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How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults Many adults seek an assessment because they are dissatisfied with the symptoms of ADHD. They could lose their jobs due to late deadlines, have difficulty in relationships due to their impulsive behaviors, or face financial difficulties because they forget to pay bills and forget to track purchases. Ask your doctor or an expert in mental health about their education and experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults. adult adhd diagnosis uk Find a doctor who can evaluate your symptoms if you suspect that you or your child may have ADHD. The evaluation will consist of physical examination as well as a review of your medical history, which includes mental health issues as well as substance use. It is essential that you are honest with your doctor about the signs and how they impact your life. Many people with ADHD are reluctant to admit their problems due to shame or fear of criticism. However an extensive evaluation will provide your doctor with a clearer picture of your life. Adults are different from children, and therefore the diagnosis of ADHD can be more difficult than identifying ADHD in children. The American Psychological Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5) provides guidelines for diagnosing ADHD that are generally valid for adults as well as children. In addition to examining the patient, the doctor could also ask others who are in the patient's lifelike spouses or co-habitating partners siblings, parents or teachers and coaches — to describe the person's behavior and how it has affected them. This can reveal information that might not be included on checklists or other tests. In some instances, the doctor will want to investigate other conditions that can cause similar symptoms as ADHD. These conditions could include mood disorders, mental health issues and physical injuries such as concussions or head trauma. They will also review the individual's work and personal life to determine if their symptoms are interfering with their daily routine. The signs of adult ADHD can vary from mild to severe with moderate symptoms causing difficulty in work and social situations. Severe symptoms may interfere with the performance of your work or school and can cause tension in relationships, making it difficult to live an independent life. Anyone can suffer from ADHD However, it is more prevalent in men and boys than in girls. It is not clear why this difference exists, but there are probably genetic and environmental factors in play. Research has revealed that certain foods and chemicals can cause ADHD in some individuals, and it is possible that some individuals are predisposed to develop the condition because of specific brain structures that are involved in processing stimuli. Diagnosis It is not always simple to diagnose ADHD. Many people are ashamed of their symptoms and find it difficult to open up to an expert in mental health or health care professional. This could make the evaluation process longer. To ensure a thorough assessment it is crucial to be honest and transparent about your symptoms and past history. During the exam, your doctor may use standardized behavioral rating scales and ADHD symptoms checklists to determine if you meet the criteria to be diagnosed of ADHD. Your doctor may also ask for your family and childhood history along with an in-depth description of your work and family life. Your doctor may order a physical examination to rule out medical causes for your symptoms, like seizures or a thyroid disorder. A physical exam consists of blood tests and brain scans. These can help identify structural or chemical issues in the brain that may be causing ADHD symptoms. A physical exam can also determine other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, such as depression or substance abuse. It is possible that your health care provider may suggest that you participate in the clinical trials of new treatments for adults with ADHD. These trials are conducted by research centers, such as NIMH. You should be aware, however, that these studies could pose negative consequences and may not provide the right treatment for you. It is also important to inform your doctor about any other medications you're taking, since they could interact with some stimulants used to treat adults with ADHD. The effectiveness of stimulants can be affected by medications that affect sleep, appetite and blood pressure. The NIMH's Medication Interactions page can provide more details on how to discuss other medications with your physician. Treatment For adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD, treatment options include medication, behavioral therapy and educational supports. It's often a combination of these that helps people find success in work, school and other pursuits. Referrals from primary healthcare providers or other health professionals are often the first step towards treatment. Find out about the professional's education and experience working with adults suffering from ADHD. If a professional is unwilling or in a position to give this information, it's best to seek another professional. The process of diagnosing adult ADHD typically involves interviews with the patient, parents or other significant people, and teachers. The process of diagnosis may include an assessment of family and medical history as well as an assessment of psychiatric issues. It is essential that the person being evaluated for ADHD be honest, not holding back because of embarrassment or fear of being criticized. Multiple symptoms must be evident in a variety of settings and have a significant impact in the person's life for an ADHD diagnosis to be given. Untreated ADHD can result in the development of comorbid disorders, such as depression and anxiety. This is especially relevant for people with ADHD who suffer from chronic anxiety or frustration. Frustration can cause self-fulfilling prophecy that can result in low self-esteem, poor performance, and feelings of anger. For certain adults, being diagnosed of ADHD can be a source of relief. They may begin to see their own behavior and realize that it wasn't their fault they could not make friends or build an occupation. For some adults, the diagnosis of ADHD can trigger feelings of regret and sadness over missed opportunities. Adults with ADHD must always be ready to discuss their concerns openly with their supervisors, colleagues, and teachers. It's also recommended to think about joining an ADHD support group, where people with the disorder can discuss their experiences and receive assistance. Anyone with an ADHD diagnosis should check their insurance coverage and obtain the names and phone numbers of specialists who specialize in treating adults who have ADHD. Support A person 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. Treatments for adults with ADHD typically include psychotherapy and medication. Some people discover that they also need specialized coaching, which can provide structure and support in everyday life. Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD often feel relieved to discover that their problems aren't normal or because of poor parenting or laziness. A diagnosis can be the first step to receiving the help they require. Adults may also be affected by ADHD. It's more difficult to identify in children. In fact, many adults have struggled throughout their lives with undiagnosed ADHD. A psychiatrist who has expertise in this type of disorder can identify ADHD in adults by conducting a diagnostic interview. The interviewer might inquire about the patient's social and emotional history, as also his or her family history. Some doctors use computer programs or brain scans to determine the health of a patient. The majority of experts agree that a thorough interview is the best method to determine if a patient has ADHD. Based on the severity and nature of the person's difficulties and co-existing disorders like mood disorders, anxiety, and learning disabilities that commonly accompany ADHD Additional tests for neuropsychology and psychological testing could be administered to determine the effect and severity of these conditions. The results of these tests can also be helpful in determining the appropriate dosage of medications for an individual. It is also an excellent idea to ask colleagues and friends for recommendations to professionals who are experts in diagnosing ADHD. Then check their professional qualifications, including academic degrees and the number of years they have worked. They should be able explain their diagnostic procedure and answer any questions that you may have. You can also look for experts who are certified online or in the phonebook. Find out about their counseling approach and what kind of therapy they might recommend for you.