Adult ADHD Diagnosis
For some people who are diagnosed with adult ADHD is the first step toward getting treatment. They may be frustrated at work, at homes, or even in their social life because of symptoms like being distracted or forgetting things.
Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD will often undergo a thorough evaluation, which includes interviews with the family members and themselves and using standardized tests. The evaluation usually includes physical examination.
Symptoms
A diagnosis of ADHD may change the course of many adults' lives. It can help them understand why they've been struggling for so long and help them understand their past choices. It can also provide them with hope for an improved future. If you're struggling to find your keys, feel like you're not able to finish your work, or are being labeled lazy or irresponsible, or have been accused of being lazy or irresponsible, Then a diagnosis will help you find the right treatment for you.
For the majority of adults, signs appear in several areas of their lives and are more prevalent in one place than the other. They may be restless and impulsive at school, but are unable to keep up at work. They may forget to keep appointments or underestimate the amount of time required to complete their tasks. They may have difficulty making friends or argue with their spouses frequently. If these issues are serious they may affect daily living and lead to depression or anxiety.
It is crucial to identify ADHD, but it's also important to identify other factors might be contributing to symptoms. Stress, mental health conditions and certain medications can cause symptoms similar to those of ADHD. A thorough examination by a qualified professional is required to be sure that the issue is being treated.
Adults with ADHD do not exhibit the same symptoms of hyperactivity that children do. Instead, the symptoms of hyperactivity manifest more subtly, such as fidgeting or difficulty sitting still in the chair. Women who suffer from ADHD are more likely to show these symptoms, as they are more likely to hide their inattention at work and in social life.
During an assessment the doctor will go over the patient's medical history and consider the ways in which their ailments affect their daily life. They will also ask for information about the family and, if they are able, ask a family member for their opinion on childhood behavior. They may also perform psychological, neuropsychological or learning disabilities tests. In some cases, it may be necessary to undergo an examination physical to rule out certain illnesses that may mimic the symptoms associated with ADHD.
Diagnosis
Adults who suspect they have ADHD should discuss their symptoms with their doctor. This is especially important if the problems are related to school or work. Primary care providers can refer individuals to mental health professionals who specialize in adult ADHD assessments and treatment. Hamdani says that professionals who deal with adults suffering from ADHD should be willing and able to share information about their training and experiences. Anyone who isn't willing to share this information will be regarded with suspicion Hamdani says.
The diagnosis of adult ADHD can be a life-changing experience. For some, it finally gives a reason for years of frustration and self-criticism. Others feel a sense of relief that there's an explanation for the struggles they've faced in their lives, or that their struggles weren't simply "in their head."
In most cases, an adult with ADHD will be diagnosed by conducting a thorough interview with a qualified professional. This may include a thorough review of the patient's medical, family, and personal background. The doctor will also ask the person to rate their behavior on one or more of the different ADHD ratings for behavior. These ratings are from research that compares the behavior of people suffering from ADHD to those of people who don't have the disorder.
The person will also be asked about how the symptoms 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. Depression, anxiety disorders, and drug or alcohol use are common comorbidities of ADHD. Some experts believe that these comorbidities result from maladaptive strategies for dealing with the stress and frustrations that come with untreated ADHD.
IamPsychiatry is important to recognize that ADHD is more prevalent in women than men. Many people with the disorder may struggle to be diagnosed because of the long-standing prejudices regarding the symptoms of the disorder and how they affect both men and women. Some women can mask their symptoms better and this can lead to a delayed diagnosis or an inaccurate diagnosis.
Treatment
Adults who receive a diagnosis of ADHD might find it beneficial to consult an expert in mental health, especially one with expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD. The professional can help teach adult strategies for managing their symptoms and improve their performance at work, home or school. They can also assist adults recognize the reasons behind their behavior and what triggers it.
Because a person may have several disorders that can cause similar symptoms to the symptoms of ADHD It is essential for an expert in mental health to thoroughly examine the adult. This could include a thorough description of the person's symptoms along with questionnaires and scales that are completed by the client and other people who know him or her well, a complete medical history of the family and a psychiatric history, as well as an exhaustive physical exam.
A thorough evaluation is also crucial to determine if the adult suffers from a comorbid disorder, such as depression or anxiety. These conditions can increase ADHD symptoms and make treatment more difficult. A mental health professional may also perform cognitive or neurological tests to assess the way that the brain functions and to rule out other causes, like a physical illness or learning disability.
Treatment options for adults suffering from ADHD typically include psychological counseling (psychotherapy) and educational programs. Adults may benefit from individual talk therapy to boost their self-esteem as well as deal with the emotional baggage associated with ADHD. Behavioral therapies can help improve efficiency, time management and impulse control, and could tackle the impact of stressors on a person's ability to function.
Certain people who suffer from ADHD benefit from group therapy. This type of therapy can offer the opportunity to connect with other people who have the same difficulties and discuss ways to overcome them. These groups are often organized by a support group or an advocacy group.
Medication is also an option for a lot of adults suffering from ADHD. There are many medications available, including stimulants that increase the levels of norepinephrine as well as dopamine in the brain (for instance, methylphenidate that is marketed as Ritalin). Antidepressants and the antipsychotic drug Wellbutrin (Bupropion) can help control moods and decrease impulse-driven behavior. Your Mercy doctor can discuss all of your treatment options with you.
Support
Many adults diagnosed with ADHD live with the disorder for a long time without knowing it. They may seek an evaluation because they are annoyed by daily challenges like forgetting appointments and making mistakes at work, or ignoring commitments to friends and family. People often feel relieved when they receive an answer to their questions.
A mental health professional may perform an ADHD assessment, but the primary doctor is usually an excellent starting point. The doctor can also refer the patient to a specialist when needed. A psychiatrist, psychiatric nurse or psychologist might also be able to evaluate ADHD in adults. Many insurance plans list professionals according to their specialties. This can help people locate an expert in health care who is experienced in treating ADHD in adults.
During the assessment the mental health professional will inquire about the person's previous issues, 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 is able to conduct a thorough evaluation.
Psychotherapy, also known as psychological counseling, can help people manage their symptoms and improve their relationships. Behavioral therapy, also known as cognitive behavioral therapy teaches people how to change their behavior and patterns of thinking. Therapy is often combined with medication, which can to reduce the effects of the disorder.
Many adults ADHD patients benefit from social support groups. Being able to share their experiences with others who have similar struggles can be a source of motivation and inspiration. Some of these groups are online and are open to anyone who suffers from ADHD. Other groups are for specific populations, such as African Americans with ADHD, couples impacted by the disorder or those who identify as gay or lesbian.
Some people may be embarrassed or ashamed of their symptoms. This can make them reluctant to seek help. However, a healthcare professional must explain that ADHD is not an indication of insufficiency or failure.