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Getting a Diagnosis of ADHD in Adults Some adults may have unrecognized ADHD symptoms. A diagnosis as an adult may provide treatment options. To be diagnosed with ADHD, you must have at least five persistent symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity-impulsivity. These symptoms must interfere with daily functioning, at work, home and in social settings. Talk therapy can enhance communication and problem solving skills. Counseling for marriage and family can be beneficial. Signs and symptoms You might feel that you are not living up to your full potential if suffer from ADHD symptoms. You might feel overwhelmed as an adult with your responsibilities. You might be working full time, caring for children or an elderly parent, and trying to manage household chores and finances. Inability to keep up with the pace can lead to frustration and embarrassment. You might also feel depressed, lose confidence, or even be embarrassed. It's not a problem in the event that you suffer from ADHD. However, it's important to understand that there are solutions to your struggles. The first step in a diagnosis. A thorough psychiatric assessment can be used by a medical specialist to diagnose ADHD in adults. This includes talking with you about your symptoms, having you fill out standardized behavioral ratings scales and ADHD symptoms lists and obtaining details on your mental and medical history. The provider may also ask you about your family history of ADHD. To qualify for a diagnosis of ADHD, you must have experienced at least five persistent symptoms of inattention and/or hyperactivity/impulsivity. These symptoms must have occurred prior to the age of 12 and continue to affect your life. You may also have issues with these behavior in multiple situations, like at work, school as well as in your social interactions. If your inattention is a significant issue, you may be late for appointments, make impulsive mistakes at work or at home and not be able to meet your obligations. You may be struggling with managing your health and finances and may have a hard time with simple tasks, like taking medication, or visiting the doctor for a checkup. People who suffer from ADHD are prone to making difficult situations worse by acting before they think. diagnosis of adhd may interrupt conversations with other people or utter answers to questions before you're finished, or have difficulty waiting your turn in line. Your impulsiveness can result in risky behavior like driving too fast or spending money in a reckless manner. According to studies that have been conducted, environment and genetics play a major role in the development of ADHD. The symptoms of ADHD are likely to be passed down through the family, and some researchers believe that issues with the central nervous system during critical developmental stages increase your risk. Diagnosis A health professional with an expertise in ADHD can assist those who are suffering from symptoms of the disorder. A typical assessment consists of an interview as well as reviewing medical documents, school or work records as well as family medical histories and a mental assessment. A specialized professional may also conduct a physical exam and/or lab tests to rule other conditions that have similar symptoms. A diagnosis of ADHD is only given to an adult or teenager if symptoms have been present for six months or more, and are causing significant difficulties in everyday life. People who aren't diagnosed or treated for ADHD might struggle throughout their lives with persistent issues that could have been prevented or treated. This can lead to depression, family issues, work-related or financial stress, substance abuse and even serious accidents, such as motor vehicle crashes. Many adults with undiagnosed ADHD are at risk of being misunderstood and criticized by friends, relatives and coworkers. They might be viewed as a lazy, irresponsible person, a bad employee or simply crazy. Undiagnosed ADHD can also increase the chance of depression and anxiety. Women are more adept at hiding their ADHD symptoms than men, which may make it difficult for them to get an accurate diagnosis. They may resort to strategies to hide their inattention or impulsivity, like frequent distractions and daydreaming, or use tools to help them cope with their lack of organization and ineffective time management. Women who suffer from ADHD might also have difficulty identifying their own symptoms as they are more likely to suffer from inattentive symptoms rather than the impulsivity or hyperactivity. It's important to keep in mind that ADHD is not an indicator of intelligence. It's simply a different way to think and behave that could cause problems in certain situations. Adults may exhibit different symptoms than children. Adults who suffer from ADHD still meet the criteria set by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5) of the American Psychiatric Association. Treatment People with undiagnosed ADHD may struggle to get organized, stay on top of work or school tasks and maintain healthy relationships. These symptoms can affect the daily routine and trigger emotional problems such as depression, anxiety or mood swings. People who are impulsive or hyperactive can appear agitated, and they might try to do a variety of things at the same time. They might not complete tasks or meet deadlines. They may have difficulty paying attention to other people that can cause confusion and relationship problems. ADHD is often not recognized in the early years and a lot of adults with the symptoms are unaware that they have it. Instead of struggling to keep up in their studies and daily life they might have been labeled an overachiever or a dreamer. As responsibilities increase in adulthood, however, many people who suffer from ADHD find their symptoms grow worse. They aren't able to handle all the balls that are flying working on a job and caring for their family, while also keeping up with errands and housework, and maintaining romantic and social relationships. A health care provider or mental health professional will determine whether a person is suffering from ADHD. The evaluation usually includes conversations with family members, friends and others who are familiar with the person as well as a physical exam and a review of a person's medical and mental health history. The patient may also be asked to fill out standard ADHD rating scales or an assessment checklist of symptoms. Psychological testing can be used to assess executive function, working memory and spatial and visual skills. Stimulant medications are the most frequently used treatment for adults with ADHD. These drugs balance and boost levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters. They can help those with ADHD better focus, organize their lives, remember important information and tasks and manage their the impulsive behavior. Nonstimulant medicines, such as antidepressants and atomoxetine, can also be used to treat ADHD. They are slower than stimulants, but they can still help improve symptoms. Before taking stimulants, those with certain health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure, should consult their physician. Certain adults suffering from ADHD may benefit from individual therapy, self help groups, or vocational counseling. These programs can help adults learn how to manage their symptoms and to establish healthy family, school and workplace relationships. Clinical trials will also be conducted with adults who suffer from ADHD. These trials allow scientists to discover more about how to treat, diagnose and prevent disorders such as ADHD. Follow-up A thorough evaluation of ADHD in adults using several assessment instruments will improve the accuracy of diagnosis and minimize mistakes in diagnosis. The process often includes an extended discussion with a psychiatrist or psychologist who is skilled in treating ADHD in adults. The evaluation specialist may also inquire about the history of your your child's health issues, family dynamics and lifestyle choices. They will also go through your past medical records and perform physical examination. Many people who suffer from ADHD are also suffering from other psychiatric issues or medical conditions, like depression and anxiety, which need to be treated. In fact, it is believed that those with ADHD are six times more likely suffer from mood disorders than the rest of us. People who suffer from ADHD are also at a greater risk of using drugs. Adults with ADHD have a tough finding and keeping jobs. They also have a difficult time managing finances and keeping up with household chores. Adults with ADHD have an increased risk of developing other health issues, including heart disease, obesity, and smoking. In addition they are more likely to be prone to poor eating habits and experience trouble forming and keeping romantic relationships. In one study, people with ADHD who were treated in minor mental health services as children continued to be diagnosed with ADHD into adulthood. However the sample size was very small. An expansion of the sample might provide more information about the clinical course of ADHD in adulthood and its connection with other psychiatric disorders. Research has revealed that ADHD is a long-lasting and persistent disorder that affects adults. It has a negative effect on the quality of life, and can cause variety of comorbid conditions, including learning disabilities, mood disorders and alcohol and drug abuse. People with untreated ADHD are at an increased risk for incarceration or divorce, as well as having a lower socioeconomic status, and more serious mental health issues. Adults with uncontrolled ADHD symptoms or a new ADHD diagnosis should be seen within 30 to 60 days, then every month until the symptoms are under control. Adults who suffer from ADHD might require receiving pharmacotherapy or psychotherapy for the rest their lives.