How to Get a Diagnosis of ADHD
For many adults, being diagnosed of ADHD can be a challenge. Some feel relief at finally being able to recognize their challenges, while 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 health care professional or mental health professional can determine ADHD by examining the mood of a person and past mental and medical health issues, and their childhood behavior and school experience. The test usually includes ADHD symptoms checklists as well as standard rating scales.
Signs and symptoms
People suffering from ADHD are unable to complete tasks that require mental focus or attention to detail. Most of the time, these issues result from other underlying issues like depression or substance abuse disorders. Finding a reliable diagnosis of ADHD is the first step in getting control of the symptoms that wreak havoc in personal and professional life.
ADHD symptoms typically begin in childhood and last throughout adulthood. In order for a person to be granted a diagnosis of the disorder the symptoms must be interfering with their lives in two or more areas (home school, home and work) and cause significant impairment. To meet this requirement they must last for at least six month and cannot be explained by other mental disorders such as mood disorders, anxiety disorder dissociative disorder or personality disorders.
In addition to looking into the person's symptoms as well as their health history, the healthcare professional will also review their medical history and mental health history. The doctor will speak to the patient, and if possible their family members, in order to gain an understanding of childhood behavior. The health professional will also talk to the patient's teachers and go over their current work and home settings.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition published by the American Psychiatric Association, provides guidelines for identifying ADHD. To be diagnosed with the inattentive version of ADHD, a person must have six or fewer symptoms of inattention that are severe enough to hinder their daily activities. To be diagnosed with the hyperactive/impulsive type of ADHD, an individual must have six of the following symptoms:
A health professional is usually able to identify a person suffering from ADHD through an extensive psychiatric assessment. This includes a thorough interview with the patient as well as their family and any caregivers or teachers, in addition to taking the time to complete questionnaires and scales. The health care professional will examine the patient's medical, psychiatric or family background and refer the patient for a physical examination to rule out any other causes of symptoms. He or she will examine the individual's sleep patterns, diet, and the home and work environments to determine if stressors may be causing their symptoms.
Diagnosis
If you suspect you might have ADHD is important to consult a medical specialist who is trained in the disorder. Your doctor will inquire about your symptoms and how they affect your life. They'll likely be interested in how often you have difficulties finishing tasks or losing items or forget where you have put your keys, and if these problems cause stress at home, work or in relationships. Your doctor will also review the medical history and physical exam. This information will allow them to identify other conditions that can mimic the symptoms of ADHD, such as sleep disorders, depression and anxiety or a thyroid issue.
Your health care provider may interview family members, caregivers and friends about your behavior. They'll also talk about your behavior in different situations, like at work and school, or with your scout or religious leaders. Your doctor may also request that you fill out a self-test or rating scale to assess your symptoms. They are available on the internet, but they should not be used as a substitute for a face-to-face appointment with your doctor.
For adults, a diagnosis of ADHD requires you to meet an upper threshold of symptoms than children -- five out of nine symptoms in the course of six months. Additionally, you must be able demonstrate a significant impact in your work, school, and home 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 usually look at the ways your brain functions and help determine if you suffer from co-existing mental disorders, such as anxiety or depression.
If you're diagnosed with ADHD as an adult, it can result in a range of complex emotions. The emotions of Matlen ranged from sadness at missed opportunities to relief that she could pinpoint a cause for her problems. Ask your doctor or local support group to refer you to a medical specialist who conducts ADHD evaluations in adults. You can also contact your insurance company to determine which providers are listed.
Treatment
Medication is often the first option for a lot of patients suffering from ADHD. The stimulants like methylphenidate and amphetamine are used to increase or balancing the levels of neurotransmitters, brain chemicals that regulate behavior and attention. They can help people with ADHD focus better and stay organized, control their impulses and make more rational decisions, improve communication and relationships and reduce impulsive behaviors.
Nonstimulant medicines, such as atomoxetine or certain antidepressants, perform slower than stimulants. However they are effective in treating patients with ADHD. The type of medication that works best for a person may vary over time, so it is crucial to discuss all possible options with your healthcare professional who conducts the test.
A health professional with expertise in ADHD will conduct a thorough assessment. This may include an interview, the submission of scales, questionnaires, and a review of the family history, mood disorders and medical conditions, including sleep disorders and other physical ailments. A referral for an examination by a doctor could be included as well to rule out a possible medical cause for the ADHD symptoms.
The evaluation will likely take some time, particularly if the person is an adult who has been struggling to cope with symptoms for a long time. read here should be as comprehensive as possible, which means that the individual should bring copies of performance evaluations from their job or school and other information like old reports. The healthcare professional may ask permission to talk with close friends or relatives to get a full picture of the individual's previous experiences and behaviors.
For adults, getting diagnosed with ADHD can be a life-changing experience. It is normal for people to feel an array of emotions, from relief at finally getting a reason for their problems to sadness over lost opportunities and relationships that were damaged by untreated ADHD. Matlen however, states that following the diagnosis, she was able to make positive changes in her life, including her career and relationships.
Counseling
Many people with ADHD are aware that seeking assistance from a therapist is an essential step. Finding the right therapist is not always straightforward. Fortunately, there are many methods to locate a therapist in your area. Request your physician to refer you to. He or she may have a list of specialists who are familiar with ADHD and can treat it effectively. You can also try looking for them online. There are a variety of websites that have directories of doctors, and provide details about their areas of focus and specialization. Asking your family or friends for suggestions is another option. 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 an experienced therapist who has experience treating ADHD. It is crucial to discuss how ADHD symptoms impact your life and the lives of others. It's also important to talk about your past and current medical background. This will help your doctor rule out other conditions that might have similar symptoms, for example anxiety or depression.
The therapist may also conduct interviews and use standardized scales to gauge the severity of the symptoms. The therapist may also ask other caregivers to provide their feedback for example, religious leaders, teachers or scout and scout leaders to obtain an accurate picture of the behavior of a person in different situations.
Adults with ADHD might be embarrassed and frustrated by their symptoms and be reluctant to talk about them. This can limit the quality of the assessment and the accuracy of the diagnosis. A therapist who has experience in working with adults with ADHD can generally help them overcome these barriers.
It is also important to understand that a diagnosis of ADHD does not mean the counselor will automatically prescribe medication. While certain individuals suffering from ADHD may require medication however, behavioral therapy is an alternative option that is extremely effective. These treatments can be used in conjunction with medication or used as an alternative treatment.