Adult ADHD Diagnosis
For some people, a diagnosis of adult ADHD is the first step towards treatment. They may be unhappy in their work, homes or social lives because of symptoms like fidgeting, forgetting things, or interrupting others.
Getting diagnosed with ADHD as an adult usually requires an extensive assessment that involves interviewing the person and their family members, using standard tests and rating scales. It typically involves a physical exam as well.
Symptoms
For many adults, the diagnosis of ADHD can have a profound impact on their lives. It can help people understand why they've struggled for so long, and make sense of their past choices. It can also provide hope for an improved future. If you're struggling to find your keys, feel like you're unable to finish your task or you're being labelled lazy or irresponsible or you have been accused of being lazy or irresponsible then getting a diagnosis will assist you in finding the best treatment for you.
For the majority of adults, signs appear in several areas of their lives. Some are more common in one area than another. They may be indecisive and restless at school, but struggle with keeping up at work. They might forget appointments or have difficulty estimating the amount of time they require to complete tasks. They may have difficulty making friends or arguing with their spouses often. If these problems are severe they can interfere with everyday life and cause anxiety or depression.
It's important to diagnose ADHD, but it's also crucial to determine what other factors may be contributing to the symptoms. Stress, other mental health issues and medications can trigger symptoms similar to the symptoms of ADHD. A thorough examination by a trained professional is essential to make sure that the underlying issue is being treated.
Like children, adults who suffer from ADHD do not show the more obvious signs of hyperactivity. Hyperactivity is less obvious and can be seen as fidgeting or having trouble sitting. Women with ADHD tend to exhibit these symptoms more often since they are able to conceal their inattention in their work and social lives.
During an evaluation during an assessment, the doctor will review the patient's medical history and consider the ways in which their ailments affect their daily routine. They will also inquire about family history and if possible, interview a family member to get their views on childhood behavior. They might also conduct the neuropsychological, psychological or learning disabilities testing. In certain cases physical examinations may be needed to rule out illnesses that may mimic symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosis
Adults who think they may have ADHD should discuss their symptoms with their physician. This is particularly important if the symptoms are related to work or school. Primary care providers can refer individuals to mental health professionals who specialize in adult ADHD evaluations and treatment. Those professionals should be willing to share details about their level of training and experience working with adults with ADHD, Hamdani says. Hamdani suggests that anyone who is reluctant to disclose the information needed to be viewed as suspicious.
Getting a diagnosis of adult ADHD can be a life-changing experience. It provides an explanation to years of frustration and self-criticism for some. Some people feel relieved that they have an explanation for their problems in life, or that they weren't "just in their heads."
In most cases, an adult diagnosed with ADHD will receive a diagnosis by a thorough interview with a certified professional. This will include a review the patient's medical, family, and personal history. 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 behaviors of people suffering from ADHD to those of people who do not have the disorder.
The person will be asked about their symptoms and how they 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.
Comorbidities are often present among those who have been diagnosed as having adult ADHD. Depression, anxiety disorders, and drug or alcohol use are typical comorbidities of ADHD. Some experts believe that these comorbidities are a result of maladaptive strategies for coping with the frustrations associated with untreated ADHD.
It is also important to remember that ADHD is more prevalent in men than women, and it may be difficult for those who do have the disorder to get diagnosed because of long-held biases about the symptoms and the impact they have on men and women. Women may be able to mask their symptoms better, which can lead them to delay diagnosis or an incorrect diagnosis.
Treatment
It may be helpful for those who have been diagnosed with ADHD to speak with an expert in mental health that has experience in treating adults with ADHD. This person can teach adults behavior strategies to help them manage their symptoms and improve their performance in the workplace, at school or at home. They can also help adults recognize the reasons why their behavior is different and what triggers them.
Since a person could suffer from multiple conditions which cause similar symptoms as the symptoms of ADHD It is essential for a mental health professional to thoroughly examine the adult. This may include a detailed description of the person's symptoms as well as questionnaires and scales filled out by the client and other people who know him or her well, a full medical history of the family and a psychiatric history, as well as a thorough physical examination.
It is important to conduct a thorough examination to determine if the adult suffers from a comorbid condition like depression or anxiety. These conditions can contribute to the symptoms of ADHD and make treatment more difficult. A mental health professional can also conduct neurological or cognitive testing to examine how the brain functions and to rule out other causes, such as a physical illness or learning disabilities.
Treatment options for adults with ADHD typically include psychological counseling (psychotherapy) and educational programs. Adults can benefit from individual talk therapy to improve their self-esteem and deal with the emotional baggage associated with ADHD. Behavioral therapies can help improve efficiency, time management and impulse control. They can also help to reduce the effects of stressors on an individual's ability to function.
Certain people with ADHD might benefit from group therapy. This type of therapy can give them the chance to meet others who face similar issues and discuss strategies to overcome these challenges. These groups are usually organized by a support or advocacy group.
Many adults with ADHD can also be treated by medication. There are many medications available, including stimulants that 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) help regulate moods and reduce impulsive behavior. Your Mercy doctor will discuss all treatment options with you.
Support
Adults with ADHD may have the disorder for many years without even realizing it. They may seek an assessment because they are annoyed by everyday challenges such as forgetting appointments or making a mistake at work, or not paying attention to commitments to friends and family. how to get an adhd diagnosis uk feel relieved when they receive an answer to their questions.
A mental health professional is able to conduct an assessment for ADHD, but the primary care physician is usually a good place to start. If necessary, the doctor may refer the patient to an expert. A psychiatric nursing, psychiatrist or psychologist can also assess ADHD in adults. A lot of insurance plans include professionals according to their specialties, which will help individuals find a health care provider that is experienced in treating ADHD in adults.
During the assessment, a mental health professional will inquire about the person's past problems and how ADHD symptoms have affected them. It is important to speak openly and openly during the evaluation, so that the mental health professional can make a full assessment.
Psychotherapy, also known as psychological counseling, can help people manage their issues and improve their relationships. Behavioral therapy, for instance cognitive behavioral therapy, can teach people specific techniques to alter their patterns of thinking and behavior. The combination of therapy and medication can to reduce the symptoms of the disorder.
Social support groups can be beneficial to many adults ADHD patients. The opportunity to share their experiences with other people who are facing similar challenges can be a great source of inspiration and encouragement. Some of these groups are based online and are open to everyone who has ADHD. Some groups are geared towards specific groups, such as African Americans who have ADHD or couples who are affected by the disorder, or those who identify themselves as gay or lesbian.
Some people may experience feelings of shame or embarrassment over their symptoms, which may make it difficult for them to seek assistance. A health professional should explain to the patient that ADHD is not a weakness or failure.