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ADHD – Symptoms in Adults If you suspect that you may be suffering from ADHD or other disorders, it's crucial to be diagnosed. This will be the first step to managing symptoms and gaining control over your life. ADHD self assessment tools can alert you to the fact that you may be suffering from symptoms common to adult ADHD however, a valid diagnosis requires an evaluation by a specialist. This can be a neurologist, psychologist or psychiatrist. Symptoms ADHD is a condition that affects people of all ages, however symptoms in adults may look slightly different. Adults suffering from ADHD may also utilize their symptoms to succeed in their work and relationships. Adult symptoms of 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 daily life. ADHD can cause issues such as difficulty focusing on a task or a tendency to forget things. There are online self-tests or rating scales that can help you determine if may be suffering from ADHD. The only way to get an accurate diagnosis of ADHD in adults is to speak with an expert doctor who is trained to treat the disorder. Ask your primary physician for a referral, or search for an ADHD specialist in your health insurance directory. When you visit a specialist, they'll review your medical and psychiatric history dating all the way back to childhood, and will discuss the way your illness has affected your school, work and family life. They'll also inquire about any alcohol or drugs you use, driving history and what your relationship with family and friends have been. It is important to be truthful when you are speaking with your examiner. Adults with ADHD might cover up or minimize their symptoms to avoid criticism or embarrassment. This can make the assessment process more difficult. Some medical conditions, like seizure disorders and thyroid disorders, can have similar symptoms as ADHD and should be ruled out before an ADHD diagnosis is determined. A physical exam and a detailed neurological history are also required. If your tests show that you have ADHD, then your doctor may prescribe medication. They might also suggest psychotherapy or behavioral therapies to aid you in managing your ADHD. They may also recommend adjustments to aid you in working more efficiently, such as making changes to your environment and utilizing planning and organizing apps. Diagnosis A professional evaluation is required to determine the presence of ADHD. Your doctor will take complete notes on your symptoms and the time they began and how they've affected your life. The doctor will also inquire about your family history, as ADHD is typically inherited. Your doctor will perform a physical exam, in addition to rule out any medical conditions that could mimic ADHD symptoms, such as seizures or thyroid issues. You may be asked to take an array of tests in the field of psychology, including behavioral ratings scales to evaluate your functioning. Your doctor might also ask you to do reading or math tasks while using a smartphone or computer to determine how you perform under different conditions. You may even take an IQ test to evaluate your cognitive capabilities. The American Psychiatric Association has established criteria that must be met to qualify for the diagnosis of adult ADHD. These include the presence of at minimum six months of symptoms, and their significant impact on a variety of situations in your life, such as work or school. Your doctor will be looking to determine whether your symptoms led to serious problems 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 example are all possible causes of the symptoms that are similar to ADHD. If you have any documentation from previous psychological testing or performance evaluations bring them to your appointment. Your doctor will want to know if you are taking any medications and if you have ever suffered an injury to your head. Psychotherapy, also known as “talk therapy” for those suffering from ADHD is extremely beneficial for adults struggling with this disorder. 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 used in conjunction with medication or used alone for people suffering from ADHD. Ask your primary care provider to refer you to a mental health specialist who can treat adults suffering from ADHD. You could also contact your insurance company and inquire which specialists are covered. You can also join a local support group. Treatment Schedule 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 diagnose your condition. During your visit, you should be honest about the problems you're having at work and at home. Your doctor will be looking for any major issues that have resulted from being fired from an employment or failing classes. Your doctor will ask about your family history as well as any health issues you have had previously like depression or an anxiety disorder. You are likely to be asked to fill out a questionnaire, such as the Adult Attention and Hyperactivity Disorder Self-Screening Tool (ASRS). The questionnaire is approximately five minutes long and contains 18 questions that require you to rate the frequency at which you are experiencing adult ADHD symptoms. Your doctor will take into account your answers and provide you with a an overall score that will indicate whether you should seek formal diagnosis. Additionally the doctor will inquire about the issues you have in relationships at home and at work. It is possible that you feel embarrassed talking about these difficulties but it's important for your doctor to be aware about them so they can help you. Your doctor may suggest that you speak with your coworkers or teachers in order to understand the issues you're having to face. This doesn't mean that your doctor is judging your behavior; rather, it is to aid them in understanding how ADHD can impact a person's ability to function at school or work. Your doctor might recommend psychological tests to rule other conditions that could cause similar symptoms. For instance a mood disorder or a learning disorder. You might also be required to undergo a physical examination to make sure that your symptoms are not caused by medical issues. Your doctor might also ask that you bring any records with you, such as performance evaluations from your job or 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 when you were a child. Support If you think you may have ADHD, it is important to speak with a professional. Iam Psychiatry UK can conduct a thorough evaluation. These experts include licensed mental health providers, such as physicians and clinical psychologists (psychiatrists or neurologist family physicians). A lot of insurance plans offer an inventory of professionals who are qualified in the region. You can also reach out to local support organizations for assistance in finding a good provider. In addition to obtaining a thorough medical history, your doctor 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 meet with your coworkers and teachers, or request old school records. This isn't meant to challenge your honesty; it's simply to gain additional information. Many people with ADHD have shaky or faulty memories, particularly from childhood, and it's important that your specialist obtain the most relevant information possible to make a diagnosis. Based on the issue you're experiencing, your doctor might suggest other diagnostic methods such as cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), which helps those suffering from ADHD overcome their challenges and tap into their strengths. CBT may be combined with medication to treat your ADHD. While you wait for a medical evaluation, you can assess your symptoms using various tools available on the Internet. They include the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) and a number of online questionnaires. These tools aren't tested or validated scientifically and should only be used as general guidance. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD are so accustomed to their difficulties that they tend to take them for granted. They may think that they're not proficient at certain things or that it's their own fault for having trouble keeping their work or social commitments on track. The symptoms of ADHD are not caused by an individual's failure, but are rather neurological. If you are treated properly, however, you can regain control of your ADHD and turn it into something constructive. This could lead to greater satisfaction in your professional and personal relationships and a richer life for you and those around you.