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ADHD – Symptoms in Adults If you think you might have ADHD it is important to receive a diagnosis. This will allow you to manage your symptoms and take control of your life. ADHD self-assessment tools may alert you to the possibility of having symptoms common to adult ADHD. However the diagnosis is only possible through an evaluation by a professional. This can be a clinical psychologist, physician (psychiatrist or neurologist) or therapist. Symptoms ADHD affects people of all ages, however symptoms in adults can appear slightly different. Adults suffering from ADHD may also utilize their symptoms to help them succeed at work and in relationships. Adult symptoms of ADHD can be mild, moderate, or severe. To be able to determine if a diagnosis has been established, the symptoms must be present since childhood and cause significant issues in two areas of daily life. ADHD can cause problems such as difficulty focussing on a task, or forgetting things. If you think you might have symptoms of ADHD There are ratings scales and self-tests online that can help you determine whether or not you might have the disorder. The only way to receive a definitive diagnosis of ADHD in adults is to see a doctor who specializes on the disorder. Ask your primary doctor for a referral or search online for an ADHD specialist through your health insurance directory. When you visit a specialist, they'll review your medical and psychiatric records going back to childhood, highlighting how your symptoms have affected your school, work and personal life. They'll also inquire about any drug or alcohol use, your driving history, and how your relationships with family and friends been. It is crucial to be honest when speaking to your examiner. Many adults with ADHD cover up or deny their symptoms to others because they're scared of criticism or embarrassed. This can make the assessment process more difficult. Before a diagnosis of ADHD is confirmed, it is essential to rule out other medical conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as seizures or thyroid disorders. A thorough neurological history as well as a physical exam will also be performed. If your results suggest that you have ADHD Your doctor may prescribe medication. They may also recommend therapy or behavioral therapies to aid you in managing your ADHD. They may also recommend adjustments to aid 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 thorough evaluation is required. Your doctor will conduct a comprehensive history of your symptoms and the time they began and how they have affected your life. He or she will also inquire about your family history as ADHD is usually passed down through the family. Your doctor may also conduct a physical examination to rule out any medical conditions that may be causing ADHD symptoms. This includes thyroid issues or seizure disorders. You may be asked to complete several tests in the field of psychology, including behavioral ratings scales, in order to assess your functioning. You could be asked to perform math or reading tasks on a computer, phone or tablet to assess your performance in various situations. You might even have an IQ test to measure your cognitive abilities. The American Psychiatric Association has established criteria that must be met for the diagnosis of adult ADHD. The symptoms must have been present for at minimum six consecutive months and have significant effects in several areas of your life such as work or school. Your doctor will also want to know if your symptoms led to a significant amount of trouble before age 12. It is important to recognize that a variety of factors can trigger or mimic ADHD. Stress mental health issues and certain medications, like, can all cause some of the symptoms that are similar to ADHD. Bring any records of previous psychological tests or performance evaluations to your appointment. Your doctor will also want to know which medications you're taking or taking and if you've suffered a head injury, or illness. Adults with ADHD are able to benefit from psychotherapy or “talk therapy”. This treatment aids in developing better coping strategies and skills to manage your ADHD symptoms so that they do not affect your daily routine. adhd assessment adult can be used on its own or as a supplement to medication for adults with ADHD. Ask your primary care physician to recommend you to a mental health professional who can treat adults suffering from ADHD. You can also call your insurance company and inquire what specialists are covered. Or, visit an area support group. Treatment Make an appointment with your primary healthcare provider in the event that you suspect you may have ADHD. Your doctor will refer you to a mental healthcare professional who will perform an exhaustive evaluation and identify your disorder. During your appointment, be honest with your doctor about any issues you're having at home and at work. Your doctor will be looking for any major issues that have led to them in being dismissed from a job or failing classes. Your doctor will ask about your family history and any health issues you have had previously like depression or an anxiety disorder. You are likely to be asked to complete an assessment, such as the Adult Attention and Hyperactivity Disorder Self-Screening Tool (ASRS). This questionnaire is about five minutes long and includes 18 questions that ask you to rate the frequency with which you are experiencing adult ADHD symptoms. Your doctor will take into account your answers and provide you with a an overall score that will indicate whether you should seek formal diagnosis. Your doctor will also inquire about your concerns in your relationships at home and at work. You might feel embarrassed speaking about these difficulties but it's important for your doctor to be aware about them to assist you. In some cases your doctor may decide to speak with your coworkers or teachers to learn more about the challenges you're experiencing. This does not mean that your doctor is judging you or blaming you. It's simply to help them comprehend the ways ADHD can affect a person's ability to perform at work or in school. Your doctor may also recommend that you get psychological tests to rule out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, like an intellectual disability or mood disorder. You could also be asked to undergo a physical exam to confirm that your symptoms are not caused by medical issues. Your doctor might also ask to see any records with you, like performance evaluations from your job or report cards from school. Your doctor will also want to know if your ADHD symptoms were so severe that they interfered with your daily life as a child. Support If you suspect ADHD and you suspect that you have it, you should speak with an expert who can conduct an extensive assessment. These experts include licensed mental health providers, such as doctors and clinical psychologists (psychiatrists and neurologists, or family physicians). Many insurance plans have lists of professionals who are qualified in your area, and you can also reach out to local support groups to assist in locating a suitable provider. Your physician will also talk to you about the symptoms you are experiencing and how they affect your daily life. This includes work and school performance as well as other aspects of your life. Your doctor may want to talk with co-workers and teachers or to request old school records. This is not a way to doubt your integrity or your commitment to a particular cause; it's simply to obtain more information. Many adults suffering from ADHD suffer from weak or spotty memories, particularly from childhood. It is essential to gather the most information you can before making an assessment. Based on the issue you are facing Your doctor may suggest other diagnostic procedures, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) A treatment that helps people with ADHD cope with challenges and increase their power. CBT may be coupled with medication to treat your ADHD. If you're waiting for a professional evaluation There are many tools available on the Internet that allow you to evaluate your own symptoms. They include the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) and a variety of online questionnaires. These tools aren't standardized or scientifically validated, and should only be used to provide general guidance. Many people who aren't diagnosed with ADHD are so used to their difficulties that they are able to ignore them. They may think that they're just not good enough or that it is their fault that they can't keep up with their social or work commitments. The reality is that symptoms of ADHD are neurological and not a result of a personal flaw. You can, however, get control of your ADHD with the proper treatment and turn it into an asset. This could lead to greater success in your career and personal relationships and an improved quality of life for you and others around you.