Adult Diagnosis of ADHD
For adults who struggle with ADHD the diagnosis can have a profound impact on their lives. It can help people discover the reason for their struggles at work, at home and in their relationships.
It can be difficult to diagnose because symptoms often overlap. A health care provider or mental health professional will evaluate the patient and run tests.
Signs and symptoms
One may not even be aware they have ADHD until they reach the age of adulthood or perhaps because teachers and parents were not aware of the symptoms earlier or because the demands of college or work life brought out the disorder. Adults with ADHD who aren't treated suffer in their academic, social and professional lives. Undiagnosed ADHD can lead to a wide range of issues including relationship problems as well as financial issues.
In order to diagnose ADHD A mental health professional will talk to the patient and review his or her personal, medical and psychiatric history, with particular attention paid to symptoms in various situations. The patient will discuss the symptoms and how they affect their daily functioning and their relationships. It is crucial that patients are open 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 connected to other comorbidities such as anxiety or depression, which often coexist with ADHD. These conditions often make the symptoms of ADHD worse, and they can also hinder the effective treatment of the disorder.
If the psychologist or psychiatrist believes that the symptoms are being affected by comorbid conditions such as neuropsychological disorders, or psychological disorders, then additional testing can be used to establish an accurate diagnosis. These tests can also be used to determine the extent of impairment in function that these conditions cause. The mental health professional will also conduct interviews with other important people, such as spouses or siblings, to get a full picture of how the person is functioning.
Diagnosis
Adults are diagnosed with ADHD by a mental healthcare professional or physician after an exhaustive assessment. This includes a detailed analysis of the symptoms and their impact on the daily activities. It also considers the presence of any other mental disorders that may co-exist with ADHD, such depression and anxiety. The doctor might also ask to speak to your significant others, such as your spouse or a close family friend to collect more information.
A diagnosis of ADHD can alter your life. For many adults, this diagnosis finally gives them an explanation for what always seemed like "normal" behavior. It is often a relief knowing that they're not simply naive or oblivious and their issues 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 is a standard set to ensure that people receive the help and treatment they require. To be eligible for an ADHD diagnosis, the person must have been suffering from the symptoms for at least 12 months and they must have caused significant impairment in several settings, including school, home, or work; with friends or family or in other activities. The number of symptoms required for adults older than 17 has been reduced from six to five.
A good relationship with your primary healthcare provider can help you identify ADHD. Many doctors diagnose and treat ADHD in children and refer you to an expert in mental health to assess adults.
Treatment
If people suffering from ADHD get a diagnosis their lives may change drastically. They may finally have reasons for their school failures or a struggle to find an occupation or a relationship. A diagnosis can ease the guilt that has been accumulating for some people over time.
The first step in getting a diagnosis is to talk to a health care professional or mental health professional. They can inquire about family history and perform an examination to rule out conditions that can cause symptoms that are similar to ADHD, such as sleep disorders, learning disabilities or alcohol/drug abuse. They can also ask the patient to fill out a checklist of symptoms.
During the assessment process, a doctor may ask to speak with the spouse or partner. This helps the non ADHD spouse or partner develop an understanding of their loved one's ADHD and a compassionate attitude towards the symptoms. This is essential for improving relationships after diagnosis. If this isn't possible the clinician may interview colleagues or friends who are familiar with the person.
Medications are the main treatment options for adults suffering from ADHD. Adult ADHD is treated with stimulants like methylphenidate, Adderall and dextroamphetamine. Other medications, such as Atomoxetine (Strattera(r),) and guanfacine, (Intuniv (r), Tenex (r)), increase the amount of norepinephrine that is produced in the brain. These medications can improve ADHD symptoms.
Psychotherapy also is an alternative. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a way to teach patients techniques to manage their ADHD symptoms, including time management and strategies for organizing, self-regulation of emotions and behavior, and coping with self-criticism and negative feelings. Other therapies, like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy can help adults recognize automatic or irrational thoughts that lead to negative behavior and learn ways to overcome them using positive self-talk.
Medication
Many people find that ADHD medication can improve their symptoms. This medication typically comes in the form of a stimulant and is effective by boosting activity in brain areas that regulate behavior and attention. Methylphenidate is the most popular medication used by adults suffering from ADHD is available in a variety of forms. It is available as immediate-release tablets as well as modified-release tablet forms that release the medication throughout the day. Clonidine is a different type of medication that works by reducing brain activity. It is available in liquid or pill form.
If treating adult patients suffering from ADHD the doctor or therapist undiagnosed adult adhd will review the person's family and medical history to identify causes that could cause similar symptoms as ADHD. This is crucial, since certain medical conditions such as thyroid problems and seizures can cause symptoms that are similar to ADHD. Some medications and dietary supplement can also cause similar signs.
During the evaluation, the individual will likely be asked to describe their ADHD symptoms to a therapist or psychiatrist. They will be asked to fill out standard ADHD rating scales and check lists and full psychological tests that assess executive functioning, working memory (abilities like planning and decision-making), visual and spatial abilities, and reasoning skills.
If the therapist or psychiatrist believes that the symptoms of ADHD are seriously affecting the life of a person they will suggest treatment with medication. In certain instances the therapist might ask the patient's partner or spouse to speak with them about the impact of their ADHD symptoms on their relationship. This will help reduce blame between people and can lead to better, more productive relationships.
Counseling
Many adults with ADHD find relief in receiving the diagnosis. It gives them a chance to understand the reasons for their problems at school or work and to learn how to overcome these issues. It's also an opportunity to alter negative behavior and increase self-esteem.
A solid support system is essential for success and counseling can assist. Counseling for ADHD can include psychological (or psychotherapy) therapy and a range of behavioral interventions. For example the therapist could create a reward chart that rewards positive behavior and imposes consequences for negative behavior. The therapist may also instruct the patient on techniques to manage their symptoms, like relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or yoga postures.
Another benefit of counseling is helping people comprehend and accept their ADHD. It's not always easy to admit that you're having problems with attention or planning and organizing. It is embarrassing to admit that you suffer from ADHD to co-workers or supervisors. However, most bosses and teachers will be willing to make accommodations to accommodate your needs. For example, they might permit you to make use of a computer to write assignments instead of writing on paper and give more in-depth explanations of classroom material.
The therapist will also show you how to manage ADHD using cognitive therapy for behavioral disorders. It is a method of therapy that assists you in changing negative behaviours and thoughts into positive ones. Counseling for ADHD can also include marital or family therapy. This helps loved ones learn to communicate more effectively and solve issues with someone suffering from ADHD. People who suffer from ADHD often have other mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety, and they may be afflicted by substance abuse and addiction, which can make their symptoms worse.