• 목록
• 답변
• 글쓰기
• 게시판 리스트 옵션
  • 수정
  • 삭제

How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults

For many adults, the stress of living with ADHD symptoms is what drives people to seek an evaluation. They could lose their jobs due to missed deadlines, struggling in relationships due to impulsive behavior or have financial issues due to the fact that they forget to pay bills or lose track of purchases.

Ask your doctor or mental health professional if they have training in diagnosing ADHD among adults.

Symptoms

Find a doctor who can evaluate your symptoms if you suspect that you or your child is suffering from ADHD. Your assessment will consist of a physical exam and a review of your medical background. This will include mental health issues and substance abuse. It is crucial to be honest with the doctor about your symptoms and how they affect your life. Many people suffering from adhd how to diagnose conceal their symptoms out of shame or for fear of being judged. However an honest assessment can provide your doctor with a more accurate picture of your daily life.

Because adulthood is very different from childhood, identifying ADHD in adults is more difficult than diagnosing children suffering from the disorder. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), Fifth Edition published by the American Psychiatric Association provides guidelines for diagnosis that are appropriate for both adults and children. The doctor can request others who are in the patient's life like the spouse or cohabiting partner or siblings, parents or teachers and coaches, to describe how the patient's behavior has affected them. This could reveal important information that may not be found in tests or checklists.

In some cases the doctor may decide to look into other conditions that may cause similar symptoms as ADHD. These can include mood disorders, other mental health issues, and physical illnesses or injuries, like concussions or head trauma. He or she will also review the person's personal and professional life to determine how their symptoms affect their daily routines.

The symptoms of adult diagnosis for adhd ADHD can range from mild to moderate with moderate symptoms leading to problems in work and social situations. A severe condition can affect school or job performance and can cause tension in relationships. They also make it harder to live an independent life.

ADHD can be an issue for any person, but it is more common in males and boys than in girls. There is no definitive reason behind this but it could be due to genetic and environmental factors. Certain foods and chemicals have been found to cause ADHD in certain individuals. It is also possible that some individuals are predisposed to it due to brain structures involved in processing stimuli.

Diagnosis

Being diagnosed with ADHD isn't always easy. Many people are ashamed of their symptoms and find it difficult to speak to an expert in mental health or health care provider. This can delay the process of evaluation. To ensure you get a thorough evaluation it is essential to be honest and upfront about your health issues and past circumstances.

In the course of your evaluation, your doctor will employ the standardized behavioral ratings scales as well as ADHD symptoms checklists to determine if you fulfill the criteria for a diagnosis. Your doctor will inquire about your childhood and family history and will also provide a detailed account of your home and work. Your doctor might order an examination of your body to rule out medical reasons for your symptoms, like seizures or a thyroid disorder.

A physical exam involves blood tests and an examination of the brain. These can help identify structural or chemical problems in the brain that could be causing ADHD symptoms. A physical exam can help identify other conditions that may cause similar symptoms, like depression or substance abuse.

It is possible that your health care provider might suggest you take part in a clinical trial of new treatments for adults ADHD. These trials are conducted by research centers, such as NIMH. It is important to be aware, however, that these studies may have negative consequences and may not provide the right treatment for you.

It is also crucial to tell your health care provider about any other medications you are taking, as they may interfere with certain stimulants used to treat adult ADHD. Medications that affect appetite, sleep, heart rate, and blood pressure can all affect the effectiveness of stimulants. NIMH's Medication Interactions page can provide more details on how to get diagnosed add to discuss other medications with your doctor.

Treatment

For adults who are diagnosed with ADHD Treatment options include behavioral therapy, medication and educational supports. It's often a combination of these that can help people achieve success at work, school and other pursuits. Treatment should begin with an appointment with the primary care provider or other health professional. Ask the doctor about their expertise and training in working with adults who have ADHD. If a professional is unwilling not able to give this information, you should find a different one.

The diagnosis process for adults with ADHD usually includes interviews with teachers, parents 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 essential that the person who is being assessed for ADHD be honest and not be hesitant due to embarrassment. There must be a variety of symptoms in more than one setting and must cause significant impairment in the life of the individual for an ADHD diagnosis to be established.

Many adults suffering from untreated ADHD develop comorbid disorders, including anxiety and depression. This is especially the case for those with ADHD who suffer from chronic stress or frustration. The frustration can trigger self-fulfilling prophecy that results in low self-esteem, poor performance and feelings of frustration.

For certain adults, being diagnosed of ADHD can be a source of relief. They may begin to see their own behavior and realize that it wasn't because of them that they were unable to make friends or start a career. For some adults, a diagnosis of ADHD can come with an emotional ache and regret for missed opportunities that were left unexplored.

Adults suffering from ADHD must always be ready to discuss their issues with supervisors and coworkers. Consider joining an ADHD support group where those with the condition can share their experiences and receive advice. Finally, those with the diagnosis of ADHD should verify their health insurance coverage to find out what services are covered, and to find the names and numbers of professionals who specialize in treating adults with ADHD.

Support

A person who is diagnosed with ADHD can seek treatment for symptoms and problems that afflict him or her at home, at work at school, in relationships and in many other settings. Treatments for adult ADHD typically involve psychotherapy and medications. Some individuals also discover they require specialized coaching to provide structure and support for their daily life.

Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD often feel relieved to discover that their problems aren't normal or because of poor parenting or laziness. A diagnosis can be the first step to receiving the assistance they require.

It is easier to diagnose ADHD in children, however it isn't impossible for adults to suffer from this disorder. Many adults live with undiagnosed ADHD.

Diagnosing ADHD in adults requires a thorough medical examination by a psychiatrist who has worked with this condition for a long time. The interviewer may ask about the patient's social and emotional history, as well the family history of the person. Certain doctors employ brain scans or computer programs to assess patients. Most experts agree that a thorough assessment is the best method to determine the presence of ADHD.

Based on the nature of a person's difficulties and the severity of their issues, additional psycho- or neuropsychological tests may be required to determine the presence and effects of co-existing conditions, like learning disabilities, anxiety and mood disorders that often are associated with ADHD. The results of these tests could also help in determining the appropriate dosage of medications for an individual.

Asking friends and colleagues to recommend specialists with had experience in diagnosing ADHD is a good idea. You should then verify their qualifications, including academic degrees and the number of years they've been practicing. They should be able to explain their diagnostic procedure and answer any queries you may have. You can also look for experts who are certified through the internet or on the phonebook. Ask them about their approach to therapy and what advice they would give you.