Getting Diagnosed With ADHD As an Adult
Many people suffer with mild or moderate ADHD. They may be diagnosed when their issues in their lives are serious enough to cause problems with relationships and work.
They may feel stressed at school or at work or embarrassed for putting off work. You can ask your primary care physician for recommendations or search on the internet for health professionals who conduct ADHD assessments.
What is the Diagnosis process?
The process of diagnosis begins by conducting a thorough interview which focuses on the medical history of the patient. This includes the history of their family as well as major life events such as relationships, school and work performance as well as drug and driving records. It also covers lifestyle habits like diet, sleep, and exercise, as in addition to any vitamins or supplements the individual is taking.
The physician then reviews the patient's symptoms and compares these to the diagnostic criteria defined by the American Psychiatric Association in its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). These include symptoms of inattention and impulsivity that are present for at least six months, are significant enough to cause problems with work or school and are not better explained by a different mental health disorder. For adults, the threshold is lower: five out of nine criteria must be met for a diagnosis.
A physical exam is usually next, as certain illnesses like thyroid issues and seizure disorders may cause ADHD-like symptoms. This test helps the physician identify possible causes. It also helps them create a "suspects list" which they can then analyze by conducting additional tests. The tests could range from brain imaging to blood tests to cognitive tests. They can take some time but are essential to make sure that your doctor doesn't miss a problem that could be at the root of your ADHD symptoms.
Once the list has been reduced to a specific list, a final diagnosis can be established. The doctor will go over the results and suggest treatment based on their findings. A diagnosis can be a life-altering event for many. It can make sense of years of unexplained struggles and difficulties, which were sometimes unfairly attributed to laziness or incompetence. how is adhd diagnosed in adults helps individuals to understand their strengths and how to utilize them. Others may feel some regret as they reflect on the opportunities missed due to their symptoms not being addressed.
If you'd like to be diagnosed with ADHD, it is best to seek a specialist evaluation on the NHS that will include a full mental health evaluation and an ADHD assessment, plus an appointment with your GP for shared management. It isn't always easy to get a diagnosis privately however, some GPs will be willing to evaluate your ADHD in the event that you're willing to pay for a private appointment.
What are the Symptoms?
Adults who suffer from ADHD are often able to manage their symptoms and live productive and satisfying lives. However, if their symptoms become severe, they can struggle to find work, maintain healthy relationships, and deal with the stress of day-to-day life. They might also face issues with finances due to delayed appointments with doctors, missed doctor appointments, fees, or an impulsive spending. This can lead them to feel that they are failing and feel low self-esteem.
It's important to speak with your doctor if you think that you may suffer from ADHD as you grow older. They can offer guidance on the best treatment options and can refer you to a specialist, if needed. Your healthcare professional will diagnose you using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders that is a book that lists symptoms of mental health disorders.
To be diagnosed with ADHD, you must have experienced several inattentive symptoms and five or more of the hyperactivity-impulsivity symptoms before age 12. The symptoms should also be present in more than one setting and affect your ability to perform at school, work or socially.
Inattention symptoms include forgetting details or instructions, and difficulty paying attention. They may also cause you to lose things such as eyeglasses, keys, and paperwork. Hyperactivity-impulsive symptoms include fidgeting or tapping feet, leaving your seat in situations when it's not appropriate, talking too much, or feeling restless.
A person suffering from ADHD is also prone to having difficulty following a schedule, staying organized or finishing chores and homework. They may also have trouble remembering appointments or dates and they can be easily distracted by other people or their activities.
A diagnosis of ADHD is empowering, as it helps you realize that your issues aren't your fault. It is then possible to alter your habits and improve the way you handle time, money and tasks. You can also learn strategies to help manage your symptoms. In addition to medication, your health care professional might suggest lifestyle changes, including eating a balanced diet and consistent exercise. It is also essential to sleep enough and avoid caffeine, sugar, and other stimulants in the hours prior to bedtime.
What is the treatment procedure?
Being diagnosed with ADHD as an adult often requires more than simply finding the appropriate medication. The people who suffer from this condition also have to change their behavior and lifestyles, and they may need counseling to help cope with their symptoms.
If an adult decides to a doctor to get an ADHD assessment, they must be honest about any problems in their lives that could be linked to the disorder, such as relationship issues and trouble at work or school. They will likely be asked to complete an application for information regarding these areas, and might be granted permission to have their family members or close friends fill out the same. The answers could be an excellent source of information on whether a person's issues are caused by ADHD or by other factors, such as physical or psychological conditions such as depression.
The evaluator also takes into consideration the history of the individual especially their childhood experiences, as well as any traumas they might have suffered. The examiner may ask the person to fill out one or more of the behavioral ratings scales that are standardized, which compare the behaviors of those with ADHD and those who don't. Psychological tests can be administered to measure executive function, working memory and spatial and visual abilities.
A healthcare professional will recommend an adult suffering from ADHD to a specialist that is familiar with the disorder. People can find these specialists by asking their primary care doctor to refer them or searching for a mental health professional who is knowledgeable about ADHD in the online directory of their health insurance plan. They can also attend a local support group for adults with ADHD and speak with others who have been through similar experiences.
The diagnosis of ADHD can cause a range of emotions among adults, including relief and frustration at not being diagnosed earlier. Some individuals may even feel guilt over not having make more effort or achieve better results in their lives. However, this feeling can be quelled by recognizing that their difficulties are not the result of their own fault and finding the correct treatment options to improve their lives.
What is the Support Process?
When an adult gets diagnosed with ADHD, they may have a range of complicated emotions, including happiness that they have finally found an answer to their issues, sadness over missed opportunities that could have been prevented through a earlier diagnosis, or resentment at the fact that their condition has been overlooked for too long. The treatment you receive can help you overcome your challenges and reach your goals. It's essential to talk to a health care professional who has experience treating adults with ADHD. They can help you establish realistic goals, devise effective strategies for improving your everyday life, and get family members on the same page.
You could try to self-test or rate yourself on online questionnaires, but these tools aren't able to give you a definitive diagnosis. Asking your primary care doctor for a referral to an ADHD specialist or using the online directory of your health insurance company to find a doctor who has experience treating adults is the best method to get a proper diagnosis.
It is important to collect any relevant documents for your situation once you have identified a medical professional. These could include old school report cards and copies of psychological tests, and performance evaluations at work. Be prepared to answer any questions regarding your work-related symptoms and at home, your use of alcohol or drugs as well as your relationships relations with family and friends. You may also be required to carry the records of other professionals such as a neurologist or psychologist, or a psychiatrist.
Adults seeking a diagnosis for ADHD typically struggle to function well in both their personal and professional life and want to know what's happening. They might notice that their performance is sagging or their relationships are becoming strained or they may experience persistent mood swings that don't appear to be attributed to other causes.
It isn't easy for some people to obtain an assessment, as health professionals have preconceived notions about what ADHD symptoms look like. This is especially true for minorities, people born females, and non-native English speaking individuals. However, there is increasing awareness of these biases and efforts to overcome them.