Adult Diagnosis of ADHD
For adults who struggle with ADHD, a diagnosis can be life-changing. It can help people recognize the reasons why they struggle in family, work and in relationships.
However, it can be difficult to get a diagnosis as symptoms often overlap with other ailments. A mental health professional or health care provider will evaluate the individual and conduct tests.
Symptoms
The person might not be aware that they have ADHD until they reach the age of adulthood or perhaps because teachers and parents were not aware of symptoms earlier, or because the demands of college or work life made the disorder more apparent. Adults with ADHD who aren't treated are affected in their academic, social and professional lives. Undiagnosed ADHD can lead to a wide range of problems including relationship problems and financial difficulties.
A mental health professional will conduct an interview and review the patient's medical, mental health and personal history, paying particular attention to the symptoms in various situations. The patient will be asked to describe the symptoms and how they affect their daily functioning as well as their relationships. It is essential that patients are open about their symptoms and do not hide them out of embarrassment.
The mental health professional should also determine if these symptoms are linked to other comorbidities, such as anxiety and depression, which often coexist with ADHD. These conditions can make the symptoms of ADHD worse and can hinder effective treatment for the disorder.
If the psychologist or psychiatrist believes that the symptoms are affected by comorbid disorders such as learning disabilities, psycho-psychological disorders, or neuropsychological disorders, then additional testing can be conducted to establish an accurate diagnosis. These tests can also be used to determine the extent of impairment to function that these conditions cause. The mental health professional will also ask to interview others who are significant such as spouses and siblings to get a complete picture of how the person is doing.
Diagnosis
Adults are diagnosed with ADHD by a mental health doctor or a medical professional following an extensive evaluation. This includes a detailed interview about the history of symptoms and their impact on everyday functioning and the presence of any other mental health conditions that could co-occur with ADHD, such as mood disorders and anxiety. Additionally, the doctor might ask for the assistance of significant others--usually an intimate partner or a close friend to provide more details about the individual's behavior.
Finding a reliable diagnosis of ADHD in adulthood can be a life-changing experience. For many adults, this diagnosis finally provides an explanation for what always seemed to be "normal" behavior. Sometimes, it is a relief to know that they're not just naive or forgetful or incompetent; their issues are more complex.
The American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth edition (DSM-5) requires that adults meet specific criteria for symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity. This is a standard set to ensure that individuals receive the treatment and support they need. In order for a person to be eligible for an ADHD diagnosis they must exhibit symptoms for at least one year and cause significant impairment in multiple settings, including school, home or work, with friends or family, or other activities. The number of symptoms required for adults over 17 has been reduced from six to five.
A strong relationship with your primary health care provider can help you identify ADHD. Many doctors routinely diagnose and treat ADHD in children, and can refer you to an expert in mental health who is certified to conduct an assessment of adults.
Treatment
When people with ADHD are diagnosed their lives may change drastically. They will finally have solutions to their issues in the classroom, as well as in starting a new career, or in relationships. A diagnosis can relieve shame that has accumulated for certain people throughout their lives.
Talking to a mental health healthcare professional or health care professional is the first step to getting a diagnosis. They can inquire about the family history and conduct an examination to rule out any conditions that can cause symptoms that resemble ADHD, such as sleeping disorders, learning disabilities or alcohol/drug abuse. They may also ask the person to complete a checklist of symptoms.
During the assessment process, doctors may decide to interview an individual partner or spouse. This allows the non ADHD spouse or partner develop an accurate understanding of their loved one's ADHD and a sympathetic approach to the symptoms. This is crucial to improve relationships following the diagnosis. If this isn't possible the clinician may interview colleagues or friends who are familiar with the person.
Medicines are the primary treatment options for adults with ADHD. Stimulants such as methylphenidate (Ritalin(r)) and dextroamphetamine (Adderall(r)) are the most effective and commonly used drugs to treat adult ADHD. Other medications, such as atomoxetine (Strattera(r)) and Guanfacine (Intuniv(r), Tenex(r)) increase the levels of norepinephrine in the brain and can aid in the treatment of ADHD.
Psychotherapy also is an alternative. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can help patients develop skills to manage their ADHD symptoms. They include time management, organizational strategies, self regulation of behaviors and emotions, and coping techniques for self-doubt and negative criticism. Other treatments, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, help adults identify the automatic or irrational thoughts that lead to negative behaviors and develop ways to replace them with positive self-talk.
Medication
Many people find that ADHD medication helps to improve their symptoms. This medication is usually in the form a stimulant, and it increases brain activity in areas that regulate the behavior and attention. Methylphenidate is the most frequently used medicine for adults with ADHD and is available in a variety of forms. It is available as immediate-release tablets or modified-release tablets that release the medication throughout the day. Clonidine is a different kind of medication that works by decreasing brain activity. It is available in pill or liquid form.
When treating adult patients with ADHD The psychiatrist or therapist may review the patient's family history as well as medical history to identify any causes that could cause similar symptoms as ADHD. This is crucial as certain medical conditions, such as seizures and thyroid problems can cause symptoms similar to ADHD. Certain medications and dietary supplements can cause similar symptoms.
During the examination during the evaluation, the patient will be asked to describe their ADHD symptoms to a therapist or psychiatrist. They will be asked to provide the standardized ADHD ratings and check lists as and psychological tests to measure working memory, executive function (abilities such as making decisions and planning) spatial and visual ability, as well as reasoning skills.
If the therapist or psychiatrist believes that the symptoms of ADHD are seriously affecting the life of a person they may recommend treatment with medication. In some cases the therapist may ask the person's spouse or partner to interview them about the effects of the symptoms on their relationship. This will help decrease blame between individuals and can lead to healthier, more productive relationships.
Counseling
Many people with ADHD find relief in receiving an diagnosis. It allows them to understand why they are having difficulties at work or school and to learn how to overcome these issues. It's also a chance for them to overcome negative habits and increase self-esteem.
undiagnosed adhd adults is essential for success, and counseling can help. Counseling for ADHD may include psychological (or psychotherapy) therapy and a variety of behavioral treatments. For instance a therapist might create a reward chart which rewards positive behavior and is able to impose consequences for negative behavior. The therapist can also teach the patient how to manage their symptoms, such as relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditative postures in yoga.
Another benefit of counseling is helping people understand and accept their ADHD. It can be difficult to admit that you struggle with planning, organizing and paying attention. It can even be embarrassing to inform coworkers and supervisors about your ADHD. The majority of teachers and supervisors will offer accommodations to accommodate your needs. For example, they might allow you to use a computer for writing assignments instead of paper and give more in-depth explanations of classroom material.
The therapist will also teach you how to deal with ADHD by using cognitive behavioral therapy. It is a method of talk therapy which helps you transform negative behaviours and thoughts into positive ones. Counseling for ADHD can also include family or marital therapy. This helps loved ones learn to communicate more effectively and solve problems with someone who suffers from ADHD. People suffering from ADHD might also be suffering from other mental disorders such as anxiety or depression, and may have substance abuse problems.