Adult ADHD Diagnosis
For some who are diagnosed with adult ADHD is the first step toward getting treatment. They may feel frustrated at work, in their homes or social lives because of symptoms like fidgeting, forgetting things or interrupting others.
Adults diagnosed with ADHD typically undergo an extensive evaluation that includes interviews with them and their families, and using tests that are standardized. The evaluation usually includes a physical examination.
Signs and symptoms
For many adults, the diagnosis of ADHD can have a profound impact on their lives. It can help them understand why they have been through so much and understand their past decisions. It can also offer hope for the future to be brighter. Whether you are experiencing difficulty in locating your keys, feeling that you'll never finish your work, or being called lazy or irresponsible getting an assessment is the first step toward finding the right treatment for you.
For most adults, symptoms are present in a variety of areas of their lives and are more prevalent in one place in comparison to another. They might be irritable and impulsive at school but struggle to keep up with work. They may not remember to keep appointments or underestimate the amount of time required to complete their work. They may struggle to make friends or argue with their spouses regularly. If the problems are serious, they can interfere with daily life and lead to anxiety or depression.
It's crucial to recognize ADHD however, it's important to identify other factors could be causing the symptoms. Stress, mental health conditions, and certain medications can trigger symptoms that are similar to the symptoms of ADHD. A thorough evaluation by a qualified professional is required to be sure that the underlying issue is being addressed.
Adults who suffer from ADHD don't show the same signs of hyperactivity as children. Hyperactivity is more subtle and is manifested as fidgeting or difficulty sitting still. Women who suffer from ADHD tend to display these signs more frequently because they are able to hide their inattentional behavior within their social and professional lives.
During an assessment, the doctor will review the patient's medical history and look at the ways in which their ailments affect their daily routine. They will also ask for family history and, if possible ask a family member for their opinion on childhood behavior. They may also conduct neuropsychological, psycho-psychological or tests for learning disabilities. In certain cases, a physical exam might be required to rule out illnesses that can mimic the symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosis
It is crucial for adults who think they might be suffering from ADHD to discuss their symptoms with a medical provider, particularly if their issues stem from work or school. Primary care providers may refer patients to mental health professionals who have expertise in adult ADHD assessments. Hamdani states that professionals who deal with adults with ADHD should be able and willing to give information about their education and experiences. Hamdani warns that anyone who is unwilling to disclose the information needed to be viewed as suspicious.
The diagnosis of adult ADHD can be a life-changing experience. It can provide a reason for years of frustration and self-criticism for certain. Some people feel relieved that they have an explanation for their struggles in life, or that they weren't "just in their minds."
In most cases, an adult with ADHD will be diagnosed by conducting a thorough interview with a qualified professional. This may include a thorough review of the individual's personal medical, family and personal history. The professional will also ask the person to rate their behavior using one or more of the standard ADHD behavioral rating scales. These ratings are basing on research that compares the behavior of people suffering from ADHD to those of people who don't suffer from the disorder.
The person will be questioned about their symptoms and how they affect 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.
The people who are diagnosed of adult ADHD typically have co-existing disorders which are referred to as comorbidities. Common comorbidities associated with ADHD include depression, anxiety disorders, and alcohol or drug abuse. Some experts suggest that these comorbidities develop as maladaptive coping mechanisms to deal with the frustrations commonly associated with untreated ADHD.
It's important to remember that ADHD affects more men than women. Many people suffering from the disorder might struggle to be diagnosed because of the long-standing prejudices regarding the symptoms of the disorder and how they affect both men and women. Some women can mask their symptoms better and can lead to delay diagnosis or an incorrect diagnosis.
Treatment
It may be helpful for adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD to consult a mental healthcare professional, preferably one with expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD. This person can teach adults behavioral strategies to help them manage their symptoms, and improve their performance at the workplace, at school or at home. They can also help the adult understand the reasons behind their behavior and what triggers it.
Because a person may suffer from multiple conditions that cause similar symptoms to those of ADHD, it's important for a mental health professional to evaluate the adult thoroughly. This may include a detailed description and scales filled out by the patient or other individuals who know him/her, a psychiatric and family history, as well as an exhaustive physical exam.
A thorough assessment is crucial to determine if the adult has a comorbid condition, such as depression or anxiety. These conditions can exacerbate ADHD symptoms and make treatment more difficult. A mental health professional can also conduct neurological or cognitive testing to examine the way that the brain functions and to rule out any other causes, including an illness that affects the body or a learning disability.
Treatment options for adults suffering from ADHD typically include counseling for psychological issues (psychotherapy) and educational programs. www.adhddiagnosis.top may benefit from individual talk therapy to boost their self-esteem and deal with the emotional baggage associated with ADHD. Behavioral therapies can also improve time management and organization, as well as impulse control. They can also tackle the effects that stressors affect an individual's ability to perform.
Some people with ADHD may benefit from group therapy. This kind of therapy can provide an opportunity to meet other people who have the same challenges and discuss ways to overcome them. These groups are typically run by a support group or an advocacy group.
Many adults suffering from ADHD are treated with medications. There are a myriad of medications available that include stimulants (such as methylphenidate that is sold under the name Ritalin) which increase the levels of norepinephrine within the brain. Antidepressants and the antipsychotic drug Wellbutrin (Bupropion) help regulate moods and reduce impulse-driven behavior. Your Mercy doctor can discuss all treatment options with you.
Support
Many adults diagnosed with ADHD suffer from the condition for a long time, without knowing it. Frustration with everyday challenges like not remembering appointments, making rash mistakes at work, or breaking family or friendship commitments can prompt them to seek an assessment. It's common for these people to feel a sense of relief when they receive an diagnosis, particularly when they can see the reason they've been struggling throughout their lives.
A mental health professional can conduct an assessment for ADHD however, the primary care physician is usually the best place to begin. If needed, the doctor can refer the patient to an expert. A psychiatric nursing, psychiatrist or psychologist may also be able to assess ADHD in adults. Many insurance plans will list specialists according to their specialties, which will help individuals find an expert in health care who is familiar with ADHD in adults.
During the evaluation the mental health specialist will ask questions about the person's behavior, such as past problems and how they've been affected by their ADHD symptoms. It's important to talk openly and honestly during the evaluation so that the mental health professional can conduct a thorough evaluation.
Psychological counseling, or therapy can assist people in learning to manage their symptoms and improve relationships. Behavioral therapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy, can teach people how to change their behavior and patterns of thinking. The combination of therapy and medication can alleviate the symptoms of the disorder.
Many adult ADHD patients benefit from support groups for adults. The opportunity to share their challenges with others who face similar issues can provide a lot of inspiration and motivation. A few of these groups are accessible online and are open for all people with ADHD. Some groups are geared towards specific groups, such as African Americans who have ADHD or couples who are affected by the disorder, or those who identify as gay or lesbian.
Some people may feel embarrassed or ashamed about their symptoms. This may make them reluctant to seek help. But a health professional should explain that ADHD is not an indication of failing or weakness.