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Getting a Diagnosis of ADHD in Adults Many adults aren't aware of 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 everyday functioning at work, home and in social settings. Talk therapy can aid in improving the communication and problem-solving abilities. Counseling for families and marriage can be beneficial. Symptoms You might feel that you're not living up to your full potential if have ADHD symptoms. As an adult, you might be overwhelmed by the responsibilities you have and feel like you're unable to take on the numerous tasks ahead of you. You may be full-time at work or caring for elderly parents or children, or managing household chores. Your inability to keep up with the pace can lead to frustration and embarrassment. You might be feeling hopeless or lose confidence, or even feel embarrassed. If you suffer from ADHD It's not your fault. But it's important to know that there are solutions to your problems. The first step is a diagnosis. A thorough psychiatric evaluation can be used by a health care professional to determine ADHD in adults. This includes talking to you about your symptoms, requiring you to complete standardized behavior rating scales and ADHD symptoms checklists, as well as collecting information about your medical and psychopathological background. The doctor might also ask you to provide information about your family's 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 before the age of 12 and continue to cause problems with your daily life. You must also be experiencing difficulty with these behaviors at the very least in two different environments which include work, school and social interactions. If getting diagnosed with adhd as an adult is a significant problem, you might be late for appointments, make impulsive mistakes at work or at home and fail to follow through on your responsibilities. You may be struggling with managing your finances and health and may have a difficult to complete simple tasks like remembering to take medication or visiting the doctor for a checkup. For those with ADHD the tendency to think before acting can make difficult situations more difficult. You could interrupt conversations with other people and spit out answers to questions before you're finished, or have difficulty waiting your turn in a line. Your impulsiveness could lead to risky activities, such as driving too fast or spending money recklessly. According to research, genetics and environment are key factors in the development ADHD. The symptoms tend to be inherited from families and some researchers believe that problems with the central nervous system at crucial developmental stages increase the risk for this condition. Diagnosis A health care specialist who specializes in ADHD can assist in evaluating adults who exhibit symptoms of the disorder. A typical evaluation includes an interview as well as an examination of medical documents, school or work records as well as family medical histories and a mental screening. A specialized professional also may conduct a physical examination and/or laboratory tests to identify other conditions that may have similar symptoms. For an adult or adolescent to be diagnosed with ADHD symptoms, they must be present for at least six months and cause significant impairment in daily life functions. People who have not been diagnosed or treated for ADHD might struggle throughout their lives with persistent issues which could have been avoided or treated. This can lead to depression, family issues, work-related or financial stress as well as substance abuse, and even serious accidents like motor vehicle crashes. Many adults with undiagnosed ADHD are at risk of being misunderstood by friends, relatives and coworkers. They may be perceived as irresponsible, lazy or even just plain crazy. Undiagnosed ADHD can also increase the likelihood of depression and anxiety. Women are more adept at hiding ADHD symptoms than men. This makes it harder to get an accurate diagnosis. They may use distractions or daydreaming to mask their impulsivity and inattention. They may also depend on strategies and tools to compensate for their poor time management and lack of organization. Women with ADHD might also have trouble identifying their symptoms, as they are more likely than men to exhibit hyperactive or inattention symptoms. It's important to keep in mind that ADHD isn't a sign of intelligence. It's simply a different behavior and way of thinking that could cause difficulties in certain situations or settings. Adults may experience 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 Undiagnosed ADHD can make it difficult for people to stay on track and complete their work or school assignments, and maintain healthy relationships with others. The symptoms can also affect everyday functioning and can trigger depression or anxiety. Hyperactive or impulsive people can appear agitated, and may attempt to do many things at the same time. They may fail to finish tasks or meet deadlines. They may have difficulty paying attention to others, which could cause confusion or relationship issues. ADHD is often not recognized in the early years and a lot of adults with the symptoms are not aware of it. Instead of struggling to keep up in school and life they may have been labeled an overachiever or a dreamer. Many people with ADHD suffer from worsening symptoms as their obligations increase. They aren't able to handle all the balls that are flying such as pursuing a career or caring for their family, while also keeping up with errands and housework, as well as maintaining romantic and social relationships. A health care professional or mental health professional will assess whether a person has ADHD. The assessment typically involves discussions with family, friends and others who know the person well as well as a physical exam and a review of a person's medical and mental health background. The patient may also be asked to complete standard ADHD rating scales or a symptom checklist. Psychological testing can be used to assess executive function, working memory and spatial and visual abilities. Adults suffering from ADHD are typically treated by stimulant medications. They balance and increase levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. They can help people suffering from ADHD to focus better and manage their lives, remember important information and tasks, and manage their impulsive behavior. Other treatments for ADHD include nonstimulant medications like atomoxetine or antidepressants, which work more slow than stimulants, yet aid in the treatment of ADHD. Before taking stimulants, people who suffer from certain health issues such as diabetes or high blood pressure, should talk to their doctor. Some adults with ADHD might benefit from individual therapy, self-help groups, or vocational counseling. These interventions can teach adults to manage their ADHD symptoms and to establish healthy relationships at home, in school and at work. Some adults with ADHD will also be part of clinical trials. These studies aid scientists in learning more about the latest methods to identify, treat and prevent disorders such as ADHD. Follow-up A thorough evaluation of ADHD for adults using various assessment tools will increase diagnostic accuracy and reduce misdiagnosis. The process usually involves an extended discussion with a psychologist or psychiatrist who is skilled in treating ADHD in adults. The examiner will also inquire with you about your or your child’s past health problems, family dynamics, and lifestyle choices. The evaluator might also look over your medical records and conduct an examination of your physical. Many people with ADHD also suffer from other mental or physical disorders such as anxiety or depression, which must be treated. It is estimated that people who suffer from ADHD are six-times more likely to be suffering from mood disorders. People who suffer from ADHD are also at a higher-than-average risk of using drugs. Adults who suffer from ADHD often have a difficult time to get and keep jobs. They also have a difficult managing their finances and juggling household chores. Adults with ADHD are at a higher risk for developing other health problems, including obesity, heart disease and smoking. They are also more likely to develop poor eating habits and have difficulty forming and maintaining romantic relationships. In one study, adults who were diagnosed with ADHD after receiving treatment in minor mental health services when they were children. However the size of the sample was small. A larger sample size could have provided additional information about the clinical course and the relationship of ADHD in patients with other psychiatric disorders. Research has revealed that ADHD is a long-lasting, persistent disorder in adults. It can have a negative impact on the quality of life and can lead to a variety of comorbid conditions, including mood disorders, learning disabilities and alcohol and drug abuse. If left untreated, ADHD increases the risk of incarceration, divorce and an economic disadvantage for people with ADHD. It is advised that all adults with an uncontrolled or new diagnosis of symptoms of ADHD be evaluated within 30 days and every month after that until their symptoms are managed. Adults who suffer from ADHD may need to continue receiving pharmacotherapy or psychotherapy for the rest their lives.