Adult ADHD Diagnosis
A diagnosis of adult ADHD can be the first step towards finding treatment for certain people. They may feel frustrated at work, in their homes, or in their social life due to symptoms such as being distracted or forgetting things.
Being diagnosed with ADHD as an adult usually requires an extensive assessment that involves conducting interviews with the person and family members, using standard tests and rating scales. This usually involves a physical examination.
Signs and symptoms
A diagnosis of ADHD may change the course of a lot of adult lives. It can help them understand why they have been through so much and understand their past decisions. It can also give hope for the future to be brighter. If you're experiencing difficulty in locating your keys, feeling like you can never finish your work, or being accused of being irresponsible or lazy, obtaining a diagnosis is the first step towards finding the right treatment for you.
The majority of adults experience symptoms across different areas of their life but certain symptoms are more prevalent than others. They might be irritable and impulsive in school, but have trouble keeping up at work. They may forget to keep appointments or underestimate the amount of time required to complete their tasks. They may struggle to make friends or get into frequent disputes with their spouses. If these issues are serious, they may interfere with everyday life and cause depression or anxiety.
It is crucial to identify ADHD however, it's important to determine what other factors may be contributing to the symptoms. Stress, other mental health issues and medications can often cause symptoms that are similar to those of ADHD. To ensure that the underlying problem is treated, a thorough evaluation by a professional is required.
Adults with ADHD do not exhibit the same symptoms of hyperactivity that children do. Hyperactivity is more subtle and manifests as fidgeting, or a difficulty in sitting. Women with ADHD tend to exhibit these symptoms more often because they are able to hide their inattentional behavior in their work and social lives.
During an evaluation during an assessment, the doctor will review the patient's medical history and examine how their medical conditions impact their daily lives. They will also ask about family history and if possible, interview a family member to get their perspective on childhood behaviors. They may also conduct psychological, neuropsychological or tests for learning disabilities. In certain instances it is necessary to perform an examination of the body to rule out specific illnesses that may mimic the symptoms associated with ADHD.
Diagnosis
Adults who suspect they have ADHD should discuss their symptoms with their doctor. This is particularly important if the symptoms are related to school or work. Primary health care providers can refer patients to mental health professionals who specialize in adult ADHD assessment and treatment. Hamdani states that professionals who work with adults suffering from ADHD should be willing and able to give information about their education and experience. Hamdani says that anyone who is reluctant to share this information should be treated as suspicious.
A diagnosis of adult ADHD is a life-changing experience. For some, it gives a reason for years of frustration and self-criticism. Some people are relieved that they have an explanation for their difficulties in life, or that they weren't "just in their heads."
Adults who suffer from ADHD are diagnosed through an extensive interview with a specialist. This may include a thorough review of the individual's personal medical, family and personal history. The doctor will also ask the patient to rate their behavior on one or several different ADHD scales for behavioral assessment. These ratings are based on research that compared the behavior of people with ADHD and people who do not suffer from the disorder.
The individual will be asked about their symptoms and how they impact their life. 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 frequently present in people who have been diagnosed with adult ADHD. Common comorbidities that are associated with ADHD include depression, anxiety disorders, and drug or alcohol abuse. Some experts believe that these comorbidities are a result of maladaptive strategies for coping with the frustrations of untreated ADHD.
It is also important to remember that ADHD is more prevalent in males than women, and it can be difficult for many people who are affected to be diagnosed due long-held prejudices about the symptoms and their impact on males and females. Some women can mask their symptoms better, which can lead them to being diagnosed later or to an inaccurate diagnosis.
how to get an adult adhd diagnosis may be helpful for adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD to talk to an expert in mental health, preferably one with experience in treating adults with ADHD. The professional can help teach adult behavioral strategies to manage their symptoms and improve their performance at home, work or at school. They can also help the adult to understand why their behavior is different and what triggers it.
Because a person might suffer from multiple disorders which cause similar symptoms as those of ADHD It is crucial for a mental health professional to thoroughly examine the adult. This could include a detailed description of the individual's symptoms as well as questionnaires and scales filled out by the person in question and others who know him or her well, a complete psychiatric history and family medical history, and an extensive physical examination.
It is essential to conduct a thorough evaluation in order to determine if an adult suffers from a comorbid condition such as anxiety or depression. These conditions can cause the symptoms of ADHD and make treatment more difficult. A mental health professional may also conduct neuropsychological or cognitive tests to examine how the brain functions, and to identify other causes for the issues, such as a learning impairment or physical illness.
Treatment options for adults with ADHD typically involve psychological counseling (psychotherapy) and educational programs. Individual therapy can help an adult develop confidence in their self and cope with the emotional baggage that typically comes with the diagnosis of ADHD. Behavioral therapies can also improve time management and control of impulses. They also can deal with the effect that stressors can have on an individual's abilities to function.
Some people with ADHD can benefit from group therapy. This kind of therapy can give them the chance to meet other people with the same issues and discuss strategies to overcome them. These groups are often organized by a support group or an advocacy group.
There is also a treatment option for many adults suffering from ADHD. There are several medications available, including stimulants that increase the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain (for instance, methylphenidate which is also known as Ritalin). Antidepressants and the antipsychotic drug Wellbutrin (Bupropion) aid in regulating moods and decrease the impulsive behavior. Your Mercy doctor will be able to discuss the various treatment options available to you.
Support
Adults with ADHD may have the disorder for a long time without even realizing it. They might seek an evaluation due to their frustration with everyday challenges such as forgetting appointments, making mistakes at work, or ignoring the demands of friends and family. They often feel a sense of relief when they receive the diagnosis.
A mental health professional could perform an ADHD evaluation, but the primary doctor is usually the best place to start. If necessary, the physician may refer the patient to an expert. A psychiatrist, psychiatric nurse or psychologist can also evaluate ADHD in adults. A lot of insurance plans have specialists by specialization and can help individuals locate the right health professional who is familiar with ADHD in adults.
During the assessment the mental health professional will inquire about the person's past issues and how ADHD symptoms have affected them. It is essential to be open and truthfully during the evaluation so that the mental health professional can conduct a thorough evaluation.
Psychotherapy, also known as psychological counseling can help people manage their issues and improve their relationships. Behavioral therapy, or cognitive behavioral therapy, can teach people how to change their behavior and thinking patterns. The combination of therapy and medication can help to reduce the symptoms of the disorder.
Social support groups can be beneficial to many adults ADHD patients. Having the chance to discuss their experiences with others who have similar struggles can be a source of encouragement and inspiration. Some of these groups are online and are open to everyone who has ADHD. Some groups are geared towards specific populations, like African Americans who have ADHD or couples who are affected by the disorder, or people who identify themselves as gay or lesbian.
Some people may experience feelings of shame or embarrassment regarding their symptoms, which may hinder their desire to seek assistance. But a health professional should explain that ADHD is not a sign of failing or weakness.