Adult ADHD Diagnosis
For some, a diagnosis of adult ADHD is the first step to get treatment. They may feel frustrated in their work, homes or social lives due to symptoms such as fidgeting, forgetting things or interrupting others.
Being diagnosed with ADHD as an adult often involves undergoing an extensive assessment that involves conducting interviews with the person and family members, using standardized tests and rating scales. It typically involves a physical exam as well.
Signs and symptoms
A diagnosis of ADHD may change the course of many adults' lives. It can help people understand why they've been struggling for so long and help them make sense of their past choices. It may also provide them with hope for the future. If you're struggling with losing your keys, feeling like you can never complete your task or are labeled as lazy or irresponsible, getting an diagnosis is the first step towards finding the right treatment for you.
For most adults, symptoms are present in a variety of areas of their lives. They are more prevalent in one area than the other. They may be indecisive and unfocused at school, but struggle to keep up with work. They might forget to make appointments or underestimate the amount of time required to complete their work. They may have trouble making friends or have frequent arguments with their spouses. If the issues are severe they could affect the daily routine and lead to anxiety or depression.
It's important to diagnose ADHD, but it's also crucial to determine what other factors might be contributing to the symptoms. Stress, other mental health conditions, and certain medications can often cause symptoms similar to those of ADHD. A thorough examination by a trained professional is necessary to make sure that the root cause is being addressed.
Adults with ADHD don't show the same signs of hyperactivity as children. Hyperactivity is less obvious and manifests as fidgeting, or having trouble sitting. Women who suffer from ADHD are more likely to display these signs, since they are more likely to conceal their inattention in their jobs and social lives.
During an evaluation 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 the family history of the patient and, if they are able, interview a relative to get their perspective on childhood behavior. They can also conduct psychological, neuropsychological or testing for learning disabilities. In some cases it might be necessary to undergo a physical examination in order to rule out specific illnesses that can cause symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosis
Adults who believe they have ADHD should discuss their symptoms with their health care provider. This is especially important if the symptoms are related to work or school. Primary healthcare providers can refer people to mental health specialists who specialize in adult ADHD evaluations and treatment. Those professionals should be willing to share information about their training level and experiences working with adults suffering from ADHD, Hamdani says. Anyone who isn't willing to provide this information should be treated with suspicion Hamdani says.
A diagnosis of adult ADHD is a life-changing experience. It provides an explanation to years of self-criticism and frustration for certain. Some people feel relieved that they have a reason for their problems in life, or that they weren't "just in their heads."
Adults suffering from ADHD are diagnosed through a thorough interview with a professional. This may include a thorough review of the person's personal medical, family, and background. In addition, the professional will likely ask the individual to rate his or her behavior on one or more of the standard ADHD behavior scales. These ratings are from research that compares the behavior of people suffering from ADHD to those of people who don't have the disorder.
The individual will also be asked about how the symptoms impact 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.
People who receive a diagnosis of adult ADHD typically have co-existing disorders which are referred to as co-morbidities. Common comorbidities with ADHD include depression, anxiety disorders and drug or alcohol abuse. Some experts suggest these co-morbidities are maladaptive mechanisms to deal with the frustrations commonly associated with untreated ADHD.
It's important to remember that ADHD is more prevalent in men than women. Many people suffering from the disorder may struggle to be diagnosed due to long-held prejudices about the symptoms of the disorder and how they affect men and women. how to get an adult adhd diagnosis are even able to mask their symptoms better, which could lead to an incorrect diagnosis or delay in obtaining a diagnosis.
Treatment
It can be beneficial for adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD to talk to a mental healthcare professional that has experience in treating adults with ADHD. The specialist can instruct the adult behavioral strategies to manage their symptoms and improve their performance at work, home or at school. They can also help adults recognize the reasons why their behavior is different and what triggers them.
Because a person may suffer from multiple conditions which cause similar symptoms as those of ADHD, it's important for professionals in mental health to examine the adult thoroughly. This can include a detailed description of the scale and the forms filled out by the patient or other individuals who are familiar with him/her as well as a psychiatric and family history and a thorough physical exam.
A thorough assessment is essential to determine whether the adult suffers from a co-morbid disorder, such as anxiety or depression. These conditions can exacerbate ADHD symptoms and make treatment more difficult. A mental health professional may also conduct neurological or cognitive testing to examine the way that the brain functions and to rule out other causes, like an illness that affects the body or a learning disability.
Treatment options for adults suffering from ADHD typically include psychological counseling (psychotherapy) and educational programs. Adults are able to benefit from individual therapy to improve their self-esteem as well as deal with the emotional baggage that comes with ADHD. Behavioral therapies can also improve efficiency, time management and impulse control, and could help to reduce the effects of stressors on the individual's ability to perform.
Certain people with ADHD may benefit from group therapy. This type of therapy can provide an opportunity to meet others who face similar difficulties and discuss ways to overcome these challenges. These groups are typically run by an advocacy or support group.
The use of 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 and dopamine in the brain (for instance, methylphenidate which is sold as Ritalin). Others aid in managing mood and decrease impulsive behavior, like antidepressants or the anti-psychotic drug bupropion (Wellbutrin). Your Mercy doctor can discuss all your treatment options.
Support
Many adults diagnosed with ADHD suffer from the disorder for decades without knowing it. Frustration with everyday challenges like not remembering appointments, making rash mistakes at work or abandoning family or friend commitments can cause them to seek an evaluation. It is common for people to feel a sense relief after receiving an answer, particularly when they understand why they have been struggling all their lives.
A mental health professional can perform an assessment for ADHD however a primary care physician is usually the best place to begin. how to get an adult adhd diagnosis may also refer the person to a specialist in the event of need. A psychiatric nursing, psychiatrist or psychologist can also assess ADHD in adults. Many insurance plans include specialists by specialization and can help people find the right health professional who is experienced in ADHD in adults.
During the evaluation, a mental health professional will ask about the person's past issues, as well as how ADHD symptoms have affected them. It is important to speak openly and truthfully during the evaluation so that the mental health professional can complete a thorough assessment.
Psychotherapy, also known as psychological counseling can help people manage their issues and improve their relationships. Behavioral therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, can teach people specific techniques to alter their thinking patterns and behaviors. The combination of therapy and medication can alleviate the symptoms of the disorder.
Social support groups are beneficial to a lot of adults ADHD patients. The opportunity to share their struggles with other people who are experiencing similar issues can provide a lot of inspiration and encouragement. A few of these groups are accessible on the internet and are open to anyone suffering from ADHD. Certain groups are specifically targeted for populations, like African Americans who have ADHD or couples who are affected by the disorder, or people who identify as gay or lesbian.
Some people may be embarrassed or ashamed of their symptoms. This can cause them to be reluctant to seek assistance. However, a healthcare professional must explain that ADHD is not a sign of weakness or failure.