How to Prepare for an Adult ADHD Test
The Adult ADHD Rating Scales are designed to detect signs that could be indicative of the presence of the disorder. The self-report forms are usually followed by a medical interview with an expert in mental health.
While these self-assessments can help, they cannot give an accurate diagnosis. To ensure that you've got a valid diagnosis take your primary care physician for an appointment with an experienced health professional who is specialized in ADHD assessments for adults.
What is ADHD?
If you're constantly moving around, having difficulty sitting still, or having trouble keeping track of your phone and keys, it might be time for an ADHD assessment. Self-assessment tools can help determine if your symptoms match those of an adult ADHD, but the only way to receive a diagnosis is to see a health care professional who specializes in the disorder.
A health professional will examine your personal and lifestyle history, and ask questions about your habits and how they've changed over time, and use standardized rating scales and symptom checklists to help them determine the severity of your symptoms. They can also conduct psychological testing to assess your spatial and visual abilities, executive functioning, and working memory.
To meet diagnostic criteria for ADHD, you must have at least five symptoms in each of the two categories: inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity. The symptoms must be present for at least six months and they must be affecting your life in a variety of settings, such as school or work, in your relationships with your friends and family or in the activities you enjoy. You must be able to demonstrate that your symptoms cannot be explained by a different mental disorder or medical condition such as depression or anxiety.
The term "attention deficit" is misleading, as people suffering from ADHD have sufficient focus. They just can't consistently focus their attention in the correct direction at the right moment. They might lose their car keys or forget the time when they meet with a colleague or client.
While some experts suggest that the signs of adult ADHD are not being recognized or under-estimated, they're no less grave than other mental health issues and physical ailments. If not treated, ADHD can cause issues at work, school and in relationships, as well as with self-esteem, and with mood swings. It can also make it difficult to handle stress. This may result in someone acting aggressively and emotionally.
Symptoms
The DSM-5 (the professional manual psychiatrists use to diagnose mental illness) is the basis for adult ADHD diagnostic criteria. A person must have five or more symptoms in the categories of inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity. These symptoms have to be present for at least six months and they are causing impairment in several major settings of their lives. The signs of impairment could be trouble at school or work, frequent arguments with family members and friends, or financial issues caused by excessive spending. The symptoms also must not be attributed to another mental health disorder like depression or anxiety.
Adults suffering from ADHD may be ashamed to admit they have an issue. But they should try to discuss their difficulties openly with a mental health professional so that an accurate assessment can be done. Patients with ADHD are often unhappy with their symptoms and may develop compulsive disorders like depression or sleep issues. These comorbidities may cause additional issues or make existing ones worse for those with untreated ADHD.
A mental health professional may inquire about your experience of ADHD symptoms which may include those that started in childhood, as well in any current issues. He or she will be interested in knowing what you've done to manage your ADHD symptoms, including medication and any other treatments you've tried.
There are numerous websites online that offer ADHD self-tests and rating scales. These tests can help you determine if your symptoms are similar to the symptoms of someone suffering from ADHD. However, these are not diagnostic tools. The only way to receive an accurate diagnosis of ADHD is to consult a qualified professional.
Start by speaking with your family doctor. They can refer you to an adult ADHD specialist who has experience in evaluating adults suffering from ADHD. You can also reach out to the insurance company in your area to get the names of specialists who are experienced in diagnosing ADHD among adults. You may also consider joining an ADHD support group to talk with others who suffer from the disorder. They can offer a different insight into your own struggles and assist you in navigating them.
Diagnosis
It is crucial that you or someone you care about is accurately diagnosed by a mental health professional if you suspect that you may have ADHD. They can help you develop a treatment program that addresses your symptoms. The process of obtaining an diagnosis can be long and involves several different steps. However, if you are proactive and prepared, it can be more efficient. Start by making a list of the particular issues and symptoms you or a loved one suffers. This will ensure that all relevant information is included in your evaluation. It is also helpful to keep an symptom diary. This is a record in writing of the frequency and duration of your symptoms.
When you first see your mental health provider they will review your medical history and ask about your current symptoms. They will be interested in how long you have been suffering from these issues and the impact they have had on your life. For example, do you struggle to keep an occupation due to your inattention or are you having issues with relationships because of your excessive impulsivity? You may want to determine whether you have any medical conditions that can cause similar symptoms. For instance seizures, thyroid issues or thyroid problems.
In order to be diagnosed with ADHD, you must have five or more symptoms of both inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity. Furthermore, these signs must be present in two or more contexts, such as school, work, or social activities. The impairment caused by these symptoms should be severe enough to interfere with your ability to function in these situations.
Your mental health professional will conduct a psychological examination and a medical interview to make the diagnosis. They will use rating scales to measure your symptoms, and a checklist to assess your performance. Additionally, they might also require you to fill out questionnaires regarding your family history, educational background, and daily activities. Depending on your specific needs, they may recommend neuropsychological or tests for learning disabilities.
If additional resources might also conduct an interview with a family member. Many people suffering from ADHD show symptoms as children, but they are not diagnosed due to lack of attention from their teachers or parents or have a milder form of the disorder.
Treatment
If you suspect that you or someone else you know has ADHD, you should discuss your symptoms and concerns with your doctor in a candid and truthfully. This will ensure that all relevant details are included in your evaluation and that no critical information is left unnoticed. You can also prepare for your appointment by writing down the specific questions and concerns you'd like to discuss with your doctor. You may also want to keep a diary of symptoms to help you track how often, how long, and in what circumstances the problem occurs.
A thorough ADHD evaluation will include an in-person consultation and for teens or children, an observation period. The clinician will cover your child's or your child's growth health, family history and health and will also speak with other individuals such as teachers, coaches and daycare professionals. They will also utilize standardized ratings scales to assess the symptoms and behavior. These tests compare the behavior of ADHD patients with those of people with ADHD and provide valuable facts about you or your child's behavior.
You or your child must show an obvious impairment at the very least in two different environments, such as school and home, before you can be diagnosed with ADHD. The problem must have been present for more than six months, and cannot be explained by any other condition, like depression or anxiety. You must also have a clear history of symptoms since childhood, typically prior to age 12.
Adult ADHD is very treatable. Your doctor might prescribe medication or suggest alternative treatments. In many instances, a combination treatment can enhance your life quality and ease symptoms. Your doctor may recommend that you visit an therapist or psychiatrist every three to four months to review your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.
You can lead a normal life with ADHD. However it can be a major influence on your relationships and work. By taking an active approach and seeking out the help of skilled professionals, you can overcome challenges and unlock your potential to the fullest extent.