Adult ADHD Diagnosis
A diagnosis of adult ADHD can be the first step in finding treatment for certain people. They may feel frustrated in their work, social or home lives due to symptoms such as fidgeting, ignoring things or interrupting others.
Getting diagnosed with ADHD as an adult often means going through an extensive evaluation that includes interviewing the person and their family members, using standard tests and rating scales. The evaluation usually includes a physical exam, too.
Symptoms
A diagnosis of ADHD could alter the course of many adults' lives. It can help adults to understand why they've had to struggle for so long and make sense of their previous choices. It may also inspire them to look forward to the future. If you're struggling to locate your keys, feel that you're unable to finish your task, or are being labeled as irresponsible or lazy, or have been accused of being lazy or irresponsible then getting a diagnosis will aid you in finding the best treatment for you.
Most adults experience symptoms in different areas of their lives, but certain areas are more prominent than others. They may be restless and impulsive in school, but struggle to keep up with work. They may forget appointments or struggle to estimate how much time they need to complete their work. They might have difficulty making friends or have frequent arguments with their spouses. If the problems are serious, they can interfere with the daily routine and can lead to anxiety or depression.
It's important to diagnose ADHD however, it's crucial to determine what other factors might be contributing to symptoms. Stress, mental health problems and certain medications are typically the cause of symptoms that are similar. A thorough examination by a trained professional is necessary to make sure that the underlying issue is being treated.
Unlike children, adults with ADHD rarely exhibit the more obvious symptoms of hyperactivity. Hyperactivity is less obvious and can be seen as fidgeting or difficulty sitting still. Women who suffer from ADHD are more likely to display these symptoms, as they are more likely to hide their inattention within their work and social interactions.
During an assessment, the doctor will review the patient's medical history and consider the ways in which their ailments affect their daily life. They will also ask about family history and, should they be able to interview a family member to get their views on childhood behavior. They can also conduct neuropsychological, psychological, or learning disabilities tests. In some cases it is necessary to perform an examination physical to rule out certain diseases that may mimic the symptoms that are associated with ADHD.
Diagnosis
It is crucial for adults who believe they might have ADHD to discuss their symptoms with a health care specialist, especially if the issues stem from work or school. Primary care providers can refer patients to mental health professionals who have experience in adult ADHD evaluations. Hamdani says that professionals who deal with adults with ADHD should be willing and able to give information about their education and experiences. Hamdani warns that anyone who is reluctant to disclose this information should be treated with suspicion.
A diagnosis of adult ADHD can be a life-changing event. For some, it gives an explanation for years of frustration and self-criticism. Others feel a sense relief that there's a reason for the struggles they've faced in their lives, or that their struggles weren't simply "in their heads."
Adults suffering from ADHD are diagnosed through a thorough interview with a specialist. This may include a thorough review of the individual's personal, family and medical history. Additionally, the doctor will likely ask the person to rate their behaviors using one or more of the standard ADHD behavior scales. These ratings are based on research that compares the behavior of people with ADHD to those of people who do not have the disorder.
The individual will be asked about the symptoms and how they affect their life. In order to meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD, an adult must have at least five persistent symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity-impulsivity that cause significant impairment in at least two settings (such as home, school and work) and that are not better explained by other factors.
Comorbidities are common in those who have been diagnosed with adult ADHD. Anxiety disorders, depression, and drug or alcohol use are all common comorbidities associated with ADHD. Some experts believe that these comorbidities are maladaptive strategies for dealing with the stress and frustrations that come with untreated ADHD.
It is also important to remember that ADHD is more prevalent in men than women, and it may be difficult for those who are affected to be diagnosed due long-held biases about the symptoms and the impact they have on males and females. Some women can mask their symptoms better and this can lead to delay diagnosis or an incorrect diagnosis.
Treatment
Adults who have been diagnosed of ADHD might find it beneficial to speak with an expert in mental health who has experience in treating adults with ADHD. This individual can teach the adult behavioral strategies to manage their symptoms and improve their performance at home, at work or school. They can also assist adults understand the reasons behind their behavior and what triggers it.
Because a person may suffer from multiple conditions that can cause similar symptoms to the symptoms of ADHD It is essential for an expert in mental health to examine the adult thoroughly. This may include a detailed description and scales filled out by the client or other people who know them along with a family and psychiatric history as well as a thorough physical exam.
A thorough assessment is crucial to determine if the adult suffers from a co-morbid condition, such as depression or anxiety. These conditions can contribute to the symptoms of ADHD and make treatment more difficult. A mental health professional may also perform cognitive or neuropsychological tests to determine how the brain functions and rule out other causes of the problem, like the presence of a learning disability or physical illness.
Adults suffering from ADHD are usually treated by psychological counseling (psychotherapy), and educational programs. Adults can benefit from individual talk therapy to boost their self-esteem and cope with the emotional baggage associated with ADHD. Behavioral therapies can help improve efficiency, time management and impulse control and may help to reduce the effects of stressors on an individual's ability to perform.
Some people with ADHD can benefit from group therapy. This type of therapy offers you the opportunity to connect with people who face similar issues and discuss strategies to overcome these challenges. These groups are usually organized by an advocacy or support group.
Many people suffering from ADHD can also be treated with medications. There are a variety of medications available that include stimulants (such as methylphenidate, which is sold under the name Ritalin) that increase levels of norepinephrine within the brain. Antidepressants and the antipsychotic drug Wellbutrin (Bupropion) can help control moods and reduce impulsive behavior. diagnosing adhd in adults can discuss all of your treatment options with you.
Support
Many people diagnosed with ADHD suffer from the condition for a long time, without even realizing it. They might seek an evaluation because they are frustrated by everyday challenges such as forgetting appointments or making a mistake at work, or neglecting commitments to friends and family. It's common for these people to feel a sense relief when they receive an diagnosis, particularly when they understand why they have been struggling throughout their lives.
A mental health professional may conduct an ADHD evaluation, but a primary physician is usually the best place to start. If needed, the doctor may refer the patient to a specialist. A psychiatric nurse, psychiatrist or psychologist might also be qualified to assess ADHD in adults. Many insurance plans include specialists by specialization and can help people find the right health professional who is knowledgeable about ADHD in adults.
During the examination the mental health professional will inquire about the person's previous issues and also how ADHD symptoms have affected them. It is crucial to be honest and open during the assessment, so that the mental health professional can provide an accurate assessment.
Therapy, or psychotherapy can help people learn to manage their issues and improve their relationships. Behavioral therapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy, can teach people specific techniques to alter their thinking patterns and behaviors. Therapy is often coupled with medications, which can help reduce the effects of the disorder.
Social support groups are beneficial to many adults ADHD patients. The opportunity to share their challenges with other people who are experiencing similar challenges can be a source of inspiration and encouragement. A few of these groups are available online and are available to anyone suffering from ADHD. Others are geared towards specific populations, such as African Americans with ADHD, couples affected by the disorder, or people who identify as gay or lesbian.
Certain people may feel a sense of shame or embarrassment about their condition, which could make it difficult for them to seek assistance. A medical professional must explain to the patient that ADHD is not a weakness or failure.