Why We Do We Love Diagnose ADHD (And You Should, Too!)
How to Get a Diagnosis of ADHD
For many adults, a diagnosis of ADHD can be a challenge. Some feel relief in being able to recognize their challenges, while others feel remorse for having missed opportunities to live their lives due to symptoms that went untreated for so long.
A health professional or mental health professional can determine ADHD by looking at the person's mood and past medical and mental health conditions as well as their childhood behavior and school experiences. The assessment includes ADHD symptom scales and checklists.
Signs and symptoms
People suffering from ADHD are unable to complete tasks that require mental focus or focus on detail. These problems are usually caused by other underlying issues like depression or substance abuse disorders. The first step to control symptoms that cause havoc on a personal and professional scale is to get an accurate ADHD diagnosis.
Symptoms of ADHD typically begin in the early years of childhood and persist throughout adulthood. For a person to receive a diagnosis of the disorder and be diagnosed with it, their symptoms must interfere with their life in two or more areas (home school, home and work) and cause significant impairment. For symptoms to meet the criteria to be considered severe, they must have been present for at least six months and cannot be caused by other mental disorders, such as mood disorders, anxiety disorder dissociative disorder or personality disorders.
In addition to looking into the person's symptoms as well as their health history, the healthcare professional will review their medical history and mental health history. He or she will interview the person and in the event that it is possible, relatives to understand the perspective of the child's behavior. The health care provider may also look at the patient's current working and home environments, and discuss the patient's schooling with them.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition released by the American Psychiatric Association, provides guidelines for identifying ADHD. Generally, to be diagnosed with the inattentive form of ADHD, an individual must show at least six inattention-related symptoms that are severe 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 care professional is usually able to identify a person with ADHD through an extensive psychiatric assessment. This may include a lengthy interview with the person and their family members and any caregivers or teachers, in addition to completing scales and questionnaires. The health care provider will also review the person's psychiatric, medical and family histories and might refer the person to a physical exam in order to rule out other causes of his or her symptoms. The doctor will also examine the individual's sleep patterns, diet, and workplace and home environments to identify stressors that may be contributing their symptoms.
Diagnosis
If you suspect you might have ADHD it is essential to see a health care provider who specializes in the disorder. Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. They will be looking to find out 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 create stress at work, home, or in relationships. Your doctor will also look over your medical history and conduct a physical exam. This information can aid your doctor in determining other conditions which may mimic the symptoms associated with ADHD, such a sleep disorders, depression anxiety, thyroid issues or depression.
It's likely your healthcare professional will ask family members, friends and other caregivers regarding your behavior. They will also discuss your behavior in various settings such as at work, school or with scout or religious leaders. Your doctor may also ask you to fill out self-tests or a rating scale to assess your symptoms. They are available online, but they should not be used in lieu of the face-to-face consultation with your physician.
For adults, a diagnosis of ADHD requires you to meet a lower threshold of symptoms than kids -- five out of nine symptoms over the course of six months. You will also need to be able to show significant impact in your school, work, 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 works, and determine if there are any mental disorders that coexist, such as anxiety or depression.
When you are diagnosed with ADHD as an adult, it can result in a range of complex emotions. Matlen's emotions ranged from sadness over missed opportunities to relief that she finally had a solid reason for her problems. Consult your doctor or local support group to recommend you to a health professional who is able to conduct ADHD assessments on adults. You can also inquire with your insurance provider to find out which providers are included on its list.
Treatment
The medication is often the first choice for patients suffering from ADHD. Stimulants such as methylphenidate and amphetamine function by increasing or balancing levels of neurotransmitters in the brain that regulate behavior and attention. They can help some people who suffer from ADHD focus and stay well-organized. They can also manage their impulses and make more rational choices enhance communication, and lessen the impulsive behavior.
There are also nonstimulant medicines such as atomoxetine and certain antidepressants which work more slowly than stimulants, but can still be effective for some people with ADHD. The type of medication which is best for a person will change as time passes. It is crucial to discuss with the healthcare professional in the process of evaluating all options.
A health professional with expertise in ADHD will conduct a thorough assessment. This may include an interview, the submission of questionnaires, scales, and a review family history, mood disorders, and medical conditions like sleep disorders and other physical illnesses. A referral to a medical exam can also be recommended to rule out any medical causes for the ADHD symptoms.
It is likely that the evaluation will take a while. This is especially true in the case of an adult who has struggled to deal with symptoms for many years. The evaluation should be as comprehensive as possible, which means that the patient 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 with close family members or friends to get more information about the person's previous behavior and experiences.
A diagnosis of ADHD in adults can have a profound impact on their lives. People often feel a mix of emotions, ranging from relief at finally having an explanation for their problems, to a sense of grief over the missed opportunities and relationships that result from untreated ADHD. Matlen however, claims that following the diagnosis, she was able to make positive changes in her life, including her career and relationships.
Counseling
Getting help from a counselor is a crucial step for many people with ADHD. Finding the right therapist is not always easy. There are adult adhd diagnoses to locate a specialist in the area. Start by asking your doctor for an appointment. They may have an extensive list of specialists who are experienced with ADHD and can treat it effectively. You can also search for them online. There are a variety of websites that list doctors, with details about their specialties and areas of expertise. Asking your family or friends for suggestions is another option. You can also call your local mental health clinic or an ADHD support group to get recommendations.
If adhd undiagnosed in adults visit an experienced therapist in treating ADHD, it is important to be as honest as you can. It is crucial to discuss the ways that ADHD symptoms impact your life and on others. It's also important to discuss your medical history, including your past history. This allows the therapist to rule out conditions such as anxiety or depression that may have similar symptoms.
In addition to observing the individual's behavior, the therapist will likely conduct interviews and use standard rating scales to assess the severity of symptoms. The therapist might solicit input from other caregivers, like teachers, religious and scout leaders, to get a clear picture of the person's behavior in various situations.
Adults suffering from ADHD often feel depressed and embarrassed by their issues and may be unwilling to talk about their issues. This can affect the accuracy of the assessment and the accuracy of the diagnosis. A therapist who has worked with adults who have ADHD can assist them in overcoming these obstacles.
It is also important to know that being diagnosed with ADHD does not mean that the counselor will automatically prescribe medication. While some people with ADHD do need to take medication however, there are a variety of treatment options that are successful, including behavioral therapy. These treatments can be used with medication or as standalone treatments.