Adult ADHD Diagnosis
A diagnosis of adult ADHD can be the first step in seeking treatment for some people. They may be frustrated at work, in their homes or in their social lives due to symptoms such as being distracted or forgetting things.
Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD typically undergo a thorough evaluation, which includes interviews with them and their families and taking standardized tests. It often includes a physical examination.
Signs and symptoms
A diagnosis of ADHD may change the course of a lot of adult lives. It can help them understand why they have been struggling for so long and help them discover the meaning behind their previous choices. It can also offer hope for the future to be brighter. If you're having trouble finding your keys, feeling as if you'll never be able to finish your work or being accused of being irresponsible or lazy getting an diagnosis is the first step toward finding the treatment that works for you.
For most adults, the signs manifest in different areas of their lives. They are more common in one area in comparison to another. They may be indecisive and unfocused at school, but have difficulty to keep up with work. They may not remember to keep appointments or underestimate the amount of time needed to complete tasks. They may struggle to make friends or argue with their spouses frequently. If these problems are severe they may affect everyday life and cause anxiety or depression.
While it's essential to consider a diagnosis of ADHD but it's equally important to consider what other factors might be that are causing the symptoms. Stress, other mental health conditions and certain medications can often cause symptoms similar to the symptoms of ADHD. A thorough evaluation by a trained professional is necessary to make sure that the underlying issue is being treated.
Unlike children, adults with ADHD do not show the more prominent signs of hyperactivity. Hyperactivity is more subtle and manifests as fidgeting, or a difficulty in sitting. Women with ADHD are more likely to exhibit these signs, since they are more likely to conceal their inattention at work and in social interactions.
During the exam the doctor will examine the patient's medical background and how their symptoms impact their daily lives. They will also inquire about family history and, if they are able, talk to a loved one to gain their view on the behavior of children. They may also perform the neuropsychological, psychological or learning disabilities testing. In some cases, it may be required to conduct a physical examination in order to rule out certain illnesses which can mimic the symptoms associated with ADHD.
Diagnosis
It is essential for those who believe they may have ADHD to discuss their symptoms with a health care professional, especially if their issues are related to work or school. Primary care providers can refer patients to mental health professionals with experience in adult ADHD assessments. These professionals must be able to provide information about their training level and experiences working with adults suffering from ADHD, Hamdani says. Hamdani warns that anyone who is reluctant to disclose such information should be viewed as suspicious.
Being diagnosed with adult ADHD can be a life-changing event. For some, it finally provides an explanation for years of frustration and self-criticism. Others feel a sense relief that there's an explanation for the struggles they've faced in their lives or that their issues weren't just "in their head."
find out here with ADHD are diagnosed through a thorough interview with a professional. This may include a thorough review of the person's personal, family and medical history. The doctor will also ask the person to rate their behavior on one or a variety of standardized ADHD scales for behavioral assessment. These ratings are from research that compares behaviors of people suffering from ADHD to those of people who don't have the disorder.
The individual will also be asked about how the symptoms 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.
The people who are diagnosed of adult ADHD frequently have coexisting conditions, called co-morbidities. Anxiety disorders, depression and alcohol or drug use are common comorbidities of ADHD. Some experts believe that these comorbidities are maladaptive strategies for coping with the frustrations of untreated ADHD.
It's also important to note that ADHD is more prevalent in males than women, and it may be difficult for those who do have the disorder to get diagnosed because of long-held biases about the symptoms and the impact they have on men versus women. Women can also be better at hiding their symptoms better, which can result in an incorrect diagnosis or delay in obtaining a diagnosis.
Treatment
It is recommended for those who have been diagnosed with ADHD to talk to an expert in mental health care who 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 at the workplace, at school or at home. They can also assist adults to learn to understand why their behavior is different and what triggers them.
A mental health professional must thoroughly evaluate an adult because they may have other disorders similar to ADHD. This can include a detailed description of the scale and the forms filled out by the client or other people who know him/her along with a family and psychiatric history and a thorough physical exam.
It is essential to conduct a thorough evaluation to determine if an adult suffers from a co-occurring disorder like depression or anxiety. These conditions can trigger the symptoms of ADHD and make treatment more difficult. A mental health professional could also perform cognitive or neuropsychological tests to examine how the brain functions and rule out other causes of the problems, 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. Adults are able to benefit from individual therapy to boost their self-esteem and cope with the emotional burdens that come with ADHD. Behavioral therapies can also help improve efficiency, time management and impulse control, and could tackle the impact of stressors on the individual's ability to function.
Some people suffering from ADHD might benefit from group therapy. This kind of therapy gives you the chance to meet others who have similar challenges and discuss how to overcome them. These groups are typically organized by an advocacy or support group.
Medication is also an option for many adults with ADHD. There are a variety of medications available that include stimulants (such as methylphenidate, which is sold under the name Ritalin) that boost levels of norepinephrine within the brain. Antidepressants and the antipsychotic drug Wellbutrin (Bupropion) can help control moods and decrease the impulsive behavior. Your Mercy doctor will be able to discuss the various treatment options available to you.
Support
Adults suffering from ADHD may have the disorder for many years without realizing it. Discontent with everyday issues such as not remembering appointments, making rash mistakes at work, or blowing off family or friendship commitments can cause them to seek an assessment. It's common for these people to feel a sense of relief after receiving an diagnosis, particularly when they can see the reason they've been struggling all their lives.
A mental health professional may perform an ADHD assessment, but a primary physician is usually the best place to start. If necessary, the physician may refer the patient to an expert. A psychiatrist, psychiatric nurse or psychologist could also be able to evaluate ADHD in adults. A lot of insurance plans include professionals according to their specialties. This will help individuals find a health care provider that is experienced in treating ADHD among adults.
During the assessment, a mental health professional will ask about the person's previous issues and also how ADHD symptoms have affected them. It is crucial to be honest and forthcoming during the evaluation, so that the mental healthcare professional can provide an accurate assessment.
Therapy, also known as psychotherapy can help people learn to manage their symptoms and improve relationships. Behavioral therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, helps people develop specific techniques to alter their behavior patterns and thinking patterns. The combination of therapy and medication can help to reduce the symptoms of the disorder.
Social support groups are beneficial to a lot of adult ADHD patients. Being able to share their experiences with others who are facing similar challenges can be a source of inspiration and encouragement. Some of these groups are based online and are open to everyone who suffers 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.
Some people might feel embarrassed or ashamed about their symptoms. This may make them less willing to seek help. However, a healthcare professional should explain that ADHD is not an indication of weakness or failure.