Adult ADHD Diagnosis
A diagnosis of adult ADHD can be the first step towards seeking treatment for some people. They may be frustrated at work, at homes, or in their social life due to signs such as fidgeting or ignoring things.
Getting diagnosed with ADHD as an adult typically involves undergoing an extensive evaluation that includes interviewing the individual and their family members, using standard tests and rating scales. This usually involves a physical examination.
Symptoms
For many adults, a diagnosis of ADHD can be life-changing. It can help adults recognize the reasons they've struggled with for so long, and make sense of their previous choices. It could also provide them with hope for the future. If you're having trouble finding your keys, feeling that you'll never be able to complete your task or are accused of being irresponsible or lazy getting a diagnosis is the first step towards finding the treatment that works for you.
The majority of adults experience symptoms in different areas of their lives, but certain symptoms are more prevalent than others. They may be indecisive and irritable at school, but have difficulty in keeping up with their work. They might miss appointments or have difficulty estimating how much time they need to complete tasks. They may have trouble making friends or have frequent disputes with their spouses. If these problems are severe they could affect daily living and lead to depression or anxiety.
While it's crucial to think about a diagnosis of ADHD however, it's equally important to consider what other factors might be contributing to the symptoms. Stress, mental health issues and certain medications are typically associated with symptoms that are similar. To ensure that the underlying problem is resolved with a thorough assessment by a specialist is required.
Adults suffering from ADHD don't show the same symptoms of hyperactivity that children do. Hyperactivity is less obvious and manifests as fidgeting, or a difficulty in sitting. Women who suffer from ADHD are more likely to show these signs, since they are more able to conceal their inattention at work and in social lives.
During the examination the doctor will look at the patient's medical background and how symptoms affect their daily lives. They will also inquire about family history and should they be able to ask a family member their views on childhood behavior. They might also conduct neuropsychological, psycho-psychological, or learning disabilities tests. In some cases it is necessary to undergo an examination physical to rule out certain illnesses that can cause symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosis
It is essential for adults who think they may have ADHD to discuss their symptoms with a health care specialist, especially if the problems stem from work or school. Primary health care providers can refer patients to mental health professionals who specialize in adult ADHD assessment and treatment. Those professionals should be willing to share information about their level of training and experiences working with adults suffering from ADHD, Hamdani says. Anyone who is hesitant to share this information will be considered suspicious, Hamdani adds.
Being diagnosed with adult ADHD can be a life-changing event. It can provide a reason for years of frustration and self-criticism for certain. Others feel a sense of satisfaction that there's a rationale for the challenges they've encountered in their lives or that their issues weren't simply "in their head."
Adults who suffer from ADHD are diagnosed with ADHD through a thorough interview with a specialist. This will include a review the patient's medical, family, and personal background. The professional will also ask the person to rate their behavior on one or more of the standardized ADHD behavioral rating scales. These ratings are basing on research that compares the behavior of people with ADHD to the behavior of those who don't have the disorder.
The individual will also be asked about how the symptoms impact their daily 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.
diagnosis for adhd in adults who receive a diagnosis of adult ADHD often have coexisting conditions known as co-morbidities. Depression, anxiety disorders and alcohol or drug use are common comorbidities of ADHD. Some experts suggest these comorbidities develop as maladaptive coping strategies to manage the frustrations that are commonly related to untreated ADHD.
It is also important to remember that ADHD is more prevalent in men than women, and it may be difficult for many people who do have the disorder to be diagnosed due long-held prejudices about the symptoms and their impact on males and females. Women may be able to mask their symptoms more effectively and can lead to being diagnosed later or to an incorrect diagnosis.
Treatment
Adults who receive a diagnosis of ADHD may find it helpful to consult a mental health professional, especially one with expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD. The person who treats adults can teach them behavior strategies to help them manage their symptoms and improve their performance in the workplace, at school or at home. They can also assist adults to recognize the reasons why their behavior is different and what triggers it.
Since a person could have several disorders that cause similar symptoms to those of ADHD It is essential for an expert in mental health to thoroughly examine the adult. This can include a detailed description of the condition and scales completed by the client or other people who are familiar with him/her, a psychiatric and family history and an extensive physical examination.
It is important to conduct a thorough assessment in order to determine if a person suffers from a comorbid disorder such as anxiety or depression. These conditions can trigger the symptoms of ADHD and make treatment more difficult. A mental health professional can also conduct neurological or cognitive tests to assess how the brain functions and to rule out other causes, including an illness that affects the body or a learning disability.
Adults with ADHD are usually treated by psychological counseling (psychotherapy), and educational programs. Individual talk therapy can help an adult build confidence in themselves and cope with the emotional baggage that often is associated with a diagnosis of ADHD. Behavioral therapies can also improve time management and organization, as well as impulse control. They can also address the impact stressors have on an individual's abilities to perform.
Some people with ADHD can benefit from group therapy. This type of therapy offers you the chance to meet others who have similar challenges and discuss how 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 medication. There are a variety of medications available that include stimulants, which increase the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain (for instance, methylphenidate which is sold as Ritalin). Antidepressants and the antipsychotic drug Wellbutrin (Bupropion) can help control moods and reduce the impulsive behavior. Your Mercy doctor will discuss all treatment options with you.
Support
Many adults diagnosed with ADHD suffer from the disorder for a long time without knowing it. They might seek an evaluation because they are frustrated by everyday issues like not remembering appointments, making mistakes at work, or neglecting commitments to friends and family. These people often feel relieved when they receive a diagnosis.
A mental health professional could perform an ADHD evaluation, but the primary physician is typically a good starting point. If needed, the doctor may refer the patient to an expert. A psychiatrist, psychiatric nurse or psychologist may also be able to evaluate ADHD in adults. Many insurance plans include specialists by specialization and can help individuals locate the right health professional who is experienced in ADHD in adults.
During the assessment, a mental health professional will ask about the person's past problems, as well as how ADHD symptoms have affected them. It is crucial to be honest and forthcoming during the evaluation so that the mental healthcare professional can provide an accurate assessment.
Therapy, or psychotherapy can assist people in learning to manage their problems and improve their relationships. Behavioral therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, teaches people specific techniques to alter their thinking patterns and behaviors. Therapy is often combined with medications, which can help reduce the effects of the disorder.
Many adult ADHD patients benefit from social support groups. The opportunity to share their experiences with others who have similar struggles can be a source of encouragement and inspiration. A few of these groups are accessible online and are available to anyone suffering from ADHD. Some groups are specifically for groups, such as African Americans with ADHD, couples afflicted by the disorder, or those who identify as gay or lesbian.
Some people may be embarrassed or ashamed of their symptoms. This could cause them to be reluctant to seek assistance. However, a doctor should explain that ADHD is not a sign of insufficiency or failure.