Adult Diagnosis of ADHD
For adults who struggle with ADHD the diagnosis can be life-changing. It can help people to understand the reasons they struggle with work, family and relationships.
It can be difficult to identify because symptoms can overlap. A mental health professional or health care provider will evaluate the individual and perform tests.
Signs and symptoms
A person may not even be aware they suffer from ADHD until they reach adulthood, perhaps because teachers and parents did not recognize symptoms until a younger age, or because the demands of college or working made the disorder more apparent. Adults who are not treated for ADHD are more vulnerable in their work, school and social lives. Undiagnosed ADHD can lead to numerous issues, including relationship problems and financial issues.
A mental health professional will interview and review the patient's medical, mental health and personal history, paying particular attention to symptoms in various settings. The patient will be asked to describe the symptoms and how they impact their daily functioning as well as their relationships. It is crucial that patients are honest about their symptoms and not hide them out of embarrassment.
It is also important for the mental health professional to assess whether the symptoms are linked to comorbid conditions like anxiety and depression, which often coexist with ADHD. These conditions can cause ADHD symptoms worse and interfere with the treatment of the disorder.
If the psychiatrist or psychologist believes that the symptoms of ADHD are influenced by comorbid conditions, additional psycho-, neuropsychological or learning disabilities tests could be used to help establish an accurate diagnosis. These tests can also be used to determine the degree of impairment to function caused by these conditions. In addition, the mental health professional might request an interview with one or more significant others such as spouses, siblings and colleagues, in order to gather an accurate picture of the person's functioning and issues.
Diagnosis
Adults are diagnosed with ADHD by a mental health specialist or physician following a thorough examination. This includes a detailed analysis of the symptoms and how they impact daily functioning. It also considers the presence of other mental disorders that can co-occur alongside ADHD, such anxiety and mood disorders. The doctor may also request to speak to significant others, such as your spouse or a close family friend, in order for them get more details.
Finding a reliable diagnosis of ADHD in adulthood can be a life-changing experience. For many adults, this diagnosis finally gives them an explanation for what has always seemed like "normal" behaviors. It's often a relief to find out that their issues aren't simply due to lazyness 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 designed to ensure that people receive the help and treatment they require. To qualify for an ADHD diagnosis, one must have been suffering from 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 activities. For adults who are 17 or older the number of necessary symptoms has been reduced to five from the six required for children who are younger than 12 years old.
A positive relationship with your primary health care provider can help you determine ADHD. Many doctors routinely 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 someone suffering from ADHD is diagnosed, their life can change dramatically. They may finally have explanations for failures in school or the struggle to establish an occupation or a relationship. A diagnosis can help relieve the shame that has been accumulating for some people over the years.
The first step in obtaining a diagnosis is to talk to a doctor or mental health professional. They can inquire about family history and do physical examinations to rule out any condition which could trigger symptoms that are similar to ADHD, such as sleep disorders, learning disabilities or alcohol/drug abuse. They also can ask the patient to complete a rating scale checklist of symptoms.
In many instances the doctor will suggest that a spouse or partner be interviewed during the assessment process. This can help the non-ADHD spouse or partner develop an accurate understanding and compassionate attitude towards their loved one's ADHD symptoms which is crucial in enhancing relationships following the diagnosis. If this isn't possible the doctor may conduct an interview with friends or co-workers who know the individual.
The main treatment is medication. options for adults with ADHD. Adult ADHD is treated with stimulants like methylphenidate, Adderall and dextroamphetamine. Other medications like Atomoxetine (Strattera(r),) and Guanfacine (Intuniv (r) Tenex (r)), increase norepinephrine in the brain. These medications can improve ADHD symptoms.
Psychotherapy also is an alternative. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can help patients learn skills to manage their ADHD symptoms. These include time management as well as organizational strategies, self regulation of behaviors and emotions, and coping techniques for self-criticism and negative feelings. criticism. Other therapies, like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy can help adults recognize subconscious or unfounded thoughts that can lead to negative behaviors and develop ways to replace them with positive self-talk.
Medication
Many people have found that ADHD medication can improve their symptoms. This medication typically comes in the form of a stimulant. It is effective by boosting activity in brain areas that control attention and behavior. Methylphenidate is the most popular medicine used for adults with ADHD is available in a variety of forms. It is available as immediate-release tablets or modified-release tablets that release the medication throughout the day. Clonidine is a different kind of medication that works by decreasing brain activity. It can be taken in pill or liquid form.
If treating adult patients suffering from ADHD The psychotherapist or psychiatrist may look over the person's family history and medical history to determine if there are any factors that may cause similar symptoms to ADHD. This is important, as some medical conditions like thyroid problems and seizures can cause symptoms similar to ADHD. Some medications and dietary supplement may also cause similar symptoms.
During the test, the person will likely to discuss their ADHD symptoms. They will be asked to fill out standardized ADHD rating scales and check lists, along with full psychological tests that assess executive functioning, working memory, (abilities like decision-making and planning), visual and spatial abilities, and reasoning skills.
If the therapist is of the opinion that ADHD symptoms affect the quality of life of a person they will suggest medication. In some instances the therapist may request the patient's partner or spouse to talk with them regarding the effects of the symptoms of the patient on their relationship. This can reduce blame between the two people and help to foster healthy, productive relationships.
Counseling
Many people suffering from ADHD get relief from receiving an diagnosis. It's a chance to comprehend the reason why they face difficulties at work or school and learn how to overcome them. It's an opportunity to change negative behavior and build self-esteem.
Having a good support system is essential for success and counseling can be a great help. Counseling for ADHD could include psychotherapy (or psychological therapy) and a range of behavioral treatments. A therapist might make a chart to reward positive behavior and imposes penalties on negative ones. Therapists can teach the patient more info techniques to manage symptoms, like relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditative postures in yoga.
Another benefit of counseling is helping people understand and accept their ADHD. It's difficult to admit you struggle with planning, organizing and paying attention. It can be embarrassing to confess that you have ADHD to your supervisors or coworkers. However, most teachers and bosses will be willing to accommodate for your condition. For example, they might permit you to use a computer for writing assignments instead of paper and provide more in-depth explanations of classroom material.
The therapist will also instruct you how to manage ADHD using cognitive behavior therapy. It is a structured form of therapy that helps you transform negative behavior and thoughts into positive ones. Counseling for ADHD may also include marital or family therapy, which teaches family members how to interact better with a person suffering from ADHD and enhance communication and problem-solving skills. People suffering from ADHD might also be suffering from other mental disorders, such depression or anxiety and could also have substance abuse problems.