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ADHD – Symptoms in Adults If you think you may have ADHD, it's important to be diagnosed. This is the first step in managing symptoms and gaining control over your life. ADHD self-assessment tools can inform you to the possibility of having symptoms typical of adult ADHD. However the diagnosis is only possible through a professional evaluation. This could be a neurologist, psychologist or psychiatrist. Signs and symptoms ADHD is a condition that affects people of all ages, but the symptoms in adults might appear different. Adults who suffer from ADHD may also utilize their symptoms to help succeed at work and in relationships. Adult ADHD symptoms can be mild, medium or severe. To qualify for a diagnosis, the signs must have remained consistent since childhood and continue to cause significant problems in at least two different areas of your life. Trouble keeping your attention on tasks or having trouble recalling information are examples of problems that could be caused by ADHD. There are self-tests online or rating scales that can help you determine if you might have ADHD. The only way to receive an accurate diagnosis of ADHD for adults is to speak with an expert doctor who is trained to treat the disorder. Ask adhd assessment in adults for a referral or search for an ADHD specialist through your health insurance directory. They'll review your medical history, including your childhood, and how your symptoms affected your life at school as well as at work and at home. They'll also ask you about any alcohol or drugs you use, driving history and how your relationships with family and friends been. It's crucial to be open with your examiner. Adults suffering from ADHD might cover up or minimize symptoms to avoid criticism or embarrassment. This can make the assessment process more difficult. Certain medical conditions, like seizure disorders and thyroid disorders, can have similar symptoms to ADHD and must be checked out before an ADHD diagnosis is determined. A physical exam and a detailed neurological history will also be given. If your tests show that you suffer from ADHD Your doctor may prescribe medications. In addition, they may recommend psychotherapy or other behavioral treatments that will aid you in managing your ADHD. They might also recommend accommodations to assist you in working more efficiently, for example, making changes to your environment as well as using tools for organizing and planning. Diagnosis To diagnose ADHD, a professional evaluation is required. Your doctor will conduct complete notes on your symptoms and the time they began and how they've affected your life. They might also inquire about your family history, since it's common for ADHD to run in families. Your doctor will also conduct an examination of your body to rule out any medical conditions that may be causing ADHD symptoms. These include thyroid problems or seizures. You'll likely go through an array of psychological tests to evaluate your functioning and performance, including scales for behavioral ratings. You could be asked to perform math or reading tasks on a computer, phone or tablet to see your performance in different situations. You could also be offered an IQ test in order to evaluate your cognitive abilities. The American Psychiatric Association established criteria for diagnosing adult ADHD. These include the presence of at minimum six months of symptoms, and their significant impact on a variety of settings in your life such as work or school. Your doctor will be looking to determine whether your symptoms led to serious problems prior to the age of 12. It is important to recognize that a variety of factors can cause or mimic ADHD. For example, stress, other mental health issues, and some medications can all cause some of the same symptoms as ADHD. If you have records from previous psychological testing or performance evaluations, bring them with you to your appointment. Your doctor will want to know if you're taking any medications or if you have ever suffered a head injury. Adults who struggle with ADHD can benefit greatly from psychotherapy or “talk therapy”. This treatment helps you develop more effective strategies and techniques to manage your ADHD symptoms to ensure that they do not interfere with your daily life. Psychotherapy can be combined with medication or used alone for people suffering from ADHD. Consult your primary care doctor to refer you to a mental health specialist who treats adults suffering from ADHD. You could also contact your insurance company and inquire which specialists are covered. Visit a local support group. Treatment Schedule an appointment with your primary healthcare professional in the event that you suspect you may have ADHD. Your doctor will be able to refer you to an expert in mental health that can conduct a full assessment to diagnose your condition. During your appointment, be honest with your doctor about any issues you are experiencing at work and home. Your doctor will want to know about any major issues that have resulted, such as being fired from a job or failing classes. Your doctor will ask about your family history as well as any health issues you have had previously like depression or an anxiety disorder. You may be asked to complete some sort of questionnaire, like the Adult Attention and Hyperactivity Disorder Self-Screening Tool (ASRS). This questionnaire takes approximately five minutes to fill out and consists of 18 questions asking you to indicate how often you experience symptoms of adult ADHD. Your doctor will then take your answers into account and provide you with scores that indicate whether you should consider seeking an official diagnosis. Your doctor may also inquire about your problems in your relationships at home and at work. It can be embarrassing to talk about these problems, but your doctor needs to know about them so that they can assist. In some cases your doctor may decide to talk to your coworkers or teachers to find out more about the challenges you're facing. This does not mean that your doctor is judging you or blaming you. It's just to help them comprehend how ADHD can affect a person's ability to perform at work or in school. Your doctor might also suggest that you get psychological tests to rule out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms, such as a learning disability or a mood disorder. You may also be asked to undergo a physical examination to ensure that your symptoms are not caused by medical conditions. Your doctor might ask you to bring any records, including old report cards or performance appraisals at work. It's also beneficial for your doctor to know if you had any ADHD symptoms in your adolescent or childhood however they weren't serious enough to affect your life at the time. Support If you suspect you have ADHD and you suspect that you have it, you should speak with an expert who can conduct an extensive evaluation. These professionals include licensed mental health providers like clinical psychologists and physicians (psychiatrist, neurologist or family doctor). A lot of insurance plans have lists of qualified professionals in your area, and you can also contact local support groups for help in locating a suitable provider. In addition to taking a detailed medical history, your clinician will also inquire about your symptoms and the difficulties they cause in your life. This includes school and work performance as well as other aspects of your daily life. Your clinician may ask to talk to your coworkers or teachers, or request old school records. This is not to question your honesty; it's simply to gain additional information. Many people with ADHD have shaky or faulty memories, particularly from their childhood. It's essential that your doctor obtain the most relevant information possible to establish a diagnosis. Depending on the problem you're having, your specialist may suggest other diagnostic procedures like cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) which aids those suffering from ADHD learn to manage their challenges and harness their strengths. CBT can be combined with medication for ADHD treatment. If you're waiting for a professional evaluation There are many tools on the Internet which allow you to rate your own symptoms. The Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale and other online questionnaires are available. These tools are not standardized or scientifically validated, and should only be used for general guidance. Many people who don't have a diagnosis of ADHD are so used to their problems that they are able to ignore them. They might think that they are just not doing their best or that it is their fault that they are unable to keep up with their social or work commitments. The symptoms of ADHD aren't caused by a personal failure, but are rather neurological. With the right treatment you can gain control over your ADHD and turn it into something constructive. This could lead to greater satisfaction in your professional and personal relationships as well as a better life for yourself and those around you.