Adult Diagnosis of ADHD
A diagnosis of ADHD can change the life of those suffering from the disorder. It can help people recognize the reasons why they struggle in work, family and relationships.
However, it can be difficult to get a diagnosis as symptoms can be overlapping with other conditions. A health care provider or mental health professional will assess the patient and run tests.
Signs and symptoms
A person may not be aware that they have ADHD until they reach adulthood Perhaps because teachers or parents were not aware of symptoms earlier or because the demands of college or work caused the disorder to be exposed. Adults with ADHD who aren't treated are affected in their academic, social and work lives. Many people who have not been diagnosed with ADHD suffer from a variety of problems, such as problems with relationships and financial problems.
To diagnose ADHD A mental health professional will talk to the patient and review the patient's personal medical and mental health history, with particular attention paid to symptoms in different environments. The patient will explain how these symptoms affect his or her daily life and relationships. It is crucial that patients are honest about their symptoms and not conceal them to avoid embarrassment.
It is also important for the mental health professional to assess whether these symptoms are related to other comorbidities, such as anxiety and depression, which often coexist with ADHD. These conditions can make ADHD symptoms worse and cause problems with the treatment of the disorder.
If the psychologist or psychiatrist believes that the symptoms are being affected by comorbid conditions such as learning disabilities, neuropsychological disorders, or psychological disorders, further testing can be used to establish an accurate diagnosis. These tests can also be used to determine the level of impairment in function caused by these conditions. The mental health professional may also request interviews with other important people such as spouses and siblings, to get a full picture of how a person is functioning.
Diagnosis
For adults the diagnosis of ADHD is usually made by a mental health professional or physician who conducts a thorough diagnostic assessment. This includes a detailed analysis of the symptoms and how they impact the way you live your life. It also considers the presence of any other mental disorders that can co-occur with ADHD like depression and anxiety. The doctor might also ask to speak to your significant others, such as a spouse or close family member to help them collect more information.
Being diagnosed with ADHD in adulthood can be a life-changing experience. For many adults, this diagnosis finally provides an explanation for what has always seemed like "normal" behavior. Sometimes, it is a 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 people receive the care and support they need. In order for a person to be eligible for an ADHD diagnosis the person must be suffering from symptoms for at least a year and have caused significant impairment in a variety of settings like at home, school or at work with family members or friends, or other activities. For adults aged 17 and older, the number of required symptoms has been reduced to five from the six required for children younger than 12 years old.
A positive relationship with your primary health care provider can help you identify ADHD. Many physicians regularly diagnose and treat ADHD in children, and can refer you to a mental health professional who is certified to conduct an assessment on adults.
Treatment
When a person with ADHD is diagnosed, their life may drastically change. They may finally discover solutions to their problems at school, with the start of a career, or in relationships. A diagnosis can ease the guilt that has built up for some people over time.
Talking to a mental health professional or health care provider is the first step towards finding out if you have a diagnosis. They can inquire about family history and perform physical examinations to rule out conditions that could cause symptoms that resemble ADHD or other disorders, such as sleep disorders, learning disabilities or alcohol/drug use. They also can ask the person to complete the checklist of symptoms.
During the assessment process doctors may decide to speak with the spouse or partner. 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 is not feasible the doctor can conduct an interview with colleagues or friends who are familiar with the individual.
Adults suffering from ADHD are treated primarily with medication. Stimulants such as methylphenidate (Ritalin(r)) and dextroamphetamine (Adderall(r)) are the most effective and commonly used medications to treat adult ADHD. adhd diagnosis in adults , such as atomoxetine (Strattera(r)) and guanfacine (Intuniv(r), Tenex(r)) increase the amount of norepinephrine found in the brain and may aid in the treatment of ADHD.
Psychotherapy is also an alternative. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can teach patients strategies to manage their ADHD symptoms, such as time management and self-regulation of emotions and behavior and managing negative feelings and self-criticism. Other therapies, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy can help adults recognize subconscious or unfounded thoughts that lead to negative behavior and learn ways to replace them with positive self-talk.
Medication
Many people report that ADHD medication helps alleviate their symptoms. This medicine is typically in the form of a stimulant and works by increasing the activity of brain regions that control attention and behavior. Methylphenidate is the most frequently prescribed medication for adults suffering from ADHD, and it is available in a variety of forms. It can be taken as immediate-release tablets or as modified-release tablets that release the medication throughout the day. Clonidine is a different kind of medication that works by reducing brain activity. It is available in liquid or pill form.
When treating adult patients with ADHD The psychiatrist or therapist may review the patient's family history as well as medical history to identify any factors that can cause similar symptoms to ADHD. This is crucial as certain medical conditions such as seizures and thyroid problems can trigger symptoms similar to ADHD. Some medications and dietary supplement can also cause similar signs.
During the test, the person is likely to describe the ADHD symptoms. They will be asked to fill in standardized ADHD rating scales and check lists as well as complete psychological tests that measure working memory, executive functioning (abilities such as decision-making and planning), visual and spatial capabilities, and reasoning abilities.
If the therapist or psychiatrist believes that the symptoms of ADHD are causing serious harm to the life of a person, they will recommend treatment with medication. In certain instances the therapist might ask the patient's partner or spouse to interview them about the impact of their condition on their relationship. This can reduce blame between the two people and help to foster healthier, more productive relations.
Counseling
Many people with ADHD are relieved when they receive the diagnosis. It allows them to to understand the reasons for their problems at school or work and to learn how to overcome these problems. It's also a chance to alter negative behavior and boost self-confidence.
Counseling can be a wonderful method of helping you build a strong support network. Counseling for ADHD can include psychotherapy (or psychological therapy) and a variety behavior-based interventions. Therapists may create a chart that rewards positive behaviors and imposes consequences for negative behaviors. The therapist could also guide the patient on techniques to manage their symptoms, like relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditative yoga postures.
Counseling can also help people accept and understand their ADHD. It's not always easy to admit that you're having difficulties paying attention and planning. It can be embarrassing to confess that you have ADHD to your supervisors or coworkers. However, most bosses and teachers will be willing to accommodate for your situation. For instance, they could permit you to use a computer for writing assignments instead of paper or provide more in-depth explanations of classroom material.
Additionally the therapist can also help you cope with your ADHD through cognitive behavioral therapy, which is a form of therapy that assists to change negative thoughts and behavior to positive ones. Counseling for ADHD can also include marital or family therapy, which helps loved ones learn to better interact with someone with ADHD and enhance the ability to communicate and solve problems. People who suffer from ADHD may also suffer from other mental disorders, such depression or anxiety, and they may also be suffering from substance abuse problems.