How to Get a Diagnosis of ADHD
A diagnosis of ADHD is a difficult one for many adults. Some people feel relieved at finally realizing their struggles, whereas others are sad that they have missed out on opportunities in life because of the symptoms that were not treated for a long time.
A mental health specialist or health care professional can diagnose ADHD based on the mood of a person, their previous and current mental and physical ailments and their childhood behavior and experiences at school. The assessment usually includes ADHD symptom checklists and standardized rating scales.
Signs and symptoms
People suffering from ADHD struggle to accomplish tasks that require mental energy over time or paying attention to the details. These issues are often caused by other conditions such as depression or abuse disorders. The first step to control symptoms that cause havoc on both a personal and professional level is to obtain a proper ADHD diagnosis.
Symptoms of ADHD generally begin in childhood and last into adulthood. To be considered to have ADHD, symptoms must result in significant impairment in at least two areas of one's life (home school, home and at work). To be eligible the symptoms must have been present for at least six months and are not better explained by other mental disorders, such as anxiety disorders, mood disorders dissociative disorders, or personality disorders.
The health care provider will also go over the patient's medical and mental history. They will also talk to the patient as well as 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 go over their current work and home environment.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition released by the American Psychiatric Association, provides guidelines for identifying ADHD. In general, to be diagnosed with the inattentive form of ADHD, an individual must exhibit six or more inattention symptoms that are severe enough to hinder 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 can usually determine if a person has ADHD through a thorough psychiatric evaluation. This will include an in-depth interview with the person and their parents, and any caregivers or educators, as well answering questionnaires or scales. The health care provider will also go over the person's psychiatric, medical and family history. They may refer the individual for a physical examination to rule out other causes for his or her symptoms. diagnosed with adhd will look at the person's sleep habits, diet, the home and work environments to identify stressors that could be contributing to their symptoms.
Diagnosis
If you think you might have ADHD, you should consult a specialist doctor in the field of ADHD. Your doctor will inquire about your symptoms and their effects on your life. They will likely want to know how many times you have difficulty completing tasks or losing things or forget where you have put your keys, and if these issues cause stress at home, work or in relationships. Your doctor will also look over your medical history and conduct a physical exam. This will help them identify other conditions that could be similar to the symptoms of ADHD like depression, sleep disorders and anxiety or a thyroid issue.
Your health professional could interview caregivers, family members and friends regarding your behavior. They'll also discuss your behavior in different settings, such as at work, school or with your scout or religious leaders. Your doctor might also request that you fill out an assessment or self-test to assess your symptoms. These are available on the internet, but they shouldn't be used in lieu for a face-to-face interview with your physician.
For adults, a diagnosis of ADHD requires you to meet the threshold of symptoms lower than children -- five out of nine symptoms in an entire six-month period. You'll also need to have a significant impact on your work, school and family 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 typically look at the way your brain functions and can help determine if you suffer from co-existing mental disorders, such as depression or anxiety.
Being diagnosed with ADHD as an adult can bring up complex emotions. Matlen's emotions ranged from grief at missed opportunities to relief that she had a concrete reason for her problems. Ask your doctor or local support group to refer you to a health professional who can perform ADHD tests on adults. You can also contact your insurance provider to find out which providers are included on its list.
Treatment
For a lot of people with ADHD, medication is the first option for treatment. The stimulants like methylphenidate and amphetamine are used to increase or balancing brain chemicals called neurotransmitters that regulate attention and behavior. They can help those with ADHD focus better and remain organized, control their impulses and make more reasonable decisions, improve communication and relationships and decrease impulsive behavior.
There are also non-stimulant drugs such as atomoxetine and certain antidepressants that are more slowly than stimulants, but can still be effective for some people suffering from ADHD. The type of medication that works best for an individual may change over time. It is crucial to discuss with the medical professional who is who is conducting the evaluation all possible options.
A health specialist with experience in ADHD will conduct a thorough assessment. This will include an interview, the filling out of scales, questionnaires and a review family history, mood disorders, and medical conditions, including sleep disorders, as well as other physical illnesses. A referral for a medical examination may be included as well to determine if there is a medical reason for the ADHD symptoms.
The test will likely to take some time, especially in the case of an adult who has struggled to cope with symptoms for a long time. The evaluation should be as thorough as possible, which implies that the patient should bring copies of performance evaluations from their school or job and other documents like old report cards. The healthcare professional can request permission to speak with close friends or relatives to get a full picture of the individual's previous experiences and behaviors.
A diagnosis of ADHD in adults can have a profound impact on their lives. It is common for people to experience an array of emotions, ranging from relief at finally having a concrete explanation for their struggles to grief over the loss of opportunities and relationships that have been damaged by untreated ADHD. Matlen however, states that after receiving a diagnosis she was able to make a change in her life, including her career and relationships.
Counseling
Finding help from a counselor is a crucial step for people with ADHD. However, finding the right therapist may be difficult. There are a variety of ways to find a specialist in the area. Ask your regular doctor to refer you to. They may have a list of specialists who are experienced with ADHD and can treat it effectively. You can also search for them online. There are numerous websites that offer directories of doctors, and provide information on their areas of interest and areas of expertise. Another option is to ask for 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.
It is crucial to be honest when you visit the therapist who is experienced in treating ADHD. This includes discussing how ADHD symptoms impact your life and the effect they have on others. It's also important to discuss your medical history. This will help the therapist rule out conditions such as anxiety or depression that could exhibit similar symptoms.
The therapist will also conduct interviews and employ standard scales to assess the severity of the symptoms. The therapist could also seek input from other caregivers like teachers, religious or scout leaders to get an accurate picture of the person's behavior in various situations.
Adults with ADHD frequently feel angry and ashamed of their condition and may be reluctant to discuss their symptoms. This can compromise the quality of the evaluation and the accuracy of the diagnosis. A therapist with experience in working with adults with ADHD is usually able to help them overcome these barriers.
It is crucial to understand that a diagnosis of ADHD does not mean the therapist will prescribe medications. While some people who suffer from ADHD require medication, there are a number of treatments that are successful, including the use of behavioral therapy. These treatments can be used alongside medication or as stand-alone treatments.