adult testing for adhd For Adults A correct diagnosis is essential for receiving treatment that will help you perform better at work, home and at school. Other conditions can also cause ADHD symptoms. That's why when you get an assessment where your doctor will ask you questions and will use standardized rating scales. You can also undergo a physical exam to determine if you have any medical issues that might be related to ADHD. Signs and symptoms A health professional who is familiar with a person whether it's siblings, spouses or parent for an adult; a teacher or coach for a child can provide insight into symptoms that aren't possible to learn from questionnaires. A thorough evaluation will also include a physical exam to determine if there are any issues that can cause symptoms of ADHD, such as thyroid disorders and sleep apnea. It is also crucial to look over old school records to determine whether the symptoms started in childhood. For adults, a mental health professional might use standard ADHD rating scales or checklists for identifying symptoms. They'll inquire about recent behavior and performance, as well as social interactions at work, at home and in other social settings. They'll also look over the past and school records, including assessments from therapists or social workers. If a person has a co-occurring condition, such as bipolar disorder or depression, the health care provider will also investigate this and rule out that as the cause of the symptoms of ADHD. Symptoms vary by person, but in general the people with primarily hyperactive-impulsive ADHD are "on the go" and have little impulse control. They fidget and squirm, are impatient, interrupt others and don't wait for their turn in games or conversations. They're often unable to play or engage in leisure activities in silence. People with inattention-deficit ADHD struggle to plan or complete tasks, are having trouble following instructions and are easily distracted. It's important to remember that ADHD isn't a moral lapse or a result of weak willpower. It's a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects the brain's working memory and ability to regulate emotions and behavior. The difficulties caused by ADHD can be addressed with medicine, therapy and family support as well as techniques for stress reduction, such as regular exercise and deep breathing. In most instances, doctors diagnose ADHD based on guidelines published by the American Psychiatric Association in its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. They'll look for at least six established symptoms in one of the two main categories -- inattention or hyperactivity/impulsivity -- over a six-month period. They'll also take a look at the person's family history as well as medical background. Diagnosis A thorough diagnosis can help you get the treatment you need. A clear diagnosis could aid you in negotiating accommodations for work to improve your performance and ease the burden of life. There is no brain scan or blood test that can be used to diagnose ADHD however, you should visit a mental health professional who is trained to analyze your symptoms and medical history. There are self-tests and checklists of symptoms online, but they aren't reliable and cannot replace an in-depth evaluation with a licensed health professional or psychologist. When evaluating adults suffering from ADHD, your provider will be looking at your symptoms and the way they impact various aspects of your life. They'll be interested in knowing whether you've had these symptoms for a long period of time and how severe and if you suffer from co-occurring disorders which could contribute to the issues you're having. To qualify for a diagnosis of ADHD, your adult must meet a certain number of criteria for both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity. Adults must have fewer symptoms than children, for example, 5 out of 9 over the last 6 months. In addition, your provider will inquire about your school and childhood experiences to make sure you've been dealing with these problems for a while. Your provider will also interview family members and acquaintances who know you well since a diagnosis of ADHD typically requires confirmation from multiple sources. Your doctors will also look over your records from the past and inquire about any mental health issues you may have had. These can often mimic the ADHD symptoms. They may administer a series tests for your psychological health to evaluate your mental functioning. These tests will test your working memory, executive function (abilities such as making decisions and planning), visual and spatial skills (related to the space) and reasoning skills (thinking). Your provider will also review your medical history and perform an examination of your body. Treatment A clear diagnosis of ADHD can open the door to receiving the treatment you need to live a better life. The symptoms of this condition can interfere with school, relationships, and work which is why getting the right care is essential. A licensed mental healthcare professional can evaluate your condition based on your symptoms and medical background. They can use standardized behavioral rating scales, ADHD symptoms checklists, and other psychological assessments. They might also request to review your old school records and speak with teachers, parents, or other people who knew you as a kid. They will also examine your mood, other mental health issues and other factors that could affect your symptoms. After review of your symptoms, your doctor will determine whether you have mild, medium or severe ADHD. Mild means you have certain symptoms, but they don't affect your daily activities. Moderate means that your symptoms can cause disruptions to your social and work activities. The severe ADHD symptoms can have a significant impact on your daily functioning. If they determine that you suffer from ADHD If they determine that you have ADHD, your health professional will create a treatment plan specifically for you. The treatment could include psychotherapy, for example cognitive behavioral therapy or family therapy. They might suggest lifestyle adjustments and modifications, for example, using alarms or an organizer, keeping lists or making reminders on your smartphone, and asking for assistance from your family and friends. These strategies will increase your chances to achieve your goals and succeed, especially in school and work. Research has shown that people with ADHD have higher rates of academic failure and job loss, and are more likely to be involved in accidents with cars. If left untreated, it could lead to other problems such as depression, anxiety and abuse of drugs. The good news is that there are strategies and treatments that can ease your symptoms and lessen the severity of issues. This includes medication, psychotherapy and changes to your routines and environment. The medications for ADHD are also helpful however they are only part of the overall treatment program. Support Having ADHD as an adult can be a challenge. If it is not treated, it could affect school, work, and relationships. To overcome these challenges the first step is to get diagnosed by a trained medical professional. After being diagnosed, your doctor can recommend the best treatment to help you achieve success in all aspects of your life. Women and men are both more prone to be diagnosed with ADHD, but this doesn't mean that people who belong to minority groups aren't affected by it. Some people are better at hiding their symptoms or have learned to adjust as they age. This can make it harder for a doctor to identify the problem. Furthermore research has found that adults are more likely to seek treatment for ADHD when they suffer from co-occurring depression and anxiety disorders. If you suspect that you suffer from ADHD, the first step is talking to your primary care physician. They might be able to refer you to a specialist who will conduct an assessment. You can also ask for an appointment with your doctor or search online for professionals that specialize in treating ADHD. If you have insurance the plan you have should provide an inventory of the providers that are covered under your policy. Your health professional will review the family history, obtain an extensive medical history and conduct an interview. They will be interested in knowing whether you've been experiencing symptoms for a prolonged period and how they affect your school, work, and relationships. They'll also check for other mental health conditions that resemble ADHD like anxiety and depression. Your care team will come up with strategies to manage ADHD symptoms after you've been diagnosed. These could include using alarms or daily planners to help you keep track of your obligations, finding someone to mentor you who has the same disorder, or hiring a coach to help you stay on task. It may also be beneficial to discuss openly with family members and colleagues about ADHD. This way they'll be more understanding when you have to miss meetings or turn in projects late.
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