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ADHD – Symptoms in Adults It is essential to receive the correct diagnosis if you suspect you may have ADHD. This is the first step to managing symptoms and gaining control over your life. ADHD self assessment tools can provide you with the knowledge that you might have symptoms that are common to adults with ADHD but a proper diagnosis requires an evaluation by a specialist. This could be a neurologist, psychologist or psychiatrist. Symptoms ADHD can affect people of any age, but the symptoms may be slightly different in adults. Adults suffering from ADHD are able to use their symptoms to help achieve success at work and in relationships. Adult ADHD symptoms can be mild, moderate or severe. To be eligible for a diagnosis, the symptoms must have persisted since childhood and continue to cause issues in at least two areas of your life. ADHD can cause issues like having trouble focussing on a task, or even forgetting things. There are online self-tests and rating scales that can help you determine if you may be suffering from ADHD. However the only way to make a definitive diagnosis is to visit a specialist in diagnosing ADHD in adults. Ask your primary care physician for a referral or look up an ADHD specialist through the online directory of your health insurance. If you visit an expert, they'll look over your medical and psychiatric history going back to childhood, highlighting the way your illness has affected your work, school and home life. They'll also inquire about any alcohol or drugs you usage, driving history and what your relationships with family and friends been. It is essential to be truthful when you're speaking to your examiner. Adults suffering from ADHD may hide or minimize their symptoms to avoid criticism or embarrassment. This can make the assessment process more difficult. Before a diagnosis of ADHD is confirmed, it is essential to rule out any other medical conditions that could cause similar symptoms, like thyroid disorders or seizure disorders. A thorough neurological history and a physical exam will also be performed. If your tests show that you suffer from ADHD, your doctor is likely to prescribe medication. In addition, they may recommend psychotherapy or other behavioral therapies that can aid you in managing your ADHD. They may also recommend adjustments to aid you in working more efficiently, including making changes to your work environment and utilizing software for planning and organizing. Diagnosis A professional evaluation is required to determine the presence of ADHD. Your doctor will take complete notes on your symptoms that include when they first began and how they have affected your life. The doctor will also ask you about your family history as ADHD is usually inherited. Your doctor will also conduct a physical examination to rule out any medical conditions that could cause ADHD symptoms. This includes thyroid issues or seizures. You will likely be asked to take an array of tests in the field of psychology which include scales for behavioral ratings for assessing your performance. You might be asked to perform math or reading tasks using a computer, phone or tablet to assess your performance in different situations. You could even be asked to take an IQ test to assess your cognitive capabilities. The American Psychiatric Association established criteria for determining adult ADHD. This includes the presence of at least six months of symptoms and a significant impact on a variety of settings in your life, like school or work. Your doctor will be looking to determine whether your symptoms led to significant problems before the age of 12. It's important to realize that many different factors can trigger or mimic ADHD. For instance, stress, other mental health issues, and certain medications can all cause some of the same symptoms as ADHD. Bring any records of previous psychological tests or performance evaluations to your appointment. Your doctor will also want to know which medications you're taking or taking, and if you've ever had a head injury or illness. Adults with ADHD will benefit greatly from psychotherapy or “talk therapy”. This form of treatment helps you learn better coping skills and strategies to manage your ADHD symptoms to ensure they don't affect your ability to live your daily life. Psychotherapy can be combined with medication or used on its own for those suffering from ADHD. You can find an expert in mental health who is specialized in treating adults with ADHD by asking your primary healthcare provider for a referral, or calling your insurance company to inquire on what specialists they cover, or going to a local support group. Treatment Make an appointment with your primary healthcare professional in the event that you suspect you may have ADHD. Your doctor will be able to refer you to a mental health professional who can conduct a full assessment to determine the cause of your disorder. During your appointment, you should be honest with your doctor about any issues you're having at home and at work. Your doctor will want to know about any major problems that have resulted from being fired from a job or failing classes. Your doctor will also ask about your family history and any previous health issues, like depression or anxiety. You will likely be asked to complete a questionnaire like the Adult Hyperactivity Disorder Self Screening Tool (ASRS). The questionnaire takes around five minutes to complete and is comprised of 18 questions that ask you to indicate how often you experience symptoms of adult ADHD. Your doctor will then consider your answers and give you scores that indicate whether you need to seek a formal diagnosis. Additionally your doctor will also inquire about the issues you have in relationships at work and home. It is possible that you feel embarrassed talking about these difficulties, but it is important for your doctor to know about them to assist you. In certain instances your doctor may decide to speak with your coworkers or teachers to find out more about the issues you are having. www.iampsychiatry.uk doesn't mean that your doctor is judging you, more so, it's to assist them in understanding how ADHD can impact a person's ability to function at work or school. Your doctor may recommend psychological tests to rule out other conditions out that can cause similar symptoms. For instance the mood disorder or learning disorder. You could also be asked to undergo a physical exam to make sure that your symptoms are not caused by medical issues. Your doctor may ask you to bring any records, such as old report cards or performance appraisals at work. Your doctor will also be interested in knowing if your ADHD symptoms were severe enough to interfere with your life as a child. Support If you suspect you might have ADHD It is crucial to consult a professional. They can conduct a thorough assessment. These professionals include licensed mental health providers such as clinical psychologists, and physicians (psychiatrist or neurologist, or family doctor). Many insurance plans provide an inventory of professionals who are qualified in the area. You can also reach out to local support groups for assistance in finding a good provider. Your clinician will also ask you about the symptoms that you are experiencing and how they impact your daily life. This includes school and work performance as well as relationships and other aspects of your life. Your physician may request that you talk to your colleagues as well as teachers, or ask for 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, especially from childhood, and it's essential that your doctor obtain as much relevant information as possible to determine the cause. Depending on the problem you're having, your specialist might suggest other diagnostic methods like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which aids people suffering from ADHD learn to manage their challenges and tap into their strengths. CBT can be paired with medication for ADHD treatment. While you're waiting for a professional assessment There are a variety of tools on the Internet that allow you to evaluate your own symptoms. The Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale and other online tests are available. These tools aren't standardized or scientifically validated, and should only be used for general guidance. Undiagnosed ADHD can make people so used to their difficulties that they begin to ignore them. They might believe that they're not doing their best or that it's their fault for not being able to keep up with their work or social commitments. The reality is that symptoms of ADHD are neurological and are not a fault of the individual. However, you can regain control over your ADHD with the proper treatment and turn it into an asset. This could lead to greater success in your career and personal relationships, as well as an improved quality of life for you and others around you.