Support A person who is diagnosed with ADHD can get help for the symptoms and issues that affect them at home, at work at school, in relationships and in many other settings. Adult ADHD is usually treated using medication and psychotherapy. Some individuals also discover they require special coaching to provide structure and support for their daily lives. Adults diagnosed with ADHD are often relieved to know that their problems aren't due to poor parenting or laziness. A diagnosis can be the first step in receiving the assistance they require. It is simpler to diagnose ADHD in children, but it isn't difficult for adults to be affected by this disorder. In fact, many adults struggle throughout their lives with undiagnosed ADHD. A psychiatrist who has experience with this condition can diagnose ADHD in adults through a clinical interview. The interview might include questions about the person's family history, as well as their own personal social and emotional history. Some doctors use brain scans or computer programs to evaluate patients. However, most experts agree that the most accurate way to determine the presence of ADHD is an extensive clinical interview and that it is essential to take a patient's history into consideration when diagnosing the disorder. Depending on the nature and severity of the individual's problems and any co-existing issues like mood disorders, anxiety and learning disabilities that commonly accompany ADHD Additional tests for neuropsychology and psychological testing could be conducted to determine the effect and severity of these conditions. The results of these tests may also be helpful in determining the appropriate dosage of medications for a particular person. It is also recommended to ask colleagues and friends for suggestions to specialists who are experienced in diagnosing ADHD. Check their credentials, including their academic degrees and the number of years they have been in practice. They should be able explain their diagnosis process and answer any questions that you might have. You can also look for experts who are qualified on the internet or through the phone book. Ask about their approach to counseling and what type of therapy they would suggest for you.