Adult ADHD Diagnosis
For some, a diagnosis of adult ADHD is the first step towards treatment. They may be unhappy at work, in their homes, or in their social lives due to signs such as being distracted or forgetting things.
Adults diagnosed with ADHD are often subjected to an extensive evaluation that includes interviews with the family members and themselves and using standardized tests. This usually involves an examination of the body.
Signs and symptoms
For many adults, a diagnosis of ADHD can have a profound impact on their lives. It can help adults understand why they've struggled for so long, and make sense out of their past choices. It can also give hope for a brighter future. If you're struggling with losing your keys, feeling like you can never finish your work or being accused of being irresponsible or lazy getting an assessment is the first step towards finding the right treatment for you.
The majority of adults experience symptoms across various areas of their lives however, certain symptoms are more prevalent than others. They may be impulsive and irritable at school, but have difficulty with keeping up at work. They might forget appointments or struggle to estimate how much time they need to complete their tasks. They may have trouble making friends or get into frequent arguments with their spouses. If the problems are serious, they may affect their everyday life and cause anxiety or depression.
It's important to diagnose ADHD, but it's also important to determine what other factors might be contributing to the symptoms. Stress, other mental health conditions, and certain medications can trigger symptoms that are similar to those of ADHD. A thorough evaluation by a qualified professional is essential to make sure that the underlying issue is being treated.
As opposed to children, adults with ADHD do not show the more obvious symptoms of hyperactivity. Hyperactivity is more subtle and is manifested as fidgeting or difficulty sitting still. Women who suffer from ADHD are more likely to display these signs, since they are more likely to hide their inattentive behavior within their work and social lives.
During an assessment the doctor will go over the patient's medical history and look at how their medical conditions impact their daily routine. They will also inquire about information about the family and, if they are able, interview a relative to get their view on the behavior of children. They can also conduct psycho-, neuropsychological or learning disabilities testing. In some instances physical exams might be required to rule out illnesses that may mimic symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosis
It is essential for those who believe they might be suffering from ADHD to discuss their symptoms with a medical specialist, especially if the issues are related to school or work. Primary care providers can refer individuals to mental health professionals who specialize in adult ADHD evaluations and treatment. Hamdani says that professionals who work with adults suffering from ADHD should be willing and able to provide information regarding their training and experiences. Anyone who is hesitant to share this information will be treated with suspicion Hamdani says.
A diagnosis of adult ADHD is a life-changing experience. For some, it finally gives an explanation for years of frustration and self-criticism. Others feel a sense of satisfaction that there's a rationale for the challenges they've encountered in their lives, or that their struggles weren't simply "in their heads."
Adults who suffer from ADHD are diagnosed by a thorough interview with a professional. This includes a review of the person's medical, family, and personal background. In addition, the professional will likely ask the individual to rate their behavior on one or more of the standardized ADHD behavior rating scales. These ratings are based upon research that compared the behavior of those with ADHD and those who do not have the disorder.
The person will be asked about the 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.
People who receive a diagnosis of adult ADHD often have coexisting conditions known as co-morbidities. Common comorbidities associated with ADHD include anxiety disorders, depression and drug or alcohol abuse. Some experts believe that these comorbidities result from maladaptive strategies for dealing with the frustrations associated with untreated ADHD.
It is also important to remember that ADHD is more prevalent in males than women, and it may be difficult for many people who do have the disorder to be diagnosed due to long-held biases about the symptoms and the impact they have on men and women. Women can also be better at hiding their symptoms better, which could cause an inaccurate diagnosis or delay in obtaining a diagnosis.
Treatment
Adults who have been diagnosed of ADHD might find it beneficial to consult a mental health professional who has experience treating adults with ADHD. The specialist can instruct the adult strategies for managing their symptoms and improve their performance at home, work or school. adhd uk diagnosis can also assist the adult understand why their behavior is different and what triggers it.
Since a person could suffer from multiple disorders that can cause similar symptoms to the symptoms of ADHD, it's important for professionals in mental health to evaluate the adult thoroughly. This could include a thorough description of the individual's symptoms, questionnaires and scales completed by the client and other people who know him or her well, a complete medical and psychiatric history, and a thorough physical examination.
It is important to conduct a thorough evaluation to determine if the adult suffers from a comorbid condition like depression or anxiety. These conditions can exacerbate ADHD symptoms and make treatment more difficult. A mental health professional may also conduct neuropsychological or cognitive tests to examine how the brain functions and rule out other causes of the issues, such as the presence of a learning disability or physical illness.
Adults suffering from ADHD are usually treated by psychological counseling (psychotherapy), and educational programs. Adults may benefit from individual talk therapy to boost their self-esteem and cope with the emotional burdens that come with ADHD. Behavioral therapies can also help improve the management of time, organization and impulse control and may help to reduce the effects of stressors on the individual's ability to function.
Some people who suffer from ADHD benefit from group therapy. This type of therapy may provide an opportunity to meet other people with the same issues and discuss strategies to overcome them. These groups are typically organized by an advocacy or support group.
Many adults suffering from ADHD are treated with medications. There are a variety of medications available, including stimulants that increase the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain (for example, methylphenidate, which is also known as Ritalin). Antidepressants and the antipsychotic drug Wellbutrin (Bupropion) help regulate moods and reduce impulse-driven behavior. Your Mercy doctor will discuss all of your treatment options with you.
Support
Many people diagnosed with ADHD suffer from the disorder for decades without even realizing it. Discontent with everyday issues such as forgetting appointments, making careless mistakes at work or breaking family or friendship commitments can prompt them to seek an evaluation. They often feel a sense of relief when they receive a diagnosis.
A mental health professional can perform an evaluation for ADHD, but the primary care physician is typically a good place to start. The doctor may also refer the person to a specialist in the event of need. A psychiatrist, psychiatric nurse or psychologist may also be able to evaluate ADHD in adults. Many insurance plans list professionals according to their specialties. This will help individuals find the right health professional who is experienced in treating ADHD among adults.
During the examination, a mental health professional will inquire about the person's previous issues and how ADHD symptoms have affected them. It is essential to be open and honestly during the evaluation so that the mental health professional is able to conduct a thorough evaluation.
Psychotherapy, or psychological counseling can aid people in managing their symptoms and improve their relationships. Behavioral therapy, or cognitive behavioral therapy teaches people how to alter their thinking and behavior. Therapy is often coupled with medication, which can help lessen the effects of the disorder.
Many adult ADHD patients benefit from social support groups. The opportunity to share their experiences with others 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 suffers from ADHD. Others are geared towards specific groups, like African Americans with ADHD, couples affected by the disorder, or those who identify as gay or lesbian.
Some people may be embarrassed or ashamed of their symptoms. This could make them reluctant to seek help. A healthcare professional should explain to the patient that ADHD is not a weakness or failure.