Adult ADHD Diagnosis
A diagnosis of adult ADHD can be the first step to seeking treatment for some people. They may be frustrated in their jobs, homes or social lives due to symptoms such as fidgeting, ignoring things or interrupting others.
Getting diagnosed with ADHD as an adult usually involves undergoing an extensive assessment that involves interviewing the individual and their family members, using standardized tests and rating scales. The evaluation usually involves a physical exam too.
Signs and symptoms
A diagnosis of ADHD could alter the course of many adults' lives. It can help people understand why they've been through so much and make sense of their past choices. It may also inspire them to look forward to the future. If you're struggling to locate your keys, feel that you're not able to finish your work or you're being labelled lazy or irresponsible, or have been accused of being lazy or irresponsible, Then a diagnosis will help you find the right treatment for you.
The majority of adults experience symptoms across various areas of their lives, but some are more prominent than others. They might be irritable and impulsive in school, but are unable to keep up at work. They might forget to make appointments or underestimate the time required to complete their tasks. They may have trouble making friends or get into frequent disputes with their spouses. If these issues are serious, they may interfere with the daily routine and lead to anxiety or depression.
It is crucial to identify ADHD However, it's important to determine what other factors might be contributing to the symptoms. Stress, mental health issues and medications can often cause symptoms that are similar to those of ADHD. A thorough assessment by a trained professional is required to be sure that the issue is being treated.
Adults with ADHD do not exhibit the same signs of hyperactivity as children. Hyperactivity is more subtle and can be seen as fidgeting or difficulty sitting still. Women with ADHD are more likely to exhibit these symptoms since they are more able to hide their inattentive behavior at work and in social life.
During the exam, the doctor will look at the patient's medical background and how the symptoms affect their daily lives. They will also inquire about information about the family and, if they are able, interview a relative to get their view on the behavior of children. They may also conduct neuropsychological, psychological or tests for learning disabilities. In certain cases physical exams could be required to rule out certain illnesses which may resemble the symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosis
It's important for those who believe they might be suffering from ADHD to discuss their symptoms with a health care professional, especially if their issues stem from school or work. Primary care providers can refer patients to mental health professionals with expertise in adult ADHD evaluations. They should be able to share details about their training level and experiences working with adults suffering from ADHD, Hamdani says. Anyone who is reluctant to disclose this information should be considered suspicious Hamdani says.
A diagnosis of adult ADHD can be a life-changing event. For some, it gives a reason for the years of frustration and self-criticism. Others feel a sense satisfaction that there's a rationale for the challenges they've encountered in their lives or that their issues weren't simply "in their heads."
In the majority of instances, an adult suffering from ADHD is diagnosed through a comprehensive interview with a professional who is qualified. This includes a review of the person's medical family, personal, and medical history. In addition, the professional will likely ask the individual to rate their behaviors using one or more of the standard ADHD behavior scales. These ratings are based upon research that compares the behaviors of people suffering from ADHD and those who do not have the disorder.
The individual will also be asked how the symptoms affect their 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.
The people who are diagnosed of adult ADHD often have coexisting conditions, called comorbidities. Common comorbidities with ADHD include anxiety disorders, depression and alcohol or drug dependence. Some experts suggest that these co-morbidities are maladaptive strategies to cope with the stressors that are typically related to untreated ADHD.
It's important to note that ADHD affects more males than females. how to get an adult adhd diagnosis suffering from the disorder may struggle to diagnose because of long-held beliefs about the symptoms of the disorder and how they affect both men and women. Some women are even better at hiding their symptoms better, which could cause an inaccurate diagnosis or delay in getting it.
Treatment
Adults who are diagnosed of ADHD might find it beneficial to speak with a mental health professional, especially one with experience in treating adults with ADHD. This person can teach adults behavioral strategies to help them manage their symptoms, and improve their performance in the workplace, at school or at home. They can also help adults understand why their behavior differs and what triggers it.
A mental health professional should thoroughly evaluate an adult because they may have other disorders that are similar to ADHD. This could include a thorough description of the scale and the forms filled out by the patient or other individuals who are familiar with him/her, a psychiatric and family history as well as an exhaustive physical exam.
A thorough evaluation is also important for determining whether the adult has a comorbid disorder, such as anxiety or depression. These conditions can exacerbate ADHD symptoms and make treatment more difficult. A mental health professional may also conduct neurological or cognitive tests to determine the way that the brain functions and to rule out any other causes, like an illness of the body or a learning disabilities.
Treatment options for adults suffering from ADHD typically include psychological counseling (psychotherapy) and educational programs. Individual therapy can help a person develop better self-esteem and learn to cope with the emotional baggage that often is associated with a diagnosis of ADHD. Behavioral therapies can also improve efficiency, time management and impulse control and may address the impact of stressors on an individual's ability to perform.
Some individuals with ADHD benefit from group therapy. This type of therapy may offer the opportunity to connect with other people with the same issues and discuss strategies to overcome them. These groups are typically run by a support or advocacy group.
Many adults with ADHD are treated with medication. There are many medications available which include stimulants that boost the levels of norepinephrine as well as dopamine in the brain (for instance, methylphenidate that is marketed as Ritalin). Antidepressants and the antipsychotic drug Wellbutrin (Bupropion) aid in regulating moods and decrease the impulsive behavior. Your Mercy doctor can discuss all your treatment options.
Support
Many adults diagnosed with ADHD live with the disorder for decades without realizing it. They might seek an evaluation due to their frustration with everyday challenges such as forgetting appointments and making mistakes at work, or not paying attention to commitments to friends and family. These people often feel relieved when they receive an answer to their questions.
A mental health professional can perform an evaluation for ADHD, but an primary care physician is usually the best place to begin. The doctor may also refer the patient to a specialist in the event of need. A psychiatrist, psychiatric nurse or psychologist may also be qualified to assess ADHD in adults. A lot of insurance plans include professionals according to their specialties. This will help individuals find the right health professional who is familiar with ADHD among adults.
During the examination, a mental health professional will ask about the person's past problems and how ADHD symptoms have affected them. It's crucial to be honest and transparent during the assessment, so that the mental healthcare professional can make an accurate assessment.
Psychotherapy, or psychological counseling can help people manage their symptoms and improve their relationships. Behavioral therapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy, helps people develop specific skills to change their patterns of thinking and behavior. Therapy is often coupled with medication, which can lessen the effects of the disorder.
Social support groups are beneficial for many adults ADHD patients. The opportunity to share their challenges with other people who are experiencing similar struggles can provide a lot of motivation and inspiration. Some of these groups are online and are open to anyone who suffers from ADHD. Some groups are for specific populations such as African Americans who have ADHD or couples who are affected by the disorder, or people who identify themselves as gay or lesbian.
Some people might feel embarrassed or ashamed about their symptoms. This can make them reluctant to seek assistance. However, a doctor should explain that ADHD is not an indication of weakness or failure.