Adult Diagnosis of ADHD
For adults who struggle with ADHD the diagnosis can have a major impact on your life. It can help people to recognize the reasons they face difficulties at work, with their families and in their relationships.
It is often difficult to determine the cause because symptoms often overlap. adhd diagnosing or health professional will examine the individual and conduct tests.
Signs and symptoms
It is possible that someone does not realize they have ADHD until they reach adulthood. It could be because parents and teachers failed to recognize the symptoms at an earlier age, or because work or college demands brought out the disorder. Adults with ADHD who are not diagnosed suffer in their social, academic and work lives. Many people who have not been diagnosed with ADHD suffer from a variety of problems, including 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 various situations. The patient will discuss the symptoms and how they affect their daily functioning as well as their relationships. It is essential that patients are honest about their symptoms and do not conceal them to avoid embarrassment.
The mental health professional should be able to determine if the symptoms are linked to comorbid conditions such as anxiety and depression, which often coexist with ADHD. These conditions can make ADHD symptoms worse and interfere with treatment for the disorder.
If the psychologist or psychiatrist feels that the symptoms are affected by comorbid conditions such as psycho-psychological disorders, or neuropsychological disorders, then additional tests can be used to establish an accurate diagnosis. These tests will also help determine the level of impairment in function caused by these conditions. The mental health professional will also ask to interview other significant people, such as spouses or siblings to get a complete picture of how a person is doing.
Diagnosis
Adults are diagnosed with ADHD by a mental healthcare specialist or physician following an exhaustive assessment. This includes a detailed interview regarding the history of symptoms and their impact on everyday functioning, as well as the presence of any other mental health conditions that may be co-occurring with ADHD such as mood disorders and anxiety. The doctor may also request to speak with significant others like the spouse or a close family member to gather more information.
A correct diagnosis of ADHD can alter your life. The diagnosis provides adults with an explanation for behaviors that they believed to be "normal". It's often a relief to find out that their issues aren't simply due to laziness 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 standard is created to ensure that people receive the help and treatment they require. To be eligible for an ADHD diagnosis, the person must have had the symptoms for at least 12 months, and they must be causing significant impairment in several environments, such as home, school, or work; with friends or family or in other settings. The number of symptoms that are required for adults over the age of 17 has been reduced from six to five.
A positive relationship with your primary healthcare provider can help to recognize ADHD. Many doctors diagnose and treat ADHD in children and refer you to a mental health professional qualified to assess adults.
Treatment
When someone with ADHD is diagnosed, their life may change dramatically. They might finally have explanations for failures in school, a struggle to establish relationships or pursue a career. A diagnosis can ease the guilt that has been accumulating for some people over the years.
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 then conduct a physical exam to rule out any conditions like sleep disorders or learning disabilities which can cause symptoms that are similar to ADHD. They can also ask the person to fill out a checklist of symptoms.
In many instances the doctor will suggest that the spouse or partner be interviewed during the process of assessing. This assists the non ADHD spouse or partner develop an accurate understanding of their loved one's ADHD, and an empathetic attitude towards the symptoms. This is essential to strengthen relationships following the diagnosis. If this is not feasible the clinician may interview acquaintances or colleagues who are familiar with the individual.
Medications are the main treatment options for adults with ADHD. Adult ADHD is treated using stimulants such as methylphenidate, Adderall, and dextroamphetamine. Other medications like Atomoxetine (Strattera(r),) and guanfacine, (Intuniv (r), Tenex (r)) are able to increase the amount of norepinephrine that is produced in the brain. These drugs can alleviate ADHD symptoms.
Psychotherapy is a different alternative. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a way to teach patients techniques for managing their ADHD symptoms, such as time management and self-regulation of emotions and behavior, and coping with self-criticism and negative feelings. Other treatments, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy helps adults recognize the automatic or irrational thoughts that cause negative behavior and devise strategies to replace them with positive self-talk.
Medication
Many people find that ADHD medication helps to improve their symptoms. This medicine is typically in the form of a stimulant and helps to increase the activity of brain regions that regulate behavior and attention. Methylphenidate is the most well-known medicine used for adults with ADHD is available in various forms. It can be taken as 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 as a pill or liquid.
The psychiatrist or therapist will examine the medical and family history of the adult patient in order to determine factors that may cause similar symptoms. This is crucial as certain medical conditions, such as thyroid problems and seizures can cause symptoms that are similar to ADHD. Certain medications and dietary supplements may also cause similar symptoms.
During the evaluation it is likely that the person will describe their ADHD symptoms to the therapist or psychiatrist. They will be asked to fill in standardized ADHD rating scales and check lists as well as comprehensive psychological tests that test working memory, executive functioning (abilities like decision-making and planning), visual and spatial capabilities, and reasoning abilities.
If the therapist believes ADHD symptoms are seriously affecting a person's quality of life, he or she will suggest medication. In some instances, the therapist will ask the individual's partner or spouse to talk with them about the effects of the symptoms on their relationship. This step can help to decrease blame between individuals and result in healthier, more productive relationships.
Counseling
Many people with ADHD find relief in receiving a diagnosis. It gives them a chance understand why they are having problems at school or work and to learn how to overcome these problems. It's a chance to alter negative behaviors and increase self-esteem.
A strong support system is crucial to success, and counseling can help. Counseling for ADHD may include psychological (or psychotherapy) therapy and a range of behavioral treatments. For instance the therapist could make a reward chart that rewards positive behavior and enforces consequences for bad behavior. The therapist could also guide the patient on how to manage their symptoms, such as relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditative yoga poses.
Another benefit of counseling is helping people understand and accept their ADHD. It's not always easy to admit that you have difficulties paying attention and planning. It is embarrassing to admit that you have ADHD to supervisors or colleagues. However, most teachers and bosses will be willing to provide accommodations for your condition. They may, for instance, allow you to write on the computer instead of paper, or provide a more detailed explanation of the material in class.
The therapist will also teach you how to deal with ADHD through cognitive therapy for behavioral disorders. This is a method of talk therapy which helps you transform negative behavior and thoughts into positive ones. Counseling for ADHD may also include marital or family therapy. This helps loved ones learn to communicate more effectively and solve problems with someone who suffers from ADHD. People who suffer from ADHD may also suffer from other mental disorders, such depression or anxiety, and could also have substance abuse problems.