Adult ADHD Diagnosis
For some who are diagnosed with adult ADHD is the first step towards treatment. They may be frustrated in their work, homes, or social life because of symptoms like fidgeting, ignoring things or interrupting others.
Getting diagnosed with ADHD as an adult usually requires an extensive assessment that involves interviewing the individual and their family members, using standardized tests and rating scales. It typically includes a physical exam, too.
Symptoms
A diagnosis of ADHD could alter the course of a lot of adult lives. It can help adults understand why they've struggled for so long, and make sense out of their past choices. It may also provide them with hope for a better future. If you're struggling with losing your keys, feeling like you'll never complete your task or are called lazy or irresponsible getting an diagnosis is the first step toward finding the right treatment for you.
Most adults experience symptoms in different areas of their lives however, certain areas are more prominent than others. They might be irritable and impulsive in school, but struggle to keep up with work. They may not remember to keep appointments or underestimate the time needed to complete tasks. They might have difficulty making friends or get into frequent arguments with their spouses. If these issues are serious, they could affect daily life and lead to depression or anxiousness.
While it's essential to consider a diagnosis of ADHD, it's just as important to determine what other factors might be that are causing the symptoms. Stress, other mental health issues and medications can often cause symptoms similar to those of ADHD. A thorough examination by a qualified professional is necessary to make sure that the root cause is being treated.
Adults who suffer from ADHD do not exhibit the same symptoms of hyperactivity that children do. Hyperactivity is more subtle and is manifested as fidgeting or difficulty sitting still. Women who suffer from ADHD are more likely to exhibit these signs, since they are more able to hide their inattention within their work and social interactions.
During an evaluation during an assessment, the doctor will review the patient's medical history and examine how their symptoms interfere with their daily lives. They will also ask for information about the family and, if it is possible, talk to a loved one to gain their opinion on childhood behavior. They can also conduct psycho-, neuropsychological or testing for learning disabilities. In some instances it is necessary to undergo a physical examination in order to rule out certain diseases which can mimic the symptoms that are associated with ADHD.
Diagnosis
Adults who think they may have ADHD should discuss their symptoms with their doctor. This is especially important if the problems are connected to school or work. Primary care providers can refer individuals to mental health professionals who specialize in adult ADHD assessments and treatment. Those professionals should be willing to share details about their training level and experiences working with adults suffering from ADHD, Hamdani says. Anyone who is reluctant to disclose this information should be regarded with suspicion Hamdani says.
The diagnosis of adult ADHD can be a life-changing experience. For some, it gives an explanation for years of frustrations and self-criticism. Others feel a sense relief that there's an explanation for the challenges they've encountered in their lives or that their issues weren't simply "in their heads."
In most cases, an adult diagnosed with ADHD will receive a diagnosis by conducting a thorough interview with a professional who is qualified. This will include a review of the individual's personal medical, family, and background. Additionally, the specialist will likely request the person to rate his or her behavior on one or more of the standardized ADHD behavior rating scales. These ratings are based on research that compares the behavior of those with ADHD and those who don't have the disorder.
The person will also be asked how the symptoms affect their lives. 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.
The people who are diagnosed of adult ADHD often have coexisting conditions, called comorbidities. Common comorbidities associated with ADHD include depression, anxiety disorders and alcohol or drug dependence. Some experts believe that these comorbidities are maladaptive strategies for coping with the stress and frustrations that come with untreated ADHD.
It's important to remember that ADHD is more prevalent in men than women. Many people with the disorder might struggle to diagnose because of the long-standing prejudices regarding the symptoms of the disorder and how they affect men and women. Some women are able to hide their symptoms better and can lead to being diagnosed later or to an inaccurate diagnosis.
Treatment
Adults who have been diagnosed of ADHD might find it beneficial to talk with an expert in mental health, especially one with expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD. This individual can teach the adult behavioral strategies to manage their symptoms and improve their performance at home, at work or at school. They can also help adults learn to understand why their behavior is different and what triggers it.
A mental health professional should take a thorough look at an adult's health as they could have other disorders similar to ADHD. This could include a thorough description of the individual's symptoms, questionnaires and scales completed by the client and other people who know him or her well, a complete medical history of the family and a psychiatric history, and an exhaustive physical exam.
A thorough evaluation is also essential to determine whether the adult suffers from a co-morbid condition such as depression or anxiety. These conditions can worsen ADHD symptoms and make treatment more difficult. A mental health professional may also conduct neurologic or cognitive tests to determine the way that the brain functions and to rule out any other causes, such as an illness that affects the body or a learning disability.
Treatment options for adults suffering from ADHD typically involve psychological counseling (psychotherapy) and educational programs. Individual talk therapy can help an adult build confidence in themselves and cope with the emotional burden that usually comes with the diagnosis of ADHD. Behavioral therapies can also improve time management, organization and impulse control. They also can deal with the effect that stressors can have on a person's ability to function.
Some individuals with ADHD benefit from group therapy. This type of therapy gives you the opportunity to connect with others who have similar challenges and discuss strategies to overcome them. These groups are often organized by groups of support or an advocacy group.
Many people suffering from ADHD can be treated by medications. There are a variety of medications available including stimulants (such as methylphenidate sold under the name Ritalin) that boost levels of norepinephrine in the brain. how to get an adhd diagnosis uk and the antipsychotic drug Wellbutrin (Bupropion) aid in regulating moods and decrease impulsive behavior. Your Mercy doctor will be able to discuss all your treatment options.
Support
Many people diagnosed with ADHD suffer from the disorder for a long time without realizing it. Frustration with everyday challenges such as not remembering appointments, making rash mistakes at work or blowing off family or friendship commitments can prompt people to seek a diagnosis. It is common for people to feel a sense of relief once they get an answer, particularly when they realize the reason they've been struggling all their lives.
A mental health professional could perform an ADHD evaluation, however the primary doctor is usually a good starting point. If necessary, the doctor can refer the patient to an expert. A psychiatric nursing, psychiatrist or psychologist can also assess ADHD in adults. Many insurance plans include specialists by specialization and can help individuals locate an expert in health care who is familiar with ADHD in adults.
During the assessment, a mental health professional will inquire about the person's past issues and how ADHD symptoms have affected them. It is crucial to be honest and transparent during the evaluation, so that the mental healthcare professional can provide an accurate assessment.
Psychological counseling, or therapy can help people learn to manage their symptoms and improve relationships. Behavioral therapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy, teaches people how to modify their behavior and patterns of thinking. Therapy is often coupled with medication, which can reduce the effects of the disorder.
Social support groups are beneficial to many adult ADHD patients. The opportunity to share their struggles with other people who are experiencing similar issues can provide a lot of inspiration and motivation. A few of these groups are available online and are available to all people with ADHD. Some groups are specifically for populations, such as African Americans with ADHD, couples impacted by the disorder, or those who identify as gay or lesbian.
Some people may be embarrassed or ashamed of their symptoms. This can make them less willing to seek assistance. A health professional should explain to the patient that ADHD is not a weakness or failure.