What to Expect From an Adult ADHD Assessment
Many people who exhibit symptoms of ADHD get diagnosed in childhood, but it is possible to be misdiagnosed as an adult. A thorough examination is required by an expert in mental health or health care professional.
The person who evaluates the person and other people who know them well, use rating scales, and examine school records from the past. Psychologists use questions that are designed specifically to identify ADHD symptoms in adults.
Symptoms
It's not uncommon for the symptoms of ADHD to start showing up after the age of adulthood. Symptoms of developmental disorders, like intellectual disability or autism, typically show up in childhood, while those of ADHD usually appear in late adolescence and early adulthood when responsibilities and commitments become more demanding.
If ADHD symptoms are severe, it could be a significant influence on a person's daily life. They may be struggling in school or at work, and have problems creating and maintaining relationships with friends and family. If you are experiencing these issues should consider seeing a doctor to see whether they suffer from ADHD.
Your doctor will want to get a full medical history and do physical examination. They will also conduct a mental health assessment, which typically involves completing an ADHD rating scale and answering questions regarding how the symptoms have affected your life. Your doctor will inquire about your drug or alcohol use and also any medical conditions (such thyroid disorders or seizures disorder) which may resemble ADHD.
There are several different ratings scales that can be used to evaluate the symptoms of adult ADHD. Some, such as the Adult Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Screening Questionnaire, are free online. Some, like the 40-item Adult ADHD Scale, can only be obtained from healthcare experts. They must interpret and score it.
The DSM-5 specifies that for a diagnosis of ADHD, a person must have "symptoms of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that are persistent and impair functioning in multiple settings. "3 The person should have these symptoms for at least six months before they can be diagnosed with the condition.
People suffering from ADHD are at a higher risk for depression and anxiety. Untreated and undiagnosed disorders can cause significant stress in an individual's life and hinder their ability to manage ADHD symptoms. They can also have a negative impact on self-esteem as they receive a constant message that they are expected to achieve more than they actually do. This can lead to a cycle of frustration and anxiety that self-fulfills.
Diagnosis
You can ask the person being evaluated to complete one or several behavioral rating scales that are standardized. These are based on research that compared the behavior of those with ADHD and those without it. These questionnaires can assist professionals determine if symptoms exist and how severe they could be. It's important to be honest when filling out these questionnaires. In certain instances the expert may request the spouse or significant other to fill out these scales, too. This isn't to check the answers, but to get a fuller understanding of how the individual's ADHD issues affect their relationship.
The evaluator will also take a detailed history, including the symptoms that are being described as they have manifested throughout adulthood. In addition, the person evaluating will be looking to determine whether they had similar issues when they were children, and if so what the treatment was at the time.
Some evaluators request medical tests to determine if there are other conditions that may be similar to the symptoms of ADHD like seizures or thyroid disorders. They may also ask to talk with family members and colleagues for insight into the person's performance at home and at work.
During the interview, the evaluator will discuss the severity of the symptoms and how they affect relationships, job performance and social or school life. The evaluator will then decide if the symptoms are mild, moderate or severe. Mild symptoms are those that fit the ADHD criteria but don't interfere with everyday functioning. Moderate means that symptoms are an issue in daily life and severe means that symptoms cause significant disruptions.
In some instances, the evaluator will suggest that the person engage in psychotherapy (the technical name for mental health therapy) or make changes to their routine or environment to accommodate ADHD-related difficulties. Many health insurance plans can assist with finding a qualified health care provider. The evaluator will usually be willing to discuss their education and experience treating adults with ADHD. If they're unable to share the information you require, you may want to consider finding another professional.
Treatment
Adults with ADHD are able to receive a broad variety of treatment options. There are many treatments for people who suffer from ADHD. The right treatment plan will help an adult with ADHD live a happier and more productive existence.
It is more difficult to recognize ADHD in adults than it is for children. The DSM-V symptom guide is targeted toward children, and most experts agree that a precise diagnosis requires a thorough medical interview conducted by a professional who is skilled in diagnosing ADHD in adults. The professional may ask about your symptoms in the last six months and how they affect your daily life at work and at home. She might also ask about your childhood symptoms, and whether any members of your family suffer from ADHD.
Certain professionals employ cognitive behavioral therapy to help those with ADHD learn how to manage their issues and improve their relationships. Marriage or family counseling may be suggested to help you or your loved one better comprehend the challenges they face and to help you. Many people who suffer from ADHD also suffer from anxiety or depression. People with ADHD are also more likely to have physical health problems like chronic pain or eating disorders, such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS).
If your symptoms aren't severe, you may not need medication. If you have moderate symptoms, medications may help reduce symptoms so that you can focus at work or in social interactions. For severe symptoms, your physician might prescribe a stronger dose of medication or suggest an array of medications.
private adhd assessment adults may request to examine your report cards from school and speak to your parents in order to determine if you are suffering from ADHD. They will be looking for any signs that could suggest ADHD, such as low academic performance or behavior issues. They may also inquire whether you've had any problems at work or in your relationship.
Researchers utilize a variety of tests to test the level of attention and control over impulses. Certain tests utilize computerized comparisons to compare your results against the results of others who do not suffer from ADHD. Other tests, like the Test of Variable Attention (TOVA) assess your ability to complete an activity without distraction.
Support
There are many options for support in the event that you suffer from ADHD. Some of these resources are provided by professionals and some are completely free. Online resources are also available. These resources can help you better be aware of your symptoms and treatment options, as well as how to support someone who has ADHD.
CHADD is the largest national support group for people who suffer from ADHD. The website of CHADD includes the list of local affiliate groups. It also contains educational materials as well as the names of professionals who provide coaching, assessment, and therapy. The site has an option to search that allows you to filter by state or region to locate a service close to you.
Another option is to seek out a neurodiversity-affirming therapist. Numerous directories on the internet include therapists who specialize in ADHD. They can help you to use strategies for managing your ADHD symptoms. They can also offer insight and understanding.
A few support groups meet to discuss personal stories and offer each other encouragement. Some groups provide lectures, education, and coping skill training. Many groups are led by mental health professionals, but others are peer-led. You can find a local group through CHADD or contact mental health professionals who specialize in ADHD to inquire about local groups.
The evaluation will take into account a variety of aspects, including the person's mood or medical history. The evaluator will also consider whether the person experiences other conditions that can produce symptoms that resemble ADHD like depression, anxiety, or physical illness. The evaluator could also ask to see school report cards and talk to family members.
It is essential to be honest with your mental health professional when you are considering an ADHD assessment. To ensure that they can accurately assess you, they should be aware of all your symptoms. If you're not willing to reveal all of your symptoms, the assessment may not be as thorough and frustrating for you. The examiner is likely to conduct neuropsychological testing or performance-based assessments. These are designed to collect details about an individual's executive functioning weaknesses and can be done in combination with a clinical interview to help evaluators gain confidence in their findings.