Adult ADHD Diagnosis

For some, a diagnosis of adult ADHD is the first step towards treatment. They may be frustrated at work, in their homes or social lives due to symptoms like fidgeting, ignoring things or interrupting others.

Being diagnosed with ADHD as an adult typically involves undergoing an extensive assessment that involves interviewing the individual and their family members, using standard tests and rating scales. It typically includes a physical exam, as well.

Symptoms

A diagnosis of ADHD may change the course of many adults' lives. It can help adults understand why they've struggled for so long and help them make sense of their past choices. It can also offer hope for a brighter future. Whether you are having trouble finding your keys, feeling as if you'll never be able to finish your work, or being labeled as lazy or irresponsible, obtaining a diagnosis is the first step toward finding the best treatment for you.

For most adults, the signs appear in several areas of their lives. Some are more common in one area than the other. They might be irritable and impulsive in school, but are unable to keep up at work. They may forget to keep appointments or underestimate the amount of time required to complete their tasks. They may have difficulty making friends or fighting with their spouses regularly. If these problems are severe they could affect daily living and lead to anxiety or depression.

While it's essential to consider the possibility of a diagnosis of ADHD but it's equally important to consider what other factors might be contributing to the symptoms. Stress, mental health issues, and certain medications are frequently the cause of symptoms that are similar. To ensure that the root problem is resolved an in-depth evaluation by a specialist is required.

Adults with ADHD do not show the same signs of hyperactivity as children. Hyperactivity is less obvious and is manifested as fidgeting or having trouble sitting. Women who suffer from ADHD are more likely to exhibit these symptoms, as they are more likely to conceal their inattention at work and in social interactions.

During an examination during an assessment, the doctor will review the patient's medical history and consider how their medical conditions impact their daily life. They will also ask about family history, and when possible, interview a family member for their perspective on childhood behaviors. They can also conduct psychological, neuropsychological or testing for learning disabilities. In some instances it is required to conduct a physical examination in order to rule out certain illnesses which can mimic the symptoms that are associated with ADHD.

Diagnosis

Adults who think they may have ADHD should discuss their symptoms with their physician. This is particularly important if the symptoms are related to school or work. Primary care providers may refer patients to mental health professionals with experience in adult ADHD evaluations. Hamdani states that professionals who work with adults suffering from ADHD should be able and willing to provide information regarding their training and experience. Anyone who is reluctant to share this information will be regarded with suspicion, Hamdani adds.

A diagnosis of adult ADHD is a life-changing diagnosis. For some, it gives a reason for years of frustration and self-criticism. Others feel a sense of relief that there's an explanation for the difficulties they've experienced in their lives, or that their struggles weren't just "in their head."

Adults suffering from ADHD are diagnosed through a thorough interview with a specialist. This includes a thorough examination of the individual's personal medical, family, and background. Additionally, the specialist will likely ask the person to rate his or her behavior on one or more of the standard ADHD behavior scales. These ratings are based on research that compares behaviors of people with ADHD to the behavior of those 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.

People who receive a diagnosis of adult ADHD frequently have coexisting conditions, called comorbidities. Common comorbidities with ADHD include depression, anxiety disorders and alcohol or drug dependence. Some experts believe that these comorbidities result from maladaptive strategies for coping with the stress and frustrations that come with untreated ADHD.

It is important to recognize that ADHD affects more men than women. Many people with the disorder might struggle to diagnose because of the long-standing prejudices regarding the symptoms of the disorder and how they affect both men and women. Women are also able to mask their symptoms better, which could lead to an incorrect diagnosis or delay in obtaining a diagnosis.

Treatment

Adults who are diagnosed of ADHD might find it beneficial to speak with a mental health professional, especially one with experience in treating adults with ADHD. The specialist can instruct the adult behavioral strategies to manage their symptoms and improve their performance at work, home or at school. They can also assist adults to understand why their behavior differs and what triggers them.

Because a person may have several disorders that cause similar symptoms to those of ADHD It is essential for a mental health professional to evaluate the adult thoroughly. This can include a detailed description and scales filled out by the client or other people who know them along with a family and psychiatric history, as well as an extensive physical examination.

It is important to conduct a thorough assessment in order to determine if a person suffers from a co-occurring disorder like depression or anxiety. These conditions can contribute to the symptoms of ADHD and make treatment more difficult. A mental health professional could also perform cognitive or neuropsychological testing to look at how the brain functions and to rule out other causes of the problems, such as an intellectual disability or physical illness.

Adults who suffer from ADHD are usually treated by psychological counseling (psychotherapy), and educational programs. Individual therapy can help an adult build confidence in themselves and deal with the emotional burden that usually accompanies a diagnosis of ADHD. Behavioral therapies may also improve time management, Adult ADHD Diagnosis organization and impulse control. They also can tackle the effects that stressors have on an individual's abilities to perform.

Some individuals with ADHD benefit from group therapy. This type of therapy may give them the chance to meet other people with the same challenges and discuss ways to overcome these challenges. These groups are often organized by a support group or an advocacy group.

The use of medication is also an option for many adults with ADHD. There are a variety of medications available that include stimulants, which increase the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain (for example, methylphenidate, which is sold as Ritalin). Others aid in managing mood and decrease impulsive behavior, such as antidepressants or the anti-psychotic drug bupropion (Wellbutrin). Your Mercy doctor will be able to talk with you about the various treatment options available to you.

Support

Many adults diagnosed with ADHD suffer from the disorder for a long time without knowing it. They may seek an evaluation due to their frustration with everyday issues like not remembering appointments or making a mistake at work, or not paying attention to family and friendship commitments. It's normal for these people to feel a sense relief once they get an diagnosis for adhd in adults, particularly when they realize why they've struggled all their lives.

A mental health professional can conduct an evaluation for ADHD, but the primary care physician is typically a good place to start. If needed, the doctor could refer the patient an expert. A psychiatric nursing, psychiatrist or psychologist can also evaluate ADHD in adults. Many insurance plans include specialists according to their specialization and Adult ADHD Diagnosis assist people in finding an expert in health care who is experienced in ADHD in adults.

During the evaluation the mental health professional will inquire about the person's previous issues and how ADHD symptoms have affected them. It's crucial to be honest and open during the assessment, so that the mental health professional can provide a precise assessment.

Psychotherapy, also known as psychological counseling can help people manage their issues and improve their relationships. Behavioral therapy, also known as cognitive behavioral therapy, teaches people how to alter their thinking and behavior. The combination of therapy and medication can help alleviate the symptoms of the disorder.

Social support groups can be beneficial to many adults ADHD patients. The opportunity to share their experiences with other people who are facing similar challenges can be a great source of inspiration and encouragement. Some of these groups are online and are open to anyone who suffers from ADHD. Some groups are specifically for groups, like African Americans with ADHD, couples afflicted by the disorder, or people who identify as gay or lesbian.

There are people who experience feelings of shame or embarrassment regarding their condition, which could make it difficult for them to seek assistance. However, a doctor must explain that ADHD is not an indication of failing or weakness.