ADHD Test For Adults
A correct diagnosis is essential for getting treatment that will allow you to perform better at work, at home and school. Other conditions can mimic ADHD symptoms.
If you visit your doctor for an examination the doctor will ask you questions and employ standardized ratings scales. You could also get physical examinations to rule out medical conditions that can mimic ADHD.
Symptoms
A health care professional who is well-connected with a patient whether it's siblings, spouses or parent for an adult; a teacher, coach or nanny for a child can provide insight into symptoms that can't be gleaned from questionnaires. A thorough evaluation will also include a physical exam to determine if there are any issues that could cause symptoms of ADHD like sleep apnea and thyroid disorders. Old school records are also essential, to see if symptoms started in childhood.
For adults professionals in mental health, they may employ standardized ADHD rating scales or checklists to determine symptoms. They'll ask questions about the person's recent behavior and performance at work, home and in social situations. They will also review the past and school records, including assessments from therapists or social workers. The health care provider will also examine any co-occurring disorders like bipolar disorder or depression, and determine if they are the reason for the ADHD-like symptoms.
Symptoms vary by person, but in general the people with primarily hyperactive-impulsive ADHD are "on the go" and have little impulse control. They fidget and squirm and are impatient, they disrupt others and don't wait for their turn in conversations or games. They're not able to engage in play or leisure activities quietly. People who are primarily inattentive ADHD struggle to plan or complete tasks, are having trouble following instructions and are easily distracted.
It's important to keep in mind that ADHD isn't a moral flaw or the result of a lack of willpower. It's an illness that affects the working memory of the brain and its ability to regulate behavior and emotions. The problems caused by ADHD can be managed with medicine, therapy, family support and stress-reduction techniques such as regular exercise and deep breathing.
In the majority of instances, doctors diagnose ADHD according to guidelines issued by the American Psychiatric Association in its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. They'll look for at least six established symptoms in one of the two main categories -- inattention or hyperactivity/impulsivity -- over a six-month period. They'll also look at the medical history of the person as well as any family history of ADHD.
Diagnosis
A clear diagnosis will ensure that you receive the treatment you require. A correct diagnosis can also assist you in negotiating work-related accommodations to enhance your performance and ease the burden of life. There is no brain scan or blood test that can identify ADHD however, you should visit a mental health professional who is certified to evaluate your symptoms and medical history. Self-tests are available as symptom checklists online, but they're not reliable and cannot replace an in-depth evaluation with a licensed health professional or psychologist.
When looking at adults for ADHD the doctor will look at your symptoms and how they interfere with different aspects of your life. They'll want to know whether you've been experiencing these symptoms for a long period of time, how severe they are and if you have co-occurring disorders that could contribute to the issues you're having.
To qualify for a diagnosis of ADHD, your adult must meet a certain number of criteria for both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity. Adults must have fewer symptoms than children, for example, 5 out of 9 times in the last 6 months. Additionally, your physician will ask questions about your childhood and school experiences to make sure you've been dealing with these issues for a while.
Your doctor will also talk to relatives and friends who know you well, as a diagnosis of ADHD usually requires confirmation from multiple sources. Your providers will also review your past records, and ask you about any mental health issues that you might have experienced. These may be similar to the ADHD symptoms.
They might conduct a series of tests for your psychological health to evaluate your mental functioning. These tests will check your working memory and executive function (abilities such as planning and decision-making) spatial and visual abilities (related to space) and reasoning abilities (thinking). Your physician will also review your medical history and perform a physical examination.
Treatment
A proper diagnosis of ADHD can help you receive the treatment you require to improve the quality of your life. The symptoms of ADHD can impact your relationships, work and school. Getting the right treatment is crucial.
There isn't a brain scan or blood test that can determine ADHD or other disorders, however an accredited mental health professional will evaluate you by assessing your symptoms and medical history. They can use standardized behavioral rating scales, ADHD symptoms checklists, and other psychological tests. They may also ask to review your old school records and speak with parents, teachers or others who knew you as a kid. They will also examine your mood, mental conditions and other factors that could influence your symptoms.
After reviewing your symptoms, your doctor will determine if have mild, moderate or severe ADHD. Mild means that you may be suffering from some symptoms, but they don't interfere with your daily routine. Moderate means that your symptoms can cause disruptions to your social and work activities. The severe ADHD symptoms can have a major impact on your everyday functioning.
If they decide you have ADHD, the health professional will create a treatment plan specifically for you. Your treatment may include psychotherapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy as well as family therapy. They could suggest changes to your lifestyle and modifications such as using an alarm clock or planner creating lists, or adding reminders to your smartphone and requesting assistance from your family and friends. These strategies can help you meet your goals and be successful, especially at school and at work.
Adults suffering from ADHD are more likely to be involved in accidents with cars and suffer from academic failure. If not treated, it can lead to other problems such as depression, anxiety and drug abuse. There are coping techniques and treatments that can reduce your symptoms and ease these problems. This includes psychotherapy, medication and changes to your routine and environment. Medications for ADHD are also a good option but they're just a small part of the treatment plan.
Support
ADHD in adults can be a challenge. Untreated, it can affect school, work, and relationships. To overcome these issues, the first step is getting a diagnosis by a trained medical professional. Once diagnosed, your physician will recommend the most effective treatment plan to succeed throughout your life.
Men and women are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD however, this doesn't mean people from minority groups don’t have it. Certain people are more adept at hiding their symptoms or they might have developed a way to cope with them over time, which can make it more difficult for a health professional to detect the issue. In addition research has found that adults are more likely to seek care for ADHD when they suffer from co-occurring anxiety and depression.
Contacting your primary healthcare provider is the first thing you should do if you suspect that you might be suffering from ADHD. They might be able to refer you to a specialist who will perform an evaluation. You could also ask your doctor to recommend a specialist or search the internet for professionals who specialize in treating ADHD. If you have health insurance, it should provide the services that are covered under the policy.
Your doctor will go over your family history, take an in-depth medical history and conduct an interview. They'll be interested in knowing how long you've been experiencing your symptoms, and what impact they've had on your school, work and relationships. online adhd tests 'll also be looking for mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety that may be a precursor to ADHD.
Your care team will help create strategies to manage ADHD symptoms once you've been diagnosed. You can use alarms or daily planners to keep track of your obligations. You can also hire an expert coach or mentor who has the same condition. Engaging in open discussions with your family members and colleagues about ADHD can be beneficial also. This way they'll be more understanding if you have to be late for meetings or deliver assignments late.