Adult ADHD Diagnosis
A diagnosis of adult ADHD can be the first step towards getting treatment for some people. They may be unhappy in their work, homes, or social life due to symptoms such as fidgeting, forgetting things or interrupting others.
Adults diagnosed with ADHD will often undergo an exhaustive evaluation, which includes interviewing the family members and themselves and using standardized tests. This usually involves a physical examination.
Symptoms
For many adults, the diagnosis of ADHD can be life-changing. It can help people understand why they've struggled so long and make sense of their past decisions. It can also give them hope for the future. If adult diagnosis adhd adhddiagnosis experiencing difficulty in locating your keys, feeling as if you can never finish your work or being accused of being lazy or irresponsible, getting an assessment is the first step to finding the right treatment for you.
The majority of adults experience symptoms in various areas of their lives however, certain symptoms are more prevalent than others. They might be unruly and impulsive in school, but are unable to keep up at work. They might forget to make appointments or underestimate the amount of time needed to complete tasks. They may have difficulty making friends or arguing with their spouses frequently. If these problems are severe, they may interfere with the daily routine and lead to anxiety or depression.
It's important to diagnose ADHD, but it's also important to determine what other factors may be causing the symptoms. Stress, other mental health issues and medications can cause symptoms similar to the symptoms of ADHD. To ensure that the root issue is addressed an in-depth evaluation by a qualified professional is necessary.
Like children, adults who suffer from ADHD do not show the more obvious symptoms of hyperactivity. Hyperactivity is less obvious and can be seen as fidgeting or difficulty sitting still. Women with ADHD tend to display these symptoms more often, as they can hide their inattentive behaviors at work and in social lives.
During an examination during an assessment, the doctor will review the patient's medical history and examine how their medical conditions impact their daily life. They will also inquire about family history, and if possible, interview a family member for their perspective on childhood behaviors. They can also conduct psychological, neuropsychological or tests for learning disabilities. In some cases physical exams may be needed to rule out illnesses which may resemble symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosis
Adults who suspect they have ADHD should discuss their symptoms with their doctor. This is particularly crucial if the issues are related to school or work. Primary healthcare providers can refer people to mental health professionals who specialize in adult ADHD assessment and treatment. They should be able to share information regarding their level of training and experience working with adults with ADHD, Hamdani says. Hamdani suggests that anyone who is reluctant to disclose this information should be treated as suspicious.
The diagnosis of adult ADHD can be a life-changing moment. For some, it provides an explanation for years of frustrations and self-criticism. Others feel a sense relief that there's an explanation for the difficulties they've experienced in their lives or that their issues were not just "in their heads."
In the majority of instances, an adult suffering from ADHD is diagnosed by a thorough interview with a qualified professional. This will include a review the person's medical family, personal, and medical background. The professional will also ask the person to rate their behavior using one or several standardized ADHD scales for behavioral assessment. These ratings are based upon research that compares the behaviors of people suffering from ADHD and those who don't have the disorder.
The person will also be asked how the symptoms interfere with 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, called co-morbidities. Common comorbidities with ADHD include anxiety disorders, depression and drug or alcohol abuse. Some experts suggest that these complications are a result of maladaptive coping mechanisms to deal with the stressors that are typically caused by untreated ADHD.
It's also important to note that ADHD is more prevalent in males than women, and it can be difficult for many people who suffer from the disorder to be diagnosed due to long-held biases about the symptoms and the impact they have on males and females. Women may be able to mask their symptoms better and can lead to a delayed diagnosis or an incorrect diagnosis.
Treatment
It can be beneficial for those who have been diagnosed with ADHD to speak with an expert in mental health who has expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD. The professional can help teach adult behavior strategies to manage their symptoms and improve their functioning at work, home or school. They can also help adults understand why their behavior differs and what triggers them.
A mental health professional must examine an adult thoroughly because they may have other disorders similar to ADHD. This could include a thorough description of the scale and the forms filled out by the person who is the client or by other people who know him/her as well as a psychiatric and family history as well as a thorough physical exam.
It is important to conduct a thorough assessment to determine if a person suffers from a comorbid disorder such as anxiety or depression. These conditions can increase ADHD symptoms and make treatment more difficult. A mental health professional could also conduct neuropsychological or cognitive testing to look at how the brain functions, and to identify other causes for the problem, like a learning impairment or physical illness.
Adults with ADHD are usually treated through psychological counseling (psychotherapy) as well as educational programs. Adults may benefit from individual talk therapy to boost their self-esteem as well as deal with the emotional burdens that come with ADHD. Behavioral therapies can also improve time management and control of impulses. They can also deal with the effect that stressors can have on an individual's abilities to perform.
Some individuals who suffer from ADHD benefit from group therapy. This type of therapy can provide an opportunity to meet others who face similar issues and discuss strategies to overcome these challenges. 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 many medications including stimulants (such as methylphenidate that is sold under the name Ritalin) that boost levels of norepinephrine in the brain. Antidepressants and the antipsychotic drug Wellbutrin (Bupropion) help regulate moods and reduce impulse-driven behavior. Your Mercy doctor can discuss all treatment options.
Support
Adults with ADHD might have the disorder for a long time without even realizing it. They may seek an evaluation because they are annoyed by everyday issues like not remembering appointments or making a mistake at work, or ignoring the demands of friends and family. These people often feel relieved when they receive a diagnosis.
A mental health professional could conduct an ADHD assessment, but a primary physician is usually a good starting point. If needed, the doctor may refer the patient to an expert. A psychiatric nurse, psychiatrist or psychologist may also be qualified to assess ADHD in adults. Many insurance plans will list specialists according to their specialties. This can help people locate an expert in health care who is knowledgeable about ADHD among adults.
During the assessment the mental health professional will ask questions regarding the person's behavior, including the past issues they have had and how they have been affected by their ADHD symptoms. It's crucial to be honest and open during the evaluation so that the mental health professional can provide an accurate assessment.
Psychotherapy, or psychological counseling can help people manage their issues and improve their relationships. Behavioral therapy, or cognitive behavioral therapy, teaches people how to alter their behavior and thinking patterns. Therapy is often coupled with medication, which can help lessen the effects of the disorder.
Many adults ADHD sufferers benefit from social support groups. The chance to share their experiences with others who have similar issues can provide a lot of inspiration and motivation. Some of these groups are online and are open to anyone who has ADHD. Others are geared towards specific populations, such as African Americans with ADHD, couples afflicted by the disorder or those who identify as gay or lesbian.
Some people may be embarrassed or ashamed of their symptoms. This can cause them to be reluctant to seek assistance. A medical professional must explain to the patient that ADHD is not a sign of weakness or failure.