When can ADHD in adults be diagnosed?

It's important to note that ADHD in adults is often overlooked or misdiagnosed, leading to years of untreated symptoms and frustration. However, with proper evaluation and treatment, adults with ADHD can lead successful and fulfilling lives.

Symptoms of ADHD in adults may differ from those in children and can include difficulty with organization, time management, impulsivity, distractibility, and forgetfulness. Adults with ADHD may also struggle with substance abuse, anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions, highlighting the importance of a comprehensive evaluation.

A specialist in ADHD can use a variety of assessment tools, including interviews, rating scales, and behavioral observations, to diagnose ADHD in adults. This evaluation also includes a thorough medical history, physical exam, and psychological testing to rule out other possible causes of symptoms.

Once diagnosed, treatment options for ADHD in adults can include medication, therapy, and lifestyle modifications. Medications such as stimulants and non-stimulants are effective in reducing symptoms in many individuals with ADHD. Therapy options such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and coaching can also help adults with ADHD develop coping strategies and improve daily functioning.

It's important to note that seeking evaluation and treatment for ADHD in adults is a proactive step toward improving your quality of life. With the right treatment plan and support, individuals with ADHD can improve their relationships, work performance, and overall well-being.

How ADHD is diagnosed

Treatment success starts with the correct diagnosis. ADHD is a complicated disorder that is easily and frequently mistaken for other disorders. The wrong diagnosis leads to months of trial and error with inappropriate medications, intolerable side effects, worsening symptoms, poor performance in school or work, and loss of hope. The specialists at the KEGE Center for ADHD take the time to get the diagnosis right the first time which means faster results for you or your child.

Psychiatric evaluation

All new patients to the KEGE Center for ADHD start with a comprehensive 120-minute psychiatric evaluation with a board-certified psychiatric provider. During this evaluation, a primary diagnosis is made with a high degree of certainty. Additional assessment is conducted to determine the presence of any of the co-occurring conditions associated with ADHD, such as insomnia, mood disruption, anxiety, and others. Research suggests the presence of one or more co-occurring conditions in 70% of children and 47% of adults with diagnosed ADHD.

Your provider will:

• Conduct a 120-minute, face-to-face interview by video or in-person with you. For children, the interview includes the parents, the child, and a review of teacher feedback.
• Actively listen to understand your concerns, presenting symptoms, and goals with treatment.
• Assess and rule out of medical causes of symptoms through laboratory testing or complete referrals to medical specialists when necessary.
• Provide thorough education of all treatment options including medication, non-medication alternatives, and behavioral therapy or coaching.
• Develop a personalized treatment plan for your child.
• Discuss what you should expect from the chosen treatment and what to do if things don’t go as planned.
• Schedule convenient follow-up appointments for medication management in-person or by video visit.

Many psychiatric practices have long wait times. Don’t wait weeks or months for an appointment for an evaluation. KEGE Center for ADHD can usually see you within one to two weeks. Get started now with a psychiatric evaluation.