Adult Diagnosis of ADHD
For those who suffer from ADHD, a diagnosis can have a profound impact on their lives. It can help people understand why they struggle in family, work and in relationships.
However it can be a challenge to determine a diagnosis since symptoms often overlap with other ailments. A mental health healthcare professional or health professional will examine the individual and conduct tests.
Symptoms
It is possible that someone doesn't realize they have ADHD until they reach the age of adulthood. This could be due to teachers and parents failed to recognize the symptoms at an earlier time or because work or college demands brought out the disorder. Adults with ADHD who are not treated suffer in their social, academic and professional lives. Undiagnosed ADHD can lead to numerous issues, including relationship problems and financial difficulties.
To determine the presence of ADHD to diagnose it, a mental health professional will talk to the patient and go over his or her personal, medical and psychiatric history, with particular attention paid to symptoms in various situations. The patient will explain how these symptoms impact his or her daily life and relationships. It is essential that the patient is open about these symptoms and does not hide behind feelings of shame or embarrassment.
It is also essential for the mental health professional to determine whether these symptoms are connected to comorbid disorders such as anxiety or depression, which frequently coexist with ADHD. These conditions can make ADHD symptoms worse and interfere with the treatment of the disorder.
If the psychologist or psychiatrist feels that the symptoms of ADHD are being impacted by other conditions, additional cognitive, neuropsychological, or learning disabilities testing may be used to help establish an accurate diagnosis. These tests can also be used to determine the degree of impairment in function that these conditions cause. The mental health professional may also ask to interview other important people, such as spouses or siblings to get a complete picture of how a person is functioning.
Diagnosis
Adults are diagnosed with ADHD by a mental health specialist or physician following an extensive assessment. This includes a detailed analysis of the symptoms and how they affect daily functioning. It also considers the presence of other mental disorders that can occur with ADHD, such anxiety and mood disorders. The doctor might also ask to speak to significant others, such as a spouse or close family friend to gather more information.
A correct diagnosis of ADHD can change your life. For many adults, the diagnosis finally gives them an explanation for what has always seemed like "normal" behaviors. Sometimes, it is a relief knowing that they're not simply naive or oblivious; their problems are more complex.
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 standard is designed to ensure that people receive the help and treatment they need. To qualify for an ADHD diagnosis, the person must have experienced the symptoms for at least 12 months, and they must have caused significant impairment in several situations, such as at school, at home, or at work with family or friends; or with other activities. The number of symptoms needed for adults over the age of 17 has been reduced from six to five.
A good relationship with your primary care physician can be helpful in identifying ADHD. Many physicians regularly diagnose and treat ADHD in children, and may refer you to an expert in mental health who is qualified to perform an assessment of adults.
Treatment
If people suffering from ADHD are diagnosed, their lives can change dramatically. They may finally discover solutions to their issues in school, and also in the start of a career, or in relationships. A diagnosis can relieve shame that has built up for some people over the years.
Talking to a mental health healthcare professional or health care professional is the first step in receiving an assessment. They might inquire about family history and then conduct a physical exam to rule out conditions such as sleep disorders or learning disabilities which can cause symptoms that are similar to ADHD. They may also ask the person to complete a checklist of symptoms.
During the assessment process, doctors may decide to speak with a spouse or partner. This allows the non ADHD spouse or partner to gain an accurate understanding of their loved one's ADHD and a sympathetic approach towards those symptoms. This is important to improve relationships following the diagnosis. If this isn't an option, the clinician may interview acquaintances or colleagues who know the individual.
Adults with ADHD are treated primarily with medication. Adult ADHD is treated using stimulants such as methylphenidate, Adderall, and dextroamphetamine. Other medications, like Atomoxetine (Strattera(r)) and guanfacine (Intuniv(r), Tenex(r)) increase the amount of norepinephrine found in the brain and may aid in the treatment of ADHD.
Psychotherapy is another alternative. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can help patients develop the skills needed to manage their ADHD symptoms. They include time management and self-regulation strategies, organizational strategies, of emotions and behaviors, and coping techniques for self-doubt and negative criticism. Other treatments, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps adults recognize automatic thoughts or irrational thinking that cause negative behavior and develop positive self-talk.
Medication
Many people have found that ADHD medications help to alleviate their symptoms. This medication typically comes in the form of a stimulant and works by increasing activity in brain areas that regulate behavior and attention. Methylphenidate, the most common medication used by adults suffering from ADHD is available in a variety of forms. It can be taken in immediate-release tablets or modified-release tablets that release the medication throughout the day. Clonidine is another kind of medicine is a drug that works by reducing activity in the brain and can be taken in pill form or liquid.
If treating adult patients suffering from ADHD, the psychiatrist or therapist may review the patient's family history as well as medical history to identify any factors that can cause similar symptoms similar to ADHD. This is crucial because some medical conditions like seizures and thyroid issues can cause symptoms similar to those of ADHD. Some medications and dietary supplement can also cause similar signs.
During the test, the person is likely to describe their ADHD symptoms. They will be asked to fill in standardized ADHD rating scales and check lists as well as complete psychological tests that measure executive functioning, working memory (abilities like making decisions and planning) spatial and visual capabilities, as well as reasoning skills.
If the therapist or psychiatrist believes that the symptoms of ADHD are seriously impairing the life of a person they may recommend treatment with medication. In some cases the therapist might ask the patient's partner or spouse to talk with them about the impact of their ADHD symptoms on the relationship. This step can help to decrease blame between individuals and result in better, more productive relationships.
Counseling
Receiving a diagnosis is a huge relief for many adults with ADHD. It's an opportunity to discover the reason why they face difficulties at school or at work and learn how to overcome them. It's a chance to alter negative behavior and boost self-esteem.
A solid support system is essential for success and counseling can be a great help. Counseling for ADHD may include psychological (or psychotherapy) therapy as well as a variety of behavioral strategies. For example the therapist could create a reward chart that rewards positive behavior, and is able to impose consequences for negative behavior. The therapist can also teach the patient skills to manage symptoms, like relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditative poses in yoga.
Counseling can also help people accept and comprehend their ADHD. It's not easy to admit you struggle with organizing, planning and paying attention. It can be embarrassing to tell co-workers and supervisors about your ADHD. However, the majority of teachers and bosses will be willing to make accommodations for your condition. For instance, they may permit you to use a computer for writing assignments instead of paper and give more in-depth explanations of class material.
The therapist will also show you how to manage ADHD by using cognitive behavioral therapy. This is a method of talk therapy which assists you in changing negative thoughts and behaviors into more positive ones. Counseling for ADHD can also involve marital or family therapy, which teaches family members how to better interact with someone with click here ADHD and improve communication and problem-solving skills. People who suffer from ADHD often have other mental health disorders such as depression or anxiety and may suffer from substance abuse and addiction, which can exacerbate their symptoms.