Adult ADHD Diagnosis
For some people who are diagnosed with adult ADHD is the first step toward getting treatment. They may be frustrated in their jobs, homes or social lives because of symptoms like fidgeting, ignoring things or interrupting others.
Getting diagnosed with ADHD as an adult typically means going through an extensive evaluation that includes interviewing the person and their family members using standardized tests and rating scales. The evaluation usually includes an examination of the body.
Symptoms
A diagnosis of ADHD could alter the course of many adult lives. It can help people recognize the reasons they've struggled with for so long and make sense of their previous choices. It can also provide them with hope for the future. If you're experiencing difficulty in locating your keys, feeling as if you'll never be able to finish your work, or being accused of being unreliable or lazy, getting an assessment is the first step towards finding the best treatment for you.
For the majority of adults, signs are present in a variety of areas of their lives. They are more common in one area in comparison to another. They may be indecisive and restless at school, but struggle in keeping up with their work. adult adhd diagnosis uk might forget to make appointments or underestimate the time required to complete their work. They may be unable to make friends or fighting with their spouses frequently. If these problems are severe they can interfere with the daily routine and can lead to depression or anxiousness.
While it's essential to consider a diagnosis of ADHD, it's just as important to consider the other factors that could be that are causing the symptoms. Stress, mental health issues and certain medications are often the cause of symptoms that are similar. To ensure that the underlying problem is resolved an in-depth evaluation by a specialist is required.
Adults suffering from ADHD do not show the same signs of hyperactivity as children. Hyperactivity is less obvious and can be seen as fidgeting or a difficulty in sitting. Women with ADHD are more likely to exhibit these symptoms, as they are more likely to hide their inattention within their work and social life.
During an assessment the doctor will go over the patient's medical history and examine the ways in which their ailments affect their daily lives. 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 might also conduct psycho-, neuropsychological or testing for learning disabilities. In some instances, a physical exam may be needed to rule out illnesses that can mimic symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosis
It's important for adults who think they might have ADHD to discuss their symptoms with a medical specialist, especially if the issues stem from school or work. Primary health care providers can refer patients to mental health professionals who specialize in adult ADHD assessment and treatment. Those professionals should be willing to share information about their level of training and experience working with adults with ADHD, Hamdani says. Hamdani says that anyone who is unwilling to disclose this information should be treated as suspicious.
The diagnosis of adult ADHD can be a life-changing experience. For some, it finally provides an explanation for years of frustrations and self-criticism. Some people are happy that they have an explanation for their struggles in life or that they aren't "just in their heads."
Adults suffering from ADHD are diagnosed with ADHD through a thorough interview with a specialist. This may include a thorough review of the individual's personal medical, family, and background. The professional will also ask the patient to rate their behavior using one or a variety of 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 be asked about the symptoms and how they impact 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.
The people who are diagnosed of adult ADHD often have coexisting conditions known as co-morbidities. Depression, anxiety disorders, and drug or alcohol use are common comorbidities of ADHD. Some experts suggest these comorbidities develop as maladaptive coping strategies to cope with the frustrations that are commonly associated with untreated ADHD.
It's important to note that ADHD is more prevalent in males than females. Many people suffering from the disorder may struggle to diagnose because of long-held beliefs about the symptoms of the disorder and how they affect men and women. Some women can mask their symptoms more effectively and can lead to being diagnosed later or to an inaccurate diagnosis.
Treatment
Adults who have been diagnosed of ADHD may find it helpful to talk with a mental health professional, especially one with experience in treating adults with ADHD. This individual can teach the adult strategies for managing their symptoms and improve their functioning at work, home or school. They can also help adults understand the reasons behind their behavior and what triggers it.
A mental health professional must examine an adult thoroughly for other disorders that are similar to ADHD. This may include a detailed description of the scale and the forms filled out by the client or other people who are familiar with him/her as well as a psychiatric and family history as well as an extensive physical examination.
A thorough evaluation is also important for determining whether the adult suffers from a comorbid condition, such as depression or anxiety. These conditions can increase ADHD symptoms and make treatment more difficult. A mental health professional may also conduct neuropsychological or cognitive testing to look at how the brain functions, and to identify other causes for the problem, like a learning impairment or physical illness.
Treatment options for adults with ADHD typically include psychological counseling (psychotherapy) and educational programs. Individual talk therapy can help an adult build better self-esteem and learn to cope with the emotional baggage that typically is associated with a diagnosis of ADHD. Behavioral therapies can help improve efficiency, time management and impulse control, and could help to reduce the effects of stressors on an individual's ability to function.
Certain people with ADHD benefit from group therapy. This type of therapy offers you the opportunity to meet people who face similar issues and discuss ways to overcome them. These groups are typically organized by an advocacy or support group.
Many people suffering from ADHD can also be treated by medications. There are a variety of medications available, including stimulants that increase the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain (for example, methylphenidate, which is sold as Ritalin). Others help to regulate moods and decrease impulsive behavior, such as antidepressants or the anti-psychotic drug bupropion (Wellbutrin). Your Mercy doctor will be able to discuss all treatment options.
Support
Adults with ADHD may have the disorder for a long time without even realizing it. Frustration with everyday challenges such as missing appointments, making irresponsible mistakes at work or abandoning family or friend commitments can prompt people to seek a diagnosis. They often feel a sense of relief when they receive an answer to their questions.
A mental health professional can perform an evaluation for ADHD however, an primary care physician is usually a good place to start. If necessary, the doctor may refer the patient to an expert. A psychiatrist, psychiatric nurse or psychologist could also be qualified to assess ADHD in adults. Many insurance plans list specialists by specialization and can help people find a health care provider who is knowledgeable about ADHD in adults.
During the evaluation the mental health specialist will ask questions about the person's behavior, including the past issues they have had and how they have been affected by their ADHD symptoms. It is important to speak openly and openly during the evaluation, so that the mental health professional is able to make a full assessment.
Psychotherapy, or psychological counseling can help people manage their issues and improve their relationships. Behavioral therapy, also known as cognitive behavioral therapy, teaches people how to change their behavior and patterns of thinking. The combination of therapy and medication can reduce the symptoms of the disorder.
Many adults ADHD patients benefit from social support groups. Being able to share their experiences with other people who are experiencing similar struggles can be a great source of inspiration and encouragement. A few of these groups can be found online and are available to anyone suffering from ADHD. Some groups are for specific groups, such as African Americans who have ADHD, couples affected by the disorder, or people who identify themselves as gay or lesbian.
There are people who experience feelings of shame or embarrassment over their symptoms, which can hinder their desire to seek assistance. But a health professional should explain that ADHD is not a sign of weakness or failure.