How to Get a Diagnosis of ADHD
A diagnosis of ADHD is a difficult one for many adults. Some people feel relieved that they have finally come to terms with their difficulties and others feel sadness due to the fact that they missed opportunities in life because of symptoms that went untreated so long.
A mental health professional or health care provider can diagnose ADHD in the mood of a person, their past and current medical and mental conditions and their childhood behavior and experiences at school. The evaluation often includes ADHD symptoms checklists as well as standard scales of rating.
Signs and symptoms
People with ADHD struggle to complete tasks that require mental energy over time or paying attention to specifics. Most of the time, these issues result from other underlying issues like depression or substance abuse disorders. Getting a proper diagnosis of ADHD is the first step to getting control of the symptoms that cause havoc in personal and professional life.
The symptoms of ADHD typically begin in the early years of childhood and persist throughout adulthood. To be eligible for a diagnosis of the disorder, their symptoms must interfere with their lives in at least two areas (home, school and work) and cause significant impairment. To be able to meet these requirements symptoms must be present for at minimum six months and cannot be better explained by other mental disorders, such as anxiety disorders, mood disorders and dissociative 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 person and, if they are able, their family members, to gain an understanding of childhood behavior. The health professional will also speak to the patient's teachers and go over their current work and home environments.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition, published by the American Psychiatric Association, provides guidelines for diagnosing ADHD. To be diagnosed with the inattentive version of ADHD, a person must exhibit six or less symptoms of inattention that are serious enough to affect their daily activities. To be diagnosed with the hyperactive/impulsive type of ADHD, an individual must have six of the following symptoms:
A health care professional will usually determine if a person has ADHD by conducting an exhaustive psychiatric examination. This includes a thorough interview with the individual, his or her family and any caregivers or teachers, in addition to taking the time to complete questionnaires and scales. The health care provider will also review the person's medical, psychiatric and family history. They might refer the person to a physical exam in order to rule out other causes for his or her symptoms. The doctor will also look at the individual's sleep patterns as well as their diet, work and the home environment to identify any stressors that could be contributing to their symptoms.
Diagnosis
If you suspect you have ADHD, it's important to visit a health care specialist who is trained in the disorder. Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and the impact on your daily life. They will be looking to find out if you are struggling to complete tasks, if it is common to lose things, or forget where you put your keys. They might ask whether or not these issues result in stress at work, at home or in relationships. Your doctor will also go over the medical history and physical exam. This information can aid your doctor in determining other conditions that may cause the symptoms of ADHD like sleep disorders, depression anxiety, thyroid disorders or anxiety.
Your health professional could interview family members, caregivers and friends about 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 might also request you to complete a self-test or rating scale to evaluate your symptoms. They are available online, but should not be used to replace a face-toface interview with your doctor.
For adults, a diagnosis of ADHD requires that you meet an upper threshold of symptoms than kids -- five out of nine symptoms over a six-month period. You must also be able to demonstrate a significant impact on your work, school as well as your 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 typically look at the way your brain works and may aid in determining if you suffer from co-existing mental disorders, such as depression or anxiety.
If you're diagnosed with ADHD as an adult, it can result in a range of complex emotions. Matlen's emotions ranged from sadness over missed opportunities to relief that she found a clear explanation for her troubles. Ask your doctor or local support group to refer you to a health professional who can perform ADHD assessments on adults. You can also call your insurance provider to find out which providers are listed.
Treatment
The first option for a lot of people suffering from ADHD. Stimulants such as methylphenidate and amphetamine function by increasing or balancing levels of neurotransmitters in the brain which regulate behavior and attention. They can help some people with ADHD concentrate and remain well-organized. They also help control their impulses, make more rational decisions improve communication, and reduce impulsive behavior.
There are also nonstimulant medications such as atomoxetine and certain antidepressants that work more slowly than stimulants, but can still be effective for some people suffering from ADHD. The type of medication that is most effective for a particular person will change over time. It is essential to discuss with the medical professional who is conducting the evaluation all options.
A health care expert with expertise in ADHD will conduct a comprehensive assessment. This will include an interview, the filling out of scales, questionnaires, and a review family history, mood disorders and medical conditions including sleep disorders, and other physical ailments. A referral to an examination by a doctor could be included to determine if there is a medical reason for the ADHD symptoms.
It is likely that the test will take some time. This is especially true if you are an adult who has had to struggle to manage symptoms for many years. The evaluation should be as thorough as is possible, which means that the individual should bring copies of the performance evaluations from their workplace or school and other records such as old report cards. The healthcare professional can request permission to talk with close family members or friends to get a full picture of the person's past experiences and behaviours.
For adults, getting a diagnosis of ADHD can be a life-changing experience. Many people experience a range of emotions, ranging from relief to finally have an answer to their struggles, to sadness over the missed opportunities and relationships resulting from untreated ADHD. Matlen however, states that after being diagnosed, she was able make changes in her life, which included her work and relationships.
Counseling
Many people suffering from ADHD need assistance from a therapist can be a crucial step. Finding the right therapist is not always straightforward. There are a variety of ways to find a specialist in your area. Begin by asking your doctor for the referral. He or she may have a list with specialists who are experienced in treating ADHD. You can also look online. There are many websites that list doctors, including information on their specialties as well as areas of expertise. Asking family members or friends for recommendations is another option. You can also call your local mental health center or an ADHD support group to get recommendations.
If you are seeing an experienced therapist in treating ADHD and other disorders, it is essential to be as transparent as possible. This includes discussing the ways in which ADHD symptoms impact your life and the impact they have on other people. It is also essential to discuss your medical background. This will help your doctor rule out other conditions that could have similar symptoms, for example depression or anxiety.
In addition to monitoring an person's behavior, a therapy therapist may conduct interviews and use standardized rating scales to gauge the severity of symptoms. The therapist might also solicit other caregivers for their opinions, such as teachers, religious leaders or scout and scout leaders in order to get an accurate picture of behavior of a person in different situations.
Adults who suffer from ADHD frequently feel angry and embarrassed by their symptoms, and they might be reluctant to discuss their symptoms. This can affect the quality of the assessment and the accuracy of the diagnosis. A therapist who has worked with adults who have ADHD can assist them in overcoming these obstacles.
It is important to realize that a diagnosis of ADHD does not mean a therapist will prescribe medication. While adult diagnosis of adhd with ADHD may need to take medication however, behavioral therapy is an alternative option that is extremely effective. These treatment methods can be used alongside medication or used as standalone treatments.