Adult ADHD Diagnosis
A diagnosis of adult ADHD can be the first step to getting treatment for some people. They may be frustrated at work, at homes or in their social life due to symptoms such as being distracted or forgetting things.
Getting diagnosed with ADHD as an adult usually means going through an extensive assessment that involves interviewing the person and their family members, using standard tests and rating scales. It typically includes a physical exam, as well.
Signs and symptoms
A diagnosis of ADHD could alter the course of many adults' lives. It can help adults recognize the reasons they've struggled with for so long and help them make sense of their previous choices. It may also inspire them to look forward to an improved future. If you're experiencing difficulty in locating your keys, feeling like you can never complete your task or are called unreliable or lazy getting a diagnosis is the first step to finding the right treatment for you.
For the majority of adults, signs are present in a variety of areas of their lives. They are more common in one area than the other. They may be impulsive and unfocused at school, but have difficulty to keep up with work. They might forget to make appointments or underestimate the amount of time required to complete their work. They may struggle to make friends or argue with their spouses frequently. If the issues are severe they may affect daily living and lead to anxiety or depression.
It's crucial to recognize ADHD, but it's also crucial to determine what other factors could be contributing to symptoms. Stress, mental health problems, and certain medications are typically the cause of symptoms that are similar. A thorough evaluation by a trained professional is necessary to make sure that the root cause is being treated.
Unlike children, adults with ADHD do not show the more obvious symptoms of hyperactivity. Instead, the signs of hyperactivity present themselves more subtly, such as fidgeting or a difficulty sitting in the chair. Women with ADHD are more likely to exhibit these symptoms, as they are more able to hide their inattentive behavior in their jobs and social interactions.
During the exam, 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, interview a family member to get their perspective on childhood behaviors. They may also conduct neuropsychological, psycho-psychological or testing for learning disabilities. In some cases it might be necessary to perform a physical examination in order to rule out specific illnesses which can mimic the symptoms that are associated with ADHD.
Diagnosis
Adults who believe they have ADHD should discuss their symptoms with their health care provider. This is especially important if the problems are related to school or work. Primary care providers can refer patients to mental health professionals who have expertise in adult ADHD evaluations. Hamdani says that professionals who work with adults with ADHD should be able and willing to provide information regarding their training and experience. Hamdani suggests that anyone who is unwilling to disclose this information should be treated as suspicious.
Being diagnosed with adult ADHD can be a life-changing event. It can provide a reason for years of frustration and self-criticism for some. Some people are relieved that they have an explanation for their difficulties in life, or that they weren't "just in their minds."
In the majority of cases, an adult with ADHD will receive a diagnosis through a comprehensive interview with a professional who is qualified. This will include a review the person's medical, family, and personal history. Additionally, adhd diagnosis uk adults will likely ask the individual to rate his or her behaviors using one or more of the standard ADHD behavior scales. These ratings are basing on research that compares behaviors of people with ADHD to those of people who do not have the disorder.
The person will be questioned about their symptoms and how they impact 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.
Comorbidities are often present in people who have been diagnosed as having adult ADHD. Common comorbidities associated with ADHD include depression, anxiety disorders and drug or alcohol abuse. Some experts suggest that these co-morbidities are maladaptive strategies to cope with the frustrations commonly associated with untreated ADHD.
It's important to remember that ADHD is more prevalent in males than females. Many people suffering from the disorder might struggle to be diagnosed because of the long-standing prejudices regarding the symptoms of the disorder and how they affect men and women. Some women are able to hide their symptoms more effectively and can lead to delay diagnosis or an inaccurate diagnosis.
Treatment
Adults who are diagnosed of ADHD may find it helpful to speak with an expert in mental health who has expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD. The specialist can instruct the adult behavior strategies to manage their symptoms and improve their performance at home, work or school. They can also help adults understand why their behavior differs and what triggers them.
Since a person could have several disorders that cause similar symptoms to the symptoms of ADHD It is crucial for a mental health professional to thoroughly examine the adult. This could include a thorough description and scales filled out by the patient or other individuals who know him/her, a psychiatric and family history, as well as an extensive physical examination.
A thorough assessment is important for determining whether the adult has a comorbid condition, such as depression or anxiety. These conditions can exacerbate ADHD symptoms and make treatment more difficult. A mental health professional may also perform cognitive or neurological tests to assess how the brain functions and to rule out other causes, including an illness that affects the body or a learning disability.
Treatment options for adults with ADHD typically include counseling for psychological issues (psychotherapy) and educational programs. Individual therapy can help an adult build confidence in themselves and cope with the emotional baggage that often comes with the diagnosis of ADHD. Behavioral therapies can help improve efficiency, time management and impulse control and may address the impact of stressors on a person's ability to perform.
Some people with ADHD can benefit from group therapy. This type of therapy may provide an opportunity to meet others who face similar difficulties and discuss ways to overcome them. These groups are usually run by groups of support or an advocacy group.
Many adults suffering from ADHD can be treated with medication. There are a variety of medications available, including stimulants that increase the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain (for instance, methylphenidate which is also known as Ritalin). Others aid in managing mood and reduce impulsive behaviors, like antidepressants or the anti-psychotic drug bupropion (Wellbutrin). Your Mercy doctor can discuss all treatment options with you.
Support
Adults suffering from ADHD may have the disorder for a long time without even realizing it. They may seek an assessment because they are frustrated by everyday challenges such as forgetting appointments, making mistakes at work, or neglecting family and friendship commitments. It's normal for these people to feel a sense relief after receiving an diagnosis, particularly when they realize the reason they've been struggling all their lives.
A mental health professional can perform an assessment for ADHD however the primary care physician is usually the best place to begin. The doctor may also refer the person to a specialist when needed. A psychiatric nursing, psychiatrist or psychologist can also assess ADHD in adults. A lot of insurance plans have professionals by specialty and can assist people in finding an expert in health care who is familiar with ADHD in adults.
During the assessment, a mental health professional will ask about the person's past problems and also how ADHD symptoms have affected them. It's important to talk openly and honestly during the evaluation so that the mental health professional can conduct a thorough evaluation.
Therapy, also known as psychotherapy, can help people learn to manage their problems and improve their relationships. Behavioral therapy, for instance cognitive behavioral therapy, teaches people specific techniques to alter their patterns of thinking and behavior. The combination of therapy and medication can help reduce the symptoms of the disorder.
Social support groups can be beneficial to a lot of adults ADHD patients. The opportunity to share their experiences with others who are experiencing similar struggles can be a source of inspiration and encouragement. Some of these groups are online and are open to anyone who has ADHD. Some groups are specifically for groups, like African Americans with ADHD, couples affected by the disorder, or people who identify as gay or lesbian.
Some people may experience feelings of shame or embarrassment regarding their condition, which could make it difficult for them to seek assistance. However, a healthcare professional must explain that ADHD is not an indication of weakness or failure.