Being an adult and suspecting you have ADHD can be overwhelming, and it's exhausting to think that you may have to start the diagnostic process. The good news is that with appropriate professional help, you can receive an accurate diagnosis and relieve the strain of living with adult ADHD. This blog post will explore the steps a psychiatrist may take to diagnose adult ADHD and help you better understand what to expect.
The diagnosis of adult ADHD can be complex, and it's essential to have a thorough evaluation to ensure an accurate diagnosis. Your psychiatrist may use various diagnostic tools, including structured diagnostic interviews, rating scales, and behavioral assessments. These tools help the psychiatrist to identify your specific symptoms of ADHD and differentiate them from other conditions that may have similar symptoms. The psychiatrist may also ask for input from your family members or others who have observed your behavior, though this will only be done with your permission.
Understanding the Symptoms
The first step in diagnosing adult ADHD is understanding the symptoms. The symptoms of ADHD in adults include forgetfulness, difficulty with organization, poor time management, problems with follow-through, impulsiveness, emotional instability, distractedness, restlessness, and difficulty focusing on tasks. Individuals who experience these symptoms to a degree that impairs their daily functioning should consider seeking an evaluation for ADHD.
Assessing Childhood Symptoms
The first part of your ADHD evaluation will include evaluating your symptoms historically. A “historical evaluation” means that a psychiatrist will ask about your childhood symptoms, including disruptive or frustrating behaviors at home or school. Establishing a timeline of your symptoms can aid in determining whether your symptoms have been present throughout your life or are a new onset.
Physical Examination
A physical examination can be beneficial for detecting potential medical issues that may be contributing to your symptoms, such as thyroid dysfunction. Additionally, medication use and current physical health can affect ADHD symptoms, so understanding these factors can help with making an accurate diagnosis.
Neuropsychological Testing
A neuropsychological assessment is an important diagnostic test in the evaluation of ADHD as it can help with understanding cognitive difficulties that are not always evident clinically. Neuropsychological testing includes assessing your memory and recall, attention, and executive function.
Comorbidities Assessment
Oftentimes, ADHD exists alongside other mental health conditions. Common co-occurring conditions include anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders. Therefore, assessing co-occurring conditions is crucial in developing a treatment plan that caters to your unique needs.
Life After Diagnosis
Once a diagnosis of adult ADHD has been established, the psychiatrist will work with you to develop an individualized treatment plan. This may include medication, behavioral therapy, or a combination of both. Treatment aims to reduce your symptoms and improve your daily functioning. With the right treatment plan, individuals with adult ADHD can lead fulfilling lives and achieve personal, social, and professional success.
Taking the steps to recognize and diagnose adult ADHD can lead individuals to understand themselves better, and ultimately allow for tailored treatment. Receiving an accurate diagnosis, working with a knowledgeable provider, and developing an individualized treatment plan will improve both your daily functioning and your overall quality of life.
With the help of Synchronous Mental Health, you can get a well-informed adult ADHD diagnosis and begin living a more functional, full life. Our telemedicine service provides convenience, affordability, and the ability to connect with a board-certified practitioner from anywhere in the world.
Above all else, remember that there is hope and help available, and there are professionals like those at Synchronous Mental Health who understand what you are going through. If you are an adult experiencing symptoms of ADHD, contact Synchronous Mental Health, and take the first step towards improving your quality of life.
