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How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults Many adults seek an assessment because they are frustrated by the symptoms of ADHD. They could lose their jobs because of delayed deadlines, or struggle with relationships due to impulsive behavior or have financial problems because they forget bills and forget to track purchases. Ask your doctor or mental health professional if they have training in diagnosing ADHD in adults. Signs and symptoms Find a doctor to examine your symptoms if you suspect you or your child may have ADHD. The evaluation will consist of physical examination as well as an analysis of your medical history, including mental health issues and substance use. It is essential to be forthcoming with the doctor about your issues and how they affect you. Many people with ADHD conceal their symptoms because of shame or fear of criticism. However, a thorough evaluation can provide your doctor with a clearer picture of your life. Adults are different from children, so the diagnosis of ADHD is more difficult than diagnosing ADHD in children. The American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5) provides guidelines for diagnosing ADHD that are generally applicable for adults as well as children. The doctor can ask other people who are in the patient's life for example, a spouse or cohabitating partner or siblings, parents, teachers, and coaches to explain how the patient's behavior has affected them. This can reveal important information that isn't revealed by tests or checklists. In some cases the doctor may need to investigate other conditions that can cause similar symptoms to ADHD. These conditions can include mood disorders, mental health conditions and physical illnesses or injuries such as concussions or head trauma. They will also review the person's personal and work life to determine if their symptoms are interfering with their daily routine. The symptoms of adult ADHD vary from mild to moderate with moderate symptoms leading to difficulties in work and social situations. Severe symptoms may interfere with the performance of your work or school, strain relationships and make it difficult to live an independent life. ADHD can be a problem for any person, but it is more prevalent in boys and men than in girls. It is unclear the reason for this however, it is likely that there are genetic and environmental factors at play. Studies have shown that certain foods and chemicals can trigger ADHD in some people, and it is possible that some people are predisposed to develop the condition due to the existence specific brain structures that are that are involved in processing stimuli. Diagnosis It's not always easy to diagnose ADHD. Many sufferers are embarrassed by their symptoms and have trouble opening up to a health care doctor or a mental health specialist. This can make the evaluation process more time-consuming. It is essential to speak honestly and openly about your symptoms as well as your past history, to ensure an accurate evaluation. During the evaluation, your doctor may use the standardized behavioral rating scales as well as ADHD symptom checklists to determine if you are able to meet the criteria for a diagnosis of ADHD. Your doctor will also inquire for your family history and childhood information and a detailed description of your work and family life. Your doctor may also order an exam to determine the cause of your symptoms, like seizures or thyroid issues. A physical exam involves blood tests and a brain scan. These tests can help to identify structural or chemical issues within the brain that could be causing ADHD symptoms. A physical exam can also help determine other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, such as addiction to drugs or depression. Your doctor may suggest taking part in a clinical study of new treatments for ADHD in adults. These trials are conducted by research centers like NIMH. However, it is important to be aware that these trials could be risky and not result in a solution that is suitable for you. It is also important to tell your doctor about any other medications you're taking, as they can interact with stimulants that are used to treat adults with ADHD. The effectiveness of stimulants may be affected by medications that affect appetite, sleep and blood pressure. The NIMH's Medication Interactions page will provide you with more information on the best way to discuss other medications with your doctor. Treatment Adults suffering from ADHD may be treated by treatment with medication, behavioral therapy and educational assistance. It's typically an amalgamation of all three that can help people succeed in school, work and other endeavors. Referrals from primary care providers or other health professionals are the first step in treatment. Check out the professional's qualifications and experience working with adults with ADHD. If the professional is unwilling or unable to give this information, it's best to look for a different professional. The process of diagnosing adult ADHD typically involves interviews with the patient's parents or other significant people, and teachers. The diagnostic process could also include a medical and family history as well as a psychiatric assessment. It's important that the person being evaluated for ADHD be honest and not shy away due to embarrassment or fear of being criticized. Several symptoms must be present in a variety of settings and cause significant impairment in the life of the individual to allow an ADHD diagnosis to be given. Untreated ADHD can lead to co-occurring disorders like anxiety and depression. This is particularly true for those with ADHD who have a history of chronic stress or frustration. The frustration can trigger a self fulfilling prophecy that results in low self-esteem, poor performance and feelings of frustration. For some adults, a diagnosis of ADHD can be a source of relief. They can start to understand themselves and realize it wasn't their responsibility for not being able to build a career or meet new friends. For some adults, the diagnoses of ADHD can trigger feelings of grief and regret about missed opportunities. Adults who suffer from ADHD must always be prepared to discuss their issues openly with co-workers, supervisors and teachers. It's also recommended to think about joining an ADHD support group, where those suffering from the disorder can share their experiences and get help. Additionally, those with a diagnosis of ADHD should look into their health insurance coverage to see the services covered and to find the names and numbers of professionals who specialize in treating adults suffering from ADHD. Support A person diagnosed as ADHD is able to receive assistance for the symptoms and problems that affect him or her in a variety of settings that include at home, work or at school, in relationships, and many more. Treatments for adults with ADHD usually include medication and psychotherapy. Some people also need specialized coaching to provide structure and help for their daily life. Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD are often relieved to learn that their problems weren't due to poor parenting or laziness. A diagnosis can be the first step in receiving the help they require. Adults also have the potential to suffer from ADHD. It is more difficult to recognize in children. Many adults suffer from undiagnosed ADHD. Diagnosing ADHD in adults requires a thorough clinical interview by a psychiatrist who has worked with this condition for a long time. The interviewer can inquire about the person's personal and emotional history, as also the family history of the person. Some doctors use brain scans or computer programs to evaluate patients. But most experts agree that the best indication of ADHD is an extensive clinical interview and that it is essential to take a patient's history into consideration when diagnosing the disorder. Based on the nature and severity of the person's difficulties and the co-existing conditions such as mood disorders, anxiety and learning disabilities that often accompany ADHD Additional psychological and neuropsychological tests may be administered to determine the presence and effect of these conditions. These tests can also aid in determining the appropriate dosage of medication for a person. Asking friends and colleagues to recommend specialists who have expertise in diagnosing ADHD is a good idea. Check ADHD Diagnosis , including their academic degrees and the number of years they've been practicing. They should be able explain their diagnosis process and answer any questions that you may have. You can also look for experts who are qualified on the internet or through the phone book. Ask them about their method of therapy and what advice they would give you.