Adult Diagnosis of ADHD
For those who suffer from ADHD, a diagnosis can have a profound impact on their lives. It can help people to discover the reason for their struggles at work, at home and in their relationships.
It is often difficult to determine the cause because symptoms often overlap. A mental health professional or health care provider will examine the individual and conduct tests.
Signs and symptoms
It is possible that a person doesn't realize they have ADHD until they reach the age of adulthood. This may be because teachers and parents failed to detect the signs at an earlier time or due to the demands of college or work brought out the disorder. Adults who are not treated for ADHD are being disadvantaged in their academic, professional and social lives. Undiagnosed ADHD can lead to many problems including relationship problems and financial problems.
A mental health professional will conduct an interview and review 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 life and relationships. It is important that patients are open about their symptoms and do not hide them out of embarrassment.
The mental health professional should be able to determine if the symptoms are related to comorbid conditions like anxiety and depression, which often coexist with ADHD. These conditions can make ADHD symptoms worse and interfere with treatment for the disorder.
If the psychiatrist or psychologist thinks that the symptoms of ADHD are influenced by other conditions, additional psycho-, neuropsychological or learning disabilities tests could be used to help establish an accurate diagnosis. These tests can aid in determining the extent of impairment to function that is caused by these conditions. Additionally the mental health professional might ask to interview one or more significant others such as spouses, siblings, and coworkers in order to collect an accurate picture of the person's behavior and difficulties.
Diagnosis
Adults are diagnosed with ADHD by a mental health doctor or a medical professional following an exhaustive evaluation. This involves a thorough discussion of the symptoms and their impact on the way you live your life. Additionally, it is important to consider the presence of other mental disorders that can occur alongside ADHD like anxiety and mood disorders. The doctor may also request to speak to significant others, such as a spouse or close family friend, in order for them gather more information.
A correct diagnosis of ADHD could alter your life. For many adults, this diagnosis finally provides an explanation for what has always seemed like "normal" behaviors. Often, it provides relief to know that they're not just lazy or forgetful; their problems are more complicated.
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 individuals receive the treatment and support they require. To qualify for an ADHD diagnosis, the person must have had the symptoms for at least 12 consecutive months and they must be causing significant impairment in multiple environments, such as school, home, or work with family or friends or in other activities. For adults age 17 and older the number of needed symptoms has been reduced to five from the six required for children younger than 12.
Maintaining a positive relationship with your primary care provider can be beneficial in identifying ADHD. Many physicians diagnose and treat ADHD in children and refer you to an expert in mental health to evaluate adults.
Treatment
If someone suffering from ADHD is diagnosed, their lives can transform dramatically. They will finally have solutions to their issues in school, and also in the start of a career, or even in relationships. A diagnosis can relieve shame that has been accumulating for some people over time.
The first step in getting a diagnosis is to talk to a health care provider or mental health professional. They may ask about the family history and then conduct an examination to rule out any conditions such as sleep disorders or learning disabilities that can cause symptoms that are similar to ADHD. They may also ask the patient to fill out a checklist of symptoms.
In many cases the doctor will suggest that the spouse or partner be interviewed during the assessment process. This will help the spouse who is not an ADHD or partner develop an accurate understanding and compassionate attitude towards their loved one's ADHD symptoms that is essential in enhancing relationships following an assessment. If this isn't an option the therapist may ask acquaintances or colleagues who know the person.
Adults suffering from ADHD are treated primarily with medications. stimulants like methylphenidate (Ritalin(r)) and dextroamphetamine (Adderall(r)) are the most effective and commonly used medications to treat adult ADHD. Other medications such as atomoxetine, (Strattera(r),) and Guanfacine (Intuniv (r) Tenex (r)) can increase norepinephrine in the brain. These medications can improve ADHD symptoms.
Psychotherapy is another alternative. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can help patients learn skills to manage their ADHD symptoms, such as time management and organizational strategies, self-regulation of behavior and emotions and dealing with negative feelings and self-criticism. Other treatments, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy can help adults recognize automatic or irrational thoughts that cause negative behavior and devise strategies to overcome them using positive self-talk.
Medication
Many people find that ADHD medications help to improve their symptoms. This medicine is typically in the form of a stimulant. It works by increasing the activity of brain regions that control attention and behavior. Methylphenidate is the most commonly used medication for adults with ADHD, and it is available in different forms. It is available in immediate-release tablets as well as modified-release tablet forms that release the medication over the course of the day. Clonidine is a different kind of medication that works by reducing brain activity. It is available in liquid or pill form.
The therapist or psychiatrist will examine the medical and family history of the adult patient in order to determine the factors that can cause similar symptoms. This review is important due to the fact that certain medical conditions like seizure disorders and thyroid problems can cause symptoms similar to the symptoms of ADHD. In addition, certain supplements and medications can also cause similar symptoms.
During the assessment, the individual will likely be asked to describe their ADHD symptoms to the psychiatrist or therapist. They will be asked for the standardized ADHD ratings and checklists of symptoms as well as psychological tests to measure executive function, working memory, (abilities like planning and decision-making), visual and spatial ability, as well as reasoning skills.
If a psychiatrist or therapist believes that the symptoms of ADHD are seriously affecting the life of a person they will suggest treatment with medication. In certain instances the therapist may ask the individual's partner or spouse to talk with them about the effects of the symptoms on their relationship. This can reduce blame between more info the two people and help to foster healthier, more productive relations.
Counseling
Many people with ADHD find relief in receiving an diagnosis. It's a chance to understand the reason why they face difficulties at school or at work and discover ways to overcome these issues. It's also a chance for them to alter negative behavior and increase self-esteem.
Counseling can be a great way to help you create a strong support system. Counseling for ADHD can include psychological (or psychotherapy) therapy and a range of behavioral interventions. Therapists may make a chart to reward positive behaviors and imposes punishments for negative behaviors. The therapist may also instruct the patient on techniques to manage their symptoms, like relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditative yoga postures.
Another benefit of counseling is helping people understand and accept their ADHD. It can be difficult to admit you have trouble with paying attention, planning and organizing. It can be embarrassing to inform coworkers and supervisors about your ADHD. However, the majority of bosses and teachers will be willing to make accommodations for your situation. For instance, they could allow you to use a computer for writing assignments instead of paper and provide more in-depth explanations of the material in class.
The therapist will also instruct you how to manage ADHD through cognitive behavior therapy. It is a method of therapy that helps you transform negative behavior and thoughts into positive ones. Counseling for ADHD may also include marital or family therapy. This teaches loved-ones how to communicate better and resolve issues with someone suffering from ADHD. People who suffer from ADHD might also be suffering from other mental disorders such depression or anxiety and could also have issues with addiction to drugs.