Adult ADHD Diagnosis
A diagnosis of adult ADHD could be the first step to seeking treatment for some people. They may be frustrated at work, at homes, or in their social life due to symptoms such as being distracted or forgetting things.
Adults diagnosed with ADHD will often undergo an exhaustive evaluation, which includes interviewing the family members and themselves and using standardized tests. It typically includes a physical exam, as well.
Signs and symptoms
For many adults, a diagnosis of ADHD can have a profound impact on their lives. It can help people understand why they've been through so much and discover the meaning behind their previous choices. It can also inspire them to look forward to the future. If you're struggling with losing your keys, feeling like you can never complete your task or are labeled as irresponsible or lazy getting a diagnosis is the first step to finding the treatment that works for you.
For most adults, the signs appear in several areas of their lives and are more prevalent in one place in comparison to another. They might be irritable and impulsive at school, but struggle to keep up with work. They may forget to keep appointments or underestimate the amount of time required to complete their work. They may struggle to make friends or have frequent arguments with their spouses. If these issues are serious they could affect daily living and lead to anxiety or depression.
It's important to diagnose ADHD, but it's also important to determine what other factors could be contributing to the symptoms. Stress, other mental health conditions and certain medications can often cause symptoms that are similar to the symptoms of ADHD. A thorough evaluation by a qualified professional is essential to make sure that the root cause is being addressed.
Unlike children, adults with ADHD seldom show the more obvious signs of hyperactivity. Hyperactivity is less obvious and manifests as fidgeting, or difficulty sitting still. Women who suffer from ADHD are more likely to show these symptoms since they are more able to hide their inattention at work and in social interactions.
During the examination the doctor will look at the patient's medical background and how their symptoms impact their daily lives. They will also ask about family history and when possible, interview a family member to get their perspectives on childhood behavior. They can also conduct psychological, neuropsychological or tests for learning disabilities. In some instances physical exams could be required to rule out certain illnesses that may mimic symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosis
Adults who think they may have ADHD should discuss their symptoms with their doctor. This is especially important if the symptoms are connected to school or work. Primary care providers can refer individuals to mental health professionals who specialize in adult ADHD assessment and treatment. Hamdani says that professionals who work with adults suffering from ADHD should be willing and able to provide information regarding their training and experiences. Anyone who isn't willing to disclose this information should be considered suspicious, Hamdani adds.
A diagnosis of adult ADHD is a life-changing experience. It provides an explanation to years of self-criticism and frustration for some. Others feel a sense relief that there's a reason for the difficulties they've experienced in their lives, or that their struggles were not just "in their heads."
In the majority of cases, an adult with ADHD will receive a diagnosis by a thorough interview with a professional who is qualified. This will include a review the person's medical family, personal, and medical history. The doctor will also ask the patient to rate their behavior on one or more of the different ADHD scales for behavioral assessment. These ratings are based upon research that compares the behaviors of those with ADHD and those who don't have the disorder.
The individual will also be asked about how the symptoms impact their daily 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 often present among those who have been diagnosed with adult ADHD. Anxiety disorders, depression, and drug or alcohol use are common comorbidities of ADHD. Some experts believe that these comorbidities are a result of maladaptive strategies for dealing with the stress and frustrations that come with untreated ADHD.
It is also important to remember that ADHD is more prevalent in males than women, and it may be difficult for many people who do have the disorder to be diagnosed due long-held biases about the symptoms and their impact on men versus women. Women can also be capable of masking their symptoms better, which could lead to an incorrect diagnosis or delay in diagnosis.
Treatment
Adults who have been diagnosed of ADHD might find it beneficial to consult a mental health professional particularly one who has experience in treating adults with ADHD. The person who treats adults can teach them ways to 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 them.
Because a person may suffer from multiple disorders that can cause similar symptoms to the symptoms of ADHD It is crucial for professionals in mental health to evaluate the adult thoroughly. 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 them well, a complete psychiatric history and family medical history, and an exhaustive physical exam.
A thorough evaluation is also crucial to determine if the adult has a comorbid condition such as depression or anxiety. These conditions can cause the symptoms of ADHD and make treatment more challenging. A mental health professional can also conduct neurological or cognitive tests to assess how the brain functions and to rule out other causes, including a physical illness or learning disability.
Treatment options for adults with ADHD typically involve psychological counseling (psychotherapy) and educational programs. Individual therapy can help a person develop confidence in themselves and deal with the emotional baggage that often accompanies a diagnosis of ADHD. Behavioral therapies can also improve organization, time management and impulse control and may tackle the impact of stressors on the individual's ability to function.
Some people suffering from ADHD can benefit from group therapy. This type of therapy may give them the chance to meet other people who have the same difficulties and discuss ways to overcome them. These groups are typically organized by an advocacy or support group.
The use of medication is also an option for a lot of 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 behavior like antidepressants and the anti-psychotic drug bupropion (Wellbutrin). Your Mercy doctor can discuss all your treatment options.
Support
Many people diagnosed with ADHD suffer from the disorder for decades 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 the demands of friends and family. It's common for these people to feel a sense relief when they receive an answer, particularly when they can see why they have been struggling all their lives.
A mental health professional can conduct an assessment for ADHD however a primary care physician is usually 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 could also be qualified to assess ADHD in adults. Many insurance plans list professionals according to their specialties, which can help people locate the right health professional who is knowledgeable about ADHD among adults.
During next page , the mental health specialist will ask questions about the person's behavior, which could include the past issues they have had and how they've been affected by their ADHD symptoms. It is important to speak openly and honestly during the evaluation so that the mental health professional is able to conduct a thorough evaluation.
Therapy, or psychotherapy can help people learn to manage their symptoms and improve relationships. Behavioral therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, helps people develop specific techniques to alter their patterns of thinking and behavior. The combination of therapy and medication can help to reduce the symptoms of the disorder.
Many adult ADHD patients benefit from social support groups. The chance to share their challenges with others who face similar issues can provide a lot of inspiration and encouragement. Some of these groups are accessible online and are open for anyone with ADHD. Some groups are for specific 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.
Some people might be embarrassed or ashamed of their symptoms. This could make them reluctant to seek help. However, a healthcare professional must explain that ADHD is not a sign of weakness or failure.