https://therkildsen-hyllested-2.thoughtlanes.net/why-you-should-focus-on-improving-adhd-in-adults-characterization-diagnosis-and-treatment Adult ADHD Diagnostic Assessment and Treatment In the majority of cases, a complete ADHD diagnosis will take at minimum two hours. It is usually a semi-structured interview and psychoeducation regarding the condition (including in a language that is easily understood) and discussion of the impact of the symptoms on employment or education and social/family life including driving. Signs and symptoms The signs of ADHD are characterized by difficulty in focusing and staying organized as well as managing emotions. These issues can affect all aspects of life such as school or work and relationships with friends or family. For a diagnosis of adult ADHD, several inattentive symptoms and at least one hyperactive-impulsive symptom must have been present before age 12. The symptoms are also expected to result in significant impairments to two or more aspects of daily living. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) of the American Psychiatric Association contains clinical guidelines to diagnose adults with ADHD. A certified psychologist or psychiatrist will talk to the patient to obtain a detailed description of their symptoms, including when they began and how long they have been occurring. They will also inquire about what issues these symptoms have caused in the person's job, school or social life. In addition to assessing primary ADHD symptoms screening for any other mental illnesses that can occur alongside ADHD or mimic the symptoms is important (e.g. depression anxiety disorders, depression, or bipolar disorder). In particular, the assessment should include questions about the person's mood, medical history, and previous medication use. A person can also be screened in order to determine whether they suffer from any physical or somatic conditions which could mimic ADHD. These could include headaches, sleep d