Adult ADHD Diagnosis
A diagnosis of adult ADHD can be the first step to finding treatment for certain people. They may be frustrated at work, in their homes, or social life because of symptoms like fidgeting, forgetting things or interrupting others.
Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD will often undergo an extensive evaluation that involves interviewing them and their families and using standardized tests. The evaluation usually includes an examination of the body.
Signs and symptoms
A diagnosis of ADHD can alter the course of many adults' lives. It can help people understand why they've struggled for so long and make sense out of their past choices. It can also give them hope for the future. If you're having trouble finding your keys, feeling like you'll never be able to finish your work or being accused of being lazy or irresponsible getting an assessment is the first step towards finding the best treatment for you.
For most adults, symptoms manifest in different areas of their lives. They are more common in one area than the other. 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 time required to complete their work. They may be unable to make friends or argue with their spouses regularly. If these problems are severe they could affect everyday life and cause anxiety or depression.
While it's essential to consider the possibility of a diagnosis of ADHD but it's equally important to look at the other factors that could be that are causing the symptoms. Stress, mental health issues and certain medications are frequently associated with symptoms that are similar. A thorough evaluation by a qualified professional is necessary to make sure that the underlying issue is being treated.
Unlike children, adults with ADHD seldom show the more obvious symptoms of hyperactivity. Instead, the signs of hyperactivity are displayed more subduedly as fidgeting or having trouble sitting in a chair. Women with ADHD are more likely to show these signs, since they are more able to hide their inattention in their jobs and social interactions.
During the exam, the doctor will review the patient's medical background and how the symptoms affect their daily lives. They will also ask about family history and, if possible, interview a family member for their perspectives on childhood behavior. They can also conduct psycho-, neuropsychological or learning disabilities testing. In some cases, a physical exam could be required to rule out illnesses that may mimic the symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosis
It's important for adults who believe they might be suffering from ADHD to discuss their symptoms with a health care provider, particularly if their issues are related to work or school. Primary care providers may refer patients to mental health professionals with experience in adult ADHD assessments. Hamdani states that professionals who deal with adults with ADHD should be willing and able to provide information regarding their training and experiences. Hamdani warns that anyone who is reluctant to disclose this information should be treated as suspicious.
The diagnosis of adult ADHD can be a life-changing experience. For some, it provides an explanation for the years of frustration and self-criticism. Others feel a sense of relief that there's an explanation for the challenges they've encountered in their lives, or that their struggles weren't just "in their heads."
In most cases, an adult with ADHD will receive a diagnosis by a thorough interview with a qualified professional. This includes a thorough examination of the person's personal medical, family and personal history. The professional will also ask the patient to rate their behavior on one or several standard ADHD behavioral rating scales. These ratings are based upon research that compared the behavior of people suffering from ADHD and those who don't have the disorder.
The person will also be asked about how the symptoms interfere with their lives. In adult adhd diagnosis uk 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 often present in people who have been diagnosed as having adult ADHD. Anxiety disorders, depression, and drug or alcohol use are common comorbidities of ADHD. Some experts believe that these comorbidities are maladaptive coping strategies to deal with the frustrations of untreated ADHD.
It's also important to note that ADHD is more prevalent in men than women, and it may be difficult for people who suffer from the disorder to be diagnosed due long-held biases about the symptoms and the impact they have on males and females. Women can also be able to mask their symptoms better, which could result in an incorrect diagnosis or delay in getting it.
Treatment
Adults who are diagnosed of ADHD may find it helpful to speak with an expert in mental health particularly one who has expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD. The professional can help adults learn behavioral strategies to help them manage their symptoms, and improve their performance at the workplace, at school or at home. They can also assist the adult to understand why their behavior is different and what triggers it.
Since a person could suffer from multiple conditions which cause similar symptoms as the symptoms of ADHD, it's important for a mental health professional to examine the adult thoroughly. This could include a thorough description of the scale and the forms filled out by the client or other people who know him/her as well as a psychiatric and family history, as well as a thorough physical exam.
A thorough assessment is essential to determine whether the adult has a comorbid disorder, such as anxiety or depression. These conditions can exacerbate ADHD symptoms and make treatment more difficult. A mental health professional can also conduct neuropsychological or cognitive testing to look at how the brain functions, and to determine the cause of the issues, such as a learning disability or physical illness.
Treatment options for adults with ADHD typically include counseling for psychological issues (psychotherapy) and educational programs. Individual therapy can help an adult develop confidence in themselves and cope with the emotional burden that usually is associated with a diagnosis of ADHD. Behavioral therapies can also help improve efficiency, time management and impulse control. They can also tackle the impact of stressors on a person's ability to perform.
Some people with ADHD might benefit from group therapy. This type of therapy offers you the opportunity to connect with other people who are facing similar challenges and discuss how to overcome them. These groups are usually run by a support group or an advocacy group.
Many people suffering from ADHD can be treated by medications. There are many medications available, including stimulants that increase the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain (for example, methylphenidate, which is also known as Ritalin). Others aid in managing mood and decrease impulsive behavior, like antidepressants and the anti-psychotic drug bupropion (Wellbutrin). Your Mercy doctor will be able to discuss all treatment options with you.
Support
Many people diagnosed with ADHD live with the disorder for decades without even realizing it. Discontent with everyday issues such as missing appointments, making irresponsible mistakes at work, or breaking family or friendship commitments can lead them to seek an evaluation. It's common for these people to feel a sense of relief after receiving an diagnosis, particularly when they understand the reason they've been struggling all their lives.
A mental health professional may perform an ADHD evaluation, but the primary doctor is usually an excellent starting point. The doctor may also refer the person to a specialist in the event of need. A psychiatrist, psychiatric nurse or psychologist may also be able to evaluate ADHD in adults. Many insurance plans will list specialists according to their specialties. This will help individuals find an expert in health care who is experienced in treating ADHD among adults.
During the examination, the mental health professional will ask questions regarding the person's behavior, such as past problems and how they've been affected by their ADHD symptoms. It's crucial to be honest and open during the evaluation so that the mental health professional can provide a precise assessment.
Therapy, also known as psychotherapy can assist people in learning to manage their issues and improve their relationships. Behavioral therapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy, helps people develop specific skills to change their thinking patterns and behaviors. The combination of therapy and medication can reduce the symptoms of the disorder.
Many adult ADHD sufferers benefit from support groups for adults. The chance to share their experiences with others who have similar struggles can provide a lot of motivation and inspiration. A few of these groups are accessible online and are open for all people with ADHD. Certain groups are specifically targeted for groups, such as African Americans who have ADHD or couples who are affected by the disorder, or those who identify themselves as gay or lesbian.
Certain people may feel a sense of shame or embarrassment over their symptoms, which can hinder their willingness to seek assistance. However, a doctor must explain that ADHD is not an indication of weakness or failure.