Adult Diagnosis of ADHD
For those who suffer from ADHD, a diagnosis can have a profound impact on their lives. It can help people to discover the reason for their struggles at work, in their family and in their relationships.
However it can be challenging to determine a diagnosis since symptoms can be overlapping with other ailments. A mental health professional or health care provider will evaluate the individual and perform tests.
Signs and symptoms
One may not be aware that they have ADHD until they reach the age of adulthood Perhaps because teachers or parents were not aware of symptoms earlier, or because the demands of college or working brought out the disorder. Adults with untreated ADHD are being disadvantaged in their work, school and social lives. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD suffer from a variety of problems, such as relationship issues and financial difficulties.
A mental health professional will interview and review the patient's medical, mental health and personal history, paying particular attention to the symptoms in various settings. The patient will describe how these symptoms impact the way they function in their daily lives and relationships. It is important that the patient is open about the symptoms, and that he or she does not hide behind feelings of embarrassment or shame.
It is also crucial for the mental health professional to assess whether these symptoms are related to comorbid disorders like anxiety and depression, which frequently coexist with ADHD. These conditions can make the symptoms of ADHD worse and can interfere with effective treatment of the disorder.
If a psychologist or psychiatrist feels that the symptoms of ADHD are being impacted by comorbid conditions, additional psychological, neuropsychological or testing for learning disabilities could be used to help establish an accurate diagnosis. These tests can also be used to determine the degree of impairment in function that these conditions cause. The mental health professional will also conduct interviews with other significant people, such as spouses or siblings, to get a full picture of how the individual is performing.
Diagnosis
For adults the diagnosis of ADHD is usually made by a mental health care professional or physician who conducts a thorough diagnosis. This includes a detailed interview regarding the history of symptoms and their impact on everyday functioning as well as the presence of any other mental health conditions that may co-occur with ADHD like depression and anxiety. The doctor may also request to speak to significant others such as a spouse or close family member to collect more information.
Finding a reliable diagnosis of ADHD in adulthood can be a life-changing moment. For many adults, this diagnosis finally gives them an explanation for what has always seemed like "normal" behavior. It's usually a relief to learn that their problems aren't just due to laziness or forgetfulness.
The American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth edition (DSM-5) requires that adults meet specific criteria for symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity. This standard is designed to ensure that individuals receive the assistance and treatment they need. To be eligible for an ADHD diagnosis, a person must have experienced the symptoms for at least 12 months, and they must have caused significant impairment in a variety of settings, including school, home, or work; with friends or family; or with other activities. The number of symptoms that are required for adults over the age of 17 has been reduced from six to five.
A good relationship with your primary healthcare provider can be beneficial in identifying ADHD. Many physicians regularly diagnose and treat ADHD in children, and may refer you to an expert in mental health who is able to perform an evaluation in adults.
Treatment
When people with ADHD receive a diagnosis, their lives can change dramatically. They will finally have solutions to their problems at school, with starting a new career, or in relationships. For certain people, a diagnosis may help them overcome the anxiety that could have been built up over the years from their issues going untreated.
Talking to a mental health specialist or health care professional is the first step to receiving an diagnosis. They can inquire about the family history and then conduct a physical exam to rule out other conditions like sleep disorders or learning disabilities that can cause symptoms similar to ADHD. They also can request that the person complete an assessment scale of symptoms.
In many instances, the doctor will request that the spouse or partner be interviewed during the process of assessing. This helps the non ADHD spouse or partner to develop an understanding of their loved one's ADHD and a sympathetic attitude towards the symptoms. This is crucial for improving relationships after the diagnosis. If this isn't possible the therapist may ask colleagues or friends who are familiar with the individual.
Medicines are the primary treatment options for adults suffering from ADHD. Adult ADHD is treated using stimulants such as methylphenidate and Adderall, and dextroamphetamine. Other medications, such as atomoxetine (Strattera(r),) and guanfacine, (Intuniv (r) Tenex (r)) can increase the amount of norepinephrine found in the brain. These medications can help improve ADHD symptoms.
Psychotherapy is another alternative. Cognitive-behavioral therapies can assist patients learn skills to manage their ADHD symptoms. They include time management and organizational strategies, self regulation of behavior and emotions, and coping techniques for self-doubt and negative criticism. Other therapies, like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), help adults identify the automatic thoughts or irrational thoughts that can lead to negative behavior, and also develop positive self-talk.
Medication
Many people have found that ADHD medication helps to alleviate their symptoms. This medication typically comes in the form of a stimulant. It helps to increase the activity in brain regions that regulate attention and behavior. Methylphenidate is the most popular medicine prescribed to adults with ADHD is available in various forms. It is available in immediate-release tablets or modified-release tablet forms that release the medication over the course of the day. Clonidine, another type of medication is a drug that works by reducing brain activity. It can be taken as a pill or liquid.
If treating adult patients suffering from ADHD the psychotherapist or psychiatrist may look over the person's family history and medical history to identify factors that can cause similar symptoms similar to ADHD. This is crucial due to the fact that certain medical conditions like seizures and thyroid issues can trigger symptoms similar to those of ADHD. Additionally, certain drugs and nutritional supplements can also cause similar symptoms.
During the test, the person will likely to talk about their ADHD symptoms. They will be asked to provide standardized ADHD ratings and check lists, as along with psychological tests to measure executive function, working memory, (abilities such as making decisions and planning), visual and spatial ability, and reasoning skills.
If the therapist believes ADHD symptoms are affecting a person's quality of life, he or she will suggest medication. In some cases the therapist might ask the patient's partner or spouse to speak with them about the impact of their condition on the relationship. This can help reduce blaming between individuals and lead to more positive, healthier relationships.
Counseling
Many adults with ADHD get relief from receiving the diagnosis. It allows them to recognize the reason for their issues at school or at work and to discover ways to overcome these challenges. It's a chance to alter negative behavior and build self-esteem.
Having a good support system is essential for success, and counseling can help. Counseling for ADHD can include psychotherapy (or psychological therapy) and a range of behavior-based interventions. Therapists may create a chart that encourages positive behaviors and imposes consequences on negative ones. The therapist may also instruct the patient in skills to manage their symptoms, such as relaxation techniques like deep breathing or yoga poses.
Counseling can help people accept and understand their ADHD. It can be difficult to admit that you struggle in organizing, planning and paying attention. It can be embarrassing to confess that you have ADHD to supervisors or colleagues. The majority of teachers and supervisors will make accommodations to accommodate your needs. They may, for instance permit you to write on a computer instead of paper or give a more detailed explanation of classroom material.
Additionally the therapist will teach you how to deal with your ADHD through cognitive behavioral therapy which is a form of therapy that helps you transform negative thoughts and behavior to positive ones. adhd diagnosis uk adults for ADHD may also include marital or family therapy. It teaches family members how to better communicate and solve issues with someone suffering from ADHD. People who suffer from ADHD might also be suffering from other mental disorders such depression or anxiety and could also have issues with addiction to drugs.