Diagnosing Adult ADHD
Adult ADHD is more difficult to identify than ADHD in children. The majority of the symptom checklists for children do not work in adults.
A thorough assessment with an therapist, psychologist or psychiatrist is usually required. It is possible to look over past school or work records. Counseling can be beneficial to coworkers, family members, and friends.
Symptoms
ADHD can cause problems at school and at work. They have trouble keeping track of assignments and completing their deadlines. They frequently lose things and forget appointments or medical instructions. They may even be impulsive, risking their health by not eating or avoiding medications they require. They also have a tendency to react too strongly to stress and have difficulty focusing on conversations or "reading" the behavior and moods of other people.
Those suffering from ADHD struggle to stay on task and can easily become bored with boring tasks. They are prone to daydreaming or "zoning out" without even realizing it, especially when others are talking. They are often inattentive and do not respond to questions, making them appear uninterested or aloof. They may have difficulty keeping track of instructions and retaining specifics. This can lead to mistakes or work that is not completed. They can also get bored quickly and want to try new challenges or activities.
Adults who suffer from ADHD have difficulty in relationships, and often feel that they can't keep up with their family and friends. They have trouble with managing money which can lead to an impulsive spending habit and the accumulation of debt. Their job may suffer because of their inability to adhere to rules, complete paperwork and meet deadlines. They might not manage their time effectively and leave work frequently before they have completed. They may have a hard working with coworkers or supervisors because of their temper and inability to listen to the concerns of others.
In contrast to the rambunctious, hyperactive children seen in classrooms, adults suffering from ADHD rarely show obvious physical signs of activity, such as fidgeting or tapping their feet. Their restlessness may be more subtle, such as checking their watches frequently or having trouble sitting down during the course of a meeting. Their unorganized and unprofessional work performance can result in financial issues and job loss.
Anyone who is who is suffering from symptoms of ADHD is advised to consult their primary healthcare provider. The doctor will assess the symptoms and recommend them to an expert in mental health for further evaluation. In addition, the provider will ask about their medical history and if they are taking any medications that interact with stimulants.
Family History
It can be devastating for adults to learn that they've been suffering from ADHD for a long time and aren't able to manage their lives. They may have experienced embarrassing situations, been called "lazy," "irresponsible" or "stupid," or been blamed for problems they couldn't help. They may have struggled with maintaining relationships or had difficulties in their careers or education due to the symptoms.
After a thorough exam and a thorough history A qualified mental health professional or doctor can diagnose adult adhd. This includes observing the person's behavior in various settings, and getting information from family members and close friends. The doctor should also take into consideration the medical and family histories of the patient.
Since the symptoms of ADHD are different for women than men, many women are left undiagnosed or incorrectly diagnosed. Women who suffer from ADHD are more likely to exhibit inattentive symptoms such as trouble staying focused and remembering details as well as being less likely to display excessive impulsivity or hyperactivity. Women who are diagnosed with ADHD often have more trouble than men when it comes to navigating the work world and their relationships because of these differences.
It is crucial to collect a complete family history when diagnosing ADHD in adults, since the symptoms typically persist throughout the course of life. The past of the individual should show that symptoms have been present consistently since childhood and that they have affected their functioning at work, in school as well as in relationships and in various other areas.
If the symptoms of a patient are not severe enough to warrant a diagnosis of ADHD The doctor should look into the presence of other conditions that can coexist with ADHD and cause similar problems, such as mood disorders and learning disorders, or substance use disorders (Austerman, 2015). In addition to a psychiatric assessment, a complete medical examination is required.
There isn't a routine blood test or imaging test to diagnose adhd in adults. A healthcare professional can offer the person they are working with a screening test to assess attention to distraction and short-term memory as well as concentration. They may also ask them to perform tests that measure executive functions such as planning, organizing and time management skills.
Medical History
Some adults never get an diagnosis of ADHD because their teachers or parents did not recognize the symptoms in childhood, they were misdiagnosed as kids, or they managed fairly well until adulthood, when the demands of their jobs or academics were greater. Others are diagnosed later in life when they see their problems becoming hindering their work or relationships, or they are seeking help to manage their difficulties at home or at work. A doctor will look over the person's medical history to determine if there is any family or personal history of anxiety, depression or other mental health conditions. A health care professional will also be looking for head injuries, thyroid disorders, drug or alcohol use, and other physical illnesses which can trigger similar symptoms.
In adults, the most prominent symptoms of ADHD include inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. These problems can manifest at the home, at work or at school, as well in social situations. In adults, the symptoms are more likely to manifest as being inactive rather than hyperactive. Inattention-related symptoms can lead to problems with staying organized, missing important appointments, and having difficulty managing multiple tasks at work and home. Hyperactive and involuntary behaviors can cause difficulties controlling anger, frustration, or irritability while waiting in line, driving in traffic or making quick decisions or being impatient.
Research has shown that genetics influence the development and severity of ADHD. Additionally, a variety of non-genetic factors contribute to the development of ADHD. These include low birthweight preterm births as well as exposure to toxins such smoking or drinking alcohol while pregnant, and stress in the early years of childhood.
Often, a person's symptoms are treated by medication such as stimulants. It is crucial for the health care provider to know which other medications the patient is taking, since certain medications can interact with certain stimulants. A psychiatric professional or a behavioral health professional can talk to the patient about the various options for treatment. A person with ADHD should inform their doctor about any other medical or psychological treatment they are receiving, such as self-help methods and talk therapy. They can also inquire about participating in a clinical trial for new medication treatments.
Psychological Evaluation
To determine if an adult suffers from ADHD, a professional psychologist will perform a psychological evaluation. This involves a clinical interview and a review of pertinent documents. The evaluator asks the person to describe their behavior and symptoms as well as their performance in various environments, including school, home, and at work. It is essential that the person being assessed talks about these issues in a candid manner and does not hold back because of embarrassment or fear. This will allow the doctor to gain a complete understanding of the individual's functioning and any issues.
The evaluator could also talk to people in the person's life who are familiar with them, such as their spouse or significant other or parents or siblings. They are asked how they would rate the person using the standard scales of ratings based on research comparing the behaviors of people with ADHD and those who do not suffer from ADHD. These ratings aren't diagnostic in themselves, but they do provide important information about the person's issues.
In adhd uk diagnosis to the interview with the patient and supplemental questionnaires, the evaluator will usually review relevant documents such as old report cards, grades or copies of performance evaluations in the workplace. These documents are used to identify the areas where an individual is struggling in areas such as academic performance, work performance, and social interactions. These are often the areas where symptoms of ADHD have the most impact on the individual's performance.
Depending on the condition being evaluated, the evaluator might decide to conduct additional neuropsychological, psychological or testing for learning disabilities. These tests will not directly diagnose ADHD however they can provide the evaluator with valuable information that can be used to help determine the existence and severity of any co-existing conditions like depression or anxiety.
It is important to find a psychologist who has experience working with adults with ADHD when seeking the help of a psychologist for a psychological assessment. It is recommended to ask your primary health care provider for a referral or contact the local mental health clinic offering ADHD services and a hospital affiliated with a university or a graduate school of psychology to get recommendations. Many insurance plans have an array of providers arranged by specialty. Professionals who are certified are more than willing to provide information about their experience and training in evaluating adult ADHD. Reluctance to provide this information should be seen as a red flag and the patient should seek another source.