How to Get a Diagnosis of ADHD
A diagnosis of ADHD is a difficult one for many adults. Some people feel relief that they have finally come to terms with their difficulties, while other people feel grief because they missed out on opportunities in their lives due to the symptoms that went untreated so long.
A mental health professional or health care provider can diagnose ADHD in a person's mood, their present and past mental and medical conditions, as well as their childhood behavior and experiences at school. The test usually includes ADHD symptoms checklists and the standardized rating scales.
Symptoms
People suffering from ADHD struggle to complete tasks that require a lot of mental effort or paying attention to details. In many cases, these problems are a result of other issues such as depression or substance abuse disorders. The first step in tackling the symptoms that cause trouble on both a personal and professional level is to get an accurate ADHD diagnosis.
The symptoms of ADHD generally begin in childhood and continue into adulthood. In order for a person to be granted a diagnosis of the disorder the symptoms must be interfering with their daily life in at least two areas (home, school and work) and cause significant impairment. To be eligible the symptoms must have been present for at least six months. They are not better explained by other mental disorders, such as mood disorders, anxiety disorders and dissociative disorders.
In addition to looking into the person's symptoms, the health care provider will also review their medical history and mental health history. He or she will interview the patient and when possible, relatives to gain a perspective on childhood behaviors. The health care provider may also review the patient's current workplace and home environment and speak with their teachers.
The American Psychiatric Association provides clinical guidelines for diagnosing 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 inattention symptoms that are severe enough to affect 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 assessment is usually enough for a health care professional to identify someone with ADHD. This may include a lengthy interview with the patient, his or her family members, caregivers and 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 to determine the cause of symptoms. He or she will examine the person's sleep patterns, diet, and the home and work environments to determine if stressors could be contributing to their symptoms.
Diagnosis
If you think that you may be suffering from ADHD and are concerned, you should speak to a doctor who is an expert in the disorder. Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and how they impact your daily life. They will want to know if have difficulty completing tasks, if you frequently lose items, or forget where you put your keys. They might also inquire about whether or not these problems cause you stress at home, work, or in relationships. Your doctor will also look over your medical history and physical examination. This information will help them determine if there are other conditions that could mimic the symptoms of ADHD like depression, sleep disorders, anxiety, or a thyroid problem.
Your health professional could interview caregivers, family members and friends regarding your behavior. They will also discuss your behavior in various situations, such as at work, school or with scout or religious leaders. Your doctor may also ask you to fill out an assessment or self-test to determine the severity of your symptoms. These are available online however, they shouldn't be used in lieu of a face-toface interview with your doctor.
For adults, a diagnosis of ADHD is based on an upper threshold of symptoms than for kids - five out of nine signs over a six-month period. You must also be able to show significant impact in your work, school, and 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 look at how your brain functions and will determine if you are mental disorders that coexist such as depression or anxiety.
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 finally had a solid explanation for her troubles. Consult your doctor or a local support group for a referral to a medical specialist who conducts ADHD evaluations in adults. adult adhd diagnosis uk can also inquire with your insurance provider to find out which providers are included on its list.
Treatment
For many people suffering from ADHD treatment is the first option for treatment. Drugs like amphetamine or methylphenidate increase or balance levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters, which regulate attention and behaviors. They can help some people with ADHD focus better and stay organized manage their impulses, make more rational decisions, improve communication and relationships, and decrease impulsive behavior.
Nonstimulant medicines, such as atomoxetine and certain antidepressants, are slower to work than stimulants. However, they can still be effective in treating people suffering from ADHD. The type of medication which is most effective for a particular person will change as time passes. It is essential to discuss with the health professional who is conducting the evaluation all possible options.
A medical professional with expertise in ADHD will conduct a thorough assessment. This will include an interview, the submission of scales, questionnaires and a review family history, mood disorders and medical conditions including sleep disorders, as well as other physical illnesses. A referral to a medical examination may also be included to rule out medical reasons for the ADHD symptoms.
The evaluation will likely to take some time, particularly in the case of an adult who has been struggling to cope with symptoms for a long time. The evaluation should be thorough which is why the person should bring their old report cards and copies of their performance assessments at school or at work. The healthcare professional might ask permission to speak to close friends or relatives to obtain a complete understanding of the individual's past experiences and behaviors.
For adults, receiving diagnosed with ADHD can be a life-changing event. People often feel a mix of emotions, from relief to finally have an explanation for their struggles, to grief at the loss of opportunities and relationships resulting from untreated ADHD. Matlen, however, says that after receiving a diagnosis she was able make changes in her life, including her career and her relationships.
Counseling
Many people with ADHD find that getting assistance from a therapist can be a crucial step. However, finding the right therapist may be challenging. There are many ways to find a specialist in the area. Start by asking your physician for a referral. He or she might have a list with specialists who are skilled in treating ADHD. You can also look online. There are many websites that have directories of doctors, and provide information on their areas of focus and specialization. Asking family members or friends for recommendations is another option. You can also contact your local mental health clinic, or an ADHD support group to receive suggestions.
When you see an experienced therapist in treating ADHD and other disorders, it is essential to be as honest as you can. It is important to discuss the ways in which ADHD symptoms impact your life as well as the lives of others. It is also essential to discuss your medical history. This helps the therapist rule out other conditions that may be causing similar symptoms, for example anxiety or depression.
In addition to observing an person's behavior, a therapy therapist may conduct interviews and employ standardized rating scales to assess the severity of symptoms. The therapist could also ask for input from other caregivers such as teachers or religious or scout leaders to obtain a complete image of the individual's behavior in different situations.
Adults suffering from ADHD might be overwhelmed and irritated by their symptoms and be reluctant to talk about the issues. This can compromise the quality of the assessment and the accuracy of the diagnosis. A therapist who has experience in working with adults with ADHD can generally assist them to overcome these obstacles.
It is important to know that the diagnosis of ADHD doesn't mean that a therapist will prescribe medication. While certain people with ADHD might require medication, behavioral therapy is another option that is extremely efficient. These treatments can be used with medication or as standalone treatments.