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How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults For many adults, the frustration of being afflicted with ADHD symptoms is what drives people to seek an evaluation. They could lose their jobs due to missing deadlines, having trouble with relationships due to impulsive behavior or are having financial difficulties because they forget bills or don't keep track of purchases. Ask your health care provider or a mental health professional about their education and experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults. Signs and symptoms If you suspect that you or your child suffer from ADHD The first step in getting assistance is to find an expert in health care who will assess your symptoms. The evaluation will consist of an examination of your body and a review of your medical history, which includes mental health issues as well as substance use. It is crucial that you are honest with your doctor about the signs and the way they affect your life. Many people suffering from ADHD hide the problem because of shame or fear of criticism. However an extensive evaluation will provide your doctor with a clearer picture of your daily life. Since adulthood is different from childhood, diagnosing ADHD in adults can be more difficult than diagnosing children suffering from the disorder. The American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) offers guidelines for diagnosing ADHD that are generally applicable for adults as well as children. In addition to examining the patient, the doctor might also ask others in the person's life — such as spouse or co-habitating partners, parents, siblings or coaches and teachers to provide a description of the person's behavior and how it has affected them. This could reveal information that may not show up on checklists or other tests. In some cases, a doctor may want to look into other conditions that could cause similar symptoms as ADHD. These could include mood disorders, mental health issues, and physical illnesses or injuries, like concussions or head trauma. He or she will review the person's personal and work life to determine whether their symptoms are interfering with their daily routine. The signs of adult ADHD can range from mild to moderate, with moderate symptoms causing difficulties in work and social situations. A severe condition can affect the performance of a job or school as well as strain relationships and make it difficult to live an independent life. Everyone can be affected by ADHD However, it is more common in men and boys than girls. It is not clear the reason for this however, it is likely that there are genetic and environmental factors in play. Certain foods and chemicals have been found to cause ADHD in a few people. It is also possible that some people are predisposed due to brain structures involved in processing stimuli. Diagnosis It is not always simple to determine ADHD. Many people are embarrassed by their symptoms and have difficulty opening up to a healthcare specialist or mental health specialist. This can delay the process of evaluation. To ensure that you receive a thorough evaluation, it is important to be honest and upfront about your health issues and past history. In the course of your evaluation, your doctor will use standardized behavioral ratings scales and ADHD symptoms checklists to determine if you meet the criteria for a diagnosis. Your doctor will also inquire for your family history and childhood records, as well as a detailed description of your job and family life. Your doctor might also request an exam to rule out medical causes of your symptoms, like thyroid problems or seizure disorders. A physical exam consists of blood tests and brain scans. These tests can help determine structural or chemical problems in the brain that could be causing ADHD symptoms. A physical exam can also help rule other conditions out that can cause similar symptoms, such as addiction or depression. It is possible that your health care provider may suggest that you participate in a clinical trial of new treatments for adult ADHD. These trials are conducted by research centers, including NIMH. Be aware, however, that these studies could carry risks and not lead to the appropriate treatment for you. It is also essential to tell your doctor about any other medications you're taking, as they can interact with stimulants that are used to treat adults with ADHD. Drugs that affect sleep, appetite heart rate, appetite, and blood pressure can all affect the effectiveness of stimulants. The NIMH's Medication Interactions webpage provides more details on how to discuss other medications with your physician. Treatment Adults suffering from ADHD are treated with medications, behavioral therapy and education support. Most often, it's the combination of these that helps people to achieve success in work, school and other pursuits. Treatment should begin with the referral of your primary care physician or another health care professional. Ask adhd diagnosis adults about their knowledge and experience working with adults suffering from ADHD. If a professional refuses to or is unable to give you this information, it's recommended to seek out a different professional. The diagnostic process of adult ADHD typically involves interviews with parents, teachers and other people who are significant to the child. It could also include an extensive medical and family history, as well as psychotherapy evaluation. It is important that the person being evaluated for ADHD be honest and not hide due to embarrassment. A person must exhibit several symptoms in two or more places and exhibit a significant impairment in their daily life before an ADHD diagnosis is made. Many adults suffering from untreated ADHD have comorbid disorders such as depression and anxiety. This is particularly true when people with ADHD have a history of chronic stress or frustration in their lives. The frustration can cause an unfulfilling prophecy about underachievement and result in feelings of self-doubt and poor performance. A diagnosis of ADHD may be a relief for some adults. They will begin to understand themselves better and realize that it wasn't because of them that they were unable to make friends or start a career. For some adults, a diagnosis of ADHD can cause grief and regret about missed opportunities. Adults with ADHD should always be ready to discuss their concerns openly with co-workers, supervisors and teachers. Consider joining an ADHD support group where those who suffer from the condition can discuss their experiences and get advice. People with an ADHD diagnosis should verify their insurance coverage and obtain the names and numbers of professionals who specialize in treating adults who have ADHD. Support A person diagnosed with ADHD can seek help for the symptoms and issues that affect them in a variety settings, including at work, home, school or in relationships, and many more. Adult ADHD is typically treated with psychotherapy and medication. Some people find that they also require specialized coaching, which can help them with structure and support in daily life. Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD often are relieved to know that their troubles weren't just normal or because of poor parenting or laziness. For some, a diagnosis is the first step towards getting the support they need to live better lives. It is simpler to diagnose ADHD in children, but it isn't impossible for adults to be affected by this disorder. Many adults are suffering from undiagnosed ADHD. A psychiatrist who has experience with this kind of condition can identify ADHD in adults through a clinical interview. The interviewer can inquire about the patient's social and emotional history, as well their family history. Certain doctors employ brain scans or computer programs to evaluate a patient. However, the majority of experts agree that the most accurate way to determine the presence of ADHD is a thorough clinical interview and it is crucial to take a patient's history into consideration when determining the severity of the disorder. Depending on the nature of a person's difficulties, additional psychological or neuropsychological testing may be used to evaluate the effects and presence of co-existing conditions like anxiety, learning disabilities and mood disorders, which typically occur in conjunction with ADHD. The results of these tests may also help in determining the proper dosage of medication for a particular person. It is also a good idea to ask your friends and colleagues for suggestions to specialists who are experts in diagnosing ADHD. You should then verify their credentials, including academic degrees and the length of time they have been in practice. They should also be able explain how their diagnosis process works and answer any questions you may have. You can also search for qualified professionals on the internet or in the phone book. Ask them about their method of therapy and what advice they would give you.