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What to Expect From an Adult ADHD Assessment It is possible that people who show symptoms of ADHD are not diagnosed with the condition. A thorough assessment by a health care professional or mental health professional is essential. The evaluator can interview the individual, as well as others who are familiar with them, using rating scales and examine school records. Psychologists often ask questions that are specifically designed to reveal ADHD symptoms in adults. Signs and symptoms It's not uncommon for the symptoms of ADHD to begin showing a little later in adulthood. Intellectual disability or autism are developmental disorders that typically manifest in childhood. ADHD symptoms, however usually manifest in late adolescence, or early adulthood, as responsibilities and obligations increase. When ADHD symptoms are severe, it can be a significant influence on the daily activities of a person. They may be struggling at school or at work and have problems forming and maintaining relationships with friends and family. Anyone who is experiencing these issues should consider consulting a physician to determine whether they have ADHD. The doctor will request a complete medical history and conduct a physical examination. The doctor will also take an assessment of your mental health which usually involves filling out an ADHD rating scale and answering questions about how the symptoms have affected your life. The doctor will also inquire about your consumption of alcohol or drugs, and about any medical conditions that might look like ADHD (such as seizures or a thyroid disorder). There are several different ratings scales that can be used to determine the signs of adult ADHD. Some, such as the Adult Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Screening Questionnaire, are free online. Others, such as the 40-item Adult ADHD Symptom Scale, are only available through healthcare professionals and must be interpreted and scored by them. 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 A person must display these symptoms for at least six months before they can be diagnosed. People with ADHD have a higher risk of depression and anxiety. If these conditions are not recognized and untreated, they can cause significant stress in the lives of individuals and hamper their ability to manage their ADHD symptoms. These conditions can also negatively impact their self-esteem as they are constantly told they need to perform better. This can be a self-fulfilling prophecy that leads to a chronic cycle of stress and frustration. Diagnosis The person being evaluated will be asked to complete one or more standardized behavior rating scales. These questionnaires are based on research that compared the behavior of those with ADHD and those who do not. These questionnaires can assist professionals determine if there are symptoms and how severe they might be. It is important to be honest when completing these questionnaires. In some instances, a professional may ask the person's partner or spouse to fill in the scales. This isn't a way to verify their answers, but to get a fuller picture of how the person's ADHD issues affect their relationship. The professional will also take an extensive history, which includes the symptoms that are being described that have developed throughout adulthood. The evaluator might also inquire if the person had similar problems as a kid and how they were treated. Some evaluators may require medical tests to rule out other conditions that may be similar to the symptoms of ADHD like thyroid or seizure disorders. They may also ask to speak to family members and colleagues for information about the person's performance at home and at work. During the interview the assessor will discuss the how severe the symptoms are, and their impact on relationships, work performance and school life, as well as social. The evaluator then decides if the symptoms of ADHD are mild, moderate, or severe. Mild symptoms are those that satisfy the ADHD criteria but don't interfere with everyday functioning. Moderate means that symptoms are an issue for daily functioning while severe indicates that symptoms cause significant disruptions. In certain instances the evaluator might suggest that the patient participate in psychotherapy (the term used to describe mental health therapy) or make adjustments to their routine or environment to help with ADHD-related problems. Many health insurance plans can help locate a qualified health care provider. The evaluator will usually be willing to discuss their education and experience treating adults suffering from ADHD. However, if they are reluctant to divulge such details, it's worth looking into a different expert. Treatment Adults suffering from ADHD can benefit from a wide range of treatments. There are many treatments available for adults with ADHD. The right treatment plan will help an adult with ADHD live a happier and more productive existence. It is more difficult to identify ADHD in an adult than it is in the case of a child. The DSM-V symptom guide is geared towards children, and the majority of experts agree that a precise diagnosis requires a careful medical interview conducted by a professional who is skilled in diagnosing ADHD in adults. The professional may ask about your symptoms over the last six months and how they affect your home and work life. She may also ask about your childhood symptoms, and if any other family member suffers from ADHD. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a method used by some professionals to help those suffering from ADHD learn how to manage their issues, improve their relationships and better comprehend their ADHD. They may also suggest counseling for your family or marriage to assist your loved ones to understand the challenges you face and how to better help you. Many people who suffer from ADHD are also suffering from other mental health problems like anxiety or depression. People with ADHD are also more likely to be suffering from physical health problems like chronic pain or eating disorders, such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS). If your symptoms are mild you may not need medication. If you are experiencing moderate symptoms, medication could decrease them enough to allow you to focus on your social or work activities. For severe symptoms, your doctor may prescribe a higher dose of medication or suggest an array of medications. Your doctor may ask to see your school report cards and talk with your parents to determine if you suffer from ADHD. They will be looking for any signs that could suggest ADHD or other issues, such as poor academic performance or behavioral problems. They may also inquire whether you've had any issues at work or with your partner. Researchers employ a variety of tests to assess the ability to control impulses and attention. Certain tests are computer-based and compare your results with the results of other people who do not have ADHD. Other tests, such as the Test of Variable Attention (TOVA) assess your ability to focus on an activity without distraction. Support There are many supports available if you have symptoms of ADHD. Some of these are provided by experts and others are available for free. You can also find online resources. These can help you comprehend your symptoms and treatment options, as well as give you information on how you can help a loved one who suffers from ADHD. CHADD is the most popular national support group for those who suffer from ADHD. The website of CHADD includes a list of local affiliate organizations. It also has educational materials and a listing of coaches, professionals and other specialists who offer coaching, assessment and therapy. The site includes a search feature that allows you filter by state or area to find a local group near you. Another option is to seek out a neurodiversity-affirming therapist. Many directories on the Internet provide therapists who specialize in ADHD. They can help you how to employ behavioral strategies to control your ADHD symptoms. They can also provide insight and empathy. Some support groups meet to discuss personal stories and offer each other encouragement. They may also offer information, guest speakers and coping-skills training. Some groups are led by mental health professionals, while others are led by peer. You can find a local group through CHADD, or you can reach out to mental health specialists who specialize in ADHD to ask about local groups. The evaluation will take into consideration a variety of aspects, including the person's mood and medical background. The evaluator will also look at whether the patient has other medical illnesses that may cause symptoms similar to ADHD like depression, anxiety or physical illness. The evaluator could also ask to see school report cards and speak with family members. It is crucial to be honest with your mental health practitioner if you are considering an ADHD assessment. To be able to evaluate your condition, they must be aware of all your symptoms. If adhd in adults treatment to disclose all your symptoms, the test might not be as thorough and more frustrating for you. The examiner is likely to conduct neuropsychological tests or performance-based tests. These tests are designed to gather details about an individual's executive functioning issues and are often conducted together with a clinical interview to help evaluaters gain confidence in their findings.