How to Get a Diagnosis of ADHD
For many adults, a diagnosis of ADHD can be a challenge. Some people feel relieved at finally being able to recognize their challenges, while others feel remorse for having missed out on opportunities in life because of the symptoms that went untreated for so long.
A health professional or mental health professional can determine ADHD by looking at a person's current mood and past mental and medical health issues and their behavior during childhood and school experience. The test usually includes ADHD symptoms checklists and the standardized rating scales.
Signs and symptoms
People suffering from ADHD struggle to complete tasks that require a lot of mental effort or paying attention to the details. These issues are often caused by other underlying issues such as depression or substance abuse disorders. The first step in tackling the symptoms that cause trouble at a personal as well as professional level is to get a valid ADHD diagnosis.
ADHD symptoms usually begin in childhood and persist throughout adulthood. To be eligible for an diagnosis of the disorder and be diagnosed with it, their symptoms must interfere with their daily life in two or more areas (home, school and work) and cause significant impairment. To meet the criteria they must last for at least six months and cannot be caused by mental disorders like anxiety disorders, mood disorders, dissociative disorder or personality disorders.
The health care professional will also look over the patient's mental and medical history. They will also talk with the person, and if possible their family members, to gain a perspective on childhood behavior. The health care professional 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 diagnosing ADHD. In general, to be diagnosed with the type of inattention of ADHD an individual must have at least six inattention-related symptoms that are serious enough to affect their life functioning. To be diagnosed with the hyperactive/impulsive type of ADHD, an individual must have six of the following symptoms:
A health care professional will usually determine if a person has ADHD through an exhaustive psychiatric examination. This involves a thorough interview with the person as well as his or her parents, and any caregivers or teachers, in addition to completing scales or questionnaires. The health care professional will also look over the individual's medical, psychiatric and family histories and may refer the individual for a physical examination to rule out other reasons for their symptoms. He or she will examine the individual's sleep patterns, diet, and workplace and home environments to identify stressors that could be contributing to their symptoms.
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If you suspect that you may be suffering from ADHD, you should consult a doctor who is an expert in the field of ADHD. Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and their impact on your life. They'll be interested in knowing how many times you have trouble finishing tasks and how often you misplace items or forget where you put your keys, and if these issues create stress at work, home, or in relationships. Your doctor will also review your medical history and conduct a physical exam. This information will aid your doctor in determining other conditions which may mimic the symptoms of ADHD, such a depression, sleep disorders anxiety, thyroid issues or depression.
Your health professional could interview family members, caregivers and friends about your behavior. They'll also talk about your behavior in various situations, like at school and work or with your religious or scout leaders. Your doctor might also request that you fill out self-tests or a rating scale to evaluate your symptoms. These are available online but should not be used in lieu of a face-toface interview with your physician.
Adults must have a lower threshold than children to be diagnosed with ADHD that is five out of nine symptoms in a six-month time period. You will also need to be able to show significant impact on your school, work as well as your 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 examine the way your brain functions, and can determine if there are any mental disorders that coexist, such as depression or anxiety.
Receiving a diagnosis of ADHD as an adult can trigger complicated emotions. The emotions of Matlen ranged from sadness at missed opportunities to relief she could pinpoint a cause for her troubles. Ask your doctor or a local support group for a referral to a health specialist who conducts ADHD assessments for adults. You can also contact your insurance company to learn which providers are included on its list.
Treatment
The medication is often the first option for a lot of patients suffering from ADHD. Stimulants such as methylphenidate and amphetamine function by increasing or balancing neurotransmitters in the brain that regulate attention and behavior. They can help some people with ADHD focus better and stay organized and in control of their impulses. They can also help them make more rational choices, improve communication and relationships, and reduce impulsive behaviors.
Nonstimulant medicines, such as atomoxetine, or some antidepressants perform slower than stimulants. However they can be effective in treating people with ADHD. The kind of medication that works best for an individual will change as time passes. It is important to discuss with the health professional conducting the evaluation all options.
A health specialist with experience in ADHD will conduct a thorough assessment. This includes an interview, the submission 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 medical reasons for the ADHD symptoms.
The assessment will likely take some time, especially in the case of an adult who has struggled to cope with symptoms for a long period of time. The assessment should be thorough which is why the person should bring old report cards and copies of their performance evaluations from school or at work. The healthcare professional may request permission to speak with close family members or acquaintances to gain an understanding of the person's past behavior and experiences.
A diagnosis of ADHD in adults can be life-changing. People typically experience a variety 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, claims that following the diagnosis, she was able make changes in her life, including her career and relationships.
Counseling
Getting help from a counselor is an important step for many people with ADHD. Finding more info may be challenging. Fortunately, there are many ways to locate a specialist in your area. Start by asking your doctor for a referral. He or she may have an extensive list of specialists who are acquainted with ADHD and can treat it effectively. You can also look online. There are numerous websites which list doctors, as well as information on their specialties as well as areas of interest. Another alternative is to request a recommendation from your friends or family members. You can also contact your local mental health center, or an ADHD support group to get recommendations.
If you visit a therapist who is experienced in treating ADHD it is crucial to be as transparent as you can. This involves discussing how ADHD symptoms affect your life and the effect they have on other people. It is important to discuss your medical history. This allows the therapist to identify any illnesses such as anxiety or depression that could exhibit similar symptoms.
The therapist may also conduct interviews and employ standardized scales to measure the severity of the symptoms. The therapist could also ask for feedback from other caregivers, such as teachers or religious or scout leaders to get a clear image of the individual's behavior in different settings.
Adults suffering from ADHD might be dissatisfied and embarrassed by their symptoms and be reluctant to discuss their symptoms. This can affect the accuracy and validity of the diagnosis. A therapist who has worked with adults suffering from ADHD can help them overcome these challenges.
It is also important to understand that getting a diagnosis of ADHD does not mean the therapy provider will automatically prescribe medication. While certain people with ADHD may need to take medication however, behavioral therapy is an alternative option that can be very effective. These treatments can be used in conjunction with medication or as separate treatments.