Adult Diagnosis of ADHD
A diagnosis of ADHD can change the life of those suffering from the condition. It can help people understand why they struggle in family, work and in relationships.
However, it can be difficult to establish a diagnosis because symptoms can be overlapping with other ailments. A health care provider or mental health professional will examine the patient and run tests.
Symptoms
The person might not realize they have ADHD until they reach the age of adulthood, perhaps because teachers and parents were not aware of symptoms at a younger age, or because the demands of college or work life brought out the disorder. Adults with ADHD who are not treated suffer in their social, academic and work lives. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD experience a variety of problems, including problems with relationships and financial problems.
To determine the presence of ADHD, a mental health professional will talk to the patient and review the patient's personal medical and mental health history, paying particular attention to symptoms in different settings. The patient will be asked to describe the symptoms and how they impact their daily life and relationships. It is important that the patient is honest about the symptoms, and that he or she does not hide behind feelings of embarrassment or shame.
The mental health professional should be able to determine if the symptoms are related to comorbid conditions like anxiety and depression, which often coexist with ADHD. These conditions can make the symptoms of ADHD worse and may hinder effective treatment for the disorder.
If the psychologist or psychiatrist feels that the symptoms are affected by comorbid conditions such as neuropsychological disorders, or psychological disorders, then additional testing can be used to establish an accurate diagnosis. These tests can aid in determining the extent of functional impairment caused by these conditions. The mental health professional may also conduct interviews with other significant people like spouses or siblings to get a complete picture of how a 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 analysis of the symptoms and how they impact the way you live your life. Additionally, it is important to consider the presence of any other mental disorders that may co-exist alongside ADHD like anxiety and mood disorders. Additionally, the doctor might ask for the assistance of significant others -- typically an intimate partner or a close friend to assist in gaining more information regarding the person's behavior.
Finding a reliable diagnosis of ADHD in adulthood can be a life-changing event. For many adults, this diagnosis finally gives them an explanation for what has always seemed like "normal" behaviors. Often, it provides relief knowing 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 care and support they need. For a person to qualify for an ADHD diagnoses the person must be suffering from symptoms for at least one year and have caused significant impairment in multiple settings, like at home, school or at work with family or friends, or other activities. The number of symptoms needed for adults over 17 has been reduced from six to five.
A good relationship with your primary healthcare provider can help you to recognize ADHD. Many providers diagnose and treat ADHD in children and refer you to an expert in mental health to evaluate adults.
Treatment
When people with ADHD receive a diagnosis their lives can alter dramatically. They can finally find some solutions to their problems at school, with the start of a career, or even in relationships. For certain people, a diagnosis may provide relief from guilt that has built up over years of their symptoms being ignored.
Talking to a mental health specialist or health care professional is the first step towards getting an assessment. They might inquire about family history and conduct a physical exam to rule out other conditions like learning disabilities or sleep disorders that can cause symptoms similar to ADHD. They can also ask the patient to complete a list of symptoms.
In many instances the doctor will suggest that a spouse or partner is interviewed during the process of assessment. This will help the spouse who is not an ADHD or partner develop a clear understanding and compassionate attitude towards their loved one's ADHD symptoms, which is important in improving relationships after an assessment. If this isn't possible the doctor can conduct an interview with friends or colleagues who are familiar with the individual.
Medications are the main treatment options for adults suffering from ADHD. Adult ADHD is treated using stimulants such as methylphenidate and Adderall and dextroamphetamine. Other medications, such as atomoxetine, (Strattera(r),) and guanfacine, (Intuniv (r), Tenex (r)), increase the amount of norepinephrine found in the brain. These drugs can alleviate ADHD symptoms.
Psychotherapy is also an option. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a way to teach patients skills for managing their ADHD symptoms, such as time management and strategies for organizing, self-regulation of behavior and emotions, and coping with negative self-criticism and negative emotions. Other therapies, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), help adults identify subconscious thoughts or irrational thought patterns that can lead to negative behavior and develop positive self-talk.
Medication
Many people find that ADHD medications can help alleviate their symptoms. This medicine is typically in the form of a stimulant. It works by increasing activity in brain areas that regulate attention and behavior. Methylphenidate is the most frequently used medication for adults with ADHD, and it is available in various forms. It can be taken in immediate-release tablets or modified-release tablets that release the medication throughout the day. Clonidine is a different type of medication is a drug that works by reducing brain activity. It can be taken as a pill or liquid.
The psychiatrist or therapist will look over the medical and family history of the adult patient to determine the factors that can cause similar symptoms. This is important, as some medical conditions like seizures and thyroid issues can trigger symptoms similar to ADHD. Additionally, certain supplements and medications may cause similar symptoms.
During the examination during the evaluation, the patient will explain their ADHD symptoms to their psychiatrist or therapist. They will be asked to provide standard ADHD ratings and check lists as well as psychological tests that measure working memory, executive function (abilities such as planning and decision-making), visual and spatial ability, as well as reasoning skills.
If the therapist believes that ADHD symptoms affect the quality of life of an individual the therapist will suggest treatment. In some cases, the therapist will request the patient's partner or spouse to speak with them regarding the effects of the symptoms on their relationship. This can help reduce the blame between people and encourage healthier, more productive relations.
Counseling
Many people with ADHD find relief in receiving a diagnosis. It's a chance to comprehend why they have problems at school or at work and discover ways to overcome these issues. It's also a chance to change negative behaviors and build self-confidence.
Counseling can be a wonderful method to build a strong support system. Counseling for ADHD could include psychotherapy (or psychological therapy) as well as a variety of behavioral interventions. For example the therapist could create a reward chart which rewards positive behavior, and imposes consequences for negative behavior. The therapist can also teach the patient how to manage symptoms, for example relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditative postures in yoga.
Another benefit of counseling is helping people comprehend and accept their here ADHD. It's not always easy to admit that you're having trouble with paying attention or planning and organizing. It can be embarrassing to confess that you have ADHD to co-workers or supervisors. However, the majority of bosses and teachers will be willing to accommodate for your situation. For instance, they could permit you to use a computer for writing assignments instead of writing on paper and give more in-depth explanations of class material.
Additionally the therapist can also teach you how to deal with your ADHD through cognitive behavioral therapy which is a form of therapy that helps you transform negative thoughts and behaviors into positive ones. Counseling for ADHD may also include marital or family therapy. This teaches loved-ones how to communicate more effectively and solve problems with someone who has ADHD. People who suffer from ADHD typically suffer from other mental health disorders like anxiety or depression and may also struggle with substance misuse, which can also exacerbate their symptoms.