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ADHD – Symptoms in Adults If you suspect that you may be suffering from ADHD it is important to get a proper diagnosis. This will allow you to manage your symptoms and improve the quality of your life. ADHD self-assessment tools may alert you that you may have symptoms common to adult ADHD. However, a valid diagnosis is only possible through a professional evaluation. This could be a neurologist, psychologist or psychiatrist. Symptoms ADHD can be a problem for anyone of any age, but the symptoms can be slightly different in adults. Adults who suffer from ADHD are able to use their symptoms to achieve success at work and in relationships. The symptoms of adult ADHD can be mild, moderate or severe. To qualify for a diagnosis, the signs must have remained consistent since childhood and continue to cause significant problems in at least two different areas of your life. ADHD can cause issues like having trouble focussing on a task, or even forgetting things. If you think you might have symptoms of ADHD, there are ratings scales and self-tests online that can help you determine if you could be suffering from the disorder. However the only way to receive a definitive diagnosis is to visit an expert in diagnosing ADHD in adults. Consult your primary care physician for a referral, or search for an ADHD specialist in the online directory of your health insurance. They'll review your medical history, including your childhood, and how your medical conditions affected your schooling, work, and home. They'll also ask you about any drug or alcohol use, your driving history, and what your relationships with family and friends have been. It's crucial to be honest with your examiner. Many adults with ADHD are unable to conceal or minimize their symptoms from others due to being afraid of criticism or are embarrassed. This can make the evaluation process more difficult. Certain medical conditions, such as seizure disorders and thyroid disorders, can have similar symptoms as ADHD and must be checked out before an ADHD diagnosis is made. A physical exam and a detailed neurological history will also be provided. If your tests show that you have ADHD Your doctor might prescribe medication. In addition, they could recommend psychotherapy or other treatments that will assist you in overcoming your ADHD. They may also suggest you make changes to your workplace environment and utilize tools for planning and organizing to help you be more efficient. Diagnosis A professional assessment is necessary to determine the presence of ADHD. Your doctor will ask you to give a detailed history of your symptoms. This includes when they started and how they have affected your life. He or she will also inquire about your family history, since it's common for ADHD to occur in families. Your doctor will conduct an examination of your body, as well to rule out any medical conditions that may cause ADHD symptoms, like seizure disorders or thyroid issues. You may be asked to take several tests in the field of psychology which include scales for behavioral ratings, in order to assess your ability to function. You may be asked to perform math or reading tasks on a computer, phone or tablet to assess how you perform in different situations. You could even be asked to take an IQ test to evaluate your cognitive abilities. The American Psychiatric Association has established criteria that must be met for an adult diagnosis of ADHD. This includes the presence of at least six months of symptoms, and their significant impact on multiple settings in your life, such as school or work. Your doctor will also want to know whether your symptoms led to a significant amount of problems prior to the age of 12. It's important to recognize that there are a variety of things that can trigger or mimic ADHD. Stress, mental health issues, and certain medications, for instance can all trigger some of the symptoms that are similar to ADHD. If you have any records from previous psychological testing or performance evaluations, bring them with you to your appointment. Your doctor must be aware of whether you are taking any medications or whether you've ever suffered a head injury. Adults who struggle with ADHD are able to benefit from psychotherapy or “talk therapy”. This treatment aids in developing more effective strategies for coping and to manage your ADHD symptoms so that they do not interfere with your daily life. Psychotherapy can be combined with medication or used alone for adults with ADHD. You can locate a mental health professional who specializes in treating adults suffering from ADHD by asking your primary care provider for a referral, contacting your insurance provider to inquire which specialists they cover or by visiting an organization that offers support locally. Treatment If you suspect that you have ADHD, the first step is to schedule an appointment with your primary care physician. Your doctor will refer you to a mental healthcare specialist who will conduct an exhaustive evaluation and identify the disorder. During your appointment, you should be honest with your doctor about the problems you are experiencing at work and home. Your doctor will ask about any major problems you've faced like being dismissed or failing a class. Your doctor may also inquire about your family history and prior health problems, such as anxiety or depression. You may be asked to fill out some sort of questionnaire, like the Adult Attention and Hyperactivity Disorder Self-Screening Tool (ASRS). The questionnaire is approximately five minutes long and contains 18 questions which ask you to rate the frequency which you are experiencing adult ADHD symptoms. Your doctor will then consider your answers and give you a score that indicates whether you need to seek a formal diagnosis. Your doctor may also inquire about your problems in your relationships at home and at work. It may be embarrassing to discuss these issues however, your doctor needs to know about it so that they can help. Your doctor might want to discuss your issues with your colleagues or teachers in order to better understand the challenges you're confronting. This doesn't mean that your doctor is judging your behavior; more so, it's to aid them in understanding the ways in which ADHD can impact a person's ability to function at work or in school. Your doctor might also suggest to undergo psychological tests to rule out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms, for example a learning disability or a mood disorder. You may also be asked to undergo a physical examination to confirm 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 school. Your doctor may also want to know if your ADHD symptoms were severe enough to interfere with your life as a child. Support If you suspect that you may have ADHD, you should consult a professional who can perform a full evaluation. These professionals include licensed mental health providers such as clinical psychologists, and doctors (psychiatrist or neurologist, or family physician). Many insurance plans provide the names of qualified professionals in the region. You can also contact local support organizations for assistance in locating a suitable provider. In addition to taking a thorough medical history, your physician will also ask you questions about your symptoms and the issues they cause in your daily life. This covers your work and school performance as well as relationships and other aspects in your daily life. Your physician may decide to speak with colleagues and teachers, or request old school records. This isn't to question your honesty, it's to gain additional information. Many adults suffering from ADHD suffer from weak or spotty memories, particularly from childhood. It's important to get the most information you can before making an assessment. Depending on the problem you're facing, your physician may suggest other diagnostic procedures like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) which aids those suffering from ADHD learn to manage their challenges and tap into their strengths. CBT can be combined with medication to treat ADHD. If you're waiting for a professional assessment There are a variety of tools on the Internet that allow you to evaluate your own symptoms. These include the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) and a variety of online questionnaires. These tools are not standardized nor scientifically validated and should only be used as general guidelines. Many people who aren't diagnosed with ADHD are so accustomed to their challenges that they tend to take them for granted. adhd adults diagnosis uk may think that they're just not very good or that it is their fault for not being able to keep up with their social or work commitments. The symptoms of ADHD aren't caused by a personal failure or a lack of motivation, but rather a result of a neurological. However, you can regain control over your ADHD by implementing the correct treatment and transform it into an asset. This could result in greater success in your job, improved personal relationships and a more fulfilling life for you and those around you.