How to Get a Diagnosis of ADHD
For many adults, a diagnosis of ADHD isn't easy to accept. Some feel relief in realizing their struggles, whereas others feel remorse that they missed out on life opportunities because of the symptoms that were not treated for a long time.
A health care provider or mental health professional can determine ADHD by analyzing the mood of a person as well as their past and current mental and medical health issues, and their childhood behavior and school experiences. The test usually includes ADHD symptoms checklists as well as the standardized rating scales.
Signs and symptoms
People suffering from ADHD struggle to complete tasks that require mental effort over time or paying attention to the details. These issues are often caused by other underlying issues such as depression or abuse disorders. The first step in tackling issues that can cause chaos on both a personal and professional scale is to get an accurate ADHD diagnosis.
The symptoms of ADHD generally begin in childhood and last into adulthood. In order for a person to be granted a diagnosis of the disorder and be diagnosed with it, their symptoms must interfere with their lives in more than one area (home, school and work) and cause significant impairment. To be eligible, symptoms must have lasted for at least six months. They cannot be explained better by other mental disorders such as anxiety disorders, mood disorders and dissociative disorders.
The health care professional will also look over the patient's mental and medical history. The doctor will also interview the person and when possible, relatives to gain a perspective on childhood behaviors. The health professional may also review the patient's current working and home environments, and talk with their teachers.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition released by the American Psychiatric Association, provides guidelines for diagnosing ADHD. In general, in order to be diagnosed with the inattentive type of ADHD, an individual must exhibit six or more inattention symptoms that are serious enough to interfere with 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 will usually determine if a person has ADHD through an extensive psychiatric assessment. This will include an extensive interview with the individual, his or her family and any caregivers or teachers, in addition to answering questionnaires and scales. The health care professional will also go over the person's psychiatric, medical and family history. They may refer the patient for a physical exam to rule out other causes for his or her symptoms. They will also take a look at the person's sleep habits eating habits, diet and work home environment to determine any stressors that may be contributing to their symptoms.
Diagnosis
If you suspect that you might have ADHD and are concerned, you should speak to a doctor who is an expert in the field of ADHD. Your doctor will inquire about your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. They will likely be interested in how often you have difficulties finishing tasks or losing items or forget where you have put your keys, and whether these problems create stress at home, at work or in relationships. Your doctor will also go over the medical history and physical examination. This information will help them rule out other conditions that may be similar to the symptoms of ADHD, such as depression, sleep disorders and anxiety, or a thyroid problem.
Your health care professional may interview family members, caregivers and friends regarding your behavior. They'll also discuss your behavior in different settings, such as at work, school or with your religious or scout leaders. Your doctor may also request that you 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 doctor.
For adults who are diagnosed with ADHD requires you to meet the threshold of symptoms lower than children - five out of nine signs over a six-month period. Additionally, you must be able to show significant impact on your work, school and at home.
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 functions, and will determine if you are any mental disorders that coexist, such as depression or anxiety.
Receiving a diagnosis of ADHD as an adult can trigger complicated emotions. Matlen's emotions ranged from grief 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 care professional who performs ADHD evaluations in adults. You can also call your insurance company to determine the providers that are listed.
Treatment
For a lot of people with ADHD treatment is the first treatment option. The stimulants methylphenidate and amphetamine increase or balance levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters which regulate attention and behaviors. They can help people with ADHD concentrate and remain well-organized. They can also control their impulses, make more rational decisions, improve communication, and reduce impulsive behavior.
Nonstimulant medications, such as atomoxetine and certain antidepressants, are slower to work than stimulants. However they are effective in treating certain people suffering from ADHD. The kind of medication that works best for a particular person can change over time, which is why it is essential to discuss all possibilities with the medical professional who conducts the test.
A health care expert with expertise in ADHD will conduct a thorough assessment. This includes an interview, the filling out of scales, questionnaires, and a review family history, mood disorders, and medical conditions like sleep disorders and other physical illnesses. A referral for a medical examination may be included to determine if there is a medical reason for the ADHD symptoms.
It is likely that the evaluation will take some time. This is especially the case when you are an adult who has struggled to cope with symptoms over a long time. The evaluation should be thorough, so the individual should bring old report cards and copies of their performance evaluations from work or school. The healthcare professional may ask permission to speak with close friends or relatives to get a full understanding of the individual's past experiences and behaviors.
A diagnosis of ADHD in adults can have a profound impact on their lives. People often feel a mix of emotions, from relief to finally having an explanation for their struggles, to grief at the loss of opportunities and relationships that result from untreated ADHD. Matlen however, states that following the diagnosis, she was able make changes in her life, including her work and relationships.
Counseling
Many people suffering from ADHD are aware that seeking help from a therapist is a crucial step. Finding the right therapist isn't always straightforward. There are many ways to find a specialist in the area. Start by asking your regular doctor for an appointment. He or she might have a list with specialists who are skilled in treating ADHD. You can also search online. There are a variety of websites which list doctors, as well as information about their specialties and areas of focus. Another option is to seek a recommendation from friends or family members. You can also contact your local mental health center or an ADHD support group for suggestions.
It is important to be honest when you visit a therapist with experience in treating ADHD. adhd diagnosed involves discussing the ways in which ADHD symptoms impact your life and the impact they have on other people. It's also important to discuss your medical history, including your past history. This will help your therapist rule out other conditions that could have similar symptoms, like depression or anxiety.
In addition to observing an individual's behavior, the psychotherapist is likely to conduct interviews and employ standardized rating scales to assess the severity of symptoms. The therapist may solicit input from other caregivers like teachers, religious and scout leaders, to get a clear assessment of the person's behavior in different situations.
Adults with ADHD might be dissatisfied and embarrassed by their symptoms and are reluctant to discuss their symptoms. This can limit the quality of the evaluation and the accuracy of the diagnosis. A therapist with experience in working with adults suffering from ADHD is generally able to assist them in overcoming these obstacles.
It is crucial to understand that the diagnosis of ADHD doesn't mean that a therapist will prescribe medication. While certain individuals with ADHD may require medication but behavioral therapy is a different option that can be extremely effective. These treatments can be used alongside medication or as stand-alone treatments.