Adult Diagnosis of ADHD
For those who suffer from ADHD, a diagnosis can have a profound impact on their lives. It can help people understand why they struggle in relationships, work, and family.
It can be difficult to diagnose because symptoms often overlap. A health care professional or a mental health professional will examine the person and perform tests.
Signs and symptoms
A person may not be aware that they have ADHD until they reach adulthood, perhaps because teachers and parents were not aware of the symptoms at a younger age, or because the demands of college or work caused the disorder to be exposed. Adults with ADHD who aren't treated suffer in their social, academic and professional lives. Undiagnosed ADHD can lead to many issues including relationship problems as well as financial difficulties.
To determine the presence of ADHD to diagnose it, a mental health professional will interview the patient and review the patient's personal, medical and psychiatric history, paying particular attention to symptoms in different situations. The patient will discuss the symptoms and how they impact their daily life and relationships. It is essential that patients are open about their symptoms and not cover them up to avoid embarrassment.
It is also important for the mental health professional to determine whether these symptoms are related to comorbid disorders, such as anxiety and depression, which often coexist with ADHD. These conditions can make ADHD symptoms worse and may interfere with treatment for the disorder.
If a psychologist or psychiatrist believes that the symptoms of ADHD are being impacted by comorbid conditions, additional cognitive, neuropsychological, or testing for learning disabilities 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. The mental health professional may also request interviews with others who are significant such as spouses and siblings to get a complete picture of how the individual is performing.
Diagnosis
Adults are diagnosed with ADHD by a mental health doctor or a medical professional following an extensive examination. This involves a thorough discussion about the causes of the symptoms and their impact on daily functioning, as well as the presence of any other mental health issues that may be co-occurring with ADHD like anxiety and mood disorders. In addition, the physician may request to speak with significant others, usually the spouse or a close friend -- to assist in gaining more information about the individual's behavior.
Finding a reliable diagnosis of ADHD in adulthood can be a life-changing experience. The diagnosis gives adults an explanation for the behaviors they thought were "normal". Often, it provides relief to know they're not just naive or forgetful; their problems are more complex.
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 individuals get the support and treatment they require. To be eligible for an ADHD diagnosis, the person must have had the symptoms for at least 12 months, and they must have caused significant impairment in a variety of settings, including school, home, or work as well as with family members or friends or in other activities. The number of symptoms that are required for adults older than 17 has been reduced from six to five.
Having a good relationship with your primary healthcare provider can be beneficial in identifying ADHD. Many doctors diagnose and treat ADHD in kids and can refer you to a mental health professional qualified to assess adults.
Treatment
When someone with ADHD is diagnosed, their lives can transform dramatically. They can finally find some solutions to their problems at the classroom, as well as in starting a new career, or in relationships. For certain people, a diagnosis may relieve the anxiety that could have been accumulated over the years of their issues going untreated.
Talking to a mental health healthcare professional or health care professional is the first step towards finding out if you have an assessment. They can inquire about the family history and do physical examinations to rule out any conditions which could trigger symptoms that are similar to ADHD or other disorders, such as sleeping disorders, learning disabilities or alcohol/drug abuse. They can also ask the patient to complete a checklist of symptoms.
In many cases the doctor will ask that a spouse or partner be interviewed during the process of assessment. This helps the non-ADHD spouse or partner gain a better understanding and compassionate attitude towards their loved one's ADHD symptoms which is crucial in enhancing relationships following an assessment. If this isn't an option the therapist may ask colleagues or friends who know the person.
Medications are the main treatment options for adults suffering from ADHD. Stimulants such as methylphenidate (Ritalin(r)) and dextroamphetamine (Adderall(r)) are the most effective and widely used drugs to treat adult ADHD. Other medications, such as atomoxetine (Strattera(r)) and guanfacine (Intuniv(r), Tenex(r)) increase norepinephrine levels in the brain and may aid in the treatment of ADHD.
Psychotherapy is a different option. Cognitive-behavioral therapies can help patients develop the skills needed to manage their ADHD symptoms. They include time management and self-regulation strategies, organizational strategies, of emotions and behaviors, and coping techniques for self-doubt and negative criticism. Other treatments, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps adults identify subconscious thoughts or irrational thought patterns that cause negative behavior and develop positive self-talk.
Medication
Many people find that ADHD medication can help alleviate their symptoms. The medication is usually in the form of a stimulant and helps to increase activity in brain areas that regulate attention and behavior. Methylphenidate is the most popular medicine used for adults with ADHD is available in various forms. It can be taken in immediate-release tablets, or as modified-release tablets that release the medication throughout the day. Clonidine is another kind of medication works by reducing the brain activity and can be taken in pill form or liquid.
If treating adult patients suffering from ADHD The doctor or therapist will review the person's family and medical history to identify any causes that could cause similar symptoms similar to ADHD. This is important, as certain medical conditions, such as seizures and thyroid problems can trigger symptoms similar to ADHD. In addition, some medications and dietary supplements can also cause similar symptoms.
During the examination it is likely that the person will be asked to describe their ADHD symptoms to their psychiatrist or therapist. They will be asked to provide the standardized ADHD ratings and check lists, as along with psychological tests to assess executive function, working memory, (abilities such as planning and decision-making), visual and spatial ability, and reasoning abilities.
If a psychiatrist or therapist believes that the symptoms of ADHD are causing serious harm to a person's life they will suggest treatment with medication. In some cases a therapist may request the spouse or partner of the patient to speak with them about the impact of their symptoms on their relationship. This will help reduce blaming between individuals and lead to better, more productive relationships.
Counseling
Many people suffering from ADHD find relief in receiving the diagnosis. It's a chance to comprehend the reasons behind their struggles at work or school and learn ways to overcome these issues. It's an opportunity to change negative behavior and build self-esteem.
Having a good support system is essential for success, and counseling can help. Counseling for ADHD can include psychological (or psychotherapy) therapy as well as a variety of behavioral strategies. For example the therapist could make a reward chart that rewards positive behavior and is able to impose consequences for negative behavior. The therapist may also instruct the patient on techniques to manage their symptoms, for example, relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditative yoga poses.
Counseling can help people recognize and accept their ADHD. It can be difficult to admit that you're having problems with attention, planning and organizing. more info It can even be embarrassing to reveal to coworkers and supervisors about your ADHD. However, most bosses and teachers will be willing to accommodate for your condition. They may, for instance let you write on the computer instead of paper, or provide an explanation of the material in class.
The therapist will also teach you how to cope with ADHD using cognitive therapy for behavioral disorders. This is a structured type of talk therapy which helps you transform negative thoughts and behaviors into more positive ones. Counseling for ADHD may also include marital or family therapy, which teaches loved ones how to interact better with a person with ADHD and to improve the ability to communicate and solve problems. People with ADHD typically suffer from other mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety and may be afflicted by substance abuse and addiction, which can cause more symptoms.