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Main Page For Adults A precise diagnosis of ADHD in adults requires more than self-tests or rating scales. The most crucial factor in determining ADHD in adults is a clinical interview conducted by a mental health professional who has experience in ADHD evaluations. A visit to the doctor can last up to an hour or more. Patients are asked to fill out questionnaires in advance and speak to people who knew them well as an infant. Diagnosing ADHD If you or someone you know is concerned about ADHD symptoms, speak to your primary care physician for a referral to a medical professional qualified to perform an evaluation. Most insurance plans list professionals by specialization and can assist with finding a qualified individual. Individuals may also ask friends or family members for suggestions. They can also call a local university-based hospital or medical school to assist in finding the right specialist. Some community groups like support groups and support group, can offer a list of professional who are qualified. Typically the first step in an ADHD assessment is a medical interview with a professional who is trained. The evaluator may ask questions during a face-to-face meeting or by completing a questionnaire. The evaluator wants to know about your life and specifically your childhood. They will assess your education, work and relationships. They will ask you what your symptoms impact your daily routine. For example that you are having trouble scheduling appointments, paying your bills on time, or finishing school and home tasks. They may request old progress reports to determine if there are any patterns in your behavior. The evaluator could also use one or more behavior rating scales that are standardized to determine the symptoms of hyperactivity inattention and an impulsive nature. These questionnaires are based upon research that compares people with ADHD with those who don't. They aren't considered diagnostic in themselves, however they are essential to the overall ADHD evaluation. Most doctors will ask the individual to be evaluated and their significant other to complete these ratings. It is essential to be open and honest about your symptoms. This is especially true when they affect your daily routine. It is possible that you are embarrassed to mention these problems or worry that the evaluator may think you're crazy however it is vital that the evaluator has an accurate picture of how you are functioning so that they can make a logical diagnosis. To be eligible for a diagnosis of ADHD to be established it must be so severe that they interfere with two major areas of functioning in your life, whether at school, work or home. This is a different standard than children, in which symptoms have to be “difficult to control.” Adults are typically unable to recognize their own ADHD symptoms. This can cause them to delay diagnosis and treatment. Signs and symptoms of ADHD People suffering from ADHD have a difficult time coping with symptoms. The symptoms can affect work, school or family relationships. They can cause people to feel angry or feel ashamed when their behavior is not understood. For instance, if someone with inattention ADHD misses appointments or forgets important things, their friends and coworkers may think they don't care. In addition, some people with ADHD struggle to complete tasks that require constant concentration, such as writing or reading a report. It is crucial for health professionals to evaluate the extent of a patient's symptoms and how they impact their lives. A thorough evaluation will include a review of the medical background of the patient, a physical exam and a psychological or mental assessment. It may also include a look at the person's performance in various situations, like at home, at work or school. A diagnosis of ADHD can be based on the presence or absence of a specific symptom, including inattention, hyperactivity and/or the tendency to be impulsive. In mild cases, ADHD can only bring about some symptoms. In moderate cases, a person might experience more symptoms. The most severe cases of ADHD can cause more severe problems like problems at work or in school. Researchers believe there's a genetic component to most cases of ADHD however, they don't know the cause of it. Problems with the brain's signals at key developmental stages are believed to be the cause. ADHD can be caused by certain triggers, such as exposure to lead during pregnancy as well as childhood trauma. There are many different types of ADHD. The most common is the inattention type which affects both adults and children. People with this subtype are unable to focus on their tasks, aren't able to follow directions or lose the thread of conversations. They are prone to daydreaming and find it difficult to complete schoolwork and homework, as well as other projects. This subtype is often mistakenly diagnosed as their behavior could be attributed to laziness or irresponsibility. Certain kinds of medication are prescribed to treat ADHD. However, the majority of doctors prefer psychotherapy, (the technical term for a mental health therapy) and accommodations. These are tools or changes to the environment that allow handicapped people perform at their highest. Accommodations can include bigger workspaces and task reminder systems. Diagnosing Adults With ADHD Adults who are struggling to keep their heads in order, maintain their jobs or maintain healthy relationships can benefit from an assessment for ADHD. Contact your primary care doctor to refer you or call the local medical hospital or school in your area if are unsure of where to begin. Most insurance plans will have lists of doctors who specialize in treating adults with ADHD. During the assessment an expert in mental health will examine your symptoms and concerns taking into consideration any history of ADHD in your childhood, and look into any family, personal or work-related stressors that may impact your attention problems. In addition to a physical exam and a detailed history, the evaluation may include standardized rating scales that evaluate your behavior to that of those who don't have ADHD. The psychologist or psychiatrist will also discuss your past and current treatment options. In the DSM-5 diagnostic manual, a diagnosis of ADHD requires that your inattentive and/or hyperactive-impulsive symptoms occur often and are so troublesome that they interfere with your life functioning. Adult ADHD can only be diagnosed if these symptoms last for at least a months. Many adults with undiagnosed ADHD think they'll never be able to get their lives in order and may even come to believe that the issues are the result of an individual flaw or personal weaknesses. A diagnosis of ADHD can provide you with a sense of relief and optimism for the first time, reminding you that the struggles are not your fault and that you haven't failed due to poor study practices or being “bad at following through.” Many adults with ADHD are able to manage their symptoms through psychotherapy, which is the technical term for mental-health therapy, and lifestyle changes such as using daily planners, apps for smartphones and calendars to help them keep the track of important dates and appointments and stay on time. They can also work together with their coworkers, supervisors, and teachers to create adaptations at work or at school that enhance their performance. These tools can be used to assist someone who is unable to reach higher shelves. Adult ADHD Treatments Treatments for adult ADHD are often flexible and holistic. The goal is to increase symptom control. Most people suffering from ADHD find their best results from a combination of medication, talking therapy, lifestyle changes and strategies for coping. It takes time to decide what works best for you. The first step is to visit your GP and explain the symptoms you are experiencing. Your GP may refer you to a specialist clinic for ADHD. You can conduct some research on ADHD before your appointment to help you determine which treatment is the best for you. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a form of therapy that helps adults improve their concentration and attention. It can teach them to manage negative thoughts and self-talk that are common among those with ADHD. Family therapy or marriage therapy can teach people suffering from ADHD how to communicate and help each other. Coaching with a life coach to develop your organizational skills is a different kind of psychotherapy. Coaching can be helpful to help you manage mood swings or anxiety which are also common in those with ADHD. Certain medications, like methylphenidate, or Ritalin can be beneficial for those suffering from ADHD. They help to relax the brain and make it easier to focus. But it's important to speak with your doctor about the benefits and pros of taking a medication as it is not for everyone. Your therapist might also suggest adjustments to aid your success at school or work. Accommodations are modifications or tools that you can make to your environment that allow you to participate in activities as everyone else. A step stool, for example, can help someone shorter reach the same height of taller people. Accommodations include setting up an office with minimal distractions or using an application that reminds you to take your medication. People suffering from ADHD are more likely to suffer from low self-esteem and are at higher risk for substance use disorders. They are more likely to suffer from depression or anxiety and may be having difficulty maintaining relationships or finding a job. It is crucial to recognize ADHD and treat it as soon as you can.