How to Get a Diagnosis of ADHD
For many adults, being diagnosed of ADHD isn't easy to accept. Some feel relief at finally realizing their struggles, whereas others feel grief that they missed opportunities to live their lives because of the symptoms that went untreated for so long.
A mental health specialist or health care professional can diagnose ADHD by analyzing a person's mood, their past and current medical and mental conditions and their childhood behaviour and school experiences. The assessment usually includes ADHD symptoms checklists as well as the standardized rating scales.
Symptoms
People suffering from ADHD struggle to complete tasks that require concentration or focus on detail. These problems are usually caused by other underlying conditions such as depression or substance abuse disorders. Getting a proper diagnosis of ADHD is the first step towards getting control of symptoms that cause havoc in personal and professional life.
The signs of ADHD generally begin in childhood and last into adulthood. To be eligible for a diagnosis of the disorder, their symptoms must interfere with their life in two or more areas (home school, work and home) and cause significant impairment. For symptoms to meet the criteria to be considered severe, they must have been present for at least six month and cannot be caused by other mental disorders like mood disorders, anxiety disorder dissociative disorder or personality disorders.
The health care provider will also look over the patient's medical and mental history. They will also talk to the person and in the event that it is possible, family members to gain a perspective on childhood behaviors. The health care provider will also meet with the patient's teachers and review their current home and work settings.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition published by the American Psychiatric Association, provides guidelines for identifying ADHD. In general, in order to be diagnosed with the inattentive type of ADHD, a person must have at least six inattention-related symptoms that are serious enough to affect their daily functioning. To be diagnosed with the hyperactive/impulsive type of ADHD, an individual must have six of the following symptoms:
A health professional can usually identify a person suffering from ADHD by conducting an exhaustive psychiatric examination. This will include a thorough interview with the person, his or her parents, as well as any caregivers or educators, as well answering questionnaires or scales. The health care provider will also look over the individual's medical, psychiatric and family history and may refer the patient to a physical exam in order to rule out possible causes for his or her symptoms. He or she will examine the person's sleeping patterns, diet, and the home and work environments to identify stressors that could be contributing to their symptoms.
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If you think you may have ADHD it is recommended that you consult a doctor who is an expert in the field. Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and the effects on your life. They will be looking to find out if you have difficulty completing tasks, if you frequently lose things, or if you forget where you put your keys. They may ask whether or not these problems create stress at work, home or in relationships. Your doctor will also look over your medical history and physical examination. This information will help your doctor rule out other conditions which may mimic the symptoms of ADHD, such a sleep disorders, depression anxiety, thyroid issues or depression.
Your health care professional may interview family members, caregivers, and friends regarding your behavior. They'll also talk about your behavior in various environments, such as at school and work or with your scout or religious leaders. Your doctor may also request that you fill out an assessment or self-test to determine the severity of your symptoms. These are available online, but should not be used to replace an in-person visit with your doctor.
Adults must meet a lower threshold than children in order to be diagnosed with ADHD that is five out of nine symptoms in a six-month time period. You'll also need to have a significant impact on 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 usually look at the ways your brain functions and help determine if you have co-existing mental disorders, such as anxiety or depression.
If you're diagnosed with ADHD as an adult, it may create a variety of emotions. The emotions of Matlen ranged from sadness at missed opportunities to relief that she had a concrete reason for her troubles. Ask your doctor or local support group to send you to a medical professional who can perform ADHD assessments on adults. You can also call your insurance provider to determine which providers are listed.
Treatment
Medication is often the first option for many people with ADHD. Stimulants like methylphenidate or amphetamine boost or balance levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters which regulate attention and behavior. They can help people who suffer from ADHD concentrate and remain organized. They also help control their impulses and make more rational decisions enhance communication, and reduce impulsive behavior.
There are also nonstimulant medications such as atomoxetine and certain antidepressants that work slower than stimulants but can still be effective for some patients with ADHD. The kind of medication that works best for an individual may change as time passes. It is crucial to discuss with the health professional in the process of evaluating all options.
A medical professional with expertise in ADHD will conduct a thorough assessment. This includes an interview, the completion of scales, questionnaires, and a review of family history, mood disorders, and medical conditions, including sleep disorders, and other physical ailments. A appointment to a medical exam can also be recommended to rule out any medical reasons for the ADHD symptoms.
The evaluation is likely to take some time, especially in the case of an adult who has struggled to cope with symptoms for a long time. The assessment should be thorough and therefore, the patient should bring their old reports and copies of their performance evaluations at work or school. The healthcare professional can request permission to speak with close family members or friends to gain a more complete picture of the individual's previous experiences and behaviours.
A diagnosis of ADHD in adults can be life-changing. It is normal for people to experience a mixture of emotions, from relief at finally getting a reason for their issues to sadness over the loss of opportunities and relationships that have been damaged due to untreated ADHD. Matlen however, claims that after receiving a diagnosis she was able to make a change in her life, which included her work and relationships.
Counseling
Many people with ADHD find that getting help from a therapist is an essential step. Finding the right therapist isn't always straightforward. Luckily, there are several ways to find a specialist in your area. Begin by asking your regular doctor for the referral. He or she may have a list with specialists who have experience treating ADHD. You can also try looking online. There are numerous websites that list doctors, including information on their specialties as well as areas of interest. Another option is to ask for a recommendation from friends or family members. You can also contact your local mental health clinic, or an ADHD support group for recommendations.
If you visit an experienced therapist in treating ADHD it is crucial to be as honest as possible. It is crucial to discuss the ways in which ADHD affects your life and on others. It is also essential to discuss your medical history, including your past history. This helps the therapist rule out other conditions that might be causing similar symptoms, like anxiety or depression.
In addition to monitoring an person's behavior, a therapy therapist may conduct interviews and use standard rating scales to gauge the severity of symptoms. The therapist could also ask other caregivers to provide their feedback, such as religious leaders, teachers or scouts and scout leaders to get a true picture of the behavior of an individual in various situations.
Adults suffering from ADHD might feel dissatisfied and embarrassed by their issues and be reluctant to discuss 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 generally able to help them overcome these barriers.
It is also important to realize that a diagnosis of ADHD does not mean the counselor will automatically prescribe medication. While certain individuals who suffer from ADHD might require medication, behavioral therapy is another option that can be extremely effective. These treatments can be used alongside medication or as stand-alone treatments.