How to Get a Diagnosis of ADHD
For many adults, being diagnosed of ADHD can be difficult. Some people feel relief that they have finally come to terms with their difficulties, while other people feel sadness due to the fact that they missed opportunities in life because of symptoms that were not treated for so long.
A mental health specialist or health care professional can diagnose ADHD by analyzing the mood of a person, their past and current medical and mental conditions, as well as their childhood behavior and experiences at school. The evaluation includes ADHD symptoms scales and checklists.
Symptoms
People with ADHD struggle to accomplish tasks that require mental effort over time or paying attention to details. These problems are usually caused by other underlying conditions such as depression or substance abuse disorders. The first step to control the symptoms that cause trouble on a personal and professional level is to get a proper ADHD diagnosis.
ADHD symptoms typically begin in childhood and persist throughout adulthood. In order for a person to be granted a diagnosis of the disorder the symptoms must be interfering with their lives in more than one area (home, school and work) and cause significant impairment. To meet this criteria to be considered severe, they must have been present for at least six months and cannot be caused by mental disorders such as mood disorders, anxiety disorder, dissociative disorder or personality disorders.
In addition to looking into the patient's symptoms, the health care provider will review their medical history and mental health history. The doctor will speak with the person, and if possible their family members, in order to gain an understanding of the behavior of children. The health care professional will also meet with the patient's teachers and review their current home and work settings.
The American Psychiatric Association provides clinical guidelines to diagnose ADHD in its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition. In general, to be diagnosed with the inattentive form of ADHD, an individual must exhibit at least six symptoms of inattention that are severe enough to affect their life. To be diagnosed with the hyperactive/impulsive type of ADHD, an individual must have six of the following symptoms:
A health care professional is usually able to determine if a person has ADHD by conducting a thorough psychiatric evaluation. This includes an in-depth interview with the person, his or her parents, and any other caregivers or teachers, in addition to answering questionnaires or scales. The health care professional will also review the person’s medical, psychiatric, and family history and refer the individual to a physical exam to determine if there are any other causes of symptoms. The doctor will also examine the person's sleep patterns, diet, and work and home environments to assess stressors which could be contributing to their symptoms.
Diagnosis
If you suspect that you may have ADHD it is essential to consult a medical provider who specializes in the disorder. Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and their impact on your daily life. They'll be interested in knowing how many times you have difficulties finishing tasks or losing items or forget where you put your keys, and whether these issues cause stress at home, at work or in relationships. Your doctor will also review your medical history and physical exam. This information can help your doctor rule out other conditions that could mimic the symptoms associated with ADHD like sleep disorders, depression, anxiety or thyroid problems.
It's likely that your health care professional will interview family members, friends and other caregivers regarding your behavior. They'll also discuss your behavior in different situations, like at school and work or with your religious or scout leaders. You may be asked to take self-tests to identify your symptoms. These are available online, however, they shouldn't be used to replace an in-person visit with your doctor.
For adults, a diagnosis of ADHD requires that you meet the threshold of symptoms lower than for kids - five out of nine symptoms over an entire six-month period. Additionally, you must be able demonstrate a significant impact in your work, school 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 usually examine the way your brain functions and may help determine if you have coexisting mental disorders such as anxiety or depression.
When you are diagnosed with ADHD as an adult, it may create a variety of emotions. Matlen's emotions ranged from grief at missed opportunities to relief she had a reason for her troubles. Consult your doctor or local support group to refer you to a health professional who can conduct ADHD evaluations on adults. You can also contact your insurance company to find out the providers that are listed.
Treatment
For many people with ADHD medication is the first treatment option. Stimulants like methylphenidate or amphetamine work by increasing or balancing the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain which regulate behavior and attention. read review can help those with ADHD concentrate and remain well-organized. They can also manage their impulses and make more rational decisions, improve communication, and lessen the risk of impulsive behavior.
There are also nonstimulant medications such as atomoxetine, and antidepressants that are slower than stimulants, but may still be effective for people suffering from ADHD. The type of medication which is best for a person may change as time passes. It is essential to discuss with the medical professional who is in the process of evaluating all options.
A health professional with experience in ADHD will conduct an assessment that consists of an interview with the person in addition to the answers to questionnaires and scales by the individual as well as an examination of the family history of mood disorders, as well as medical conditions, including sleep disorders and physical ailments. A appointment to a medical exam can also be recommended to rule out medical reasons for the ADHD symptoms.
The assessment will likely to take some time, especially in the case of an adult who has struggled to cope with symptoms for a long time. The evaluation should be as comprehensive as possible, which means that the person should bring copies of performance assessments from their workplace or school and other documents such as old report cards. The healthcare professional can request permission to speak with relatives or close friends to get a full picture of the individual's previous experiences and behaviours.
A diagnosis of ADHD in adults can have a profound impact on their lives. Many people experience a range of emotions, ranging from relief to finally having an answer to their problems, to a sense of grief at the lost opportunities and relationships resulting from untreated ADHD. Matlen however, claims that after receiving a diagnosis she was able to make a change in her life, including in her career and her relationships.
Counseling
Many people suffering from ADHD find that getting help from a therapist is an essential step. Finding the right therapist could be difficult. There are a variety of methods to locate a therapist in your area. Request your physician to refer you. They may have a list with specialists who are skilled in treating ADHD. You can also search online. There are many websites that provide directories of doctors, and provide details on their areas of expertise and specialty. Another option is to seek a recommendation from your friends or family members. You can also contact your local mental health center or an ADHD support group for recommendations.
If you visit an experienced therapist in treating ADHD it is crucial to be as transparent as possible. This involves discussing the ways in which ADHD symptoms affect your life and the effect they have on others. It's also important to discuss your medical history. This will help your counselor rule out any other conditions that could be causing similar symptoms, for example depression or anxiety.
The therapist will also conduct interviews and utilize standardized scales to gauge the severity of symptoms. The therapist may solicit input from other caregivers, like teachers or Scout and religious leaders, to get a clear image of the individual's behavior in various settings.
Adults with ADHD might be dissatisfied and embarrassed by their problems and may be reluctant to talk about them. This can affect the accuracy of the assessment and the accuracy of the diagnosis. A therapist with experience in working with adults with ADHD is usually able to help them overcome these barriers.
It is also important to realize that being diagnosed with ADHD does not mean that the therapy provider will immediately prescribe medication. While some people who suffer from ADHD require medication but there are plenty of other treatment options that are effective, including the use of behavioral therapy. These methods of treatment can be used alongside medication or as a stand-alone treatment.
