Adult Diagnosis of ADHD

A diagnosis of ADHD can alter the lives of adults suffering from the disorder. It can help people understand why they struggle in family, work and in relationships.

However it can be a challenge to establish a diagnosis because symptoms are often overlapping with other ailments. A health care provider or mental health professional will evaluate the person and perform tests.

Signs and Undiagnosed symptoms

One may not even be aware they suffer from ADHD until they reach the age of adulthood or perhaps because teachers and parents were not aware of the symptoms at a younger age or because the demands of college or working caused the disorder to be exposed. Adults with untreated ADHD are being disadvantaged in their work, school and social lives. Undiagnosed ADHD can cause numerous problems including relationship problems and financial issues.

A mental health professional will conduct an interview and review the patient's medical, mental health and personal history, paying particular attention to the symptoms in various situations. The patient will discuss the symptoms and how they impact their daily functioning as well as their relationships. It is important that patients are open about their symptoms and do not hide them out of embarrassment.

The mental health professional must be able to determine if the symptoms are linked to comorbid conditions like depression and anxiety that often coexist with ADHD. These conditions can make the symptoms of ADHD worse and may hinder the effective treatment of the disorder.

If the psychiatrist or psychology feels that the symptoms are being affected by comorbid disorders such as learning disabilities, neuropsychological disorders, or psychological disorders, then additional testing could be performed to determine an accurate diagnosis. These tests can also aid in determining the extent of functional impairment caused by these conditions. Additionally the mental health professional could require an interview with one or more significant people, such as spouses, siblings and colleagues in order to collect an accurate picture of the person's functioning and issues.

Diagnosis

For adults the diagnosis of ADHD is usually determined by a mental health care medical professional or physician who conducts a thorough diagnostic evaluation. This includes a detailed discussion of the symptoms and how they impact the way you live your life. It also includes the presence of any other mental disorders that can occur with ADHD, such depression and anxiety. Additionally, the doctor may ask to speak with significant others, usually a spouse or close friend--to provide more details about the person's behavior.

A diagnosis of ADHD could alter your life. For many adults, the diagnosis finally provides an explanation for what always appeared to be "normal" behaviors. Sometimes, it is a relief to know they're not just lazy or forgetful or incompetent; their issues are more complicated.

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 get the support and treatment they need. To be eligible for an ADHD diagnosis, a person must have experienced the symptoms for at least 12 consecutive months and they must have caused significant impairment in a variety of environments, such as home, school, or work as well as with family members or friends; or with other activities. For adults age 17 and older the number of needed symptoms has been reduced to five, from the six that are required for children who are younger than 12.

A good relationship with your primary healthcare provider can help to recognize ADHD. Many physicians regularly diagnose and treat ADHD in children. They can refer you to a mental health professional who is able to perform an assessment of adults.

Treatment

When people with ADHD are diagnosed their lives can alter dramatically. They can finally find some answers to their problems in school, and also in starting a new career, or in relationships. For those who are suffering from depression, it can provide relief from shame that may have been built up over the years from their ailments not being addressed.

Talking to a mental health healthcare professional or health care professional is the first step towards receiving an diagnosis. They may inquire about the family history and conduct physical examinations to rule out any condition that can cause symptoms that resemble ADHD like learning disabilities, sleep disorders or use of alcohol/drugs. They may also request the person to complete a checklist of symptoms.

During the assessment process, doctors may decide to interview an individual partner or spouse. This helps the non ADHD spouse or partner develop an understanding of their loved one's ADHD, and an empathetic attitude towards the symptoms. This is essential to strengthen relationships following the diagnosis. If this isn't possible the doctor undiagnosed may conduct an interview with colleagues or friends who know the individual.

Adults with ADHD are treated mostly with medications. Adult ADHD is treated with stimulants like methylphenidate, Adderall and dextroamphetamine. Other medications, like atomoxetine (Strattera(r)) and guanfacine (Intuniv(r), Tenex(r)) increase norepinephrine levels in the brain and can aid in the treatment of ADHD.

Psychotherapy is a different alternative. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can help patients develop the skills needed to manage their ADHD symptoms. They include time management as well as self-regulation strategies, organizational strategies, of behaviors and emotions, and coping techniques for self-doubt and negative criticism. Other therapies, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps adults recognize the automatic thoughts or irrational thoughts that cause negative behavior and develop positive self-talk.

Medication

Many people have found that ADHD medication can improve their symptoms. The medication is typically in the form of a stimulant, and it is effective by increasing the activity of the brain in areas that control behaviour and attention. Methylphenidate is the most popular medication used by adults suffering from ADHD is available in various forms. It is available as immediate-release tablets or modified-release tablet forms that release the medication throughout the day. Clonidine is another kind of medicine, works by decreasing brain activity. It can be taken as a pill or liquid.

The therapist or psychiatrist will look over the medical and family history of the private adult adhd diagnosis patient to identify factors that could cause similar symptoms. This is important, as some medical conditions like seizures and thyroid issues can cause symptoms that are similar to ADHD. Some medications and dietary supplement can cause similar symptoms.

During the test, the person is likely to describe the ADHD symptoms. They will be asked to complete standardized ADHD rating scales and check lists along with complete psychological tests that measure executive functioning, working memory (abilities such as decision-making and planning), visual and spatial abilities, and reasoning skills.

If the psychiatrist or therapist believes that the symptoms of ADHD are seriously affecting the life of a person they may recommend treatment with medication. In some cases the therapist may ask the individual's spouse or partner to interview them about the effects of the symptoms of the patient on their relationship. This will help reduce blaming between individuals and lead to healthier, more productive relationships.

Counseling

Many people suffering from ADHD find relief in receiving a diagnosis. It allows them to recognize the reason for their issues at school or at work and to learn how to overcome these challenges. It's an opportunity to change negative behavior and boost self-esteem.

Having a good support system is crucial to success and counseling can assist. Counseling for ADHD could include psychotherapy (or psychological therapy) and a variety behavioral treatments. Therapists may create a chart that encourages positive behaviors and imposes punishments for negative behaviors. The therapist can also instruct the patient in skills to manage their symptoms, like relaxation techniques like deep breathing or yoga poses.

Another benefit of counseling is helping people understand and accept their ADHD. It's not always easy to admit that you have problems with attention, planning and organizing. It can even be embarrassing to tell co-workers and supervisors about your ADHD. The majority of teachers and supervisors will make accommodations to accommodate your needs. For instance, they may permit you to write on a computer for assignments instead of paper or provide more in-depth explanations of the material in class.

The therapist will also instruct you how to manage ADHD through cognitive behavioral therapy. It is a method of therapy that assists you in changing negative behavior and thoughts into positive ones. Counseling for ADHD can also include family or marital therapy. It teaches family members how to better communicate and solve issues with someone suffering from ADHD. People suffering from ADHD typically suffer from other mental health disorders, such as depression or anxiety, and they may suffer from substance abuse, which can also exacerbate their symptoms.