According to the ALZA Corp., a pharmaceutical company that makes drugs to treat ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, almost 8 million adults were diagnosed in the United States with the condition as of 2009. The cause of the disorder is unknown, but it is treatable with medication. While still commonly used among lay people, the term ADD, or attention deficit disorder, was changed in 1987 in the "Diagnostic Statistic Manual" to ADHD, in order to more inclusively cover all aspects of the condition.
Step 1
Look at your family history for clues about others who may have had the disorder or other mental health issues. Consider childhood school performance and other signs that you may have had the condition in childhood. According to researchers at ALZA, nearly 60 percent of children with ADHD will continue to exhibit symptoms as adults.
Step 2
Keep a diary before seeing a doctor so that you can explain your symptoms. While many people become distracted and forgetful, adults with ADHD experience these incidences at a higher rate than normal. Symptoms to watch for and record include difficulty concentrating, jumping from one task to another, disorganization, making impulsive decisions and having difficulty getting along with others.
Step 3
Prepare for your doctor's appointment with more information in addition to your daily journal. Find out about any relatives with the disorder or other mental conditions that you know about in your family. Bring a list of current medications you are taking, including herbal supplements.
Step 4
Understand that the levels of symptoms vary from person to person and from situation to situation. Researchers at the Cleveland Clinic report that many adults with ADHD can concentrate on topics that interest them, while others have trouble concentrating all the time. They recommend seeking help to get a diagnosis if the problems you are experiencing are affecting your quality of life and your relationship.
Step 5
Expect to take a psychological assessment examination as well as a thorough medical exam. Family members may be interviewed before a final diagnose is made. A doctor or psychiatrist making the diagnosis also will inquire about alcohol and drug use.
Tips and Warnings
- Before resorting to drug therapy to control your ADHD symptoms, try cognitive behavioral therapy. The Cleveland Clinic reports that many adults with ADHD successfully manage their disorder with therapy, job coaching and family counseling.
- Don't rely entirely on childhood experiences. Even though you were not diagnosed with the disorder as a child, you may have had it all along. More than 25 percent of adults with ADHD were not diagnosed with disorder as children.
Things You'll Need
- Diary
