Adult Diagnosis of ADHD
A diagnosis of ADHD can change the life of adults who suffer from the disorder. It can help people to understand the reasons they struggle with relationships, work, and family.
However it can be a challenge to get a diagnosis as symptoms are often overlapping with other ailments. A health care provider or mental health professional will examine the patient and run tests.
Symptoms
It is possible that a person doesn't realize they have ADHD until they reach the age of adulthood. It could be because parents and teachers did not detect the signs at an earlier time or because work or college demands caused the disorder to be revealed. Adults with ADHD who are not treated suffer in their academic, social and work lives. Many people who are not diagnosed with ADHD experience a variety of problems, such as problems with relationships and financial problems.
A mental health professional will review and interview the patient's medical, mental health and personal history, paying particular attention to the symptoms in different situations. The patient will be asked to describe how these symptoms affect his or her daily life and relationships. It is important that the patient is open about these symptoms and that he or she do not shy away due to feelings of shame or embarrassment.
It is also essential for the mental health professional to determine whether these symptoms are related to comorbid disorders such as anxiety or depression, which often coexist with ADHD. These conditions often make the symptoms of ADHD worse and can hinder effective treatment for the disorder.
If the psychiatrist or psychology believes that the symptoms are affected by comorbid disorders 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 that these conditions cause. The mental health professional may also conduct interviews with other important people such as spouses and siblings, to get a full picture of how the person is doing.
Diagnosis
For adults the diagnosis of ADHD is usually made by a mental health specialist or doctor who conducts a thorough diagnostic assessment. This includes a detailed analysis of the symptoms and how they affect daily functioning. It also includes the presence of any other mental disorders that can occur with ADHD, such depression and anxiety. The doctor might also ask to speak to significant others like a spouse or close family friend, in order for them get more details.
Getting a proper diagnosis of ADHD in adulthood can be a life-changing moment. For many adults, this diagnosis finally gives them an explanation for what has always seemed to be "normal" behavior. It is often a relief to know that they're not just naive or forgetful or incompetent; their issues 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 standard is designed to ensure that individuals get the support and treatment they require. To qualify for an ADHD diagnosis, the person must have been suffering from the symptoms for at least 12 consecutive months and they must cause significant impairment in multiple settings, including home, school, or work; with friends or family; or with other activities. For adults who are 17 or older the number of needed symptoms has been reduced to five, from the six that are needed for children under age 12 years old.
A good relationship with your primary care provider can be beneficial in identifying ADHD. Many doctors routinely diagnose and treat ADHD in children, and can provide a referral to an expert in mental health who is able to perform an assessment of adults.
Treatment
When a person with ADHD is diagnosed, their life may change dramatically. They can finally have some explanations for failures in school or a struggle to find a career or relationship problems. A diagnosis can ease the guilt that has accumulated for certain people over time.
The first step in getting an accurate diagnosis is to talk to a doctor or mental health professional. They may ask questions about family history and do physical examinations to rule out conditions which could trigger symptoms that are similar to ADHD or other disorders, such as sleeping disorders, learning disabilities or alcohol/drug use. They may also ask the patient to complete a rating scale checklist of symptoms.
During the process of assessment, a doctor may ask to interview a spouse or partner. This helps the non-ADHD spouse or partner develop an accurate understanding and empathetic attitude toward their loved one's ADHD symptoms which is crucial in improving relationships after the diagnosis. If this is not feasible, the clinician can interview acquaintances or colleagues who are familiar with the person.
Adults suffering from ADHD are treated primarily by medications. Adult ADHD is treated using stimulants such as methylphenidate, Adderall, and dextroamphetamine. Other medications such as atomoxetine (Strattera(r),) and Guanfacine (Intuniv (r) Tenex (r)), increase the amount of norepinephrine found in the brain. These medications can improve ADHD symptoms.
Psychotherapy is a different option. Cognitive-behavioral therapies can assist patients learn skills to manage their ADHD symptoms. These include time management, self-regulation strategies, organizing strategies of emotions and behaviors and coping strategies for negative feelings and self criticism. Other therapies, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps adults identify the automatic thoughts or irrational thoughts that can lead to negative behavior and to develop positive self-talk.
Medication
Many people have found that ADHD medications can help improve their symptoms. This medication typically comes in the form of a stimulant and works by increasing the activity of brain regions that regulate behavior and attention. Methylphenidate is the most commonly used medication for adults with ADHD and is available in various forms. It is available in immediate-release tablets as well as modified-release tablet forms that release the medication throughout the day. Clonidine is a different kind of medication that works by reducing brain activity. It is available in pill or liquid form.
The therapist or psychiatrist will examine the medical and family history of the adult patient in order to determine factors that may cause similar symptoms. This is crucial because some medical conditions like seizure disorders and thyroid problems can cause symptoms that are similar to the symptoms of ADHD. Some medications and dietary supplement may also cause similar symptoms.
During the evaluation it is likely that the person will be asked to describe their ADHD symptoms to a therapist or psychiatrist. They will be asked to fill out the standardized ADHD rating scales and check lists as well as full psychological tests that assess executive functioning, working memory (abilities such as planning and decision-making) spatial and visual capabilities, as well as reasoning skills.
If the therapist is of the opinion that ADHD symptoms are affecting the quality of life of a person, he or she will suggest treatment. In some instances, the therapist will ask the individual's partner or spouse to talk with them regarding the effects of the symptoms on their relationship. This will help decrease blame between individuals and can lead to more positive, healthier relationships.
Counseling
Receiving a diagnosis is a great relief for many adults suffering from ADHD. It's a chance to comprehend the reason why they face difficulties at school or at work, and learn how to overcome these issues. It's also a chance to overcome negative habits and increase confidence in themselves.
Counseling can be a wonderful method of helping you create a strong support system. Counseling for ADHD can include psychological (or psychotherapy) therapy and a variety of behavioral interventions. A therapist might create a chart that rewards positive behavior and imposes penalties for negative behaviors. The adhddiagnosis.top therapist could also guide the patient on techniques to manage their symptoms, such as relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditative yoga poses.
Counseling can also help people accept and understand their ADHD. It's not easy to admit you have problems with organizing, planning and paying attention. It can even be embarrassing to tell co-workers and supervisors about your ADHD. However, the majority of bosses and teachers will be willing to make accommodations for your situation. For example, they might allow you to make use of a computer to write assignments instead of writing on paper and give more in-depth explanations of the material in class.
The therapist will also show you how to cope with ADHD through cognitive behavioral therapy. It is a structured form of therapy that helps you transform negative behaviours and thoughts into positive ones. Counseling for ADHD may also include family or marital therapy. This teaches loved-ones how to communicate better and resolve problems with someone who has ADHD. People suffering from ADHD may also suffer from other mental disorders such depression or anxiety and could also have substance abuse problems.