How to Get a Diagnosis of ADHD
A diagnosis of ADHD is a difficult one for many adults. Some people feel relieved that they finally understand their struggles and others feel grief because they missed out on opportunities in their lives due to symptoms that remained untreated for so long.
A health care provider or mental health professional can diagnose ADHD by analyzing the mood of a person as well as their past and current mental and physical health conditions as well as their childhood behavior and school experiences. The test usually includes ADHD symptom checklists and the standardized scales of rating.
Symptoms
People with ADHD struggle to complete tasks that require mental energy over time or paying attention to specifics. Most of the time, these issues stem from other underlying problems like depression or substance abuse disorders. The first step in controlling symptoms that cause havoc on both a personal and professional scale is to get a valid ADHD diagnosis.
The signs of ADHD typically begin in childhood and continue into adulthood. To be diagnosed with ADHD, symptoms must result in significant impairment in at least two aspects of one's life (home, school and work). For adhd diagnoses to be considered to meet this requirement, they must have lasted at least six months and cannot be explained by other mental disorders, such as mood disorders, anxiety disorder dissociative disorder, personality disorders.
In addition to looking into the patient's symptoms as well as their health history, the healthcare professional will also review their medical history and mental health history. He or she will talk to the patient, and if possible their family members, in order to gain an understanding of childhood behavior. The health care professional will also meet with the patient's teacher and review their current home and work environments.
The American Psychiatric Association provides clinical guidelines to diagnose ADHD in its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition. To be diagnosed with the inattentive form of ADHD, one must exhibit six or less symptoms of inattention that are severe enough to hinder their daily activities. To be diagnosed with the hyperactive/impulsive type of ADHD, an individual must have six of the following symptoms:
A thorough psychiatric evaluation is usually enough for a health professional to identify someone with ADHD. This will include an extensive interview with the person and their family members and any caregivers or teachers, as well as taking the time to complete questionnaires and scales. The health professional may also examine the person's medical, psychiatric and family history and refer the person to a physical exam in order to rule out any other causes of symptoms. He or she will examine the person's sleep patterns, diet, and workplace and home environments to identify stressors that may be causing their symptoms.
Diagnosis
If you think that you might have ADHD, you should consult a specialist doctor in the field. Your doctor will inquire about your symptoms and the impact on your life. They'll want to know if you are struggling to complete tasks, if you frequently lose things, or are unable to remember where you left your keys. They may also ask a question about whether or not these problems cause you stress at home, work, or in relationships. Your doctor will also go over your medical history and physical examination. This information will allow them to rule out other conditions that could be similar to the symptoms of ADHD, such as depression, sleep disorders, anxiety, or a thyroid problem.
It's likely that your healthcare professional will ask family members or other caregivers regarding your behavior. They will also discuss your behavior in different settings such as at work, school or with scouts or religious leaders. Your doctor may also request that you fill out a self-test or rating scale to assess your symptoms. You can find these online, but they shouldn't be used as a substitute for a face-to-face appointment with your physician.
Adults must meet a lower threshold than children in order to be diagnosed with ADHD -- five of nine symptoms over the course of six months. Additionally, you must be able to show significant impact in your school, work as well as your home life.
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 examine the way your brain functions and will determine if you are coexisting mental disorders like anxiety or depression.
Receiving a diagnosis of ADHD as an adult can bring up complicated emotions. The emotions of Matlen ranged from anger over missed opportunities to relief that she found a clear explanation for her troubles. Ask your doctor or a local support group for a referral to a health care professional who performs ADHD assessments for adults. You can also contact your insurance provider to determine the providers that are listed.
Treatment
For many people suffering from ADHD treatment is the first option for treatment. The stimulants methylphenidate and amphetamine boost or regulate levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters, which regulate attention and behavior. They can help some people with ADHD concentrate and remain organized. They can also manage their impulses and make more rational decisions improve communication, and reduce the impulsive behavior.
There are also nonstimulant medicines such as atomoxetine and certain antidepressants that are slower than stimulants but can still be effective for patients with ADHD. The kind of medication that is most effective for a particular person can change over time, which is why it is essential to discuss all possibilities with the medical professional who conducts the test.
A health care professional who has expertise in ADHD will conduct an assessment that consists of an interview with the patient in addition to the answering questionnaires and completing scales by the person and an examination of family history, mood disorders and medical conditions, such as sleep disorders and physical ailments. A appointment to a medical exam can also be recommended to rule out any medical reasons for the ADHD symptoms.
It is likely that the evaluation will take some time. This is especially the case in the case of an adult who has had to struggle to deal with symptoms for several years. The evaluation should be as thorough as possible, which implies that the individual should bring copies of performance evaluations from their workplace or school and other information such as old report cards. The healthcare professional can request permission to speak to relatives or close friends to gain a more complete picture of the person's past experiences and behavior.
A diagnosis of ADHD in adults can have a profound impact on their lives. It is common for people to feel an array of emotions, from relief at finding a clear explanation for their struggles to grief over lost opportunities and relationships that have been damaged due to untreated ADHD. Matlen, however, says that following the diagnosis, she was able to make a change in her life, including her work and relationships.
Counseling
Many people suffering from ADHD need assistance from a therapist can be an essential step. Finding the right therapist isn't always straightforward. Luckily, there are several ways to find a specialist in your area. Ask your doctor to refer you. He or she may have a list of specialists who are skilled in treating ADHD. You can also check on the internet. There are numerous websites that offer directories of doctors and include information on their areas of focus and specialty. Asking family members or friends for suggestions is another option. You can also contact your local mental health center, or an ADHD support group to receive suggestions.
It is essential to be honest when you visit an experienced therapist who has experience treating ADHD. It is crucial to discuss the ways that ADHD symptoms impact your life and the lives of other people. It is also essential to discuss your medical history. This allows the therapist to determine if you have any conditions like depression or anxiety that can have similar symptoms.
The therapist will also conduct interviews and utilize standardized scales to gauge the severity of symptoms. The therapist could also solicit other caregivers to provide their feedback, such as religious leaders, teachers, or scout and scout leaders in order to get an accurate picture of the behavior of a person in different situations.
Adults suffering from ADHD might feel overwhelmed and irritated by their issues and be reluctant to talk about them. This can impact the accuracy and reliability of the diagnosis. A therapist who has experience in working with adults suffering from ADHD is usually able to assist them in overcoming these obstacles.
It is also important to understand that a diagnosis of ADHD does not mean the therapist will automatically prescribe medication. While some individuals who suffer from ADHD do need to take medication but there are plenty of other treatment options that can be efficient, such as treatment for behavioral issues. These treatments can be used with medication or as standalone treatments.
