Adult Diagnosis of ADHD
For adults who struggle with ADHD A diagnosis of ADHD can be life-changing. It can help people understand why they struggle in family, work and in relationships.
It can be difficult to identify since symptoms tend to overlap. A mental health healthcare professional or health professional will examine the individual and conduct tests.
Symptoms
A person may not be aware that they have ADHD until they reach the age of adulthood Perhaps because teachers or parents were not aware of the symptoms at a younger age, or because the demands of college or work made the disorder more apparent. Adults who are not treated for ADHD are more vulnerable in their school, work and social lives. Many people who are not diagnosed with ADHD experience a variety of problems, such as problems with relationships and financial problems.
A mental health professional will review and interview the patient's medical, mental health and personal history, paying special attention to the symptoms in different settings. The patient will describe the symptoms and how they affect their daily life and relationships. It is important that patients are open about their symptoms and not hide them out of embarrassment.
It is also crucial for the mental health professional to assess whether these symptoms are connected to comorbid disorders such as anxiety or depression, which often coexist with ADHD. These conditions can cause ADHD symptoms worse and may interfere with the treatment of the disorder.
If the psychiatrist or psychology thinks that the symptoms are affected by comorbid disorders such as neuropsychological disorders, or psychological disorders, further testing could be performed to determine an accurate diagnosis. These tests can also be used to determine the level of impairment to function caused by these conditions. The mental health professional will also conduct interviews with others who are significant such as spouses and siblings, to get a full picture of how the individual is performing.
Diagnosis
Adults are diagnosed with ADHD by a mental health doctor or a medical professional following a thorough evaluation. This includes a detailed interview about the history of symptoms and their impact on everyday functioning as well as the presence of any other mental health conditions that may co-occur with ADHD like depression and anxiety. The doctor may also request to speak with significant others such as a spouse or close family member to collect more information.
A diagnosis of ADHD can alter your life. For many adults, the diagnosis finally provides an explanation for what has always seemed like "normal" behavior. It's often a relief discover that the issues aren't just due to inattention or forgetfulness.
The American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth edition (DSM-5) requires that adults meet specific criteria for symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity. This is a standard that has been established to ensure that individuals receive the help and treatment they need. To qualify for an ADHD diagnosis, one must have had the symptoms for at least 12 months and they must be causing significant impairment in multiple situations, such as at school, home, or work with family or friends or in other settings. The number of symptoms needed for adults over 17 has been reduced from six to five.
A good relationship with your primary healthcare provider can help you identify ADHD. Many providers diagnose and treat ADHD in children and refer you to a mental health professional qualified to assess adults.
Treatment
If people suffering from ADHD get a diagnosis their more info lives can alter dramatically. They can finally find some answers to their problems in school, with establishing a career, or even in relationships. For those who are suffering from depression, it can relieve the guilt that has built up over years of their symptoms not being addressed.
The first step in getting a diagnosis is to talk to a health care provider or mental health professional. They can inquire about the family history and perform a physical exam to rule out other conditions like sleep disorders or learning disabilities that can cause symptoms similar to ADHD. They may also ask the patient to complete an assessment scale of symptoms.
During the assessment process, doctors may decide to speak with an individual partner or spouse. This will help the spouse who is not an ADHD or partner develop an accurate understanding and compassionate attitude towards their loved one's ADHD symptoms which is crucial in improving relationships after an assessment. If this is not feasible, the clinician can interview colleagues or friends who know the person well.
Adults suffering from ADHD are treated primarily by medication. Adult ADHD is treated using stimulants such as methylphenidate and Adderall and dextroamphetamine. Other medications such as atomoxetine (Strattera(r),) and guanfacine, (Intuniv (r) Tenex (r)), increase the amount of norepinephrine that is produced in the brain. These medications can improve ADHD symptoms.
Psychotherapy is also an alternative. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a way to teach patients techniques for managing their ADHD symptoms, including time management and strategies for organizing, self-regulation of emotions and behavior, and coping with self-criticism and negative feelings. Other therapies, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy can help adults recognize the automatic or irrational thoughts that can lead to negative behavior and learn ways to overcome them using positive self-talk.
Medication
Many people report that ADHD medication helps to improve their symptoms. The medication is usually in the form of a stimulant, and it is effective by increasing the activity of the brain in areas that regulate behaviour and attention. Methylphenidate is the most commonly used medicine for adults with ADHD and is available in a variety of forms. It is available as immediate-release tablets or modified-release tablet forms that release the medication over the course of the day. Clonidine is another kind of medication, works by decreasing activity in the brain and can be taken as a pill or liquid.
When treating adult patients with ADHD, the psychiatrist or therapist may review the person's family history and medical history to identify causes that could cause similar symptoms as ADHD. This is crucial as certain medical conditions such as thyroid problems and seizures can trigger symptoms similar to ADHD. Certain medications and nutritional supplements can cause similar symptoms.
During the assessment during the evaluation, the patient will be asked to describe their ADHD symptoms to their psychiatrist or therapist. They will be asked to complete standardized ADHD rating scales and check lists along with complete psychological tests that measure working memory, executive functioning (abilities like planning and decision-making) spatial and visual capabilities, and reasoning abilities.
If the therapist believes ADHD symptoms affect the quality of life of a person the therapist will recommend medication. In some instances the therapist might ask the individual's partner or spouse to talk with them regarding the effects of the symptoms on their relationship. This can reduce blame between the two people and help to foster healthier, more productive relationships.
Counseling
Many people with ADHD are relieved when they receive the diagnosis. It allows them to understand why they are having problems at school or work and to learn how to overcome these challenges. It's also an opportunity to change negative behaviors and increase self-confidence.
Counseling can be a wonderful method to create a strong support system. Counseling for ADHD may include psychological (or psychotherapy) therapy and a range of behavioral treatments. For example a therapist might create a reward chart which rewards positive behavior and imposes consequences for negative behavior. The therapist may also instruct the patient in skills to manage their symptoms, like relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditative yoga postures.
Another benefit of counseling is helping people understand and accept their ADHD. It's not easy to admit you struggle with planning, organizing and paying attention. It can be embarrassing to admit that you suffer from ADHD to supervisors or colleagues. Most teachers and bosses will offer accommodations to accommodate your condition. For instance, they could permit you to make use of a computer to write assignments instead of paper and provide more detailed explanations of classroom material.
The therapist will also show you how to deal with ADHD through cognitive therapy for behavioral disorders. It is a method of therapy that assists you in changing negative thoughts and behaviors into more positive ones. Counseling for ADHD can also include marital or family therapy, which teaches loved ones how to interact better with a person suffering from ADHD and enhance communication and problem-solving skills. People with ADHD frequently suffer from mental health disorders like anxiety or depression and may struggle with substance misuse that can exacerbate their symptoms.