How to Get a Diagnosis of ADHD
A diagnosis of ADHD is a challenge for a lot of adults. Some people feel relieved that they finally understand their struggles and others feel grief because they missed out on opportunities in their lives because of symptoms that were not treated for so long.
A health professional or mental health specialist can diagnose ADHD by analyzing the person's mood and past mental and medical health issues, and their childhood behavior and school experiences. The test usually includes ADHD symptoms checklists as well as standard scales of rating.
Signs and symptoms
People with ADHD struggle to accomplish tasks that require a lot of mental effort or paying attention to details. These problems are usually caused by other underlying conditions like depression or substance abuse disorders. Finding a reliable diagnosis of ADHD is the first step in getting control of symptoms that cause havoc in personal and professional life.
Symptoms of ADHD typically begin in childhood and last throughout adulthood. In order for a person to be granted a diagnosis of the disorder and be diagnosed with it, their symptoms must interfere with their lives in more than one area (home school, work and home) and cause significant impairment. For symptoms to be considered to meet this criteria they must last for at least six month and cannot be caused by other mental disorders, such as anxiety disorders, mood disorders, dissociative disorder or personality disorders.
The health care provider will also go over the patient's medical and mental history. They will also talk to the patient, and if possible their family members, to gain a perspective on childhood behavior. The health care provider will also talk to the patient's teacher and review their current work and home settings.
The American Psychiatric Association provides clinical guidelines for the diagnosis of ADHD in its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition. To be diagnosed with the inattentive form of ADHD, a person must have six or fewer symptoms of inattention that are serious enough to interfere in their daily activities. To be diagnosed with the hyperactive/impulsive type of ADHD, an individual must have six of the following symptoms:
A thorough psychiatric evaluation is typically enough for a healthcare professional to determine if someone has ADHD. This will include an in-depth interview with the person, his or her parents, and any caregivers or educators, as well taking questionnaires or scales. The health professional may examine the patient's medical, psychiatric, and family history and refer the person to a physical exam to rule out any other causes of symptoms. He or she will also take a look at the person's sleeping habits as well as their diet, work and home environment to assess any stressors that could be contributing to their symptoms.
Diagnosis
If you suspect that you may have ADHD, it's important to consult a medical provider who specializes in the disorder. Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. They will likely want to know how often you have trouble finishing tasks, how often you lose items or forget where you have put your keys, and if these issues cause stress at work, home, or in relationships. Your doctor will also look over the medical history and physical examination. This information will aid your doctor in determining other conditions which may mimic the symptoms associated with ADHD, such a sleep disorders, depression anxiety, thyroid issues or depression.
Your health professional could interview family members, caregivers, and friends about your conduct. They will also discuss your behavior in various situations like at work, school or with scout or religious leaders. Your doctor might also request you to complete an assessment or self-test to determine the severity of your symptoms. They are available online, but they should not be used to replace an in-person visit with your doctor.
For adults, a diagnosis of ADHD requires you to meet a lower threshold of symptoms than children -- five out of nine symptoms in the course of six months. You'll also have to make an impact on your school, work and personal 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 look at how your brain functions and determine if there are mental disorders that coexist such as anxiety or depression.
Receiving a diagnosis of ADHD as an adult can bring up complicated emotions. The emotions of Matlen ranged from anger over missed opportunities to relief that she had a concrete reason for her problems. Consult your doctor or local support group to refer you to a health professional who can conduct ADHD assessments on adults. You can also inquire with your insurance provider to find out which providers are included on its list.
Treatment
The medication is often the first choice for people suffering from ADHD. The stimulants like methylphenidate and amphetamine function by increasing or balancing levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters that regulate attention and behavior. They can help some people with ADHD focus better and stay focused and in control of their impulses. They can also help them make more rational decisions, improve communication and relationships and reduce impulsive behavior.
There are also non-stimulant drugs such as atomoxetine and certain antidepressants that are slower than stimulants but can still be effective for people with ADHD. The type of medication which works best for an individual will change as time passes. It is important to discuss with the health professional conducting the evaluation all options.
A health care professional with expertise in ADHD will conduct a comprehensive assessment. This will include an interview, the filling out of scales, questionnaires, and a review of the family history, mood disorders, and medical conditions, including sleep disorders, and other physical ailments. A referral to a medical examination can also be recommended to rule out any medical causes for the ADHD symptoms.
The evaluation is likely to take a while, especially if the person is an adult who has struggled to manage symptoms for a long time. The evaluation should be thorough which is why the person should bring their old report cards and copies of their performance evaluations from work or school. The healthcare professional may ask permission to speak to close family members or friends to obtain a complete understanding of the individual's past experiences and behaviours.
For adults, getting diagnosed with ADHD can be a life-changing experience. People typically experience a variety of emotions, ranging from relief to finally having an answer to their problems, to a sense of grief at the lost opportunities and relationships resulting from untreated ADHD. Matlen however, claims that after being diagnosed, she was able to make a change in her life, including her career and her relationships.
Counseling
Getting help from a counselor is a vital step for many people with ADHD. Finding the right therapist may be difficult. There are many ways to locate a specialist in the area. Start by asking your regular doctor for an appointment. He or she might have a list with specialists who are experienced in treating ADHD. You can also try looking online. There are source web page that list doctors, including information about their specialties and areas of expertise. Another alternative is to request a recommendation from friends or family members. You can also call your local mental health clinic or an ADHD support group for recommendations.
If you are seeing an experienced therapist in treating ADHD it is crucial to be as honest as possible. This involves discussing how ADHD symptoms affect your life, as well as the impact they have on other people. It's also important to talk about your medical history, including your past history. This allows the therapist to rule out conditions such as anxiety or depression that may be similar to anxiety or depression.
The therapist may also conduct interviews and use standardized scales to measure the severity of the symptoms. The therapist might also ask other caregivers for their opinions for example, teachers, religious leaders or scout and scout leaders to obtain an accurate picture of behavior of an individual in various situations.
Adults with ADHD often feel frustrated and ashamed of their condition and may be reluctant to discuss them. This can limit 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 challenges.
It is crucial to understand that the diagnosis of ADHD does not mean that the therapist will prescribe medications. While certain people suffering from ADHD may need to take medication, behavioral therapy is another option that can be extremely effective. These treatment methods can be utilized in conjunction with medication, or used as an alternative treatment.