Diagnose and Treat Adult ADHD

We have gone through the Signs of ADHD in adults in a previous post and we have seen that the signs that identify adult ADHD well are based on 3 symptoms; inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity.

What if someone has some or most of the symptoms?

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is not a disorder that can be diagnosed in-home by family and friends, or by relating symptoms to those of somebody else who has been diagnosed with ADHD. ADHD cannot be self-diagnosed. Even if the symptoms are severe.
This is because symptomatology of mental health disorders is complicated. A symptom for a patient might not be a symptom for a doctor, and vice versa. Furthermore, a patient may wrongly self-diagnose themselves as having ADHD from their symptoms, whilst in reality their symptom is that of another disorder and not ADHD. Thus, only a health care professional can evaluate the numerous symptoms which a patient demonstrates, identify their causes and provide a diagnosis, taking into account the medical history of the patient as well.

If you suspect ADHD, then book an appointment with a doctor or a mental health professional and bring with you a list of questions, your medical history, as well as the opinion of a person close to you, so that the doctor understands the severity of your symptoms.

Diagnosis of Adult ADHD

There are many steps your doctor or health care provider canl use to come to a diagnosis:

– Taking g a history and determining when your symptoms started

– Setting / environmental factors

– Standard rating scales

– Computerized testing programs

– Interviews with family or close friends

– Detailed psychological testing which may include education testing

Treatments of Adult ADHD

Treatment is always a choice and the decision to choose medication or behavioral treatment options is a personal one , and your health care provider can assist you to determine the best options for you.

– Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

– Talk Therapy

– Working Memory Training

– Diet

– Exercise

– Stimulant or Non-stimulant Medication

– Food Supplements

– Coaching

Whichever of the above is used in a treatment plan, you will need to see your doctor regularly so that your progress is evaluated and your plan gets adjusted. By doing so, there is a good possibility that you will take many steps towards a full recovery and your quality of life will improve.
Solutions for Mindfulness is a practice that specializes in ADHD. We will discuss your options with you and support your treatment choices.