Adult ADHD Diagnosis
A diagnosis of adult ADHD can be the first step in getting treatment for some people. They may be unhappy in their work, social or home lives due to symptoms like fidgeting, ignoring things or interrupting others.
Being diagnosed with ADHD as an adult usually means going through an extensive evaluation that includes interviewing the individual and their family members using standardized tests and rating scales. This usually involves a physical examination.
Symptoms
For many adults, the diagnosis of ADHD can be life-changing. It can help them understand why they have struggled so long and understand their past decisions. It can also provide hope for an improved future. If you're experiencing difficulty in locating your keys, feeling that you'll never complete your task or are called unreliable or lazy getting a diagnosis is the first step towards finding the treatment that works for you.
The majority of adults experience symptoms across different areas of their lives but certain areas are more prominent than others. They may be indecisive and unfocused at school, but have difficulty with keeping up at work. They might forget appointments or have difficulty estimating how long they will need to complete their tasks. They may be unable to make friends or fighting with their spouses frequently. If these problems are severe they could affect the daily routine and can lead to depression or anxiousness.
While it's important to consider the possibility of being diagnosed with ADHD but it's equally important to look at the other factors contributing to the symptoms. Stress, mental health conditions, and certain medications can cause symptoms that are similar to those of ADHD. To ensure that the underlying problem is resolved, a thorough evaluation by a specialist is required.
Adults with ADHD do not exhibit the same symptoms of hyperactivity that children do. Hyperactivity is more subtle and is manifested as fidgeting or a difficulty in sitting. Women who suffer from ADHD tend to display these signs more frequently, as they can hide their inattentive behaviors at work and in social lives.
During the examination, the doctor will review the patient's medical history and how their symptoms impact their daily lives. They will also ask about family history and when possible, ask a family member their perspective on childhood behaviors. They may also perform the neuropsychological, psychological or learning disabilities testing. In some instances, a physical exam may be needed to rule out illnesses which may resemble the symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosis
It is crucial for adults who believe they might have ADHD to discuss their symptoms with a medical provider, particularly if their issues are related to school or work. Primary care providers can refer patients to mental health professionals who have experience in adult ADHD assessments. Those professionals should be willing to provide information regarding their level of training and experience working with adults with ADHD, Hamdani says. Hamdani says that anyone who is unwilling to share this information should be treated with suspicion.
Being diagnosed with adult ADHD can be a life-changing event. For some, it gives a reason for years of frustrations and self-criticism. Some people are relieved that they have an explanation for their difficulties in life or that they weren't "just in their heads."
Adults who suffer from ADHD are diagnosed through a thorough interview with a professional. This will include a review of the person's personal medical, family, and background. The professional will also ask the person to rate their behavior using one or several different ADHD scales for behavioral assessment. These ratings are based upon research that compared the behavior of people suffering from ADHD and those who don't have the disorder.
The person will be questioned about their symptoms and how they impact their 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. Common comorbidities associated with ADHD include depression, anxiety disorders and alcohol or drug abuse. Some experts believe that these comorbidities are maladaptive strategies for dealing with the frustrations of untreated ADHD.
It is also important to remember that ADHD is more prevalent in men than women, and it may be difficult for many people who suffer from the disorder to be diagnosed due persistent prejudices regarding the symptoms and the impact they have on men versus women. Some women are able to hide their symptoms better and this can lead to delay diagnosis or an incorrect diagnosis.
Treatment
Adults who receive a diagnosis of ADHD may find it helpful to speak with a mental health professional, especially one with experience in treating adults with ADHD. The professional can help teach adult strategies for managing their symptoms and improve their performance at home, at work or at school. They can also help adults learn to understand why their behavior is different and what triggers it.
A mental health professional must thoroughly evaluate an adult as they could have other disorders similar to ADHD. This could include a detailed description of the person's symptoms along with questionnaires and scales that are completed by the person who is being evaluated and by other people who know them well, a full psychiatric history and family medical history, and an exhaustive physical exam.
It is essential to conduct a thorough assessment in order to determine if the adult suffers from a comorbid condition such as anxiety or depression. These conditions can worsen ADHD symptoms and make treatment more difficult. A mental health professional may also perform cognitive or neurological tests to determine how the brain works and to rule out any other causes, including an illness of the body or a learning disabilities.
Adults suffering from ADHD are usually treated through psychotherapy (psychotherapy) and educational programs. Adults can benefit from individual talk therapy to boost their self-esteem and cope with the emotional burdens that come with ADHD. Behavioral therapies may also improve time management, organization and impulse control. They also can address the impact stressors have on an individual's abilities to perform.
Certain people with ADHD might benefit from group therapy. This kind of therapy gives you the opportunity to meet people who face similar issues and discuss how to overcome them. These groups are usually organized by a support or advocacy group.
Many adults with ADHD are treated with medication. There are a variety of medications available including stimulants (such as methylphenidate sold under the name Ritalin) which increase the levels of norepinephrine in the brain. Antidepressants and the antipsychotic drug Wellbutrin (Bupropion) help regulate moods and decrease impulsive behavior. Your Mercy doctor can discuss all of your treatment options with you.
Support
Many adults diagnosed with ADHD suffer from the disorder for a long time without realizing it. The frustration of everyday problems such as forgetting appointments, making careless mistakes at work or breaking family or friendship commitments can lead them to seek an assessment. People often feel relieved when they receive an answer to their questions.
A mental health professional can perform an assessment for ADHD however an primary care physician is typically the best place to begin. If necessary, the doctor can refer the patient to an expert. A psychiatrist, psychiatric nurse or psychologist may also be able to assess ADHD in adults. Many insurance plans include professionals by specialty and can help people find the right health professional who is experienced in ADHD in adults.
During the examination the mental health professional will ask about the person's past issues, as well as how ADHD symptoms have affected them. It's crucial to be honest and forthcoming during the assessment, so that the mental healthcare professional can make an accurate assessment.
Therapy, or psychotherapy can help people learn to manage their issues and improve their relationships. Behavioral therapy, for instance cognitive behavioral therapy, helps people develop specific skills to change their patterns of thinking and behavior. Therapy is often paired with medication, which can help to reduce the effects of the disorder.
adhd uk diagnosis can be beneficial to many adult ADHD patients. Having the chance to discuss their experiences with other people who have similar struggles can be a great source of encouragement and inspiration. Some of these groups are based online and are open to anyone who has ADHD. Some groups are geared towards specific populations such as African Americans who have ADHD or couples who are affected by the disorder, or those who identify as gay or lesbian.
There are people who experience feelings of shame or embarrassment about their symptoms, which can hinder their desire to seek assistance. A health professional should explain to the patient that ADHD is not a weakness or failure.