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ADHD – Symptoms in Adults It is crucial to get an accurate diagnosis if you suspect that you might have ADHD. This will allow you to manage your symptoms and improve the quality of your life. ADHD self-assessment tools may alert you that you may have symptoms typical of adult ADHD. However the diagnosis is only possible with a professional evaluation. This could be a clinical psychologist, physician (psychiatrist or neurologist) or therapist. Symptoms ADHD can be a problem for anyone of any age, but the symptoms may be slightly different in adults. It's also possible for adults with ADHD to be able to turn their symptoms into tools that help them succeed in relationships and work. Symptoms of adult ADHD can be mild, moderate or severe. For a diagnosis to be recognized, the symptoms must have been present since childhood and cause significant issues in two areas of daily life. ADHD can cause problems like difficulty in focusing on a task or forgetting things. There are online self-tests or rating scales that can aid in determining if you may be suffering from ADHD. The only way to obtain a definitive diagnosis of ADHD for adults is to see an expert in the disorder. Ask your primary doctor for a referral, or search for an ADHD specialist in your health insurance directory. When you visit a specialist, they'll review your medical and psychiatric history dating back to childhood, including the way your illness has affected your school, work and family life. They'll also inquire about any drug or alcohol use, your driving history, and how your relationships with family and friends have been. It is crucial to be honest when you are speaking with your examiner. Many adults suffering from ADHD are unable to conceal or deny their symptoms to others because they're afraid of criticism or are embarrassed. This can make the evaluation process more difficult. Some medical conditions, such as thyroid disorders and seizure disorders, can have similar symptoms to ADHD and must be checked out before an ADHD diagnosis is made. A physical exam and a thorough neurological history will also be provided. If your tests show that you have ADHD your doctor may prescribe medications. They may also recommend therapy or behavioral therapies to assist you in managing your ADHD. They may also recommend adjustments to assist you in working more efficiently, including making changes to your surroundings and utilizing planning and organizing apps. Diagnosis To determine ADHD, a professional evaluation is required. Your doctor will ask you to provide an extensive account of your symptoms. This includes when they started and how they have affected your life. They may also ask about your family history, as it is common for ADHD to run in families. Your doctor will perform a physical exam, in addition to determine if there are any medical issues that could mimic ADHD symptoms, such as seizures or thyroid issues. You will likely be asked to complete a series tests in the field of psychology which include scales for behavioral ratings to evaluate your ability to function. You may be asked to complete math or reading tasks using a computer, phone or tablet to assess your performance in various situations. adult adhd assessment could even be asked to take an IQ test to evaluate your cognitive capabilities. The American Psychiatric Association established criteria for diagnosing adult ADHD. This includes the presence of at minimum six months of symptoms and their significant impact on multiple situations in your life, such as school or work. Your doctor will be interested in knowing whether your symptoms led to significant problems before the age of 12. It is important to realize that there are many things that can cause or mimic ADHD. Stress mental health issues, stress, and certain medications, for instance are all possible causes of the symptoms similar to ADHD. If you have records from previous psychological testing or performance evaluations bring them to your appointment. Your doctor will also want to know what medications you're taking, if any and if you've suffered a head injury or illness. Adults who suffer from ADHD can benefit greatly from psychotherapy or “talk therapy”. This treatment can help you develop more effective strategies for coping and to manage your ADHD symptoms so that they don't interfere with your daily life. Psychotherapy can be combined with medication or used alone for people suffering from ADHD. You can locate a mental health professional who is specialized in treating adults suffering from ADHD by asking your primary care provider for a referral, or calling your insurance provider to inquire for the specialists they cover or visiting an organization that offers support locally. Treatment Make an appointment with your primary health care provider should you suspect that you suffer from ADHD. Your doctor may refer you to a mental health specialist who will conduct an exhaustive evaluation and identify your disorder. During your appointment, you should be honest with your doctor about the problems you're experiencing at work and home. Your doctor will inquire about any major issues you have faced, such as being dismissed or failing a class. Your doctor will also ask about family history and previous health problems, such as depression or anxiety. You are likely to be asked to fill out a questionnaire such as the Adult Hyperactivity Disorder Self Screening Tool (ASRS). This test is around five minutes long, and it contains 18 questions that require you to rate the frequency that you experience adult ADHD symptoms. Your doctor will review your answers and give you an overall score that will indicate whether you should seek a formal diagnosis. Your doctor will also inquire about your issues in your relationships at home and at work. You may feel embarrassed talking about these difficulties but it's important that your doctor is aware about them so they can help you. Your doctor might want to talk to your colleagues or teachers to understand the difficulties you're confronting. This doesn't mean your doctor is judging you or blames you. It's simply to help them better understand the ways ADHD can affect a person's ability at work or in school. Your doctor may also suggest that you undergo psychological tests to determine if there are other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, like an intellectual disability or mood disorder. You might also be required to undergo a physical examination to ensure that your symptoms aren't caused by medical issues. Your doctor might also ask to see any records with you, like performance evaluations from your job or old report cards from school. Your doctor may also want to know if you're ADHD symptoms were severe enough to interfere with your life as a child. Support If you suspect you may have ADHD If you suspect that you may have ADHD, it is essential to consult a professional. They can conduct a thorough assessment. These professionals include licensed mental health specialists like clinical psychologists and doctors (psychiatrist, neurologist or family doctor). A lot of insurance plans offer lists of professionals who are qualified in your region, and you can also reach out to local support groups to assist in locating a suitable provider. Your doctor will also inquire with you about the symptoms that you are experiencing and how they affect your life. This includes school and work performance as well as other aspects of your daily life. Your physician may decide to meet with your coworkers and teachers or to request old school records. This is not to question your honesty, but to gain additional information. Many adults suffering from ADHD suffer from poor or spotty memories, particularly from childhood. It is crucial to collect as much information as possible before making an assessment. Depending on the issue you're experiencing, your doctor might suggest other diagnostic methods like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which can help people suffering from ADHD learn to manage their challenges and develop their strengths. CBT can be combined with medication to treat your ADHD. If you're waiting for a professional assessment There are a variety of tools available on the Internet that let you assess your own symptoms. These include the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) and a number of online questionnaires. These tools are not standardized or scientifically validated and should only be used for general guidance. Undiagnosed ADHD can cause people to be so comfortable with their problems that they begin to ignore them. They might think that they're simply not good at things or that it's their own responsibility for not maintaining their work or social commitments on track. The symptoms of ADHD are not caused by an individual's fault and are more neurological. With the right treatment, however, you can regain control of your ADHD and turn it into something positive. This could result in greater success in your career, improved personal relationships and a more meaningful life for your family and friends around you.