Adult ADHD Diagnosis
A diagnosis of adult ADHD can be the first step to finding treatment for certain people. They may be unhappy at work, at homes, or in their social life because of symptoms like being distracted or forgetting things.
Adults diagnosed with ADHD typically undergo an extensive evaluation that includes interviewing them and their families and using standardized tests. It typically includes a physical examination, too.
Symptoms
For many adults, a diagnosis of ADHD can be life-changing. It can help people understand why they've struggled so long and understand their past choices. It can also give hope for a brighter future. If you're struggling to locate your keys, feel like you're not able to finish your work or you're being labelled lazy or irresponsible, or have been accused of being lazy or irresponsible, then getting a diagnosis will help you find the right treatment for you.
For most adults, symptoms are present in a variety of areas of their lives and are more common in one area than the other. They might be impulsive and restless at school, but struggle with keeping up at work. They may not remember to keep appointments or underestimate the time needed to complete tasks. They may struggle to make friends or argue with their spouses often. If these problems are severe they can interfere with the daily routine and can lead to anxiety or depression.
It's important to diagnose ADHD, but it's also crucial to determine what other factors might be causing the symptoms. Stress, other mental health conditions and certain medications can trigger symptoms similar to those of ADHD. A thorough examination by a qualified professional is essential to make sure that the issue is being treated.
Like children, adults who suffer from ADHD do not show the more prominent signs of hyperactivity. Hyperactivity is less obvious and can be seen as fidgeting or a difficulty in sitting. Women with ADHD are more likely to show these signs, since they are more able to hide their inattention within their work and social lives.
During the exam the doctor will examine the patient's medical history as well as how to be Diagnosed with adhd in adults the symptoms affect their daily lives. They will also inquire about family history and, should they be able to interview a family member to get their perspective on childhood behaviors. They might also conduct psychological, neuropsychological or learning disabilities tests. In some instances, a physical exam could be required to rule out certain illnesses that can mimic the symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosis
It is crucial for adults who believe they may have ADHD to discuss their symptoms with a health care provider, particularly if their issues stem from school or work. Primary care providers may refer patients to mental health professionals with expertise in adult ADHD evaluations. These professionals must be able to disclose details about their training level and experiences working with adults suffering from ADHD, Hamdani says. Anyone who isn't willing to provide this information should be treated with suspicion, Hamdani adds.
Getting a diagnosis of adult ADHD can be a life-changing moment. It provides an explanation to years of frustration and self-criticism for some. Others feel a sense relief that there's a reason for the challenges they've encountered in their lives or that their problems were not just "in their heads."
Adults with ADHD are diagnosed with ADHD through an in-depth interview with a specialist. This includes a review of the patient's medical background, family and personal history. Additionally, the doctor will likely ask the person to rate their behavior on one or more standardized adhd in adults diagnostic criteria behavior scales. These ratings are basing on research that compares behaviors of people with ADHD to those of people who don't suffer from the disorder.
The person will be questioned about their symptoms and how to get an adhd diagnosis as an adult they affect 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.
The people who are diagnosed of adult ADHD often have coexisting conditions known as co-morbidities. Anxiety disorders, depression, and drug or alcohol use are typical comorbidities of ADHD. Some experts suggest that these complications are a result of maladaptive coping strategies to manage the frustrations that are commonly caused by untreated ADHD.
It is important to recognize that ADHD is more prevalent in women than men. Many people suffering from the disorder might struggle to be diagnosed because of long-held beliefs about the symptoms of the disorder and how they affect both men and women. Women are also better at hiding their symptoms better, which could result in an incorrect diagnosis or delay in diagnosis.
Treatment
It may be helpful for adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD to talk to an expert in mental health, preferably one with experience treating adults with ADHD. The person who treats adults can teach them behavior strategies to help them manage their symptoms and improve their performance at the workplace, at school or at home. They can also help adults recognize why their behavior is different and what triggers it.
A mental health professional must thoroughly evaluate an adult for other disorders similar to ADHD. This may 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 as well as a thorough physical exam.
A thorough evaluation is also crucial to determine if the adult has a comorbid condition such as depression or anxiety. These conditions can increase ADHD symptoms and make treatment more difficult. A mental health professional could also conduct neuropsychological or cognitive tests to examine how the brain functions and to identify other causes for the issues, such as an intellectual disability or physical illness.
Adults with ADHD are usually treated by psychotherapy (psychotherapy), and educational programs. Adults may benefit from individual talk therapy to improve their self-esteem as well as deal with the emotional burdens that come with ADHD. Behavioral therapies can also help improve organization, time management and impulse control and may address the impact of stressors on the individual's ability to perform.
Certain people with ADHD can benefit from group therapy. This type of therapy can give them the chance to meet other people with the same challenges and discuss ways to overcome them. These groups are usually organized by a support or advocacy group.
Medication is also an option for a lot of adults suffering from ADHD. There are many medications available which include stimulants that boost the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain (for instance, methylphenidate that is marketed as Ritalin). Others help to regulate moods and reduce impulsive behaviors, like antidepressants and the anti-psychotic drug bupropion (Wellbutrin). Your Mercy doctor can discuss the various treatment options available to you.
Support
Many people diagnosed with ADHD live with the disorder for a long time without knowing it. The frustration of everyday problems like not remembering appointments, making rash mistakes at work, or breaking family or friendship commitments can prompt them to seek an assessment. They often feel a sense of relief when they receive a diagnosis.
A mental health professional could perform an ADHD assessment, but a primary physician is usually the best place to start. The doctor can also refer the patient to a specialist in the event of need. A psychiatrist, psychiatric nurse or psychologist can also assess ADHD in adults. Many insurance plans list professionals by specialty and can assist people in finding an expert in health care who is experienced in ADHD in adults.
During the evaluation the mental health professional will inquire about the person's past issues and also how ADHD symptoms have affected them. It is essential to be open and honestly during the evaluation so that the mental health professional is able to make a full assessment.
Therapy, also known as psychotherapy can assist people in learning to manage their symptoms and improve relationships. Behavioral therapy, also known as cognitive behavioral therapy, can teach people how to change their behavior and thinking patterns. The combination of therapy and medication can help reduce the symptoms 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 provide a lot of inspiration and encouragement. Some of these groups are online and are open to everyone who suffers from ADHD. Some groups are for specific populations such as African Americans who have ADHD, couples affected by the disorder, or those who identify themselves as gay or lesbian.
Some people may experience feelings of shame or adhd diagnosis for adults embarrassment about their condition, which could hinder their desire to seek assistance. A medical professional must explain to the patient that ADHD is not a sign of weakness or failure.