Adult Diagnosis of ADHD
A diagnosis of ADHD can change the life of adults suffering from the disorder. It can help people to understand the reasons they struggle with relationships, work, and family.
how to get an adult adhd diagnosis is often difficult to determine the cause because symptoms can overlap. A mental health professional or health care provider will evaluate the individual and perform tests.
Symptoms
The person might not be aware that they suffer from ADHD until they reach adulthood, perhaps because teachers and parents were not aware of symptoms until a younger age or because the demands of college or working made the disorder more apparent. Adults with ADHD who are not treated suffer in their social, academic and work lives. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD have a range of issues, including relationship issues and financial difficulties.
A mental health professional will conduct an interview and review the patient's medical, psychiatric and personal history, paying special attention to the symptoms in various situations. The patient will describe how these symptoms affect his or her daily life and relationships. It is crucial that patients are open about their symptoms and do not conceal them to avoid embarrassment.
The mental health professional must also assess whether these symptoms are related to comorbid conditions like anxiety and depression which are often associated with ADHD. These conditions can make ADHD symptoms worse and cause problems with treatment for the disorder.
If the psychiatrist or psychology thinks that the symptoms are affected by comorbid conditions, such as psycho-psychological disorders, or neuropsychological disorders, further testing can be used to establish an accurate diagnosis. These tests can also aid in determining the extent of impairment in function caused by these conditions. The mental health professional may also ask to interview other significant people like spouses or siblings, to get a full picture of how the person is doing.
Diagnosis
For adults, a diagnosis of ADHD is usually determined by a mental health care medical professional or physician who conducts a thorough diagnostic assessment. This involves a thorough interview about the history of symptoms and their impact on daily functioning and the presence of any other mental health issues that may be co-occurring with ADHD, such as anxiety and mood disorders. In addition, the practitioner might ask for the assistance of significant others--usually a spouse or close friend--to provide more details about the individual's behavior.
Finding a reliable diagnosis of ADHD in adulthood can be a life-changing event. The diagnosis gives adults an explanation for their behavior that they believed were "normal". It's usually a relief to discover that the issues are not simply 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 is a standard that has been established to ensure that people receive the treatment and support they require. For a person to qualify for an ADHD diagnoses the person must be suffering from symptoms for at least one year and be a significant handicap in a variety of settings, like at home, school or work, with friends or family, or other activities. The number of symptoms required for adults older than 17 has been reduced from six to five.
Having a good relationship with your primary care provider can help you identify ADHD. Many physicians diagnose and treat ADHD in kids and can refer you to a mental health professional qualified to assess adults.
Treatment
When a person with ADHD is diagnosed, their life can change dramatically. They can finally find some solutions to their issues in school, with the start of a career, or even in relationships. A diagnosis can ease the guilt that has accumulated for certain people over the years.
Talking to a mental health professional or health care provider is the first step in receiving an diagnosis. They may inquire about family history and conduct an examination to rule out any conditions which could trigger symptoms that are similar to ADHD or other disorders, such as sleep disorders, learning disabilities or alcohol/drug use. They can also request the person to complete a checklist of symptoms.
In many instances the doctor will suggest that a spouse or partner is interviewed during the assessment process. This can help the non-ADHD spouse or partner gain a better understanding and an understanding of their loved one's ADHD symptoms which is crucial in enhancing relationships following a diagnosis. If this isn't possible, the clinician can interview colleagues or friends who know the person well.
Medications are the main treatment options for adults with ADHD. 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)) can increase norepinephrine in the brain. These medications can help improve ADHD symptoms.
Psychotherapy is also an alternative. Cognitive-behavioral therapies can assist patients learn skills to manage their ADHD symptoms. They include time management as well as self-regulation strategies, organizing strategies of behaviors and emotions and coping strategies for self-doubt and negative criticism. Other therapies, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) can help adults recognize the automatic thoughts or irrational thoughts that lead to negative behavior and to develop positive self-talk.
Medication
Many people find that ADHD medications can help alleviate their symptoms. This medication typically comes in the form of a stimulant. It is effective by boosting the activity in brain regions that control attention and behavior. Methylphenidate is the most popular medication used by adults suffering from ADHD is available in many forms. It is available in immediate-release tablets or modified-release tablet forms that release the medication throughout the day. Clonidine is another type of medication that works by decreasing brain activity. It is available in pill or liquid form.
If treating adult patients suffering from ADHD, the doctor or therapist will review the patient's family history as well as medical history to determine if there are any factors that can cause similar symptoms to ADHD. This is crucial due to the fact that certain medical conditions, such as seizure disorders and thyroid problems can cause symptoms that are similar to the symptoms of ADHD. Certain medications and dietary supplements may also cause similar symptoms.
During the test, the person will likely to discuss the ADHD symptoms. They will be asked to fill in standardized ADHD rating scales and check lists, and comprehensive psychological tests that test working memory, executive functioning (abilities such as decision-making and planning), visual and spatial abilities, and reasoning skills.
If the psychiatrist or therapist believes that the symptoms of ADHD are seriously impairing a person's life, they will recommend treatment with medication. In some instances, a therapist may ask the patient's partner or spouse to talk with them about the impact of their symptoms on their relationship. This will help reduce blame between people and can lead to better, more productive relationships.
Counseling
Getting a diagnosis is a huge relief for many adults with ADHD. It gives them a chance to understand the reasons for their problems at school or work and to discover ways to overcome these issues. It's also a chance for them to alter negative behavior and build self-confidence.
A solid support system is essential for success and counseling can assist. Counseling for ADHD could include psychotherapy (or psychological therapy) and a variety behavioral interventions. A therapist could create a chart that rewards positive behavior and imposes penalties on bad ones. Therapists can teach the patient techniques to manage symptoms, for example 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 not easy to admit you have problems with organizing, planning and paying attention. It can be embarrassing to reveal to coworkers and supervisors about your ADHD. The majority of teachers and supervisors will offer accommodations to accommodate your needs. They could, for instance permit you to write on the computer instead of paper or give an explanation of the material in class.
The therapist will also teach you how to cope with ADHD by using cognitive behavior therapy. This is a structured type of therapy that helps you transform negative behavior and thoughts into positive ones. Counseling for ADHD can also involve family or marital therapy, which teaches loved ones how to better interact with a person with ADHD and improve communication and problem-solving skills. People suffering from ADHD typically suffer from other mental health disorders, such as anxiety or depression and may also be afflicted by substance abuse, which can also make their symptoms worse.