Adult ADHD Diagnosis
For some people being diagnosed with adult ADHD is the first step toward getting treatment. They may be frustrated in their jobs, homes, or social life because of symptoms like fidgeting, forgetting things or interrupting others.
Adults diagnosed with ADHD will often undergo an exhaustive evaluation, which includes interviewing them and their families, and using tests that are standardized. It usually involves a physical exam too.
Signs and symptoms
A diagnosis of ADHD may change the course of many adult lives. It can help people understand why they've been struggling for so long and help them discover the meaning behind their previous choices. It may also inspire them to look forward to the future. Whether you are experiencing difficulty in locating your keys, feeling that you'll never finish your work, or being called unreliable or lazy getting an diagnosis is the first step to finding the best treatment for you.
The majority of adults experience symptoms across different areas of their life however, certain symptoms are more prevalent than others. They might be irritable and impulsive at school but struggle to keep up with work. They might forget appointments or struggle to estimate how much time they need to complete their work. They may be unable to make friends or argue with their spouses frequently. If these problems are severe, they may interfere with daily living and lead to depression or anxiety.
It's crucial to recognize ADHD, but it's also important to determine what other factors might be contributing to the symptoms. Stress, mental health problems, and certain medications are typically associated with symptoms that are similar. A thorough assessment by a qualified professional is essential to make sure that the issue is being addressed.
As opposed to children, adults with ADHD rarely exhibit the more obvious symptoms of hyperactivity. Hyperactivity is more subtle and can be seen as fidgeting or having trouble sitting. Women who suffer from ADHD tend to display these signs more frequently, as they can hide their inattention at work and in social lives.
During an evaluation the doctor will go over the patient's medical history and consider how their medical conditions impact their daily life. They will also ask about family history and when possible, ask a family member their perspectives on childhood behavior. They can also conduct psycho-, neuropsychological or testing for learning disabilities. In some cases physical examinations may be needed to rule out certain diseases that may mimic the symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosis
It is crucial for those who believe they might have ADHD to discuss their symptoms with a health care professional, especially if their issues stem from school or work. Primary healthcare providers can refer people to mental health professionals who specialize in adult ADHD assessments and treatment. Those professionals should be willing to share information about their level of training and experience working with adults with ADHD, Hamdani says. Anyone who isn't willing to disclose this information should be treated with suspicion Hamdani says.
A diagnosis of adult ADHD can be a life-changing event. It provides an explanation to years of frustration and self-criticism for certain. Some people are relieved that they have a reason for their problems in life or that they weren't "just in their heads."
In the majority of instances, an adult suffering from ADHD is diagnosed through a comprehensive interview with a certified professional. This includes a thorough examination of the individual's personal medical, family, and background. The professional will also ask the patient to rate their behavior on one or more of the standard ADHD behavioral rating scales. These ratings are based on research that compares the behavior of people with ADHD and those who do not have the disorder.
The individual will also be asked about how the symptoms impact their daily life. In adhd uk diagnosis 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 frequently have coexisting conditions which are referred to as co-morbidities. Anxiety disorders, depression, and drug or alcohol use are all common comorbidities associated with ADHD. Some experts suggest these complications are a result of maladaptive coping mechanisms to deal with the frustrations that are commonly related to untreated ADHD.
It is also important to remember that ADHD is more prevalent in males than women, and it can be difficult for many people who do have the disorder to be diagnosed due to long-held biases about the symptoms and the impact they have on males and females. Women are also better at hiding their symptoms better, which could lead to an incorrect diagnosis or delay in obtaining a diagnosis.
Treatment
It may be helpful for adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD to talk to an expert in mental health care, preferably one with experience in treating adults with ADHD. The person who treats adults can teach them behavioral strategies to help them manage their symptoms and improve their performance at school, at work or at home. They can also help the adult recognize the reasons behind their behavior and what triggers it.
A mental health professional should thoroughly evaluate an adult as they could have other disorders that are similar to ADHD. This could include a thorough description and scales filled out by the person who is the client or by other people who are familiar with him/her as well as a psychiatric and family history, as well as an exhaustive physical exam.
It is crucial to conduct a thorough assessment to determine if a person suffers from a comorbid disorder like depression or anxiety. These conditions can contribute to the symptoms of ADHD and make treatment more difficult. A mental health professional may also conduct neuropsychological or cognitive testing to look at how the brain functions, and to identify other causes for the problem, like an intellectual impairment or physical illness.
Adults who suffer from ADHD are typically treated with psychological counseling (psychotherapy) and educational programs. Individual talk therapy can help an adult develop better self-esteem and learn to deal with the emotional baggage that often accompanies a diagnosis of ADHD. Behavioral therapies can also improve time management and organization, as well as impulse control. They also can tackle the effects that stressors affect an individual's ability to function.
Some people with ADHD might benefit from group therapy. This kind of therapy can give them the chance to meet other people with the same difficulties and discuss ways to overcome these challenges. These groups are typically run by an advocacy or support group.
Many people suffering from ADHD can be treated with medication. There are a myriad of medications available, including stimulants (such as methylphenidate, which is sold under the name Ritalin) that boost levels of norepinephrine within the brain. Others aid in managing mood and reduce impulsive behavior like antidepressants or bupropion, an antipsychotic drug (Wellbutrin). Your Mercy doctor will be able to talk with you about all your treatment options.
Support
Many adults diagnosed with ADHD suffer from the disorder for a long time without realizing it. They may seek an assessment because they are frustrated by daily challenges like forgetting appointments and making mistakes at work, or ignoring the demands of friends and family. They often feel a sense of relief when they are given the diagnosis.
A mental health professional can conduct an evaluation for ADHD however, the primary care physician is usually a good place to start. If necessary, the physician can refer the patient to a specialist. A psychiatric nurse, psychiatrist or psychologist might be qualified to examine ADHD in adults. Many insurance plans list professionals according to their specialties, which will help individuals find the right health professional who is experienced in treating ADHD among adults.
During the assessment the mental health professional will ask questions about the person's behavior, which could include past problems and how they have been affected by their ADHD symptoms. It's important to talk openly and truthfully during the evaluation so that the mental health professional can conduct a thorough evaluation.
Psychological counseling, or therapy can help people learn to manage their problems and improve their relationships. Behavioral therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, helps people develop specific techniques to alter their behavior patterns and thinking patterns. The combination of therapy and medication can reduce the symptoms of the disorder.
Social support groups are beneficial to many adult ADHD patients. The chance to share their challenges with others who face similar struggles can provide a lot of motivation and inspiration. A few of these groups are available online and are available to anyone suffering from ADHD. Certain groups are specifically targeted for populations such as African Americans who have ADHD, couples affected by the disorder, or those who identify as gay or lesbian.
Some people may feel embarrassed or ashamed about their symptoms. This may cause them to be reluctant to seek assistance. A medical professional must explain to the patient that ADHD is not a sign of weakness or failure.