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How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults Many adults seek an assessment due to being dissatisfied with the symptoms of ADHD. They could lose their jobs due in part to missed deadlines, or struggling with relationships because of impulsive behaviors or having financial trouble because they forget bills or don't keep track of purchases. Ask your doctor or mental health professional if they have experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults. Symptoms Find a doctor to evaluate your symptoms if you suspect you or your child has ADHD. The evaluation will consist of physical examination as well as an analysis of your medical history, including mental health issues and substance use. It is crucial to be honest with the doctor about your issues and how they affect your life. Many people with ADHD shy away from their problems because of fear of shame or criticism However, a thorough evaluation will give the doctor more of a complete picture of your life and problems. Since adulthood is different from childhood, diagnosing ADHD in adults can be more complicated than diagnosing children with the disorder. The American Psychological Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) provides guidelines for diagnosis that are generally applicable to adults as well as children. In addition to examining the patient, the doctor may also ask other people who are in the patient's lifefor example, spouse or co-habitating partners, parents, siblings, or teachers and coaches to provide a description of the person's behavior and how it has affected them. This could provide information that might not show up on checklists or other tests. In some instances the doctor may want to examine other conditions that could cause similar symptoms as ADHD. These conditions could include mood disorders, mental health issues and physical illnesses or injuries like head trauma. They will also review the individual's personal and professional life to determine whether their symptoms are hindering their daily routine. The signs of adult ADHD can vary from mild to severe, with moderate symptoms causing some difficulties in social and work situations. The severe symptoms can hinder academic or work performance or cause stress in relationships. It can also make it difficult to live a life of independence. Anyone can suffer from ADHD However, it is more common in men and boys than in girls. It is unclear the reason for this however it is likely that there are environmental and genetic factors at play. Certain foods and chemicals have been shown to cause ADHD in a few people. It is also possible that certain people are predisposed because of brain structures that process stimuli. Diagnosis It's not always easy to recognize ADHD. People often feel embarrassed about their symptoms and may have difficulty opening up to a health care specialist or a mental health professional. This can make the process of evaluation more time-consuming. It is important to talk openly and honestly about your symptoms as well as your previous medical experiences, to ensure an accurate evaluation. During the evaluation your doctor will use standardized behavioral ratings scales and ADHD symptoms checklists to determine if you fulfill the criteria for a diagnosis. Your doctor will inquire about your childhood and family history as well as a thorough description of your work and home. Your doctor could also recommend an exam to rule out medical causes of your symptoms, such as seizures or thyroid issues. A physical exam includes blood tests and a brain scan. These tests can help determine structural or chemical issues in the brain that could be causing ADHD symptoms. A physical exam may also aid in determining other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as depression or addiction to substances. It is possible that your health care provider may suggest that you participate in an investigational trial of new treatments for adults with ADHD. These trials are conducted at research centers like NIMH. However, you should be aware that these trials can have risks and may not lead to a treatment that is appropriate for you. Tell your doctor about any other medications you take, as they could interact with stimulants that are used to treat ADHD in adults. The effects of medications on sleep, appetite, heart rate, and blood pressure can all have an effect on the effectiveness of stimulants. NIMH's Medication Interactions webpage can provide additional information on how you can discuss other medications with your physician. Treatment Adults with ADHD can be treated with treatment with medication, behavioral therapy and educational support. It's often a combination of the three that can help people succeed at work, school and other endeavors. Treatment should start with the referral of the primary care provider or other health professional. Ask about the professional's training and experience in working with adults with ADHD. If a professional refuses to or is not able to provide you this information, it is best to find another professional. how to diagnose adhd of diagnosing adult ADHD typically involves interviews with parents, teachers and other people who are significant to the child. The diagnostic process may also include an assessment of family and medical history, as well as a psychiatric assessment. It is crucial that the person who is being assessed for ADHD be honest and not hold back to avoid embarrassment. There must be a variety of symptoms in a variety of settings and cause significant impairment in the individual's life for an ADHD diagnosis to be given. Untreated ADHD can result in co-occurring disorders like depression and anxiety. This is especially true for those with ADHD who suffer from chronic anxiety or frustration. Frustration can cause an unfulfilled prophecy which causes lower self-esteem, low performance and feelings of frustration. For certain adults, being diagnosed of ADHD can be a source of relief. They may begin to see themselves better and realize it wasn't their fault they couldn't make friends or establish a career. For some adults, a diagnosis of ADHD can trigger feelings of sadness and regret over missed opportunities. Adults with ADHD must always be ready to discuss their issues with their supervisors and colleagues. It's also a good idea to consider joining an ADHD support group where those suffering from the disorder can share their experiences and get assistance. Additionally, those with an diagnosis of ADHD should look into their health insurance coverage to determine what services are covered, and to find the names and numbers of professionals who specialize in treating adults suffering from ADHD. Support A person who is diagnosed with ADHD can receive help for the symptoms and problems that affect them in a variety settings such as at home, work at school or in relationships, and many others. Treatments for adult ADHD typically involve medication and psychotherapy. Some individuals also discover they require special coaching to provide structure and support for their daily life. Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD are often relieved to know their problems aren't due to poor parenting or laziness. For certain people, being diagnosed with ADHD is the first step towards getting the help they need to live a better life. Adults can also suffer from ADHD. It's more difficult to identify in children. Many adults are suffering from undiagnosed ADHD. The diagnosis of ADHD in adults requires a thorough clinical interview by a psychiatrist who has experience working with this condition. The interviewer can inquire about the person's social and emotional history, as well as his or her family history. Some doctors use brain scans or computer programs to evaluate patients. The majority of experts agree that a thorough interview is the best method to diagnose ADHD. Based on the nature of the difficulties a person is experiencing, additional psychological or neuropsychological testing may be used to assess the effects and presence of co-existing disorders, such as learning disabilities, anxiety and mood disorders that often are associated with ADHD. These tests can aid in determining the appropriate dosage of medication for a person. It's also a good idea to ask colleagues and friends for recommendations to professionals who are experienced in diagnosing ADHD. Then check their professional qualifications, including academic degrees and the length of time they have worked. They should be able to explain their diagnostic procedure and answer any questions that you might have. You can also look for experts who are qualified on the internet or through the phone book. Ask them about their philosophy of therapy and what they would suggest for you.