ADHD Assessment For Adults Near Me
It is vital to obtain an accurate diagnosis in order to receive the treatment that you require. It is possible that you require medication, psychotherapy or a combination.
Your healthcare professional conducts an interview to discuss your symptoms as well as your family history and general health. A variety of standardized questionnaires and rating scales that are designed to measure symptoms of ADHD are also administered.
Signs and symptoms
Whether you're losing your keys, struggling to finish your work or having trouble with relationships, it could be time to speak with your doctor about ADHD. You can start the conversation by explaining your symptoms and asking for the recommendation of an expert in treating ADHD in adults. A lot of primary care doctors recognize the symptoms of this disorder and can refer you to a mental health professional for an evaluation. You may also request an appointment from your school counselor who may regularly assess children's academic performance.
If you're visiting an expert to have an ADHD assessment done they'll take a detailed account of your symptoms and behavior. They'll go over your experiences at home, school and work and use ratings scales to determine if that you meet the standardized criteria for ADHD. They'll also do a physical exam to rule out medical reasons for your symptoms, such as seizures and thyroid issues.
Adults with ADHD often hide their symptoms and have developed strategies to manage their symptoms, therefore finding a diagnosis can be a challenge. The evaluation process involves interviewing you and collecting information from your parents, teachers, colleagues and friends. They'll also use checklists and ratings as well as conduct a physical exam and provide additional tests.
A healthcare professional will then determine if your symptoms are related to ADHD, which type you have (inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive or combined) and what comorbid conditions, such as sleep disorders and learning disabilities, you have. They'll also identify your risk factors for ADHD like having a family history of the condition and drinking or using drugs. This information will help you develop a treatment plan.
Diagnosis
The first step to manage ADHD symptoms is to obtain an accurate diagnosis. Adults who think they may be suffering from adult ADHD should consult their primary care physician or a mental healthcare professional. They can provide self-assessment questionnaires and rating scales that can aid in determining if their symptoms match the ADHD criteria. They can refer patients to psychologists or social workers who is specialized in treating issues with mental health in adults.
A comprehensive ADHD assessment involves the use of sessions in person or via a computer. These sessions can last as long as 6 hours, depending on the individual's needs and level of attention. During this process the doctor will go over the symptoms and their impact on the individual's life. They may also ask about the patient's mood, mental health history, and physical ailments. The doctor will also conduct a physical examination to rule out any other illnesses or conditions which could cause similar symptoms.
When making a diagnosis, the psychologist or psychiatrist will refer to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) as guidelines. It sets specific criteria for identifying the three types of ADHD: Predominantly Inattentive, Hyperactive/Impulsive, and Combined. It is crucial that people discuss their symptoms honestly and openly as well as their frustrations and challenges caused by their behavior.
Adults with ADHD often don't realize how their behavior affects family members. This can cause tension in relationships. If it is possible, it can be advantageous for the therapists to interview family and close friends as part of the diagnostic process. This will aid the patient and their loved ones to be aware of the symptoms and collaborate to improve their quality-of-life.
Treatment
Finding a diagnosis for adult ADHD is the first step towards getting control of the symptoms that make it difficult for individuals to be successful in their personal and professional. Adults who suspect they have ADHD should consult their primary care physician. They can refer them on to a mental health professional. The specialist could be a neuroologist, psychologist, psychiatrist, or psychologist who has been trained to treat ADHD. It is possible that these experts can prescribe medication to help ease the symptoms of the disorder.
During an evaluation the specialist will ask questions about the patient's history of behavior and school experiences going back to childhood. They will also inquire with the person about their stressors and how ADHD affects them. They will use standard rating scales to determine if the individual has the right criteria for ADHD. They will also test for any conditions that could cause symptoms similar to ADHD like thyroid disorder or mood disorder.
Psychologists are trained to recognize people suffering from issues that affect their emotions and thinking. They can provide cognitive behavioral therapy and talk therapy to help adults alter unhealthy patterns of thinking and habits that can exacerbate or cause symptoms of ADHD. Psychologists can recommend or offer various treatment options, including lifestyle adjustments, strategies for organizing and even medications.
In the course of your in-person assessment during the evaluation in person, you will be asked to take part in a series of psychological tests and questions. They can include self-assessment checklists and scales for assessing behavior, and a neuropsychological exam. These tests can aid your doctor in determining the severity of symptoms and rule out any other disorder like mood disorder or seizure disorder.
Medication
Adults who are seeking to receive an ADHD diagnosis should work with a mental healthcare professional. Psychiatrists, psychologists and other mental health professionals are trained to treat mental disorders and can help you determine the cause of your symptoms. They may also suggest ways to help you manage your symptoms.
A comprehensive evaluation will involve several in-person or online appointments. It is suggested that you bring any documents you believe might be useful like medical records or school report cards. You'll also be required to complete a questionnaire in order to evaluate your symptoms. The information you provide will be used by our evaluator in determining whether you meet the ADHD criteria.
To be diagnosed with ADHD, you must have six or more established symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity for at least a month. The examiner uses standardized rating scales and other sources of information to determine whether you meet the criteria.
The evaluator will also look at your present symptoms and how they affect your life. This may include your work, social life and relationships. They can also tell if your issue is moderate, light or severe. Severe symptoms can be accompanied by issues with driving, work performance and relationships.
A psychiatrist or psychologist can treat adults with ADHD by utilizing psychotherapy or medication. Behavioral therapy can teach you strategies to manage your ADHD symptoms, such as enhancing your organization abilities and using tools like daily planners and lists. Ritalin and Strattera are two medications that can aid in reducing the inability to focus or impulsivity. Other medications can help reduce anxiety, such as atomoxetine (Prozac). They can also increase your alertness, helping you focus on the task at hand and reduce the feeling of anxiety.
Counseling
In addition to offering a professional diagnosis counselor or coach can help you get on a healthier path and develop positive coping strategies. For instance, they can help you develop better sleep habits or establish a regular workout schedule to boost your brain's serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine levels. They can also provide strategies to reduce and manage your ADHD symptoms. For instance, they could teach you how to manage tasks or help you improve your listening skills. They can also assist spouses and partners comprehend and understand the impact of an ADHD diagnose on their relationship.
During a comprehensive evaluation the psychologist will ask you questions about your ADHD symptoms, and he or she will use a series of standardized behavior rating scales to compare your responses with those of people without ADHD. These questionnaires don't provide an accurate diagnosis on their own, but can be used in conjunction with direct observations or self-assessments, as well as other information collected during your physical exam and history.
This Resource site will also talk about any mental disorders that could impact your performance, such as anxiety and depression. These symptoms can make it difficult to deal with the daily challenges and can cause stress.
Typically the evaluator will offer treatment options and will consult with other healthcare professionals prior to writing a prescription for medication. The process can take several hours in person or as little as two to three online sessions. Based on your requirements your therapist may offer a range of non-pharmacological treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), neurofeedback or dialectical behavior therapy for adults. They may refer to specialists for ADHD, a psychiatrist or neurologist, or another mental health professional. You could also ask your primary care doctor for a recommendation or consult the directory of your insurance company's specialists.