Adult Diagnosis of ADHD

A diagnosis of ADHD can alter the lives of adults suffering from the condition. It can help people discover the reason for their struggles at work, at home and in their relationships.

However, it can be difficult to establish a diagnosis because symptoms can be overlapping with other conditions. A mental health healthcare professional or health professional will assess the patient and conduct tests.

Symptoms

One may not realize they suffer from ADHD until they reach the age of adulthood Perhaps because teachers or parents were not aware of symptoms until a younger age or because the demands of college or work life brought out the disorder. Adults who are not treated for ADHD are more vulnerable in their school, work and social lives. Many people who are not diagnosed with ADHD experience a variety of problems, including relationship issues and financial difficulties.

To diagnose diagnosing adhd in adults to diagnose it, a mental health professional will talk to the patient and review the patient's personal medical and psychiatric history, taking note of symptoms in different environments. The patient will describe the symptoms and how they affect their daily life and relationships. It is essential that the patient is open about these symptoms, and that he or she does not hide behind feelings of shame or embarrassment.

The mental health professional should also assess whether these symptoms are connected to comorbid conditions like anxiety and depression that often coexist with ADHD. These conditions often make the symptoms of ADHD worse and may hinder effective treatment for the disorder.

If the psychologist or psychiatrist thinks that the symptoms of ADHD are being impacted by other conditions, additional cognitive, neuropsychological, or learning disabilities testing may be used to help establish an accurate diagnosis. These tests can aid in determining the extent of impairment to function that is caused by these conditions. Additionally the mental health professional could require an interview with one or more significant people like spouses, siblings and coworkers to get an accurate picture of the person's functioning and difficulties.

Diagnosis

Adults are diagnosed with ADHD by a mental healthcare doctor or a medical professional following an extensive examination. This involves a thorough discussion about the causes of the symptoms and their impact on everyday functioning and the presence of any other mental health disorders that may co-occur with ADHD like anxiety and mood disorders. Additionally, the doctor may ask to speak with significant others--usually the spouse or a close friend -- to help gather more information regarding the person's behavior.

Being diagnosed with ADHD in adulthood can be a life-changing event. For Adult diagnosis of adhd many adults, this diagnosis finally provides an explanation for what has always appeared to be "normal" behavior. It's often a relief to find out that their issues are not simply inattention 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 created to ensure that people get the support and treatment they require. To qualify for an ADHD diagnosis, the person must have experienced the symptoms for at least 12 months and they must be causing significant impairment in a variety of situations, such as at home, school, or work; with friends or family or in other settings. 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 health care provider can help you to recognize ADHD. Many physicians diagnose and treat ADHD in children and refer you to an expert in mental health to assess adults.

Treatment

If people suffering from ADHD are diagnosed, their lives can change drastically. They can finally find some solutions to their issues in the classroom, as well as in establishing a career, or even in relationships. A diagnosis can ease the guilt that has built up for some people throughout their lives.

The first step in obtaining a diagnosis is to talk to a doctor or mental health professional. They might inquire about family history and conduct a physical examination to rule out any conditions that could cause symptoms that resemble ADHD or other disorders, such as learning disabilities, sleep disorders or use of alcohol/drugs. They also can ask the person to complete a rating scale checklist of symptoms.

During the process of assessment, the doctor may request to interview the spouse or partner. This allows the non ADHD spouse or partner develop an understanding of their loved one's ADHD and a compassionate approach to the symptoms. This is crucial to improve relationships following the diagnosis. If this is not feasible the clinician may interview acquaintances or colleagues who are familiar with the individual.

Medicines are the primary treatment options for adults suffering from ADHD. Adult ADHD is treated with stimulants such as methylphenidate and Adderall, and dextroamphetamine. Other medications, such as Atomoxetine (Strattera(r)) and guanfacine (Intuniv(r), Tenex(r)) increase the levels of norepinephrine in the brain, and can improve symptoms of ADHD.

Psychotherapy is also an option. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can help patients learn skills to manage their ADHD symptoms, such as time management and organizational strategies, self-regulation of behavior and emotions and managing negative feelings and self-criticism. Other therapies, like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), help adults recognize subconscious thoughts or irrational thought patterns that cause negative behavior, and also develop positive self-talk.

Medication

Many people find that ADHD medication helps to improve their symptoms. The medication is typically in the form a stimulant, and it is effective by increasing the activity of the brain in areas that regulate behavior and attention. Methylphenidate, the most common medicine used for adults with ADHD is available in many forms. It can be taken as immediate-release tablets or modified-release tablets that release the medication throughout the day. Clonidine is a different type of medication that works by reducing brain activity. It is available in pill or liquid form.

The psychiatrist or therapist will examine the medical and family background of the adult patient to identify the factors that can cause similar symptoms. This review is important due to the fact that certain medical conditions like seizure disorders and thyroid problems can cause symptoms that are similar to those of ADHD. Certain medications and nutritional supplements can also cause similar signs.

During the evaluation the individual will likely to talk about the ADHD symptoms. They will be asked for standardized ADHD ratings and checklists of symptoms as and psychological tests that measure executive function, working memory (abilities such as planning and decision-making) spatial and visual ability, as well as reasoning skills.

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

Counseling

Many people with ADHD find relief in receiving the diagnosis. It's a chance to comprehend the reason why they face difficulties at school or at work, and learn ways to overcome these issues. It's also a chance to overcome negative habits and boost confidence in themselves.

A solid support system is essential for success, and counseling can help. Counseling for ADHD can involve psychological (or psychotherapy) therapy as well as a variety of behavioral interventions. For instance a therapist might create a reward chart that rewards positive behavior, and enforces consequences for bad behavior. Therapists can also teach the patient how to manage symptoms, like relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditative postures in yoga.

Another benefit of counseling is helping people understand and accept their ADHD. It's not always easy to admit that you're having difficulties paying attention or planning and organizing. It can be embarrassing to tell co-workers and supervisors about your ADHD. However, most teachers and bosses will be willing to provide accommodations for your situation. They might, for example, allow you to write on a computer instead of paper, or provide more in-depth explanations of class material.

In addition the therapist can also teach you ways to cope with your ADHD through cognitive behavioral therapy which is a type of therapy that assists you change negative thoughts and behavior into positive ones. Counseling for adult diagnosis of adhd ADHD may also include marital or family therapy. This teaches loved-ones how to better communicate and solve problems with someone who has ADHD. People who suffer from ADHD may also suffer from other mental disorders, such depression or anxiety and could also have substance abuse problems.