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ADHD – Symptoms in Adults It is essential to receive a proper diagnosis if you suspect you might be suffering from ADHD. This is the first step towards controlling your symptoms and taking control over your life. ADHD self-assessment tools can alert you that you may have symptoms that are common to adults with ADHD. However, a valid diagnosis is only possible with a professional evaluation. This can be a neurologist, psychologist or psychiatrist. Symptoms ADHD can affect people at any age, however the symptoms might differ slightly in adults. It is also possible for adults with ADHD to to transform their issues into tools that allow them to succeed in relationships and work. Adult symptoms of ADHD can be mild, moderate, or severe. To be able to receive a diagnosis, the signs must have been present since childhood and continue to cause problems in at least two different areas of your life. ADHD can cause issues like difficulty in focusing on a task or even forgetting things. If you think you might have symptoms of ADHD There are self-tests and ratings scales online that can help determine if you might have the disorder. The only way to receive a definitive diagnosis of ADHD for adults is to speak with a doctor who specializes on the disorder. Ask your primary physician for a referral, or search for an ADHD specialist in your health insurance directory. When you go to see an expert, they'll go over your medical and psychiatric history going back to childhood, highlighting how your symptoms have impacted your school, work and home life. They'll also ask you about any alcohol or drugs you use, your driving history, and what your relationships with family and friends been. It's essential to be open with your examiner. Many adults with ADHD are unable to conceal or minimize their symptoms from others because they're scared of criticism or embarrassed. This can make the assessment process more difficult. Some medical conditions, like seizures and thyroid disorders, may exhibit similar symptoms to ADHD and must be checked out before an ADHD diagnosis is made. A physical exam and a complete neurological history are also required. If your results indicate that you suffer from ADHD your doctor is likely to prescribe medication. Additionally, they might suggest psychotherapy or other behavioral therapies that can aid you in managing your ADHD. They may also recommend adjustments to help you work more efficiently, including making changes to your work environment and utilizing planning and organizing apps. Diagnosis A professional evaluation is needed to determine the presence of ADHD. 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 inherited. Your doctor will also perform physical exams to rule out any medical conditions that could cause ADHD symptoms. This includes thyroid issues or seizures. You may be asked to complete a series tests for your psychological health, including behavioral ratings scales, in order to assess your performance. Your doctor may also ask you to complete math or reading exercises using a phone or computer to see how you perform under various conditions. You may even be given an IQ test in order to assess your cognitive capabilities. The American Psychiatric Association established criteria for diagnosing adult ADHD. The symptoms must have been present for at minimum six consecutive months and have an impact on multiple areas of your life, such as work or school. Your doctor will be looking to determine whether your symptoms caused you significant issues prior to the age of 12. It's important to realize that many different factors can cause or mimic ADHD. For instance, stress, other mental health issues and certain medications can all lead to some of the same symptoms as ADHD. If you have any records from previous psychological testing or performance evaluations bring them to your appointment. Your doctor will want to know if you're taking any medication and whether you've ever suffered an injury to your head. Adults who struggle with ADHD will benefit greatly from psychotherapy or “talk therapy”. This treatment helps you develop more effective strategies and techniques to manage your ADHD symptoms so that they don't interfere with your everyday life. Psychotherapy can be used alone or in conjunction with medication for adults suffering from ADHD. You can locate an expert in mental health who is specialized in treating people suffering from ADHD by asking your primary healthcare provider for a referral, contacting your insurance company to check on what specialists they cover, or going to an organization that offers support locally. Treatment Schedule an appointment with your primary healthcare provider should you suspect that you suffer from ADHD. Your doctor may refer you to a mental health professional who will carry out an exhaustive evaluation and identify your disorder. During your appointment, be honest about the difficulties you are having at work as well as at home. Your doctor will inquire about any major issues you have faced, such as being fired or failing in a class. Your doctor will inquire about your family history and any health issues that you've had in the past, such as anxiety or depression. You are likely to be asked to complete some sort of questionnaire, like the Adult Attention and Hyperactivity Disorder Self-Screening Tool (ASRS). The questionnaire is approximately five minutes long, and it contains 18 questions which ask you to rate the frequency with which you are experiencing adult ADHD symptoms. Your doctor will consider your answers and provide you with a a score indicating whether you should seek formal diagnosis. Your doctor will also inquire about your issues in your relationships at home and at work. You might feel embarrassed speaking about these difficulties however it is essential that your doctor is aware about them in order to assist you. Your doctor may want to discuss your issues with your colleagues or teachers to better understand the challenges you're facing. This doesn't mean that your doctor is judging or blames you. It's just to help them better know the ways ADHD can affect a person's performance at work or at school. Your doctor may also suggest that you get psychological tests to determine if there are other conditions that may cause similar symptoms, like a learning disability or a mood disorder. ADHD In Adults could also undergo a physical exam to ensure that there are no medical issues causing your symptoms. Your doctor may request any documents, like old report cards or performance appraisals at work. Your doctor will also want to know if you're ADHD symptoms were severe enough to interfere with your life as a child. Support If you think you might have ADHD, it is important to speak with an expert. They can conduct a complete evaluation. These professionals include licensed mental health providers such as clinical psychologists, and doctors (psychiatrist, neurologist or family doctor). Many insurance plans provide an inventory of professionals who are qualified in the area. You can also contact local support organizations for assistance in finding a good provider. In addition to obtaining a thorough medical history, your clinician will also ask you questions about your symptoms and the difficulties they cause in your daily life. This includes school and work performance as well as relationships and other aspects of your life. Your clinician may ask to talk to your coworkers or teachers, or request old school records. This isn't a way to determine your honesty or your commitment to a particular cause; it's simply to obtain more details. Many adults with ADHD have shaky or faulty memories, especially from childhood, and it's essential that your doctor obtain the most relevant information possible to determine the cause. Based on your specific issue Your doctor may suggest other diagnostic procedures like cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), a treatment that helps those suffering from ADHD cope with challenges and maximize their strengths. CBT can be paired with medications to aid in ADHD treatment. While you wait for a medical assessment, you can evaluate your symptoms using various tools available on Internet. The Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale and other online questionnaires are available. These tools aren't standardised nor are they scientifically validated, and should be used only as general guidance. Many people who don't have a diagnosis of ADHD are so used to their challenges that they tend to take them for granted. They might believe that they are just not very good or that it's their fault for not being able to keep up with their work or social commitments. The truth is that the symptoms of ADHD are neurological and are not a result of a personal flaw. With the right treatment you can gain control of your ADHD and turn it into something constructive. This could bring you greater success in your job as well as improved relationships with your family and friends. a more fulfilling life for you and those who are around you.