Adult ADHD Diagnosis
For some being diagnosed with adult ADHD is the first step towards treatment. They may feel frustrated at work, in their homes or even in their social life due to signs such as fidgeting or ignoring things.
Getting diagnosed with ADHD as an adult often requires a thorough evaluation that involves interviewing the individual and their family members, using standard tests and rating scales. It often includes physical examination.
Symptoms
A diagnosis of ADHD can alter the course of many adult lives. It can help them understand why they have been struggling for so long and help them understand their past decisions. It can also provide hope for the future to be brighter. If you're struggling to find your keys, feel like you're not able to finish your work or you're being labelled lazy or irresponsible or you have been accused of being lazy or irresponsible and need a diagnosis, then a diagnosis can aid you in finding the best treatment for you.
For most adults, symptoms are present in a variety of areas of their lives. Some are more prevalent in one place than the other. They may be restless and impulsive in school, but struggle to keep up with work. They may forget appointments or have trouble estimating how long they will need to complete tasks. They might have difficulty making friends or engage in frequent arguments with their spouses. If these problems are severe they can interfere with daily life and lead to depression or anxiousness.
While it's essential to consider the possibility of being diagnosed with ADHD but it's equally important to look at the other factors that are causing the symptoms. Stress, other mental health issues and medications can cause symptoms that are similar to the symptoms of ADHD. A thorough examination by a qualified professional is essential to make sure that the issue is being treated.
Adults with ADHD do not exhibit the same signs of hyperactivity as children. Instead, the symptoms of hyperactivity present themselves more subtly as fidgeting or a difficulty sitting in chairs. Women with ADHD are more likely to display these symptoms, as they are more likely to conceal their inattention within their work and social lives.
During an evaluation 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 about family history, and should they be able to interview a family member for their perspectives on childhood behavior. They can also conduct the neuropsychological, psychological or learning disabilities testing. In adhd uk diagnosis might be necessary to undergo a physical examination in order to rule out specific illnesses that may mimic the symptoms associated with ADHD.
Diagnosis
It is essential for adults who think they may have ADHD to discuss their symptoms with a medical specialist, especially if the issues stem from work or school. Primary care providers may refer patients to mental health professionals with expertise in adult ADHD assessments. Hamdani states that professionals who work with adults suffering from ADHD should be willing and able to share information about their training and experience. adhd diagnosis uk adults suggests that anyone who is unwilling to disclose such information should be viewed with suspicion.
A diagnosis of adult ADHD can be a life-changing event. It provides an explanation to years of frustration and self-criticism for some. Some people are happy that they have a reason for their problems in life or that they weren't "just in their heads."
Adults with ADHD are diagnosed through a thorough interview with a professional. This may include a thorough review of the patient's medical background, family and personal background. In addition, the professional will likely request the person to rate their behaviors on one or more of the standardized ADHD behavior rating scales. These ratings are from research that compares the behavior of people with ADHD to those of people who don't have the disorder.
The person will also be asked if the symptoms affect their lives. 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 among those who have been diagnosed with adult ADHD. Common comorbidities that are associated with ADHD include anxiety disorders, depression and alcohol or drug abuse. Some experts believe that these comorbidities are a result of maladaptive strategies for dealing with the stress and frustrations that come with untreated ADHD.
It's also important to note that ADHD is more prevalent in males than women, and it can be difficult for those who suffer from the disorder to be diagnosed due to long-held prejudices about the symptoms and their impact on men and women. Women may be able to mask their symptoms more effectively, which can lead them to a delayed diagnosis or an incorrect diagnosis.
Treatment
It can be beneficial for those who have been diagnosed with ADHD to speak with a mental healthcare professional that has experience treating adults with ADHD. The person who treats adults can teach them behavioral strategies to help them manage their symptoms, and improve their performance in the workplace, at school or at home. They can also help adults understand the reasons behind their behavior and what triggers it.
A mental health professional must take a thorough look at an adult's health for other disorders that are similar to ADHD. This may 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 him or her well, a full medical history of the family and a psychiatric history, and a thorough physical examination.
It is essential to conduct a thorough assessment in order to determine if the adult suffers from a co-occurring disorder such as depression or anxiety. These conditions can cause the symptoms of ADHD and make treatment more difficult. A mental health professional may also perform cognitive or neuropsychological tests to examine how the brain functions and identify other causes for the problems, such as the presence of a learning impairment or physical illness.
Treatment options for adults with ADHD typically involve psychological counseling (psychotherapy) and educational programs. Adults are able to benefit from individual therapy to boost their self-esteem as well as deal with the emotional burdens that come with ADHD. Behavioral therapies can also help improve time management and control of impulses. They also can tackle the effects that stressors affect an individual's ability to perform.
Certain people who suffer from ADHD benefit from group therapy. This kind of therapy can offer the opportunity to connect with other people who have the same issues and discuss strategies to overcome these challenges. These groups are usually organized by a support or advocacy group.
The use of medication is also an option for many adults suffering from ADHD. There are a variety of medications available which include stimulants that boost the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain (for instance, methylphenidate which is sold as Ritalin). Antidepressants and the antipsychotic drug Wellbutrin (Bupropion) aid in regulating moods and reduce impulsive behavior. Your Mercy doctor will discuss all of your treatment options with you.
Support
Adults suffering from ADHD may suffer from the disorder for a long time without even realizing it. Frustration with everyday challenges such as forgetting appointments, making careless mistakes at work, or abandoning family or friend commitments can cause them to seek an evaluation. People often feel relieved when they are given an answer to their questions.
A mental health professional is able to conduct an evaluation for ADHD however, the primary care physician is usually an ideal place to begin. If necessary, the doctor can refer the patient to an expert. A psychiatric nursing, psychiatrist or psychologist can also assess ADHD in adults. Many insurance plans list professionals according to their specialties, which can help people locate a health care provider that is experienced in treating ADHD among adults.
During the examination the mental health professional will inquire about the person's past issues, as well as how ADHD symptoms have affected them. It is essential to be open and truthfully during the evaluation so that the mental health professional can complete a thorough assessment.
Therapy, or psychotherapy can assist people in learning to manage their symptoms and improve relationships. Behavioral therapy, also known as cognitive behavioral therapy, teaches people how to modify their behavior and thinking patterns. The combination of therapy and medication can reduce the symptoms of the disorder.
Social support groups are beneficial for many adult ADHD patients. The chance to share their experiences with others who have similar struggles can provide a lot of inspiration and motivation. A few of these groups are accessible online and are open for anyone suffering from ADHD. Certain groups are specifically targeted for populations such as African Americans who have ADHD, couples affected by the disorder, or people who identify as gay or lesbian.
Certain people may feel a sense of shame or embarrassment over their condition, which could hinder their willingness to seek help. However, a healthcare professional must explain that ADHD is not an indication of weakness or failure.