Getting a Diagnosis of ADHD in Adults

Some adults may have unrecognized ADHD symptoms. Getting a diagnosis as an adult add diagnosis could give treatment options.

To be diagnosed with ADHD, you must have at least five persistent symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity-impulsivity. These symptoms must affect daily functioning, at home, work and socially. Talk therapy can help improve communication and problem-solving skills. Family and marital counseling can be beneficial as well.

Signs and symptoms

If you struggle with symptoms of ADHD it might seem that you're not living up to your potential. You may be overwhelmed as an adult with your responsibilities. You might be working full-time as a caregiver for children or an elderly parent, and trying to manage household chores and finances.

Inability to keep up may cause frustration and embarrassment. You may also feel depressed and lose confidence. You may even feel embarrassed. It's not an issue if you have ADHD. But it's important to know that there are solutions to your issues. The first step is an assessment.

A thorough psychiatric assessment can be used by a medical professional to diagnose ADHD in adults. This involves speaking with you about symptoms, having you fill out standardized behavior ratings scales and ADHD symptom lists and obtaining information about your mental health and medical background. The doctor may inquire about the history of ADHD in your family.

To qualify for a diagnosis of ADHD, you must have experienced at least five persistent symptoms of inattention and/or hyperactivity/impulsivity. These symptoms must have occurred before the age of 12 and continue to cause problems with your daily life. You may also have issues with these behaviors in two or more environments, including at work, school and in your social relationships.

You could miss appointments, make mistakes at work or at home and not be able to meet your obligations if your lack of attention is an issue. You might be struggling with managing your finances and health, and you may also have problems with tasks that are simple like remembering to go to the doctor or take your medication.

For those with ADHD who have ADHD, the tendency to think before acting can make difficult situations more difficult. You could disrupt conversations with others and spit out answers to questions before they're finished, or have difficulty waiting your turn in a line. Your impulsive behavior could lead to dangerous activities, like driving too fast or spending money recklessly.

According to research, genetics and environment play a significant role in the development ADHD. Symptoms tend to run in families and some researchers believe that issues with the central nervous system at critical developmental points increase your risk for this condition.

Diagnosis

A health care professional with an expertise in adhd how to get diagnosed can help adults who are experiencing symptoms of the disorder. A typical assessment consists of an interview, reviewing medical records, school or workplace records, family medical histories, and a mental health screening. A specialist may also conduct a physical examination or lab tests to rule out other conditions that have similar symptoms. A diagnosis of ADHD is only given to an adult or teenager if symptoms have been present for a period of six months or more and cause significant impairments in the daily routine.

Undiagnosed or not treated ADHD can cause chronic problems which could have been prevented or treated. This can lead to depression, family issues and financial stress as well as work-related stress, substance abuse and even serious accidents like motor crashes.

Undiagnosed ADHD can cause misinterpretation by family members, friends, and coworkers. They could be seen by others as irresponsible, lazy or as a poor employee. Undiagnosed ADHD can also increase the risk of anxiety and depression.

Women tend to be better in hiding their ADHD symptoms than men, which can make it difficult to obtain a proper diagnosis. They may employ strategies to disguise their inattention or impulsivity, for example the frequent distractions and daydreaming or use tools to help them cope with their lack of organization and lack of time management skills. Women who suffer from ADHD might also have difficulty diagnosing their own symptoms, as they are more likely to experience symptoms of inattention rather than the impulsivity or hyperactivity.

It's important to remember that ADHD isn't an indicator of intelligence or ability. It's merely a different way to think and behave that may cause challenges in certain situations.

For adults, it can be difficult to identify ADHD because the signs may have changed as they developed. However, the signs of ADHD in adults still meet the criteria listed in the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, Fifth Edition (DSM-5)1.

Treatment

People who have not been diagnosed with ADHD might struggle to stay organized, stay on top of school or work tasks and maintain healthy relationships. These symptoms can affect daily functioning, and cause emotional issues like depression or anxiety. People suffering from hyperactivity or impulsive subtypes of the condition can appear agitated and try to do several things at once, failing to finish tasks or meet deadlines. They may not pay attention to others, which could lead to misunderstandings or relationship problems.

The symptoms of the disorder typically are not recognized until childhood, and many adults with them aren't aware of ADHD. They might have been viewed as a dreamer, a snob or a slacker instead of battling to stay ahead in school and everyday life. As the responsibilities grow in adulthood However, many people who have ADHD find their symptoms grow worse. They are unable to manage all the balls they have to keep on top of - pursuing an occupation, caring for family members, juggling chores and household chores, and working on social and romantic relationships.

A health care professional or mental health professional will determine whether a person suffers from ADHD. The evaluation involves a discussion with family members, friends, and others who are familiar with the person and a physical examination and a review of a person's medical history. The patient could be asked to complete standardized ADHD ratings scales or a list of symptoms. Psychological testing can be used to measure executive function, working memory and spatial and visual abilities.

Adults with ADHD are most commonly treated with stimulant medications. These medications balance and boost levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. They can help people with ADHD concentrate better, organize their lives, and retain important information. They can also manage impulsive behaviors. Non-stimulant drugs, like antidepressants and atomoxetine, can be used to treat ADHD. They perform slower than stimulants, but nevertheless, they can improve symptoms. People who have certain health problems like high blood pressure or diabetes must consult with their doctor before taking stimulants.

Some adults with ADHD might benefit from individual therapy, self-help groups, or vocational counseling. These interventions can teach adults how to manage their symptoms, and how to establish healthy school, family and workplace relationships. Some adults with ADHD also will participate in clinical trials. These trials allow scientists to learn more about how to treat, diagnose and prevent disorders like ADHD.

Follow-up

A thorough assessment of adult ADHD utilizing several assessment inventories can improve the accuracy of diagnosis and reduce the likelihood of a misdiagnosis. The process often includes an extended conversation with a psychiatrist or psychologist who is skilled in treating ADHD in adults. The evaluation will also ask you questions about the child's previous health issues, family dynamics, and lifestyle choices. He or she may also review your medical records and conduct an examination of your physical.

Many people who suffer from ADHD also suffer from other psychiatric or medical conditions such as anxiety or depression, which need to be treated. It is estimated that those who have ADHD are six times more likely to experience mood disorders. People who suffer from ADHD also have a higher risk of using drugs.

Adults who suffer from ADHD have a difficult time finding and keeping a job. They also face difficulties managing their finances and keeping up with household chores. Adults with ADHD are at risk of developing other health issues, including heart disease, obesity and smoking. They are also more likely to develop bad eating habits and have trouble forming and maintaining romantic relationships.

In one study, people with ADHD who were treated in minor mental health services as children continued to be get diagnosed with add with ADHD into adulthood. The sample size was not large. An enlargement of the sample could have provided more information about the clinical course of ADHD in adulthood and its relationship to other psychiatric disorders.

Research has proven ADHD to be a chronic and persistent disorder among adults. It has a negative effect on the quality of life, and can cause range of comorbidities, including learning disabilities, mood disorders as well as alcohol and drug abuse. People who diagnosis adhd are not treated for ADHD are at a greater risk of being incarcerated, divorce, having a lower socioeconomic status, and more serious mental health issues.

All adults who have uncontrolled ADHD symptoms or an initial ADHD diagnosis should be examined within 30 to 60 days, and after that every month until the symptoms are under control. Adults who suffer from ADHD may need to continue receiving psychotherapy or pharmacotherapy throughout their lives.