Adult ADHD Diagnosis
A diagnosis of adult ADHD can be the first step in finding treatment for certain people. They may be frustrated at work, in their homes, or in their social lives due to signs such as being distracted or forgetting things.
Being diagnosed with ADHD as an adult usually requires an extensive evaluation that includes interviewing the person and their family members, using standard tests and rating scales. The evaluation usually includes 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 people recognize the reasons they've struggled with for so long and help them make sense of their past choices. It can also offer hope for the future to be brighter. Whether you are experiencing difficulty in locating your keys, feeling like you'll never finish your work or being labeled as unreliable or lazy, getting an assessment is the first step to finding the right treatment for you.
The majority of adults experience symptoms across different areas of their life however, some are more prominent than others. They might be impulsive and restless at school, but struggle in keeping up with their work. They may forget appointments or have trouble estimating how much time they need to complete their work. They may be unable to make friends or fighting with their spouses regularly. If the problems are serious, they may affect their daily life and lead to depression or anxiousness.
While it's important to consider a diagnosis of ADHD but it's equally important to determine what other factors might be contributing to the symptoms. Stress, other mental health conditions, and certain medications can cause symptoms similar to those of ADHD. A thorough evaluation by a trained professional is essential to make sure that the root cause is being addressed.
Adults suffering from ADHD do not show the same symptoms of hyperactivity that children do. Instead, the signs of hyperactivity manifest more subtly, such as fidgeting or difficulty sitting still in a chair. Women with ADHD tend to display these signs more frequently because they are able to hide their inattentional behavior at work and in social lives.
During an evaluation during an assessment, the doctor will review the patient's medical history and look at the ways in which their ailments affect their daily life. They will also request family history and, if possible interview a relative to get their view on the behavior of children. They might also conduct psycho-, neuropsychological or learning disabilities testing. In some cases, it may be necessary to perform an examination of the body to rule out specific illnesses that can cause symptoms associated with ADHD.
Diagnosis
It's important for adults who think they might have ADHD to discuss their symptoms with a medical provider, particularly if their issues are related to work or school. Primary care providers may refer patients to mental health professionals with expertise in adult ADHD assessments. Hamdani says that professionals who work with adults suffering from ADHD should be willing and able to provide information regarding their training and experience. Hamdani warns that anyone who is unwilling to disclose such information should be viewed as suspicious.
A diagnosis of adult ADHD can be a life-changing event. It provides an explanation to years of frustration and self-criticism for certain. Others feel a sense relief that there's a reason for the challenges they've encountered in their lives or that their issues weren't simply "in their heads."
In the majority of instances, an adult suffering from ADHD is diagnosed by a thorough interview with a certified professional. This may include a thorough review of the individual's personal medical, family and personal history. Additionally, the doctor will likely request the person to rate his or her behaviors on one or more standardized ADHD behavior scales. how to get an adult adhd diagnosis are basing on research that compares the behaviors of those with ADHD to those of people who don't suffer from the disorder.
The person will be questioned about their symptoms and how they affect their daily life. 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 typically have co-existing disorders, called comorbidities. Anxiety disorders, depression, and drug or alcohol use are typical comorbidities of ADHD. Some experts suggest these comorbidities develop as maladaptive coping strategies to cope with the frustrations that are commonly related to untreated ADHD.
It's also important to note that ADHD is more prevalent in men than women, and it can be difficult for many people who suffer from the disorder to be diagnosed due to long-held prejudices about the symptoms and the impact they have on men and women. Women may be able to mask their symptoms better, which can lead them to a delayed diagnosis or an inaccurate diagnosis.
Treatment
It may be helpful for those who have been diagnosed with ADHD to consult an expert in mental health who has experience in treating adults with ADHD. This person can teach adults ways to manage their symptoms and improve their functioning in the workplace, at school or at home. They can also assist adults to understand why their behavior differs and what triggers them.
A mental health professional should thoroughly evaluate an adult for other disorders similar to ADHD. This could include a thorough description of the scale and the forms filled out by the client or other people who are familiar with him/her along with a family and psychiatric history and an exhaustive physical exam.
A thorough assessment is important for determining whether the adult has a comorbid condition, such as anxiety or depression. These conditions can increase ADHD symptoms and make treatment more difficult. A mental health professional could also conduct neuropsychological or cognitive tests to determine how the brain functions, and to determine the cause of the problems, such as an intellectual disability or physical illness.
Adults suffering from ADHD are usually treated by psychological counseling (psychotherapy) as well as educational programs. Individual talk therapy can help an adult develop confidence in themselves and deal with the emotional burden that usually comes with the diagnosis of ADHD. Behavioral therapies can also improve organization, time management and impulse control and may help to reduce the effects of stressors on an individual's ability to perform.
Some individuals with ADHD benefit from group therapy. This type of therapy offers you the opportunity to connect with people who face similar issues and discuss strategies to overcome these challenges. These groups are typically run by a support or advocacy group.
Medication is also an option for many adults suffering from ADHD. There are many medications, including stimulants (such as methylphenidate that is sold under the name Ritalin) that boost levels of norepinephrine in the brain. Others help to regulate moods and reduce impulsive behaviors, like antidepressants and the anti-psychotic drug bupropion (Wellbutrin). Your Mercy doctor will be able to discuss all your treatment options.
Support
Many adults diagnosed with ADHD live with the disorder for a long time without even realizing it. They might seek an evaluation because they are frustrated by daily challenges like forgetting appointments and making mistakes at work, or neglecting the demands of friends and family. It's normal for these people to feel a sense of relief when they receive an answer, particularly when they can see why they've struggled all their lives.
A mental health professional may perform an ADHD assessment, but a primary physician is usually a good starting point. The doctor can also refer the patient to a specialist if necessary. A psychiatrist, psychiatric nurse or psychologist may also be qualified to assess ADHD in adults. Many insurance plans will list specialists according to their specialties. This can assist people in finding the right health professional who is familiar with ADHD among adults.
During the assessment the mental health professional will ask about the person's past problems, as well as how ADHD symptoms have affected them. It's important to talk openly and honestly during the evaluation so that the mental health professional can make a full assessment.
Psychological counseling, or therapy can assist people in learning to manage their problems and improve their relationships. Behavioral therapy, also known as cognitive behavioral therapy, teaches people how to change their behavior and thinking patterns. Therapy is often coupled with medication, which can help lessen the effects of the disorder.
Social support groups are beneficial to a lot of adult ADHD patients. The opportunity to share their experiences with other people who are experiencing similar struggles can be a great source of encouragement and inspiration. A few of these groups are accessible online and are available to anyone with ADHD. Some groups are specifically for groups, such as African Americans with ADHD, couples afflicted by the disorder or those who identify as gay or lesbian.
Some people may experience feelings of shame or embarrassment over their condition, which could hinder their willingness to seek help. However, a doctor should explain that ADHD is not an indication of insufficiency or failure.