Adult ADHD Diagnosis
For some being diagnosed with adult ADHD is the first step toward getting treatment. They may be unhappy at work, in their homes or in their social lives because of symptoms like fidgeting or ignoring things.
Adults diagnosed with ADHD will often undergo a thorough evaluation, which involves interviewing the family members and themselves and using standardized tests. It typically involves a physical exam too.
Signs and symptoms
For many adults, the diagnosis of ADHD can be life-changing. It can help people understand why they've struggled for so long, and make sense of their previous choices. It can also provide hope for the future to be brighter. If you're struggling to find your keys, feel that you're not able to finish your work, or are being labeled as irresponsible or lazy, or 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 manifest in different areas of their lives and are more common in one area than the other. They may be indecisive and irritable at school, but struggle in keeping up with their work. They might miss appointments or have trouble estimating the amount of time they require to complete their work. They may have difficulty making friends or fighting with their spouses often. If these problems are severe they may affect their everyday life and cause depression or anxiousness.
While it's important to consider a diagnosis of ADHD, it's just as important to consider what other factors might be contributing to the symptoms. Stress, mental health issues and certain medications are frequently the cause of symptoms that are similar. To ensure that the root problem is resolved with a thorough assessment by a professional is required.
As opposed to children, adults with ADHD rarely exhibit the more prominent symptoms of hyperactivity. Instead, the signs of hyperactivity present themselves more subtly as fidgeting or difficulty sitting still in the chair. Women with ADHD tend to display these signs more frequently because they are able to hide their inattentional behavior within their social and professional lives.
During an assessment during an assessment, the doctor will review the patient's medical history and examine how their medical conditions impact their daily routine. They will also inquire about family history and, if it is possible, interview a relative to get their opinion on childhood behavior. They might also conduct psychological, neuropsychological or learning disabilities testing. In some cases, it may be necessary to perform a physical examination in order to rule out certain diseases that may mimic the symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosis
Adults who believe they have ADHD should discuss their symptoms with their physician. This is especially important if the symptoms are related to school or work. Primary care providers can refer patients to mental health professionals with experience in adult ADHD evaluations. They should be able to disclose details about their training level and experiences working with adults suffering from ADHD, Hamdani says. Hamdani warns that anyone who is hesitant to disclose this information should be treated with suspicion.
Getting a diagnosis of adult ADHD can be a life-changing event. It offers a rationale for years of self-criticism and frustration for certain. Some people are happy that they have a reason for their struggles in life or that they weren't "just in their minds."
Adults who suffer from ADHD are diagnosed with ADHD through an extensive interview with a professional. This will include a review of the person's personal medical, family and personal history. Additionally, the doctor will likely request the person to rate his or her behavior on one or more of the standard ADHD behavior scales. These ratings are basing on research that compares the behaviors of people with ADHD to those of people who do not suffer from the disorder.
The individual will also be asked about how 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.
People who receive a diagnosis of adult ADHD often have coexisting conditions known as co-morbidities. Anxiety disorders, depression, and drug or alcohol use are all common comorbidities associated with ADHD. Some experts suggest these comorbidities develop as maladaptive coping mechanisms to deal with the stressors that are typically associated with untreated ADHD.
It's also important to note that ADHD is more prevalent in males than women, and it can be difficult for people who are affected to be diagnosed due to long-held biases about the symptoms and their impact on males and females. Women are also better at hiding their symptoms better, which can cause an inaccurate diagnosis or delay in getting it.
Treatment
Adults who are diagnosed of ADHD might find it beneficial to talk with a mental health professional who has experience in treating adults with ADHD. The professional can help adults learn behavior 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 why their behavior differs and what triggers them.
A mental health professional should thoroughly evaluate an adult because they may have other disorders similar to ADHD. This may include a detailed description of the person's symptoms as well as questionnaires and scales filled out by the client and other people who know him well, a full medical history of the family and a psychiatric history, and an exhaustive physical exam.
It is important to conduct a thorough assessment to determine if a person suffers from a comorbid disorder like depression or anxiety. These conditions can contribute to the symptoms of ADHD and make treatment more challenging. A mental health professional can also conduct neuropsychological or cognitive tests to examine how the brain functions, and to identify other causes for the issues, such as the presence of a learning disability or physical illness.
Treatment options for adults with ADHD typically include psychological counseling (psychotherapy) and educational programs. Individual therapy can help an adult develop confidence in their self and deal with the emotional baggage that typically is associated with a diagnosis of ADHD. Behavioral therapies can also help improve organization, time management and impulse control, and could help to reduce the effects of stressors on the individual's ability to function.
Some people with ADHD may benefit from group therapy. This type of therapy may give them the chance to meet other people with the same difficulties and discuss ways to overcome them. These groups are typically organized by an advocacy or support group.
The use of medication is also an option for many adults suffering from ADHD. There are several medications available, including stimulants that increase the levels of norepinephrine as well as dopamine in the brain (for example, methylphenidate, which is also known as Ritalin). Antidepressants and the antipsychotic drug Wellbutrin (Bupropion) can help control moods and decrease impulse-driven behavior. Your Mercy doctor will be able to discuss all your treatment options.
Support
Many people diagnosed with ADHD suffer from the condition for a long time, without even realizing it. They may seek an assessment because they are frustrated by everyday challenges such as forgetting appointments and making mistakes at work, or not paying attention to family and friendship commitments. It's common for these people to feel a sense of relief after receiving an answer, particularly when they understand why they've struggled all their lives.
A mental health professional could perform an ADHD evaluation, however the primary physician is typically a good starting point. The doctor may also refer the patient to a specialist when needed. A psychiatrist, psychiatric nurse or psychologist may be qualified to examine ADHD in adults. Many insurance plans list professionals according to their specialties, which will help individuals find a health care provider that is familiar with ADHD among adults.
During the evaluation, the mental health specialist will ask questions about the person's behavior, including past problems and how they have been affected by their ADHD symptoms. It's crucial to be honest and open during the assessment, so that the mental health professional can provide a precise assessment.
Therapy, also known as psychotherapy, can help people learn to manage their symptoms and improve relationships. Behavioral therapy, or cognitive behavioral therapy teaches people how to alter their behavior and patterns of thinking. enquiry of therapy and medication can help to reduce the symptoms of the disorder.
Many adult ADHD patients benefit from social support groups. The opportunity to share their experiences with other people who are facing similar challenges can be a source of inspiration and encouragement. Some of these groups are online and are open to anyone who has ADHD. Other groups are for specific groups, such as African Americans with ADHD, couples affected by the disorder, or those who identify as gay or lesbian.
Some people might be embarrassed or embarrassed by their symptoms. This can cause them to be reluctant to seek assistance. A health professional should explain to the patient that ADHD is not a sign of weakness or failure.