Adult ADHD Diagnosis

For some who are diagnosed with adult ADHD is the first step towards treatment. They may be frustrated in their work, homes, or social life because of symptoms like fidgeting, ignoring things or interrupting others.

Getting diagnosed with ADHD as an adult typically requires an extensive assessment that involves interviewing the person and their family members, using standardized tests and rating scales. It often includes an examination of the body.

Symptoms

A diagnosis of ADHD may change the course of many adult lives. It can help people to understand why they've had to struggle for so long and make sense out of their past choices. It can also give them hope for a better future. Whether you are experiencing difficulty in locating your keys, feeling like you'll never be able to complete your task or are called lazy or irresponsible, getting an diagnosis is the first step toward finding the right treatment for you.

For most adults, symptoms manifest in different areas of their lives and are more common in one area than another. They may be restless and impulsive in school, but struggle to keep up with work. They may not remember to keep appointments or underestimate the amount of time required to complete their tasks. They may have trouble making friends or have frequent disputes with their spouses. If these problems are severe, they may interfere with the daily routine and lead to anxiety or depression.

It is crucial to identify ADHD however, it's important to identify other factors may be contributing to symptoms. Stress, mental health issues and certain medications are frequently responsible for symptoms that are similar. To ensure that the root issue is addressed an in-depth evaluation by a professional is required.

Adults suffering from ADHD do not show the same signs of hyperactivity as children. Instead, the symptoms of hyperactivity manifest more subtly, such as fidgeting or difficulty sitting still in a chair. Women with ADHD are more likely to display these signs, since they are more likely to hide their inattention within their work and social interactions.

During the assessment the doctor will examine the patient's medical history and how symptoms affect their daily lives. They will also ask about family history, and when possible, ask a family member their perspective on childhood behaviors. They might also conduct psychological, neuropsychological or learning disabilities testing. In some cases, it may be required to conduct an examination of the body to rule out specific illnesses that may mimic the symptoms of ADHD.

Diagnosis

Adults who believe they have ADHD should discuss their symptoms with their doctor. This is especially crucial if the issues are related to work or school. Primary care providers can refer patients to mental health professionals with expertise in adult ADHD assessments. They should be able to provide information about their level of training and experiences working with adults suffering from ADHD, Hamdani says. Anyone who isn't willing to share this information will be treated with suspicion, Hamdani adds.

Being diagnosed with adult ADHD can be a life-changing experience. It offers a rationale for years of self-criticism and frustration for certain. Others feel a sense satisfaction that there's a rationale for the difficulties they've experienced in their lives or that their issues were not just "in their head."

Adults who suffer from ADHD are diagnosed with ADHD through an in-depth interview with a specialist. This includes a thorough examination of the individual's personal, family and medical history. Additionally, the specialist will likely ask the person to rate his or her behavior on one or more of the standardized ADHD behavior scales. These ratings are from research that compares the behavior of those with ADHD to those of people who don't have the disorder.

The person will be questioned about the symptoms and how they 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 in those who have been diagnosed with adult ADHD. Anxiety disorders, depression and alcohol or Adult ADHD Diagnosis drug use are common comorbidities of ADHD. Some experts believe that these comorbidities are maladaptive coping strategies to deal with the stress and frustrations that come with untreated ADHD.

It's also important to recognize that ADHD is more prevalent in men than women, and it may be difficult for people who are affected to be diagnosed due to long-held prejudices about the symptoms and the impact they have on males and females. Some women can mask their symptoms more effectively and can lead to delay diagnosis or an incorrect diagnosis.

Treatment

Adults who are diagnosed of ADHD might find it beneficial to talk with a mental health professional, especially one with expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD. The professional can help teach adult behavior strategies to manage their symptoms and improve their functioning at home, at work or school. They can also assist adults to understand why their behavior differs and what triggers them.

Since a person could suffer from multiple disorders that cause similar symptoms to the symptoms of ADHD, it's important for a mental health professional to thoroughly examine the adult. This could include a thorough description and scales filled out by the patient or other individuals who know them, a psychiatric and family history as well as an extensive physical examination.

A thorough evaluation is also important for determining whether the adult suffers from a co-morbid condition, such as anxiety or depression. These conditions can contribute to the symptoms of ADHD and make treatment more difficult. A mental health professional can also conduct neurological or cognitive tests to determine how the brain functions and to rule out other causes, like a physical illness or learning disabilities.

Adults with ADHD are typically treated with psychotherapy (psychotherapy) as well as educational programs. Individual therapy can help a person develop better self-esteem and learn to cope with the emotional baggage that typically accompanies a diagnosis of ADHD. Behavioral therapies can also help improve the management of time, organization and impulse control, and could address the impact of stressors on an individual's ability to perform.

Some people who suffer from ADHD benefit from group therapy. This kind of therapy can offer the opportunity to connect with other people with the same challenges and discuss ways to overcome these challenges. These groups are usually run by a support group or an advocacy group.

Many people suffering from ADHD can also be treated by medications. There are several medications available, including stimulants that increase the levels of norepinephrine as well as dopamine in the brain (for instance, methylphenidate which is sold as Ritalin). Others help to regulate moods and reduce impulsive behaviors, like antidepressants and bupropion, an antipsychotic medication (Wellbutrin). Your Mercy doctor can discuss the various treatment options available to you.

Support

Many people diagnosed with ADHD suffer from the condition for a long time, without even realizing it. They may seek an evaluation because they are frustrated by daily challenges like forgetting appointments, making mistakes at work, or neglecting family and friendship commitments. It is common for people to feel a sense of relief when they receive a diagnosis, especially when they realize the reason they've been struggling throughout their lives.

A mental health professional is able to conduct an evaluation for ADHD, but an primary care physician is typically an ideal place to begin. The doctor can also refer the patient to a specialist when needed. A psychiatrist, psychiatric nurse or psychologist can also assess ADHD in adults. Many insurance plans include specialists according to their specialization and assist people in finding the right health professional who is knowledgeable about ADHD in adults.

During the examination the mental health professional will ask about the person's past issues and also how ADHD symptoms have affected them. It is crucial to be honest and forthcoming during the evaluation, so that the mental health professional can make an accurate assessment.

Psychological counseling, or therapy, can help people learn to manage their issues and improve their relationships. Behavioral therapy, also known as cognitive behavioral therapy, can teach people how to change their behavior and thinking patterns. The combination of therapy and medication can help reduce the symptoms of the disorder.

Social support groups are beneficial for many adults ADHD patients. The opportunity to share their challenges with others who have similar challenges can be a source of motivation and inspiration. Some of these groups are online and are open to everyone who has ADHD. Some groups are for specific populations, like African Americans who have ADHD, couples affected by the disorder, or those who identify themselves as gay or lesbian.

Certain people may feel a sense of shame or embarrassment over their symptoms, which can hinder their desire to seek assistance. A medical professional must explain to the patient that ADHD is not a sign of weakness or failure.