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New Criteria for Diagnosing ADHD Adults
Some experts have proposed a new set of criteria for diagnosing ADHD in adults that may be included in the updated Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, which will be published in 2011. According to the new criteria, an adult needs to have six or more of the following symptoms for at least six months, to a degree that interferes with daily functioning in two or more settings (work, classroom, home, community, social relationships). At least some of the symptoms should have been present before age 16, and the symptoms should not be related to any other mental disorder:
- Easily distracted by extraneous stimuli or irrelevant thoughts.
- Often makes decisions impulsively.
- Often has difficulty stopping activities or behaviors when called for.
- Often starts a project or task without reading or listening to the directions carefully.
- Often shows poor follow-through on promises or commitments that are made to others.
- Often has trouble doing things in proper order or sequence.
- More likely than others to speed while driving a motor vehicle.
- Often has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks.
- Often has difficulty organizing tasks and activities.
Introduction
Where to Go for an ADHD Diagnosis
How Experts Make an ADHD Diagnosis
ADHD Diagnosis Step 1: The Consultation
ADHD Diagnosis Step 2: Testing, Testing
ADHD Diagnosis Step 3: Learning How to Manage Symptoms
Five Common Diagnosis Mistakes
More Tips for Getting an Accurate ADHD Diagnosis:
ADHD Diagnosis: Your Step-by-Step Guide
3 Common ADHD Diagnosis Mistakes
An Accurate ADHD Diagnosis for Children
This article comes from the Fall 2009 issue of ADDitude.
To read this issue of ADDitude in full, SUBSCRIBE NOW!
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