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ADHD – Symptoms in Adults If you suspect that you might have ADHD it is important to get a proper diagnosis. This will be the first step towards managing symptoms and gaining control over your life. ADHD self-assessment tools can inform you to the possibility of having symptoms typical of adult ADHD. However the diagnosis can only be made with an evaluation by a professional. This could be a clinical psychologist, a physician (psychiatrist or neurologists) or therapist. Signs and symptoms ADHD can affect anyone of any age, but the symptoms might be different for adults. It is also possible for people with ADHD to to transform their issues into tools that allow them to succeed in work and relationships. Symptoms of adult ADHD can be mild, moderate, or severe. To be diagnosed, established, the symptoms must be present since childhood and cause significant difficulties in two different areas of your life. Trouble keeping your attention on tasks or having trouble recalling information are examples of issues that could be caused by ADHD. There are self-tests online or rating scales that can aid in determining if you might have ADHD. The only way to obtain an accurate diagnosis of ADHD in adults is to consult an expert in the disorder. Ask your primary care doctor for a referral or search for an ADHD specialist through the online directory of your health insurance. When you go to see an expert, they'll look over your medical and psychiatric history dating back to childhood, including how your symptoms have affected your work, school and home life. They'll also inquire about your drug and alcohol use, driving record, and how you relate to your family and friends. It is essential to be truthful when you're speaking to your examiner. Adults suffering from ADHD might cover up or minimize their symptoms to avoid criticism or embarrassment. This can make the assessment process more difficult. Before a diagnosis of ADHD is established, it is crucial to rule out other medical conditions that could cause similar symptoms, like seizure disorders or thyroid disorders. A thorough neurological history as well as a physical exam will also be performed. If your results indicate that you have ADHD Your doctor will likely prescribe medications. In addition, they may recommend psychotherapy or other treatments that will help you learn to manage your ADHD. They may also suggest you make changes to your workplace environment and utilize planning and organizing apps to make you more efficient. Diagnosis A professional assessment is necessary to determine if you suffer from ADHD. Your doctor will take complete notes on your symptoms that include when they first started and how they've affected your life. They may also ask about your family history as it is common for ADHD to run in families. Your doctor will do an examination of your body, as well to rule out any medical conditions that may cause ADHD symptoms, like seizure disorders or thyroid issues. You'll likely be subject to an array of psychological tests to assess your performance such as behavioral rating scales. You may be asked to complete reading or math tasks on a computer, phone or tablet to determine your performance in different situations. You may even be given an IQ test in order to determine your cognitive abilities. The American Psychiatric Association established criteria for determining adult ADHD. The symptoms must have been present for at least 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 if your symptoms caused you significant issues prior to the age of 12. It's important to recognize that there are many different things that can cause or mimic ADHD. Stress, mental health issues, and certain medications, for instance can all trigger some of the symptoms similar to ADHD. Bring any documentation from previous psychological tests or performance evaluations to your appointment. Your doctor will also need to know what medications you're taking or taking, and if you've ever had a head injury or illness. Adults with ADHD can benefit greatly from psychotherapy or “talk therapy”. This type of treatment can help you improve your coping skills and strategies to manage your ADHD symptoms and ensure that they don't interfere with your ability to function in your daily life. Psychotherapy can be paired with medication or utilized on its own for those suffering from ADHD. Ask your primary care provider to refer you to a mental health specialist who can treat adults suffering from ADHD. You can also contact your insurance provider and inquire which specialists are covered. Visit an organization that offers support locally. Treatment Make an appointment with your primary health care provider if you suspect you 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 condition. During your appointment, be honest with your doctor about the issues you're experiencing at home and at work. Your doctor will be interested in knowing about any major issues that have led to them in being dismissed from an employment or failing classes. Your doctor will inquire about your family history as well as any health issues you have had previously such as depression or an anxiety disorder. You may be asked to fill out a survey like the Adult Hyperactivity Disorder Self Screening Tool (ASRS). This questionnaire is about five minutes long, and it contains 18 questions which ask you to rate the frequency which you are experiencing adult ADHD symptoms. Your doctor will then take your answers into consideration and provide you with a score that indicates whether you need to seek an official diagnosis. Your doctor will also ask about your issues in your relationships at home and at work. It may be embarrassing to discuss these issues however, your doctor needs to know so they can assist. Your doctor may suggest that you talk to your colleagues or teachers to understand the difficulties you're having to face. This doesn't mean your doctor is judging your behavior; more so, it's to help them understand the ways in which ADHD can affect a person's ability to function at work or in school. Your doctor may recommend psychological tests to rule other illnesses that may cause similar symptoms. For instance, a learning disorder or mood disorder. You may also undergo an examination to make sure that there aren't any medical conditions that are causing your symptoms. Your doctor may ask you to bring any records, such as old reports or performance evaluations at work. 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. adhd assessment for adults If you suspect ADHD and you suspect that you have it, you should speak with an expert who can provide an exhaustive assessment. These professionals include licensed mental health professionals like clinical psychologists and physicians (psychiatrist, neurologist or family doctor). Many insurance companies provide the names of qualified professionals in the area. You can also seek out local support organizations for help in finding a suitable provider. In addition to obtaining a thorough medical history, your physician will also ask you questions about your symptoms and the difficulties they cause in your daily life. This includes your work and school performance, as well as relationships and other aspects of your daily life. Your doctor may want to speak with colleagues and teachers or to request old school records. This isn't meant to challenge your honesty, it's to get additional information. Many people with ADHD have shaky or faulty memories, especially from childhood, and it's essential that your doctor obtain as much relevant information as possible to determine the cause. Based on the issue you're experiencing, your doctor might suggest other diagnostic procedures like cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) which aids people suffering from ADHD learn to cope with their challenges and tap into their strengths. CBT can be combined with medication to treat your ADHD. While you wait for a professional assessment, you can evaluate your symptoms using various tools available on Internet. The Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale and other online questionnaires are also available. These tools are not standardized or scientifically validated, and should only be used for general guidance. Many people who don't have a diagnosis of ADHD are so used to their problems that they take them for granted. They might think that they're just not very good or that it's their fault that they can't keep up with their work or social commitments. The symptoms of ADHD are not caused by a personal failure and are more neurological. However, you can gain control over your ADHD with the proper treatment and transform it into an effective force. This will result in more success in your career and personal relationships, as well as a more meaningful life for you and those who are around you.