Diagnosing Adult
adhd adult diagnosis
Adult ADHD is more difficult to diagnose than ADHD in children. The majority of the checklists for symptom identification used by children are not appropriate for adults.
Typically, a thorough evaluation by a therapist or psychologist is required. Past school or work records could be reviewed, too. Co-workers, friends and family members can also benefit from counseling.
Signs and symptoms
A person who has ADHD often experiences problems with school and work. They are unable to keep the track of their assignments and completing their deadlines. They have lost things, forget appointments and medical instructions. They may even be impulsive, putting at risk their health by skipping meals or avoiding medication they need. They are also more likely to react to stress and have a difficult time focusing on conversations or "reading" the moods and behavior
diagnosing adhd in Adults of other people.
Those with ADHD struggle to stay focused and can easily get bored by boring tasks. They can easily "zone out" or daydream without realizing that they are talking. They are unresponsive, and don't respond to questions. This makes them appear uninterested or aloof. They have trouble following directions and remembering details which can lead to mistakes and incomplete work. They may also get bored quickly and want to try new challenges or activities.
Adults who suffer from ADHD have difficulty in relationships and often feel like they can't keep up with family and friends. They may have difficulty managing their money, which can lead them to impulse purchases and debt. Inability to adhere to guidelines, complete paperwork and meet deadlines can affect their jobs. They might also be unable to manage their time effectively and often quit work before they are completed. They may have a hard working with coworkers or supervisors because of their temper and inability to listen to other's concerns.
Adults with ADHD don't show the same physical signs as children with ADHD, such as tapping their feet and fidgeting. Their agitation may be more subtle, like when they check their watches or having difficulty sitting still during a meeting. Their unorganized and unprofessional work habits can lead to financial problems and loss of jobs.
Anyone who is experiencing symptoms of ADHD should visit a primary care provider. They will review their symptoms and recommend them to an expert in mental health for further evaluation. The physician will also inquire about the patient's medical history as well as if they are taking any medications that could affect stimulants.
Family History
If someone is diagnosed with ADHD as adults it can be a devastating experience to discover that they've been living with the condition for a long time and have been unable to take control of their lives. They may have suffered through embarrassing situations, been called "lazy," "irresponsible" or "stupid," or been blamed for issues they could not help. They may have struggled with maintaining relationships, or experienced difficulties in their work or education due to the signs.
A licensed mental health care professional or physician can diagnose adult adhd after conducting a thorough exam of the patient and taking a thorough history. This includes observing the person's behavior in various settings and getting information from family members and close friends. The practitioner should also consider the medical and family history of the individual.
Since the symptoms of ADHD are different for women and men, a lot of women go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed. Women who suffer from ADHD tend to exhibit inattention symptoms, such as difficulty being focused or retaining information. They are less likely than men to display hyperactivity and impulsiveness. These differences can make it more difficult for women who suffer from ADHD to navigate the workplace and their relationships.
It is essential to get a complete family history when
diagnosing ADHD in adults, since the symptoms typically persist throughout the course of life. The person's history will reveal that the symptoms have been evident since childhood and have affected their performance at work, in school in relationships, and in other areas.
If the symptoms of a patient aren't sufficient to warrant an assessment of ADHD the doctor must determine if there are other conditions that often coexist with ADHD and can cause similar issues, such as mood disorders and learning disorders, or substance use disorders (Austerman, 2015). In addition to a psychiatric examination, a complete medical examination is required.
In general, there isn't a blood or routine imaging test that can be used to diagnose adults with adhd. However, a healthcare professional could give the person a screening test in the office to test the level of concentration, attention, distraction and short-term memory. Or, request that they test executive functions, such as planning, organization, and time management skills.
Medical History
Many adults don't get diagnosed with ADHD because their parents and teachers did not recognize the symptoms as children, so they were misdiagnosed or managed well until adulthood, when the demands on their academic or work life increased. Some adults are diagnosed with ADHD later in life, when they realize that their problems are interfering with their work or relationships or they seek help to deal with their problems at work or at home. A doctor will go over the medical history of the patient to determine if there is any family or personal history of anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions. A health care professional may also examine for head injuries thyroid disorders, head injuries as well as alcohol and drug use or other physical ailments that may cause similar symptoms.
Adults suffering from ADHD are identified by hyperactivity, impulsivity and inattention. The person who suffers from these issues is at home, at work or at school, as well as in social situations. Adults are more likely than children to experience symptoms of hyperactivity versus inattention. The inattentive symptoms may result in difficulty staying organized, forgetting appointments, or having trouble keeping track of various tasks at home and work. The hyperactive and impulsive behavior can cause problems controlling anger or frustration, and can result in being impatient in waiting in lines, driving in traffic, or taking rapid decisions.
Studies show that genetics play a role in the development of ADHD. Many non-genetic causes are also linked to ADHD. These include an infant's weight that is too low, a premature birth and exposure to toxic substances such as tobacco or alcohol during pregnancy, and stress during the early years of childhood.
Most of the time, symptoms are treated by medication such as stimulants. It is crucial that the health care professional knows the other medications that the patient is taking since some medicines interact with certain stimulants. A psychiatrist or behavioral health professional will talk about the available medication options with the patient. People with ADHD should inform their physician of any other medical or mental treatment they receive, including talk therapy or self-help techniques. They can also ask whether they are interested in participating in a clinical trial for new medication treatments.
Psychological Evaluation
A psychologist who is a professional will conduct a psychological examination to determine if an adult suffers from ADHD. This will include a psychotherapy interview and a review of relevant documents. The evaluator asks the person to describe their behavior and their symptoms as well as how they function in various situations, including at home, school, or at work.