Adult ADHD Diagnosis
For some people who are diagnosed with adult ADHD is the first step toward getting treatment. They may feel frustrated at work, at homes, or even in their social life because of symptoms like fidgeting or ignoring things.
Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD are often subjected to an extensive evaluation that includes interviewing the family members and themselves and using standardized tests. It often includes a physical examination.
Signs and symptoms
For many adults, the diagnosis of ADHD can have a profound impact on their lives. It can help adults to understand why they've had to struggle for so long, and make sense out of their past choices. It may also provide them with hope for the future. If you're having trouble finding your keys, feeling as if you can never finish your work, or being labeled as irresponsible or lazy getting a diagnosis is the first step to finding the best treatment for you.
The majority of adults experience symptoms across various areas of their lives however, certain areas are more prominent than others. They may be indecisive and unfocused at school, but struggle with keeping up at work. They may not remember to keep appointments or underestimate the amount of time needed to complete tasks. They may be unable to make friends or argue with their spouses regularly. If these problems are severe they may affect the daily routine and lead to anxiety or depression.
It's crucial to recognize ADHD, but it's also important to identify other factors may be causing the symptoms. Stress, mental health conditions and certain medications can cause symptoms that are similar to the symptoms of ADHD. To ensure that the root issue is addressed an in-depth evaluation by a specialist is required.
As opposed to children, adults with ADHD do not show the more prominent symptoms of hyperactivity. Hyperactivity is more subtle and is manifested as fidgeting or a difficulty in sitting. Women with ADHD tend to display these signs more frequently because they are able to hide their inattentional behavior in their work and social lives.
During the examination, the doctor will examine the patient's medical background and how their symptoms impact their daily lives. They will also ask about family history, and if possible, interview a family member for their perspective on childhood behaviors. They may also perform psycho-, neuropsychological or testing for learning disabilities. In some instances physical examinations might be required to rule out certain illnesses that can mimic the symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosis
Adults who think they may have ADHD should discuss their symptoms with their doctor. This is particularly important if the symptoms are related to school or work. Primary care providers can refer individuals to mental health specialists who specialize in adult ADHD assessment and treatment. Hamdani states that professionals who deal with adults suffering from ADHD should be able and willing to give information about their education and experience. Anyone who is hesitant to provide this information should be regarded with suspicion, Hamdani adds.
A diagnosis of adult ADHD is a life-changing diagnosis. It offers a rationale for years of frustration and self-criticism for certain. Others feel a sense of satisfaction that there's a rationale for the difficulties they've experienced in their lives or that their issues were not just "in their head."
Adults who suffer from ADHD are diagnosed with ADHD through an in-depth interview with a specialist. This may include a thorough review of the individual's personal medical, family and personal history. The professional will also ask the patient to rate their behavior using one or more of the standard ADHD ratings for behavior. These ratings are based on research that compares behaviors of people with ADHD to those of people who do not have the disorder.
The individual will also be asked how the symptoms impact their daily life. In adult adhd diagnosis uk 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, called co-morbidities. Common comorbidities associated with ADHD include anxiety disorders, depression and alcohol or drug dependence. Some experts suggest that these co-morbidities are maladaptive strategies to manage the stressors that are typically associated with untreated ADHD.
It's also important to recognize that ADHD is more prevalent in males than women, and it can be difficult for those who are affected to be diagnosed due to persistent prejudices regarding the symptoms and the impact they have on males and females. Some women are even capable of masking their symptoms better, which could cause an inaccurate diagnosis or delay in getting it.
Treatment
Adults who have been diagnosed of ADHD may find it helpful to speak with a mental health professional particularly one who has 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 in school, at work or at home. They can also help adults understand why their behavior differs and what triggers them.
Because a person may suffer from multiple conditions which cause similar symptoms as the symptoms of ADHD, it's important for an expert in mental health to evaluate the adult thoroughly. This may include a detailed description of the scale and the forms filled out by the person who is the client or by other people who know them along with a family and psychiatric history, as well as an exhaustive physical exam.
A thorough assessment is essential to determine whether the adult suffers from a comorbid disorder, such as depression or anxiety. These conditions can increase ADHD symptoms and make treatment more difficult. A mental health professional may also perform cognitive or neuropsychological tests to examine how the brain functions, and to identify other causes for the problem, like a learning 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 and deal with the emotional baggage associated with ADHD. Behavioral therapies can also improve efficiency, time management and impulse control. They can also tackle the impact of stressors on a person's ability to function.
Some individuals with ADHD benefit from group therapy. This type of therapy can provide an opportunity to meet other people with the same issues and discuss strategies to overcome them. These groups are usually organized by a support or advocacy group.
Medication is also an option for many adults with ADHD. There are a variety of medications available that include stimulants, which increase the levels of norepinephrine as well as dopamine in the brain (for instance, methylphenidate that is marketed as Ritalin). Antidepressants and the antipsychotic drug Wellbutrin (Bupropion) can help control moods and decrease impulsive behavior. Your Mercy doctor will be able to discuss all treatment options.
Support
Adults with ADHD may have the disorder for a long time without even realizing it. They may seek an evaluation due to their frustration with everyday challenges such as forgetting appointments and making mistakes at work, or not paying attention to family and friendship commitments. People often feel relieved when they are given the diagnosis.
A mental health professional may perform an ADHD evaluation, but the primary doctor is usually the best place to start. The doctor may also refer the patient to a specialist if necessary. A psychiatric nurse, psychiatrist or psychologist might be qualified to examine ADHD in adults. Many insurance plans list professionals according to their specialties. This can help people locate an expert in health care who is familiar with ADHD among adults.
During the assessment the mental health professional will inquire about the person's previous issues and also how ADHD symptoms have affected them. It's crucial to be honest and transparent during the assessment, so that the mental health professional can provide a precise assessment.
Psychotherapy, also known as psychological counseling, can help people manage their symptoms and improve their relationships. Behavioral therapy, or cognitive behavioral therapy teaches people how to modify their behavior and thinking patterns. The combination of therapy and medication can help alleviate the symptoms of the disorder.
Social support groups are beneficial for many adult ADHD patients. The opportunity to share their struggles with other people who are experiencing similar struggles can provide a lot of inspiration and motivation. Some of these groups are online and are open to anyone who suffers from ADHD. Others are geared towards specific groups, like 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 may make them less willing to seek help. A medical professional must explain to the patient that ADHD is not a weakness or failure.