Adult ADHD Diagnosis Isn't As Tough As You Think
Adult ADHD Diagnosis
A diagnosis of adult ADHD can be the first step in getting treatment for some people. They may be frustrated in their jobs, homes or social lives because of symptoms like fidgeting, forgetting things or interrupting others.
Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD typically undergo an extensive evaluation that involves interviewing them and their families and using tests that are standardized. It often includes a physical examination.
Symptoms
A diagnosis of ADHD may change the course of many adults' lives. It can help adults recognize the reasons they've struggled with for so long, and make sense of their past choices. It can also give hope for an improved future. If you're experiencing difficulty in locating your keys, feeling like you'll never complete your task or are accused of being irresponsible or lazy, getting an diagnosis is the first step to finding the right treatment for you.
For the majority of adults, signs appear in several areas of their lives and are more common in one area in comparison to another. They may be restless and impulsive at school, but have trouble keeping up at work. They might miss appointments or struggle to estimate the amount of time they require to complete tasks. They may struggle to make friends or have frequent arguments with their spouses. If these problems are severe they can interfere with everyday life and cause depression or anxiousness.
It is crucial to identify ADHD However, it's important to determine what other factors could be contributing to the symptoms. Stress, other mental health conditions, and certain medications can cause symptoms that are similar to those of ADHD. To ensure that the underlying problem is resolved, a thorough evaluation by a professional is required.
As opposed to children, adults with ADHD rarely exhibit the more obvious symptoms of hyperactivity. Instead, the signs of hyperactivity manifest more subduedly as fidgeting or a difficulty sitting in the chair. Women with ADHD tend to display these symptoms more often, as they can hide their inattention within their social and professional lives.
During an examination during an assessment, the doctor will review the patient's medical history and consider how their medical conditions impact their daily routine. They will also inquire about family history and, when possible, ask a family member their perspectives on childhood behavior. They might also conduct psycho-, neuropsychological or learning disabilities testing. In some instances it is necessary to perform an examination physical to rule out specific 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 health care provider. This is particularly important if the symptoms are related to school or work. Primary care providers may refer patients to mental health professionals who have expertise in adult ADHD evaluations. Hamdani states that professionals who deal with adults suffering from ADHD should be able and willing to share information about their training and experience. Hamdani says that anyone who is unwilling to share the information needed to be viewed as suspicious.
A diagnosis of adult ADHD can be a life-changing event. It can provide a reason for years of frustration and self-criticism for some. Some people are relieved that there is an explanation for their struggles 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 will include a review the person's medical family, personal, and medical background. The professional will also ask the patient to rate their behavior on one or a variety of standard ADHD behavioral rating scales. These ratings are based upon research that compares the behaviors of people with ADHD and those who don't have the disorder.
The individual will also be asked how the symptoms 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.
Comorbidities are frequently present in people who have been diagnosed as having adult ADHD. Anxiety disorders, depression and alcohol or drug use are typical comorbidities of ADHD. Some experts suggest these co-morbidities are maladaptive mechanisms to deal with the stressors that are typically caused by untreated ADHD.
It's also important to note that ADHD is more prevalent in males than women, and it can be difficult for people who suffer from the disorder to get diagnosed because of long-held prejudices about the symptoms and the impact they have on men versus women. Women are also capable of masking their symptoms better, which could lead to an incorrect diagnosis or delay in obtaining a diagnosis.
Treatment
It can be beneficial for those who have been diagnosed with ADHD to talk to an expert in mental health care who has expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD. The professional can help adults learn behavior strategies to help them manage their symptoms, and improve their functioning in school, at work or at home. They can also help the adult understand why their behavior is different and what triggers it.
A mental health professional should examine an adult thoroughly for other disorders that are similar to ADHD. This could include a thorough description of the condition and scales completed by the client or other people who know them, a psychiatric and family history and an extensive physical examination.
It is essential to conduct a thorough assessment in order to determine if the adult suffers from a comorbid condition such as depression or anxiety. These conditions can trigger the symptoms of ADHD and make treatment more challenging. A mental health professional may also conduct neurologic or cognitive testing to examine how the brain works and to rule out other causes, such as a physical illness or learning disability.
diagnosis for adhd in adults for adults suffering from ADHD typically include psychological counseling (psychotherapy) and educational programs. Individual therapy can help a person develop confidence in themselves and cope with the emotional baggage that often is associated with a diagnosis of ADHD. Behavioral therapies can also improve time management and control of impulses. They can also deal with the effect that stressors can have on an individual's abilities to perform.
Certain people with ADHD can benefit from group therapy. This type of therapy can offer the opportunity to connect with other people who have the same issues and discuss strategies to overcome them. These groups are typically run by a support group or an advocacy group.
There is also a treatment option for many adults suffering from ADHD. There are many medications including stimulants (such as methylphenidate sold under the name Ritalin) that increase levels of norepinephrine inside the brain. Others assist in regulating moods and reduce impulsive behaviors, like antidepressants or bupropion, an antipsychotic medication (Wellbutrin). Your Mercy doctor will be able to talk with you about all your treatment options.
Support
Many people diagnosed with ADHD suffer from the condition for a long time, without even realizing it. They might seek an evaluation due to their frustration with everyday challenges such as forgetting appointments and making mistakes at work, or ignoring the demands of friends and family. It's normal for these people to feel a sense of relief when they receive an diagnosis, particularly when they realize why they have been struggling all their lives.
A mental health professional can perform an evaluation for ADHD however, the primary care physician is typically the best place to begin. The doctor can also refer the patient to a specialist in the event of need. A psychiatrist, psychiatric nurse or psychologist can also evaluate ADHD in adults. Many insurance plans list professionals according to their specialties, which can help people locate an expert in health care who is familiar with ADHD among adults.
During the evaluation, the mental health specialist will ask questions about the person's behavior, including previous issues and how they've been affected by their ADHD symptoms. It is crucial to be honest and forthcoming during the assessment, so that the mental healthcare professional can provide an accurate assessment.
Psychotherapy, also known as psychological counseling, can help people manage their symptoms and improve their relationships. Behavioral therapy, also known as cognitive behavioral therapy, teaches people how to alter their behavior and thinking patterns. Therapy is often paired with medication, which can to reduce the effects of the disorder.
Many adults ADHD sufferers benefit from support groups for adults. Being able to share their experiences with other people who have similar struggles can be a source of encouragement and inspiration. A few of these groups can be found online and are open for anyone suffering from ADHD. Certain groups are specifically targeted for populations, like African Americans who have ADHD, couples affected by the disorder, or people who identify as gay or lesbian.
Some people may be embarrassed or ashamed of their symptoms. This can make them reluctant to seek assistance. However, a healthcare professional should explain that ADHD is not a sign of failing or weakness.