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How to Get an Adult Diagnosis of ADHD Many people aren't diagnosed with ADHD until they reach the age of adulthood. It could be because the signs were not noticed in childhood or they are mild. To be diagnosed with ADHD, you must have experienced ADHD symptoms prior to the age of 12. These symptoms must interfere in social or work-related activities and persist over time. The Diagnosis Process To receive a diagnosis of ADHD it is essential to see a health care specialist who is specialized in the disorder. In an assessment, the doctor will take a detailed history of the person's symptoms. The doctor will also look over the patient's medical, mental health and family history. It is important that patients talk about their symptoms in a candid and honest manner with the doctor, avoiding feelings of shame or embarrassment. ADHD symptoms may be similar to those of other mental disorders and physical conditions. It is important that an expert in mental health conducts a thorough examination. The evaluation will comprise an exam for medical conditions and psychological examination, as well as an interview with the patient. The psychiatrist or psychologist will ask the person to describe their symptoms and how they affect their lives. They might also ask questions about the person’s schooling and their childhood. The doctor will also look at other factors that could be contributing to the person's difficulties, such as stress and other health problems. It can be a challenging and emotional process to receive a diagnosis of ADHD as an adult. Many people are shocked and astonished and this can cause feelings of guilt or shame. But, it is important to remember that the diagnosis of ADHD is not an indication of a person's personality or character. It is a condition that can be treated by medications and other treatments. Certain doctors use checklists to determine the signs of ADHD. These checklists are designed specifically for children, but it is possible for adults to be able to satisfy the criteria for a diagnosis if they have five or more signs of inattention or 6 or more symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity. Some doctors conduct interviews with close friends, family members and colleagues. These can provide valuable information that aren't available through questionnaires, and may help rule other conditions out which could be the cause of ADHD symptoms. It is a good practice to ask trusted colleagues for recommendations when choosing the right specialist to evaluate ADHD. It is also a good idea to ensure that the doctor you choose is licensed and certified in the area you are looking for. Visit Learn More Here of the specialist to find out more about their credentials. Symptoms People who suffer from untreated ADHD often experience many types of issues in their lives. They may face difficulties at school, relationships or work. They may have difficulty maintaining an appropriate diet or sleeping habits. They could be facing financial difficulties due to impulsive purchases and drug abuse. They may also suffer from health issues, such as depression or anxiety. The majority of the time, these signs are misinterpreted by those around them as a sign of inattention or lack of responsibility. When those suffering from ADHD receive a diagnosis, they often feel relief and understanding. They can then begin to tackle the issues that are impacting their lives daily and have success in a variety of areas. A mental health professional will look over the person's medical records and review their symptoms as well as their past. They will also look over the physical examination. To determine the severity of the problem, they will use adult rating checklists or scales. They will also ask the patient about their working and home life and how these issues affect the family. The specialist will want to speak to parents teachers, parents, and other individuals who knew the patient as a young person. The symptoms include: Attention-deficit ADHD symptoms may include daydreaming or zoning out in class, or forgetting important details at work or at home, and taking longer than expected to complete tasks. Hyperactive-impulsive ADHD symptoms may involve fidgeting, talking nonstop and difficulty waiting for turn or instructions. Combination presentation ADHD, where there are equal amounts of inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms present, is the most common type of the disorder. A lot of people with ADHD are incorrectly diagnosed or don't receive a diagnosis at all because they do not meet the diagnostic criteria laid out in the American Psychiatric Association's fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). It is also important to remember that stress and certain medications may cause similar symptoms as those associated with ADHD and, therefore, an in-depth evaluation by a health care professional is required to determine the cause of the person's symptoms. In addition, patients should always disclose any other medications they are currently taking, such as vitamins and supplements, to their doctor. Treatment Adults suffering from ADHD can benefit from a variety of treatments that can improve symptoms and improve productivity. However, finding the right treatment takes time. Consult your family physician or a trusted friend for a recommendation. Certain specialists specialize in treating adult ADHD. Additionally, it might be beneficial to reach out to the local hospital or medical school for suggestions. If there is an adult ADHD support group in your area, it may be beneficial to request an appointment from the group members. The most effective treatments for adults with ADHD are usually psychotherapies (also called talk therapy) and behavioral therapies that teach individuals and their families more effective ways to manage their symptoms. These treatments can be short-term and focused on goals or more in-depth and long-term and may be focused on specific areas such as anger management, figuring out how to manage money and time more effectively or enhancing the organization skills of individuals. Some professionals employ questionnaires or rating scales to determine the severity of a patient's symptom. But the most crucial factor in diagnosing adults with ADHD is a medical interview conducted by an expert in mental health who is experienced in diagnosing ADHD. During the interview the mental health professional will look over the person's social, emotional and academic background. They will also review the effects that current symptoms have on work, relationships, and other aspects of your life. To be diagnosed with ADHD, you must have at least five of the inattentive or hyperactive-impulsive symptoms listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The doctor will determine whether the symptoms are predominantly inattentive or primarily hyperactive-impulsive, or if they are a combination. The symptoms must be present for a minimum of six month and interfere with daily functioning. Being given an ADHD diagnosis as an adult can bring up many emotions that are difficult to handle including sadness over missed opportunities or joy that there's an answer to your previous difficulties. It is important that you feel comfortable discussing your concerns with your mental health professional, and that you're honest and open during the evaluation process. Support Many adults go through their lives without obtaining a valid ADHD diagnosis. They might be experiencing chronic stress and frustration in their relationships or work and are unaware that their problems are due to untreated ADHD. It can be difficult to diagnose ADHD for adults because of the stigma surrounding the disorder. Certain medical professionals also have preconceived ideas about how someone suffering from ADHD might look like. This makes it difficult for people of color, women, or those who were designated female births to receive an assessment. If you are having trouble finding a diagnosis, try seeking out a specialist trained to diagnose ADHD in adults. You can ask for recommendations from your doctor or the local medical school or hospital. You can also connect with a local ADHD support group for recommendations. The best method to determine if a healthcare professional is able to accurately diagnose ADHD and evaluating it is through word-of-mouth referrals. Your doctor will examine your symptoms and compare them to those you describe to the criteria in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. This is the book that mental health professionals rely on to make a precise diagnosis. Your clinician will also ask about your past experiences and current issues to gain a full picture of the challenges you face. ADHD is also evaluated using ratings scales and questionnaires. Your doctor will determine if your ADHD symptoms are sufficient to warrant treatment or if psychotherapy or alternative treatment methods are more appropriate. It's important to disclose any other medications you're taking because certain medications may interact with stimulants. You should also tell your doctor about any traumas that you have had to endure in the past. Being diagnosed with ADHD is a major life-changing event for many adults. It can bring relief to be able to understand the root of your issues and a sense of empowerment to control your symptoms. A diagnosis of ADHD can help many find a successful career and fulfilling relationships. Actually, people who suffer from ADHD excel in creative fields which is where the way their brain works can be advantageous.