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ADHD – Symptoms in Adults It is crucial to get an accurate diagnosis if you suspect you might have ADHD. This is the first step to managing your symptoms and gaining control over your life. ADHD self-assessment tools may help you recognize that you may have symptoms common in adult ADHD but a proper diagnosis requires an assessment by a qualified. This could be a clinical psychologist, physician (psychiatrist or neurologists) or therapist. Symptoms ADHD is a problem that affects all ages, however symptoms in adults may look slightly different. Adults with ADHD can also use their symptoms to help them succeed at work and in relationships. Adult ADHD symptoms can be mild, medium or severe. To be eligible for a diagnosis, the signs must have remained consistent since childhood and continue to cause problems in at least two different areas of your life. Finding it difficult to keep your focus to your work or remembering things are two examples of issues that could be caused by ADHD. If you think you have symptoms of ADHD There are ratings scales and self-tests available online to help you determine whether or not you may be suffering from the disorder. The only way to get an accurate diagnosis of ADHD for adults is to speak with a doctor who specializes on the disorder. Ask your primary care physician for a referral, or look up an ADHD specialist on the online directory of your health insurance. They'll review your medical background including your childhood and how your symptoms affected your schooling, work, and home. They'll also inquire about any alcohol or drug use, driving history and what your relationship with your family and friends have been. It's essential to be open with your examiner. Many adults suffering from ADHD are unable to conceal or minimize their symptoms from others because they're afraid of criticism or are embarrassed. adult adhd assessment www.iampsychiatry.uk can make the evaluation process more difficult. Before a diagnosis of ADHD is confirmed, it is essential to rule out other medical conditions that could cause similar symptoms, like seizure disorders or thyroid disorders. A thorough neurological history and a physical exam will also be performed. If your results show that you suffer from ADHD, your doctor will likely prescribe medications. They might also suggest therapy or behavioral treatments to assist you in managing your ADHD. They may also recommend adjustments to help you work more efficiently, such as making changes to your environment as well as using software for planning and organizing. Diagnosis A professional evaluation is required to determine if you suffer from ADHD. Your doctor will ask you to give an in-depth account of your symptoms. This includes when they first started and how it has affected your life. They will also inquire about your family history as it's common for ADHD to occur in families. Your doctor will also perform physical exams to rule out any medical conditions that may be causing ADHD symptoms. This includes thyroid issues or seizure disorders. You'll likely be subject to an array of psychological tests to assess your performance, including behavioral rating scales. Your doctor may also ask you to complete math or reading tasks on a computer or phone to determine how you perform under different conditions. You could also be offered an IQ test in order to evaluate your cognitive abilities. The American Psychiatric Association established criteria to determine if an adult suffers from ADHD. These include having at minimum six months of symptoms and their significant impact on various situations in your life, such as school or work. Your doctor will also want to know whether your symptoms caused a substantial amount of problems prior to the age of 12. It's important to understand that there are many different factors that can cause or mimic ADHD. For example, stress, other mental health issues and certain medications can all cause some of the same symptoms as ADHD. Bring any evidence of previous psychological tests or performance evaluations to your appointment. Your doctor will also want to know what medications you're taking in the event of a need, and if you've ever suffered a head injury, or illness. Adults who struggle with ADHD are able to benefit from psychotherapy or “talk therapy”. This treatment method helps you improve your coping skills and strategies to manage your ADHD symptoms, so that they don't affect your ability to function in your daily life. Psychotherapy can be used in conjunction with medication or used alone for people suffering from ADHD. Ask your primary care physician to refer you to a mental health professional who treats adults with ADHD. You can also call your insurance company and ask which specialists are covered. Or, visit a local support group. Treatment Schedule an appointment with your primary health care provider in the event that you suspect you may have ADHD. Your doctor can refer you to an expert in mental health who can perform a full evaluation to determine the cause of 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 interested in knowing about any major problems that have arisen, such as being fired from an employment or failing classes. Your doctor will also ask about your family history and prior health issues, such as depression or anxiety. You may be asked to complete a questionnaire like the Adult Hyperactivity Disorder Self Screening Tool (ASRS). This questionnaire takes about five minutes to fill out and comprises 18 questions that ask you to indicate how often you experience symptoms of adult ADHD. Your doctor will consider your answers and provide you with a an assessment of whether you need to seek a formal diagnosis. Additionally your doctor will also inquire about the issues you are having with your relationships at home and at work. It is possible that you feel embarrassed talking about these issues but it's important for your doctor to be aware about them in order to assist you. In certain instances your doctor may want to talk to your coworkers or teachers to find out more about the issues you are having. This doesn't mean your doctor is judging you, rather, it is to help them understand the ways in which ADHD can affect a person's ability to function at school or work. Your doctor may suggest psychological tests to rule other illnesses that may cause similar symptoms. For instance, a mood disorder or learning disorder. You might also be required to undergo a physical examination to make sure that your symptoms aren't caused by medical conditions. Your doctor might also ask that you bring any records that you have, such as performance evaluations from your workplace or old report cards from your school. Your doctor may also be interested in knowing if your ADHD symptoms were so severe that they interfered with your daily life as an infant. Support If you suspect that you may have ADHD and you suspect that you have it, you should speak with an expert who can provide an extensive evaluation. These experts include licensed mental health providers, such as doctors and clinical psychologists (psychiatrists and neurologists, or family doctors). Many insurance companies provide the names of qualified professionals in the area. You can also reach out to local support groups for assistance in locating a suitable provider. In addition to taking a detailed medical history, your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and the difficulties they cause in your life. This includes your school and work performance, as well as relationships and other aspects of your daily life. Your physician may decide to speak with colleagues and teachers, or request old school records. This isn't to question your honesty, but to get additional information. Many adults suffering from ADHD have poor or inconsistent memories, particularly from their childhood. It's important that your specialist obtain the most relevant information possible to determine the cause. Based on the issue you are facing depending on your situation, your doctor might suggest other diagnostic procedures, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), a treatment that assists people suffering from ADHD cope with challenges and harness their strength. CBT can be paired with medications for ADHD treatment. If you're waiting for a professional evaluation There are many tools available on the Internet which allow you to evaluate your own symptoms. They 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 make people so familiar with their challenges that they ignore them. They might believe that they're not good enough or that it is their fault that they are unable to keep up with their social or work commitments. The reality is that the symptoms of ADHD are neurological and not a result of a personal flaw. With the right treatment, you can get back control of your ADHD and turn it into something positive. This could lead to greater success in your career and personal relationships, as well as a richer life for you and others around you.