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ADHD – Symptoms in Adults It is essential to receive an accurate diagnosis if you suspect you might be suffering from ADHD. This will help you manage symptoms and gain control over your life. ADHD self-assessment tools can provide you with the knowledge that you might have symptoms common in adult ADHD but a proper diagnosis requires an assessment by a qualified. This can be an expert in clinical psychology, a physician (psychiatrist or neurologists) or therapist. Symptoms ADHD is a condition that affects people of all ages, however symptoms in adults can appear slightly different. It is also possible for adults with ADHD to to transform their issues into tools that allow them to achieve success in their work and relationships. Adult ADHD symptoms may be mild, moderate or severe. To be able to determine if a diagnosis has been established, the symptoms must be present since childhood and cause significant problems in two areas of your life. ADHD can cause issues like having trouble focussing on a task, or forgetting things. If you think you have symptoms of ADHD There are ratings scales and self-tests available online to help you determine if you might have the disorder. However the only way to receive an accurate diagnosis is to see a specialist in diagnosing ADHD in adults. Ask your primary doctor for a referral, or search for an ADHD specialist through your health insurance directory. When you visit a specialist, they'll review your medical and psychiatric records going back to childhood, including the way your illness has affected your school, work and family life. They'll also ask you about any drug or alcohol use, your driving history, and what your relationship with your family and friends have been. It's essential to be open with your examiner. Adults with ADHD may hide or minimize their symptoms in order to avoid embarrassment or criticism. This can make the assessment process more difficult. Before a diagnosis of ADHD is made, it is important to rule out other medical conditions that may cause similar symptoms, such as seizure disorders or thyroid disorders. A physical exam and a detailed neurological history will also be provided. If your tests show that you suffer from ADHD, then your doctor may prescribe medication. They might also suggest psychotherapy or behavioral therapies to assist you in managing your ADHD. They may also recommend that you change your workplace environment and utilize tools for planning and organizing to make you more efficient. Diagnosis A professional evaluation is needed to get a diagnosis of ADHD. Your doctor will take complete notes on your symptoms and the time they started and how they've affected your life. He or she will also ask you about your family history as ADHD is often passed down through the family. Your doctor may also conduct physical exams to rule out medical conditions that could mimic ADHD symptoms. These could include thyroid problems or seizures. You will likely be asked to complete an array of psychological tests that include behavioral ratings scales, in order to assess your ability to function. You could be asked to complete reading or math tasks on the phone, computer or tablet to determine your performance in various situations. You could also be offered an IQ test to assess your cognitive capabilities. The American Psychiatric Association established criteria for determining adult ADHD. These include the presence of at minimum six months of symptoms and a significant impact on multiple settings in your life such as school or work. Your doctor will also want to know if your symptoms caused a substantial amount of trouble before age 12. It is important to realize that there are many factors that can cause or mimic ADHD. For example stress, stress, mental health issues and certain medications can cause some of the same symptoms as ADHD. If you have any documentation from previous psychological testing or performance evaluations, bring them with you to your appointment. Your doctor will also need to know what medications you're taking or taking, and if you've ever suffered a head injury, or illness. Adults who suffer from ADHD can benefit greatly from psychotherapy or “talk therapy”. This treatment aids in developing better coping strategies and skills to manage your ADHD symptoms so that they do not affect your daily routine. Psychotherapy can be combined with medication or used alone for adults with ADHD. Consult your primary care doctor to refer you to a specialist in mental health who treats adults with ADHD. You could also contact your insurance company and inquire what specialists are covered. Or, visit a local support group. Treatment If you think you may have ADHD, the first step is to set an appointment with your primary care physician. Your doctor will be able to refer you to a mental health professional who will conduct a thorough evaluation to determine the cause of your condition. During your visit, be open about the issues you're having at work as well as at home. Your doctor will inquire about any major problems you've had to face, such as being dismissed or failing in a class. Your doctor will also inquire about your family history and prior health problems, such as depression or anxiety. You are likely to be asked to fill out a questionnaire such as the Adult Hyperactivity Disorder Self Screening Tool (ASRS). This questionnaire takes about five minutes to fill out and consists of 18 questions that ask you to rate the frequency with which you have symptoms of adult ADHD. Your doctor will then consider your answers and provide you with scores that indicate whether you should take a look at an official diagnosis. In addition the doctor will inquire about the issues you face in your relationships at work and home. It might be uncomfortable to talk about these problems but your doctor has to know about them so they can assist. Your doctor might want to speak with your coworkers or teachers to understand the issues you're having to face. This doesn't mean that your doctor is judging you or accusing you of being a victim. It's simply to help them better understand how ADHD can affect someone's performance at work or at school. Your doctor might recommend psychological tests to rule other conditions that could cause similar symptoms. For example, a learning disorder or mood disorder. You may also be asked to undergo a physical examination to ensure that your symptoms aren't caused by medical conditions. Your doctor might also ask to see any records with you, like performance evaluations from your workplace or old report cards from your school. It's also helpful for your doctor to know if you've had any ADHD symptoms as a teenager or child, but they weren't severe enough to have a significant impact on your life at that time. Support If you suspect that you may have ADHD It is crucial to seek out an expert. They can conduct a thorough evaluation. These professionals include licensed mental healthcare providers like clinical psychologists and physicians (psychiatrists or neurologist family physicians). Many insurance plans offer lists of licensed professionals in your area, and you can also contact local support groups to assist in finding a suitable service. Your clinician will also ask you about the symptoms that you are experiencing and how they impact your daily life. This includes your school and work performance as well as your relationships and other aspects in your daily life. Your clinician may wish to speak with colleagues and teachers, or request old school records. This is not a way to doubt your integrity or your commitment to a particular cause; it's simply to obtain more details. Many people with ADHD suffer from weak or spotty memories, particularly from childhood. It is essential to gather as much information as possible before making a diagnosis. Depending on the issue you're having, your specialist might suggest other diagnostic procedures like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps people suffering from ADHD overcome their challenges and tap into their strengths. private adhd assessment for adults could be coupled with medication to treat ADHD. If you're waiting for a professional evaluation There are a variety of tools available on the Internet that allow you to evaluate your own symptoms. These include the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) and a number of online questionnaires. These tools are not standardized or scientifically validated and should be used only for general guidance. Undiagnosed ADHD can cause people to become used to their difficulties, they tend to ignore them. They might think that they are just not good enough or that it's their fault for not being able to keep up with their social or work commitments. The reality is that the symptoms of ADHD are neurological and are not a result of a personal flaw. You can, however, regain control over your ADHD with the proper treatment and turn it into an asset. This will lead to greater satisfaction in your professional and personal relationships, as well as an improved quality of life for you and your family members.