Self Diagnosis of Adult ADD

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) is officially referred to as Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Health professionals agree that self-diagnosing adult ADHD is never wise. Even for a licensed professional, an ADHD diagnosis can be complicated. However, it is helpful to self-evaluate before making an appointment. ADHD subtypes are: predominantly hyperactive-impulsive, predominantly inattentive and combined hyperactive-impulsive and inattentive.

History

• In the past, doctors believed that ADHD children outgrew it by their adult years. In the 1970s, researchers discovered that, actually, they carry it into adulthood. Additionally, many adults have grown up without knowing they have ADHD. Today, millions of adults have been diagnosed with ADHD by professionals using rating scales, childhood history, and physical and psychological tests.

Causes

• Recent studies suggest that genes play a large role in causing ADHD. Researchers are also considering contributions by brain injuries, nutrition and environmental factors. Brain scans of the frontal and parietal lobes have indicated thinner tissue or slight abnormalities in ADHD children. Studies widely discount the common belief that sugar causes hyperactivity, although researchers are looking into food additives as an ADHD contributor.

Adult ADHD Symptoms

• To be considered ADHD, you must have experienced symptoms since childhood. ADHD adults demonstrate a wider, more varied range of symptoms than children. Common symptoms include trouble organizing, time mismanagement, impulsivity, impatience, procrastination and distractibility. ADHD adults often worry about their memory. They find it difficult to listen to others, finish a book or watch a movie.

  When self-diagnosing adult ADHD, ask how often you are late. Miss many deadlines? Do you often blurt out remarks or interrupt conversations? Do you space out on the job then not understand what to do? Do you repeat certain behaviors, "forgetting" the harmful consequences of last time? ADHD adults typically answer yes to all these inquiries.

  Many adults with ADHD also struggle with depression and low self-esteem. They have experienced a lifetime of missed details, disorganization and reprimands by parents, teachers, spouses and co-workers. These answers, along with relationship, school and job histories, can be valuable when visiting a professional.

Prescribed Medications

• A mental health professional may suggest medication. Stimulant medications, seemingly contrary, have a proven calming effect on ADHD symptoms. In some cases, non-stimulants are prescribed. It may be necessary to try several medications to find what works. An MD, usually a psychiatrist, can prescribe ADHD medications. In some U.S. states, clinical psychologists, psychiatric nurse practitioners and advanced psychiatric nurse specialists are licensed to do so.

Treatment

• ADHD cannot be cured. Symptoms may be relieved by medication, psychotherapy, coaching or a combination of these. Many health professionals agree that treatment gives most ADHD adults a better chance for a productive life.