Adult Diagnosis of ADHD
A diagnosis of ADHD can change the life of those suffering from the disorder. It can help people understand why they struggle in relationships, work, and family.
It is often difficult to diagnose since symptoms tend to overlap. A health care provider or a mental health professional will assess the patient and conduct tests.
Symptoms
It is possible that a person doesn't realize they have ADHD until they reach adulthood. This could be due to parents and teachers failed to recognize the symptoms at an earlier age or due to the demands of college or work brought out the disorder. Adults with ADHD who are not treated are affected in their social, academic and professional lives. Undiagnosed ADHD can lead to numerous issues including relationship problems as well as financial issues.
A mental health professional will review and interview the patient's medical, mental health and personal history, paying particular attention to the symptoms in various situations. The patient will be asked to describe the symptoms and how they affect their daily functioning and their relationships. It is crucial that patients are open about their symptoms and not conceal them to avoid embarrassment.
The mental health professional should also determine if these symptoms are linked to comorbid conditions such as depression and anxiety which are often associated with ADHD. These conditions can make ADHD symptoms worse and may interfere with the treatment of the disorder.
If the psychologist or psychiatrist thinks that the symptoms of ADHD are influenced by other conditions, additional cognitive, neuropsychological, or learning disabilities testing may be utilized to establish an accurate diagnosis. These tests can also be used to determine the extent of impairment in function caused by these conditions. The mental health professional will also ask to interview other important people such as spouses and siblings to get a complete picture of how the individual is performing.
Diagnosis
For adults, a diagnosis of ADHD is usually made by a mental health care professional or physician who conducts a thorough diagnosis. This includes a detailed discussion of the symptoms and their impact on the way you live your life. It also includes the presence of any other mental disorders that may co-exist with ADHD, such mood disorders and anxiety. The practitioner may also ask to speak with significant others such as your spouse or a close family member, in order for them gather more information.
Getting a proper diagnosis of ADHD in adulthood can be a life-changing event. For many adults, the diagnosis finally gives them an explanation for what has always seemed to be "normal" behaviors. It is often a relief to know they're not simply naive or oblivious or incompetent; their issues are more complicated.
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 help and treatment they need. To be eligible for an ADHD diagnoses, they must have symptoms for at least one year and cause significant impairment in a variety of settings like at home, school or work with family members or friends or other activities. For adults aged 17 and older, the number of required symptoms has been reduced to five, from the six that are needed for children under age 12.
A strong relationship with your primary health care provider can help you determine ADHD. Many providers routinely diagnose and treat ADHD in children, and may refer you to an expert in mental health who is certified to conduct an assessment of adults.
Treatment
If people suffering from ADHD are diagnosed their lives can alter dramatically. They can finally find some solutions to their issues in the classroom, as well as in starting a new career, or even in relationships. For those who are suffering from depression, it can help them overcome the anxiety that could have been accumulated over the years of their ailments going untreated.
Talking to a mental health professional or health care provider is the first step towards finding out if you have a diagnosis. They can inquire about the family history and then conduct an examination to rule out other conditions like sleep disorders or learning disabilities that can cause symptoms similar to ADHD. They may also ask the person to complete an assessment scale of symptoms.
In many cases, the doctor will request that a spouse or partner is interviewed during the process of assessment. This helps the non-ADHD spouse or partner gain a better understanding and empathetic attitude toward their loved one's ADHD symptoms, which is important in improving relationships after an assessment. If this isn't possible, the clinician may interview acquaintances or colleagues who know the individual.
The main treatment is medication. options for adults with ADHD. Adult ADHD is treated using stimulants such as methylphenidate, Adderall, and dextroamphetamine. Other medications, like Atomoxetine (Strattera(r)) and Guanfacine (Intuniv(r), Tenex(r)) increase the levels of norepinephrine in the brain and may aid in the treatment of ADHD.
Psychotherapy also is an option. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can teach patients techniques to manage their ADHD symptoms, such as time management and strategies for organizing, self-regulation of behavior and emotions and managing self-criticism and negative feelings. Other treatments, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps adults recognize subconscious thoughts or irrational thought patterns that can lead to negative behavior, and also develop positive self-talk.
Medication
Many people have found that ADHD medication helps to alleviate their symptoms. This medication is usually in the form of a stimulant, and it works by increasing the activity of the brain in areas that control behavior and attention. Methylphenidate is the most commonly used medication for adults with ADHD, and it is available in a variety of forms. It is available as immediate-release tablets, or as modified-release tablets that release the medication throughout the day. Clonidine is another type of medication that works by reducing brain activity. It is available in liquid or pill form.
The therapist or psychiatrist will look over the medical and family background of the adult patient to identify factors that may cause similar symptoms. adhd uk diagnosis is crucial because some medical conditions, such as thyroid problems and seizure disorders can trigger symptoms similar to those of ADHD. Some medications and dietary supplement may also cause similar symptoms.
During the assessment during the evaluation, the patient will describe their ADHD symptoms to the therapist or psychiatrist. They will be asked for standard ADHD ratings and checklists of symptoms as well as psychological tests to assess working memory, executive function (abilities like making decisions and planning), visual and spatial ability, and reasoning abilities.
If the therapist or psychiatrist believes that the symptoms of ADHD are seriously affecting a person's life they may recommend treatment with medication. In some instances a therapist may request the patient's partner or spouse to speak with them about the impact of their condition on the relationship. This can lessen the burden of blame between people and encourage healthy, productive relationships.
Counseling
Being diagnosed is a huge relief to many adults suffering from ADHD. It gives them a chance recognize the reason for their difficulties at work or school and to learn how to overcome these challenges. It's also a chance for them to change negative behaviors and build self-esteem.
A strong support system is vital to success and counseling can assist. Counseling for ADHD may include psychotherapy (or psychological therapy) and a variety behavioral interventions. For example, a therapist may make a reward chart that rewards positive behavior and imposes consequences for negative behavior. Therapists can also teach the patient how to manage their symptoms, such as relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditative poses in yoga.
Counseling can assist people to accept and understand their ADHD. It can be difficult to admit that you have problems with attention or planning and organizing. It can even be embarrassing to tell co-workers and supervisors about your ADHD. However, most bosses and teachers will be willing to provide accommodations to accommodate your needs. For example, they might permit you to make use of a computer to write assignments instead of paper and provide more detailed explanations of class material.
In addition the therapist will help you cope with your ADHD through cognitive behavioral therapy, which is a structured type of therapy that helps to change negative thoughts and behaviors to positive ones. Counseling for ADHD can also include family or marital therapy, which teaches family members how to interact better with a person with ADHD and enhance communication and problem-solving abilities. People suffering from ADHD typically suffer from other mental health disorders, such as anxiety or depression, and they may be afflicted by substance abuse, which can also cause more symptoms.