Adult ADHD Diagnosis
For some people who are diagnosed with adult ADHD is the first step toward getting treatment. They may feel frustrated at work, in their social or home lives because of symptoms like fidgeting, forgetting things, or interrupting others.
Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD are often subjected to a thorough evaluation, which includes interviewing the family members and themselves and taking standardized tests. It usually involves a physical exam too.
Signs and symptoms
For many adults, the diagnosis of ADHD can have a profound impact on their lives. It can help people understand why they've been struggling for so long and help them understand their past choices. It could also give them hope for a better future. If you're struggling to find your keys, feel like you're not able to finish your work or you're being called lazy or irresponsible, or have been accused of being lazy or irresponsible, and need a diagnosis, then a diagnosis can help you find the right treatment for you.
The majority of adults experience symptoms across different areas of their life however, some are more prominent than others. They might be irritable and impulsive in school, but are unable to keep up at work. They might miss appointments or have trouble estimating how much time they need to complete tasks. They may have trouble making friends or get into frequent arguments with their spouses. If these problems are severe they could affect the daily routine and lead to depression or anxiety.
While it's crucial to think about a diagnosis of ADHD but it's equally important to look at what other factors might be contributing to the symptoms. Stress, mental health conditions and certain medications are often responsible for symptoms that are similar. To ensure that the root issue is addressed, a thorough evaluation by a qualified professional is necessary.
Adults suffering from ADHD do not show the same signs of hyperactivity as children. Hyperactivity is less obvious and can be seen as fidgeting or a difficulty in sitting. Women with ADHD tend to display these signs more frequently since they are able to conceal their inattentive behaviors in their work and social lives.
During how to get an adult adhd diagnosis will examine the patient's medical history and how the symptoms affect their daily lives. They will also ask about family history and, if possible, interview a family member for their views on childhood behavior. They might also conduct neuropsychological, psycho-psychological, or learning disabilities tests. In some instances, a physical exam might be required to rule out certain diseases that can mimic symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosis
It's important for adults who believe they might have ADHD to discuss their symptoms with a health care provider, particularly if their issues stem from work or school. Primary healthcare providers can refer people to mental health professionals who specialize in adult ADHD assessment and treatment. Those professionals should be willing to share information about their training level and experience working with adults with ADHD, Hamdani says. Anyone who is hesitant to provide this information should be treated with suspicion Hamdani adds.
A diagnosis of adult ADHD is a life-changing diagnosis. For some, it finally gives a reason for the years of frustration and self-criticism. Others feel a sense satisfaction that there's a rationale for the difficulties they've experienced in their lives or that their problems weren't just "in their heads."
In most cases, an adult diagnosed with ADHD will be diagnosed by conducting a thorough interview with a certified professional. This may include a thorough review of the patient's medical background, family and personal history. The professional will also ask the patient to rate their behavior using one or a variety of standardized ADHD scales for behavioral assessment. These ratings are based on research that compares the behavior of those with ADHD to those of people who don't suffer from the disorder.
The individual will be asked about their symptoms and how they impact their daily 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 those who have been diagnosed as having adult ADHD. Common comorbidities associated with ADHD include depression, anxiety disorders, and alcohol or drug abuse. Some experts suggest these comorbidities develop as maladaptive coping mechanisms to deal with the frustrations commonly caused by untreated ADHD.
It's also important to recognize that ADHD is more prevalent in males than women, and it can be difficult for those who suffer from the disorder to get diagnosed because of long-held prejudices about the symptoms and their impact on men versus women. Some women can mask their symptoms better and can lead to a delayed diagnosis or an inaccurate diagnosis.
Treatment
It is recommended for adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD to speak with an expert in mental health care, preferably one with experience in treating adults with ADHD. The specialist can instruct the adult strategies for managing their symptoms and improve their performance at home, at work or school. They can also assist adults recognize why their behavior is different and what triggers it.
Because a person may have several disorders which cause similar symptoms as those of ADHD It is crucial for a mental health professional to thoroughly examine the adult. This can include a detailed description of the condition and scales completed by the patient or other individuals who know him/her along with a family and psychiatric history as well as a thorough physical exam.
It is essential to conduct a thorough evaluation to determine if a person suffers from a comorbid disorder such as depression or anxiety. These conditions can exacerbate ADHD symptoms and make treatment more difficult. A mental health professional may also conduct neuropsychological or cognitive tests to determine how the brain functions and identify other causes for the problem, like a learning impairment or physical illness.
Treatment options for adults suffering from ADHD typically involve psychological counseling (psychotherapy) and educational programs. Adults are able to benefit from individual therapy to boost their self-esteem and cope with the emotional burdens that come with ADHD. Behavioral therapies can also improve the management of time, organization and impulse control. They can also tackle the impact of stressors on an individual's ability to perform.
Some people suffering from ADHD can benefit from group therapy. This type of therapy may provide an opportunity to meet other people with the same challenges and discuss ways to overcome them. These groups are often organized by a support group or an advocacy group.
Medication is also an option for many adults suffering from ADHD. There are many medications available which include stimulants that boost the levels of norepinephrine as well as dopamine in the brain (for instance, methylphenidate which is also known as Ritalin). Others help to regulate moods and reduce impulsive behaviors, such as antidepressants or bupropion, an antipsychotic medication (Wellbutrin). Your Mercy doctor will be able to discuss all your treatment options.
Support
Many people diagnosed with ADHD suffer from the disorder for a long time without even realizing it. They may seek an assessment due to their frustration with daily challenges like forgetting appointments and making mistakes at work, or not paying attention to the demands of friends and family. It's common for these people to feel a sense relief when they receive a diagnosis, especially when they realize why they've struggled all their lives.
A mental health professional can perform an assessment for ADHD, but an primary care physician is usually a good place to start. The doctor can also refer the patient to a specialist in the event of need. A psychiatrist, psychiatric nurse or psychologist can also assess ADHD in adults. A lot of insurance plans include professionals according to their specialties, which will help individuals find the right health professional who is experienced in treating ADHD among adults.
During the assessment, a mental health professional will ask about the person's past issues, as well as how ADHD symptoms have affected them. It is essential to be open and honestly during the evaluation so that the mental health professional is able to conduct a thorough evaluation.
Psychotherapy, or psychological counseling, can help people manage their issues and improve their relationships. Behavioral therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, helps people develop specific skills to change their thinking patterns and behaviors. The combination of therapy and medication can help alleviate the symptoms of the disorder.
Many adults ADHD patients benefit from support groups for adults. The opportunity to share their experiences with others who have similar struggles can be a great source of encouragement and inspiration. Some of these groups are available online and are available to anyone suffering from ADHD. Some groups are geared towards specific groups, such as African Americans who have ADHD, couples affected by the disorder, or people who identify themselves as gay or lesbian.
Some people might feel embarrassed or ashamed about their symptoms. This may make them less willing to seek assistance. A medical professional must explain to the patient that ADHD is not a sign of weakness or failure.