Diagnosing Adult ADHD Explained In Fewer Than 140 Characters
Diagnosing Adult ADHD
The process of diagnosing adult ADHD is more difficult than diagnosing ADHD in a child. Most symptom checklists used in children are useless for adults.
A thorough assessment with an therapist, psychologist or psychiatrist is typically required. Past school or work records may be reviewed as well. Counseling can be beneficial to co-workers, family members and friends.
Symptoms
ADHD can cause issues at school and at work. They are unable to keep track of deadlines and assignments. how to diagnose adhd in adults lose things and forget appointments and medical instructions. They may be impulsive and risk their health by skipping meals, or avoiding medication that they require. They tend to react to stress in an overly emotional way and have trouble in focusing or interpreting the moods and behaviors of other people.
Those with ADHD struggle to stay on task and can easily get bored by boring tasks. They are more likely to be distracted or "zoning out" without realizing it and especially when other people are talking. They are often inattentive and don't respond to questions, making them seem indifferent or aloof. They aren't able to follow instructions and recalling specifics which can lead to mistakes and incomplete work. They may also get bored quickly and seek out new tasks or challenges.
Adults suffering from ADHD often have trouble in relationships and feel they're not keeping up with their friends and family. They may have trouble managing their money, which can lead them to impulse purchases and debt. Inability to adhere to rules, complete paperwork and meet deadlines can affect their job. They may not be able to control their time well and frequently leave work before they've completed. They may be unable to get along with their co-workers and supervisors due to their tempers that are short and their inability to listen to other people.
Adults suffering from ADHD do not display the same physical signs as hyperactive children, such fidgeting and tapping their feet. Their restlessness may be more subtle, for instance when they check their watch or having difficulty sitting still during a meeting. Their disorganized and sloppy performance could result in financial issues and loss of jobs.
Anyone who is suffering from symptoms of ADHD should visit a primary care provider. He or she will assess their symptoms and refer them on to an expert in mental health. Additionally, the doctor will ask about their medical history and if they are taking any medication that may interact with stimulants.
Family History
If someone is diagnosed with ADHD as adults it can be a shock to discover that they've lived with the condition for a long time and have been unable to manage their lives. They may have experienced embarrassing situations, been called "lazy," "irresponsible" or "stupid," or been blamed for issues they could not help. These issues could have led them to face difficulties in their relationships, careers, or education.
After a thorough examination and a detailed medical history of the patient, a qualified mental health professional or doctor can determine if the patient has adult adhd. This should include observation of the person's behavior in various situations and obtaining information from significant others such as family members and friends. The physician should also consider the medical and family histories of the patient.
Many women are misdiagnosed as having ADHD because the symptoms of ADHD for women are different from the symptoms experienced by males. Women with ADHD are more likely to display inattention symptoms such as trouble being focused and retaining information and are less likely to display excessive impulsivity or hyperactivity. These characteristics could make it more difficult for women who suffer from ADHD to navigate the workplace and their relationships.
Obtaining a full family history is critical for diagnosing ADHD in adulthood because the symptoms of the disorder typically persist throughout the course of one's the course of. The person's history must show that the symptoms have been present since childhood and have had an impact on their functioning at school, work, in relationships, and in other areas.
If the symptoms of a patient aren't severe enough to warrant diagnosis, the physician will need to investigate other conditions that may cause similar symptoms, like mood disorders and learning disorders. A complete medical exam should be conducted along with the psychiatric examination.
There isn't a routine blood test or imaging test to determine adhd in adults. A healthcare professional can offer the person they are working with a screening test to assess attention, distraction and short-term memory as well as concentration. They may also ask them to take tests to assess executive functions, such as planning, organizing and time management.
Medical History
Some adults aren't diagnosed with ADHD because their parents and teachers did not recognize the symptoms as children, so they were misdiagnosed or they managed with ease until they reached adulthood, at which point academic or occupational demands increased. Some adults are diagnosed later in life when they see their problems becoming in the way of work or relationships, or they are seeking assistance to deal with their issues at home or at work. A doctor will examine the medical background of the patient to determine if there is a family or personal history that suggests depression, anxiety or other mental health issues. A health specialist will also look for head injuries, thyroid disorders, drug or alcohol use as well as other physical illnesses which can trigger similar symptoms.
Adults suffering from ADHD are characterized by impulsivity, hyperactivity, and inattention. The person who suffers from these issues is at the workplace, at home or at school, and in social situations. Adults are more likely than children to experience symptoms of hyperactivity versus inattention. The symptoms of inattention can result in difficulty organizing, forgetting appointments or having difficulty keeping track of various tasks at home and at work. Hyperactive and impulsive behaviors can cause difficulties managing anger, frustration, or impatience while waiting in line, driving in traffic or making quick decisions or being impatient.
Studies have shown that genetics play a role in the development of ADHD. Many non-genetic causes are also linked to ADHD. This includes low birthweight, premature births as well as exposure to toxins such smoking or drinking alcohol while pregnant, and stress in the early years of childhood.
Often, a person's symptoms are treated by medication such as stimulants. It is crucial for the health professional to know the other medications a patient may be taking, since certain medications can interact with certain stimulants. A psychiatric or behavioral health professional will talk about the various options available to the patient. Patients suffering from ADHD should inform their physician of any other medical or mental treatment they receive, for example talk therapy or self-help techniques. They can also inquire about participating in a clinical trial of new treatment options for ADHD.
Psychological Evaluation
A licensed psychologist will conduct a psychological examination to determine if an adult suffers from ADHD. This involves a clinical interview and review of relevant documents. The evaluator will question the person to describe their behavior, symptoms, and how they function in different settings such as school, home and at work. It is important that a person being evaluated discusses the issues openly, without holding back because of embarrassment or fear. This will help the doctor gain a complete understanding of the individual's functioning and problems.
The evaluator may also speak to close family members or acquaintances with the person, like a spouse, significant other, parents, or siblings. They are asked to assess the person's behavior using standardized rating scales based on research on how the behaviors of those with ADHD compare with those of people who do not have ADHD. These ratings are not considered diagnostic in themselves, but they do provide important information about the individual and their issues.
In addition to the interview with the patient and additional questionnaires The evaluator will typically examine relevant documents, such as old report cards, grades or copies of performance reviews in the workplace. They are used to pinpoint areas where an individual is struggling, such as academic achievement as well as work performance and social interactions. These are the areas where symptoms of ADHD have the most impact on the functioning of an individual.
Depending on the issue that is being examined, an evaluator might choose to take additional psychological, neuropsychological, or learning disability tests. These tests do not diagnose ADHD however, they could provide valuable information to the person evaluating to determine if there are any co-existing conditions like anxiety or depression.
When seeking a psychologist to conduct a psychological assessment, it is helpful for the person to choose a psychologist who specializes in adults with ADHD. It is also a good idea to ask the person's primary doctor for a referral or to call an area mental health clinic that provides ADHD services, a university-based hospital or a graduate school in psychology to get suggestions. There are many insurance plans that have lists of providers based on the area of expertise. Professionals who are certified are more than willing to share information on their expertise and training in the evaluation of adults with ADHD. Refusal to provide this information should be seen as a red flag, and the person should look for an alternative provider.