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How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults Many adults seek an assessment because they are annoyed by the symptoms of ADHD. They could lose their jobs due to missed deadlines, having trouble with relationships due to their impulsive behavior or have financial issues due to the fact that they forget to pay bills or lose track of purchases. Ask your doctor or mental health professional if they have training in diagnosing ADHD in adults. Signs and symptoms Find a doctor to evaluate your symptoms if you suspect you or your child is suffering from ADHD. Your assessment will consist of physical examinations and a review of your medical history. This will include mental health issues and alcohol abuse. It is important to be forthcoming with the doctor about your symptoms and how they affect your life. Many people suffering from ADHD conceal their symptoms because of shame or fear of being criticized. However an extensive evaluation will give your doctor a better picture of your daily life. Because adulthood is very different from childhood, identifying ADHD in adults can be more difficult than diagnosing children with the disorder. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), Fifth Edition, by the American Psychiatric Association provides guidelines for diagnosis that are applicable for both adults and children. In addition to examining the patient, the doctor could also ask other people in the life of the patientfor example, spouse or co-habitating partner parents, siblings, or teachers and coaches to provide a description of the person's behavior and how it has affected them. This can provide information that might not be included on checklists or other tests. In certain instances, a doctor may want to investigate other conditions that may cause similar symptoms to ADHD. These conditions include mood disorders, mental health conditions and physical injuries like concussions or head trauma. They will also look at the person's personal and work life to determine if the symptoms affect their daily activities. The symptoms of adult ADHD range from mild to moderate and moderate symptoms causing difficulties in work and social situations. The severe symptoms can hinder school or job performance as well as strain relationships and make it harder to live an independent life. ADHD can be an issue for everyone, but it's more prevalent in boys and men than in girls. It is not clear why this difference exists however, it is likely that there are genetic and environmental factors at play. Research has revealed that certain foods and chemicals can trigger ADHD in certain individuals, and it is possible that some people are predisposed to develop the condition because of certain brain structures that are involved in processing stimuli. Diagnosis Finding a diagnosis of ADHD isn't always straightforward. Many people are insecure about their symptoms and are unable to speak to an expert in mental health or health care professional. This could make the evaluation process more time-consuming. To ensure that you receive a thorough evaluation it is essential to be honest and upfront about your health issues as well as your past medical history. During the evaluation your doctor will employ standard behavioral ratings scales and ADHD symptoms checklists to determine if you meet the criteria for diagnosis. Your doctor will also inquire for your family history and childhood information along with an extensive description of your work and family life. Your doctor might also request a physical exam to determine if there is a medical cause for your symptoms, for example, seizures or thyroid issues. A physical exam usually includes blood work and a head scan which can help identify any chemical or structural problems in the brain that may be causing your ADHD symptoms. A physical can also help rule out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, like addiction or depression. It is possible that your health care provider may suggest that you take part in a clinical trial of new treatments for adult ADHD. These trials are conducted by research centers, such as NIMH. However, it is important to be aware that these research studies could be risky and not lead to a treatment that is right for you. It is also important to inform your doctor about any other medications you're taking, as they can interact with some stimulants used to treat adults with ADHD. The effectiveness of stimulants can be affected by medications that affect appetite, sleep and blood pressure. The NIMH's Medication Interactions page will provide you with more information about how to discuss other medications with your doctor. Treatment Adults with ADHD can be treated with medication, behavioral therapy, and educational assistance. Most often, it's the combination of these that helps people to achieve success in school, work and other areas. Referrals from primary healthcare providers or other health professionals are the first step towards treatment. Ask the doctor about their knowledge and experience working with adults who have ADHD. If the professional is unwilling or is unable to provide you this information, it is best to look for a different one. The process of diagnosing adult ADHD typically includes interviews with the patient, parents or other significant others, as well as teachers. The process of diagnosis may include an examination of the family and medical history as well as an assessment of the psychiatric condition. It is important that the person who is being assessed for ADHD be honest and not hold back to avoid embarrassment. A person has to show symptoms in two or more places and cause a significant impairment in their life before an ADHD diagnosis is made. Untreated ADHD can result in co-occurring disorders like depression and anxiety. This is particularly true for those who suffer from ADHD who suffer from chronic anxiety or frustration. Frustration can lead to self-fulfilling prophecy of failure and lead to feelings of low self-esteem and a lack of performance. A diagnosis of ADHD may be a relief for some adults. They can start to understand the situation and realize that it wasn't their own fault they couldn't establish a career or make friends. For some adults, a diagnosis of ADHD can cause sadness and regret over missed opportunities. Adults with ADHD should always be prepared to discuss their issues openly with their supervisors, colleagues, and teachers. It's also recommended to think about joining an ADHD support group where people with the disorder can talk about their experiences and seek assistance. Finally, those with a diagnosis of ADHD should look into their health insurance coverage to find out the services covered and to obtain the names and numbers of experts who specialize in treating adults with ADHD. Support A person who is diagnosed with ADHD is able to seek help for the symptoms and issues that plague him or her at work, at home, in the classroom, in relationships and in many other settings. Treatments for adult ADHD usually include medication and psychotherapy. Some people find that they require special coaching, which can help them with structure and support in everyday life. Adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD often feel relieved to learn that their problems aren't normal, or due to lazy parenting or a lack of discipline. For certain people, being diagnosed with ADHD is the first step to getting the help they need to live a better life. It is much easier to identify ADHD in children, however it isn't difficult for adults to be affected by this disorder. Many adults live with undiagnosed ADHD. A psychiatrist who has expertise in this condition can diagnose ADHD in adults by conducting a diagnostic interview. The interview could include questions regarding the patient's family history, as well as their own personal social and emotional history. iampsychiatry utilize brain scans or computer programs to evaluate patients. Most experts agree that an extensive interview is the best method to diagnose ADHD. Depending on the nature of the issues a person faces and the severity of their issues, additional psycho- or neuropsychological testing may be used to evaluate the presence and effects of co-existing conditions, such as anxiety, learning disabilities, and mood disorders that often accompany ADHD. These tests can also help determine the proper dosage of medication for an individual. Asking your friends and colleagues to recommend specialists with had experience in diagnosing ADHD is also a great idea. Examine their credentials, including their academic degrees and how long they have been practicing. They should be able explain their diagnostic procedure and answer any questions that you might have. You can also find qualified professionals online or in the phonebook. Ask them about their philosophy of therapy and what they would suggest for you.