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How to Get an Adult Diagnosis of ADHD A lot of people don't receive a diagnosis of ADHD until adulthood. It could be because they weren't diagnosed in childhood, they have mild symptoms or the signs were hidden by demands of daily life. To be diagnosed with ADHD You must have had ADHD symptoms before the age of 12. These symptoms must hinder social or work activities and persist over time. Diagnosis Process To get a proper diagnosis of ADHD to determine the cause, you need to speak with a professional who specializes in this condition. During the exam the specialist will have the patient describe their symptoms in detail. The doctor will also review the patient's medical, mental health and family history. It is essential for patients to discuss their health concerns with their doctor in a candid and openly, without being embarrassed or ashamed. The signs of ADHD can be similar to many other mental health disorders and physical conditions that is why it is important that a thorough evaluation is conducted by a qualified mental health professional. The evaluation will consist of medical examination, psychological examination and an interview. The psychiatrist or psychologist could request the patient to describe symptoms and how these affect their lives. They might also inquire about the person’s schooling and their childhood. The doctor will also look at other factors that may contribute to a person's issues. These could include stress or other health issues. It can be a difficult and emotional process to receive an diagnosis of ADHD as an adult. It can be a difficult and emotional experience to be given a diagnosis of ADHD as an adult. It is crucial to remember that the diagnosis of ADHD is not an indication of a person's character or personality. It is a condition that is treated with medication and other therapies. Some doctors use a standardized checklist to identify symptoms of ADHD. These checklists are designed for children, however it is possible for adults to meet the criteria for a diagnosis if they have 5 or more symptoms of inattention, and/or six or more signs of impulsivity and hyperactivity. There are also interviews conducted by doctors with close family members, friends and coworkers. This can provide valuable information that is not accessible through questionnaires and may aid in determining other conditions that may cause the symptoms of ADHD. When choosing a doctor to evaluate for ADHD, it is recommended to ask for recommendations from trusted colleagues. It is also a good idea to make sure that the specialist you select is licensed and certified in your particular area. You can learn more about the qualifications of a professional by checking with their office. Signs and symptoms Untreated ADHD can cause a variety of issues for people. They may face difficulties at school, relationships, or work. They may have difficulty maintaining healthy eating and sleeping habits. They could be facing financial difficulties because of impulse buying and abuse of substances. They might also be suffering from mental health issues such as anxiety or depression. Often, these symptoms are misinterpreted by those around them as a sign of laziness or irresponsibility. When people with ADHD are diagnosed, they typically feel relief and understanding. They can then take the necessary steps to tackle the issues that impact their lives every day and achieve success in a variety of arenas. A mental health professional will examine the patient's symptoms and their background, and review a physical exam and medical records. They will use adult rating scales or checklists to help identify the issue. They will also ask the patient about his or her working and home life and how the symptoms affect the family. The specialist may want to talk to parents, teachers and other people who knew the person when he or she was a child. Symptoms of the disorder include: Inattentive ADHD symptoms may include drifting off to sleep or focusing on class, forgetting details at home or at work and taking longer than anticipated to finish tasks. Hyperactive-impulsive ADHD symptoms may involve fidgeting, talking nonstop and difficulty waiting for turn or instructions. Combination presentation ADHD, where there are equal amounts of inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms present, is the most common type of the disorder. A lot of times, people suffering from ADHD are misdiagnosed or are not given any diagnosis at all since they don't meet the diagnostic criteria outlined in the American Psychiatric Society's fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). It is also important to keep in mind that stress and certain medications may cause similar symptoms to those of ADHD, so a thorough evaluation by a health care professional is required to determine the root cause of the person's symptoms. In addition, individuals must always inform their doctor about any other medications they're currently taking, such as supplements and vitamins to their physician. Treatment Adults suffering from ADHD can benefit from a variety of treatments that can help reduce symptoms and boost productivity. However, finding the right treatment is a lengthy process. Consult your family physician or a trusted person for a recommendation. Some professionals specialize in treating adult ADHD. It may also be helpful to seek recommendations from a medical school in your area or hospital affiliated with a college. If there is an adult ADHD support group in your area, it could be helpful to obtain an appointment from the group members. The most effective treatments for adult ADHD are usually psychotherapies (also called talk therapy) and behavioral therapies that teach individuals and their families better ways to manage their symptoms. These therapies may be short-term, goal-oriented or long-term, in-depth and can be focused on specific subjects such as anger management or learning how to better manage time and money. Some professionals use questionnaires or rating scales to determine the severity of a patient's symptom. But the most crucial element in determining the presence of adults with ADHD is a medical interview conducted by an expert in mental health who is experienced in the evaluation of ADHD. During the interview the mental health professional will look over the person's personal, emotional and academic background. They will also review the current effects that the conditions have on your work, relationships, and other aspects of your life. To be diagnosed with ADHD, you must have at least five of the inattentive or hyperactive-impulsive symptoms listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The doctor will determine whether the symptoms are predominantly inattentive or primarily hyperactive-impulsive, or if they are a combination. The symptoms must have been present for at least a months and have impacted everyday functioning. When you receive an ADHD diagnosis in adulthood, it can bring up a variety of complicated emotions. There may be feelings of sadness over missed opportunities, or feel relief that your struggles in the past are explained clearly. It is crucial that you feel comfortable talking about your concerns with your mental health professional and that you're open and honest during the assessment process. Support Many adults travel through life without having a clear diagnosis of ADHD. They might be experiencing chronic stress and frustration in their relationships or at work but are unaware that their issues are due to untreated ADHD. Adults may have difficulty to get diagnosed because of the stigma that surrounds the disorder. In addition, some medical professionals have preconceived ideas about what someone with ADHD looks like. getting diagnosed with adhd as an adult makes it more difficult for people of color, women or those who were designated female at birth to get an assessment. If you're having trouble finding a diagnosis, try seeking an expert who is trained to diagnose ADHD in adults. You can talk to your physician or an area hospital that is a part of a university or medical school for recommendations. You can also ask a local ADHD group for suggestions. The word-of-mouth recommendation is often the most reliable way to determine the capacity of a healthcare professional to perform an accurate ADHD evaluation and diagnosis. Your doctor will compare the symptoms you've described to the criteria listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. This is the book that mental health professionals consult to determine the correct diagnosis. Your doctor will also inquire about your previous experiences and current concerns in order to get a complete picture of your challenges. Rating scales and questionnaires are also used to measure ADHD. Your doctor will determine if your ADHD symptoms are severe enough to warrant treatment or if psychotherapy or other methods of treatment are more suitable. You should tell your doctor about any other medications that you take, as some medications may affect stimulants negatively. Additionally, you should disclose any previous traumas or traumatic life events to your physician. Receiving a diagnosis of ADHD is a major life-changing event for many adults. It can provide relief to discover the root of your struggles and a sense of confidence to control your symptoms. For many, a diagnosis of ADHD can lead to successful career paths and satisfying relationships. People who suffer from ADHD tend to be more successful in creative jobs, and their brain function differences can be beneficial.