Adult ADHD Diagnosis
For some who are diagnosed with adult ADHD is the first step toward getting treatment. They may be frustrated at work, in their homes or social lives due to symptoms such as fidgeting, forgetting things or interrupting others.
Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD typically undergo a thorough evaluation, which includes interviewing them and their families and using standardized tests. It typically includes a physical examination, too.
Symptoms
A diagnosis of ADHD can alter the course of many adults' lives. cognitive-behavioral therapy can help people understand why they've been struggling for so long and help them make sense of their past decisions. It can also offer hope for an improved future. Whether you are having trouble finding your keys, feeling like you can never finish your work or being called unreliable or lazy, obtaining an assessment is the first step towards finding the right treatment for you.
For the majority of adults, signs are present in a variety of areas of their lives and are more common in one area than another. They may be restless and impulsive at school but struggle to keep up with work. They might forget to make appointments or underestimate the amount of time needed to complete tasks. They may struggle to make friends or engage in frequent arguments with their spouses. If these problems are severe they can interfere with daily life and lead to anxiety or depression.
It is crucial to identify ADHD however, it's crucial to determine what other factors could be contributing to symptoms. Stress, other mental health conditions, and certain medications can often cause symptoms similar to the symptoms of ADHD. A thorough evaluation by a trained professional is required to be sure that the root cause is being treated.
Like children, adults who suffer from ADHD seldom show the more prominent symptoms of hyperactivity. Instead, the symptoms of hyperactivity are displayed more subtly as fidgeting or a difficulty sitting in the chair. Women with ADHD tend to exhibit these signs more frequently since they are able to conceal their inattentive behaviors in their work and social lives.
During an examination, the doctor will review the patient's medical history and consider how their medical conditions impact their daily lives. They will also inquire about family history and, should they be able to interview a family member to get their perspective on childhood behaviors. They may also conduct psychological, neuropsychological or testing for learning disabilities. In some instances, a physical exam may be needed to rule out illnesses which may resemble the symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosis
Adults who suspect they have ADHD should discuss their symptoms with their doctor. This is particularly important if the problems are related to school or work. Primary health care providers can refer patients to mental health specialists who specialize in adult ADHD assessment and treatment. These professionals must be able to disclose information about their level of training and experience working with adults with ADHD, Hamdani says. Hamdani says that anyone who is unwilling to share the information needed to be viewed as suspicious.
Being diagnosed with adult ADHD can be a life-changing moment. It provides an explanation to years of frustration and self-criticism for some. Others feel a sense of relief that there's a reason for the challenges they've encountered in their lives, or that their struggles weren't simply "in their head."
Adults with ADHD are diagnosed through an extensive interview with a specialist. This includes a review of the person's medical, family, and personal background. The professional will also ask the patient to rate their behavior using one or several different ADHD behavioral rating scales. These ratings are from research that compares the behavior of people with ADHD to the behavior of those who don't suffer from the disorder.
The individual will be asked about their symptoms and how they affect their lives. 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 common among those who have been diagnosed as having adult ADHD. Common comorbidities associated with ADHD include depression, anxiety disorders, and alcohol or drug abuse. Some experts suggest these comorbidities develop as maladaptive coping strategies to manage the frustrations that are commonly caused by untreated ADHD.
It's also important to recognize that ADHD is more prevalent in males than women, and it can be difficult for many people who suffer from the disorder to get diagnosed because of persistent prejudices regarding the symptoms and the impact they have on males and females. Some women are able to hide their symptoms more effectively and can lead to delay diagnosis or an incorrect diagnosis.
Treatment
It is recommended for those who have been diagnosed with ADHD to talk to a mental healthcare professional, preferably one with expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD. The professional can help adults learn behavior strategies to help them manage their symptoms and improve their performance in school, at work or at home. They can also help adults learn to understand why their behavior is different and what triggers it.
A mental health professional must thoroughly evaluate an adult for other disorders similar to ADHD. This may include a detailed description of the person's symptoms as well as questionnaires and scales filled out by the client and other people who know him or her well, a full medical history of the family and a psychiatric history, and a thorough physical examination.
A thorough examination is important for determining whether the adult suffers from a comorbid disorder, such as depression or anxiety. These conditions can cause the symptoms of ADHD and make treatment more challenging. A mental health professional may also perform cognitive or neuropsychological tests to determine how the brain functions and to rule out other causes of the problems, such as an intellectual disability or physical illness.
Treatment options for adults suffering from ADHD typically include counseling for psychological issues (psychotherapy) and educational programs. Individual talk therapy can help an adult build confidence in their self and manage the emotional burden that usually accompanies a diagnosis of ADHD. Behavioral therapies can also help improve time management and control of impulses. They can also address the impact stressors affect an individual's ability to perform.
Some people with ADHD benefit from group therapy. This kind of therapy gives you the chance to meet other people who are facing similar challenges and discuss how to overcome them. These groups are typically organized by a support or advocacy group.
Many people suffering from ADHD can be treated by medications. There are a variety of medications available that include stimulants (such as methylphenidate, which is sold under the name Ritalin) which increase the levels of norepinephrine inside the brain. Others help to regulate moods and reduce impulsive behaviors, such as antidepressants or bupropion, an antipsychotic drug (Wellbutrin). Your Mercy doctor can discuss all treatment options with you.
Support
Adults suffering from ADHD may have the disorder for years without even realizing it. They might seek an evaluation due to their frustration with everyday issues like not remembering appointments, making mistakes at work, or neglecting family and friendship commitments. It is common for people to feel a sense relief when they receive an diagnosis, particularly when they understand why they've struggled throughout their lives.
A mental health professional can perform an evaluation for ADHD, but the primary care physician is typically an ideal place to begin. The doctor may also refer the patient to a specialist when needed. A psychiatric nursing, psychiatrist or psychologist can also assess ADHD in adults. Many insurance plans list professionals according to their specialties, which will help individuals find an expert in health care who is experienced in treating ADHD among adults.
During the assessment, a mental health professional will inquire about the person's past issues, as well as how ADHD symptoms have affected them. It's crucial to be honest and transparent during the assessment, so that the mental health professional can provide an accurate assessment.
Psychotherapy, or psychological counseling, can aid people in managing their symptoms and improve their relationships. Behavioral therapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy, can teach people how to alter their behavior and thinking patterns. Therapy is often coupled with medication, which can help lessen the effects of the disorder.
Many adult ADHD sufferers benefit from support groups for adults. The opportunity to share their experiences with other people who are facing similar challenges can be a great source of motivation and inspiration. Some of these groups are online and are open to everyone who has ADHD. Some groups are specifically for populations, such as African Americans with ADHD, couples impacted by the disorder or those who identify as gay or lesbian.
Some people may experience feelings of shame or embarrassment regarding their symptoms, which may hinder their willingness to seek help. However, a healthcare professional should explain that ADHD is not a sign of failing or weakness.