Adult Diagnosis of ADHD
For those who suffer from ADHD the diagnosis can be life-changing. It can help people recognize the reasons why they struggle in work, family and relationships.
It can be difficult to identify because symptoms can overlap. A health care professional or a mental health professional will evaluate the patient and run tests.
Symptoms
It is possible that someone does not realize they have ADHD until they reach adulthood. This could be due to parents and teachers failed to recognize the signs at an earlier time or because work or college demands made the disorder more apparent. Adults who are not treated for ADHD are at a disadvantage in their academic, professional and social lives. Undiagnosed ADHD can cause many issues, including relationship problems and financial problems.
In order to diagnose ADHD, a mental health professional will talk to the patient and go over his or her personal, medical and mental health history, paying particular attention to symptoms in different situations. The patient will discuss the symptoms and how they impact their daily life and relationships. It is essential that patients are open about their symptoms and do not cover them up to avoid embarrassment.
The mental health professional should also determine if these symptoms are linked to other comorbidities, such as anxiety and depression which are often associated with ADHD. These conditions can make ADHD symptoms worse and cause problems with treatment for the disorder.
If the psychiatrist or psychologist believes that the symptoms of ADHD are being impacted by other conditions, additional psychological, neuropsychological or learning disabilities tests could be performed to determine an accurate diagnosis. These tests can also be used to determine the level of impairment to function that these conditions cause. Additionally, the mental health professional might request an interview with one or more significant people such as spouses, siblings and coworkers to get a complete picture of the person's behavior and issues.
Diagnosis
For adults, a diagnosis of ADHD is usually determined by a mental health care professional or physician who conducts a thorough diagnostic assessment. This includes a detailed discussion of the symptoms and how they affect the daily activities. It also considers the presence of other mental disorders that can occur with ADHD, such anxiety and mood disorders. The doctor may also request to speak to your significant others such as your spouse or a close family member to help them get more details.
A correct diagnosis of ADHD can alter your life. For many adults, this diagnosis finally gives them an explanation for what has always appeared to be "normal" behavior. It's often a relief to learn that their problems aren't simply due to laziness or forgetfulness.
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 that has been established to ensure that individuals receive the treatment and support they require. To qualify for an ADHD diagnosis, a person must have had the symptoms for at least 12 months, and they must be causing significant impairment in several settings, including home, school, or work; with friends or family or in other settings. For adults who are 17 or older the number of needed symptoms has been reduced to five from the six that are needed for children under age 12 years old.
A positive relationship with your primary healthcare provider can help determine ADHD. Many providers diagnose and treat ADHD in children and refer you to a mental health professional qualified to assess adults.
Treatment
When people with ADHD receive a diagnosis their lives can alter dramatically. They may finally discover solutions to their problems at the classroom, as well as in establishing a career, or even in relationships. A diagnosis can ease the guilt that has built up for some people over the years.
Talking to a mental health professional or health care provider is the first step in getting an assessment. They can inquire about the family history and conduct an examination to rule out conditions such as learning disabilities or sleep disorders that may cause symptoms that are similar to ADHD. They also can request that the person complete a rating scale checklist of symptoms.
In many instances the doctor will ask that a spouse or partner is interviewed during the assessment process. This helps the non-ADHD spouse or partner develop a clear understanding and an understanding of their loved one's ADHD symptoms that is essential in enhancing relationships following an assessment. If this isn't possible the doctor can conduct an interview with acquaintances or colleagues who know the person well.
Adults with ADHD are treated primarily with medication. Adult ADHD is treated using stimulants such as methylphenidate, Adderall and dextroamphetamine. Other medications, for instance atomoxetine (Strattera(r)) and Guanfacine (Intuniv(r), Tenex(r)) increase the amount of norepinephrine found in the brain, and can aid in the treatment of ADHD.
Psychotherapy is another option. Cognitive-behavioral therapies can assist patients develop the skills needed to manage their ADHD symptoms. They include time management as well as organizational strategies, self regulation of emotions and behaviors and coping strategies for self-doubt and negative criticism. Other therapies, like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) can help adults identify subconscious thoughts or irrational thought patterns that cause negative behavior and to develop positive self-talk.
Medication
Many people find that ADHD medication can alleviate their symptoms. The medication is typically in the form a stimulant and is effective by increasing brain activity in areas that regulate the behavior and attention. Methylphenidate is the most commonly used medication for adults with ADHD and is available in different forms. It can be taken in immediate-release tablets or as modified-release tablets that release the medication throughout the day. Clonidine is another kind of medicine works by reducing the brain activity. It can be taken in pill form or liquid.
The psychiatrist or therapist will look over the medical and family history of the adult patient to identify the factors that can cause similar symptoms. adhd diagnosing is crucial as some medical conditions like seizures and thyroid issues can cause symptoms similar to ADHD. In addition, some drugs and nutritional supplements can also cause similar symptoms.
During the examination, the individual will likely describe their ADHD symptoms to their therapist or psychiatrist. They will be asked to provide standard ADHD ratings and checklists of symptoms as along with psychological tests to assess executive function, working memory (abilities like planning and decision-making), visual and spatial ability, as well as reasoning skills.
If the therapist or psychiatrist believes that the symptoms of ADHD are causing serious harm to the life of a person they may recommend treatment with medication. In some cases, a therapist may ask the patient's partner or spouse to speak with them about the impact of their ADHD symptoms on the relationship. This can reduce blame between individuals and promote healthier, more productive relationships.
Counseling
Many adults with ADHD are relieved when they receive a diagnosis. It allows them to understand why they are having issues at school or at work and to learn how to overcome these problems. It's also an opportunity to alter negative behavior and increase self-esteem.
Counseling can be a wonderful method to build a strong support system. Counseling for ADHD can involve psychological (or psychotherapy) therapy as well as a variety of behavioral interventions. For example the therapist could create a reward chart that rewards positive behavior, and imposes consequences for negative behavior. The therapist can also teach the patient how to manage their symptoms, such as relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditative poses in yoga.
Counseling can help people accept and understand their ADHD. It's not easy to admit you struggle with planning, organizing and paying attention. It can be embarrassing to tell co-workers and supervisors about your ADHD. Most teachers and bosses make accommodations to accommodate your needs. For instance, they may allow you to write on a computer for assignments instead of writing on paper and provide more detailed explanations of classroom material.
Additionally the therapist will help you cope with your ADHD through cognitive behavioral therapy, which is a structured type of therapy that helps you change negative thoughts and behaviors to positive ones. Counseling for ADHD may also include marital or family therapy, which helps loved ones learn to better interact with someone with ADHD and improve communication and problem-solving skills. People who suffer from ADHD often have other mental health issues such as depression or anxiety, and they may struggle with substance misuse and addiction, which can make their symptoms worse.