Adult Diagnosis of ADHD
A diagnosis of ADHD can change the life of adults who suffer from the disorder. It can help people understand why they struggle in work, family and relationships.
It is often difficult to identify since symptoms tend to overlap. A health care provider or a mental health professional will evaluate the patient and run tests.
Signs and symptoms
One may not realize they suffer from ADHD until they reach adulthood, perhaps because teachers and parents did not recognize symptoms earlier or because the demands of college or work life caused the disorder to be exposed. Adults with untreated ADHD are more vulnerable in their work, school and social lives. Many people who have not been diagnosed with ADHD suffer from a variety of issues, including financial issues and relationship issues.
To diagnose ADHD, a mental health professional will speak with the patient and go over the patient's personal medical and psychiatric history paying particular attention to symptoms in various settings. The patient will be asked to describe how these symptoms impact the way they function in their daily lives and relationships. It is essential that patients are honest about their symptoms and do not conceal them to avoid embarrassment.
The mental health professional must also determine if these symptoms are linked to other comorbidities, such as anxiety and depression that often coexist with ADHD. These conditions often make the symptoms of ADHD worse and may hinder effective treatment for the disorder.
If the psychologist or psychiatrist thinks that the symptoms of ADHD are being impacted by comorbid conditions, additional psycho-, neuropsychological or learning disabilities testing may be performed to determine an accurate diagnosis. These tests can also be used to determine the extent of impairment to function that these conditions cause. The mental health professional may also ask to interview other significant people like spouses or siblings to get a complete picture of how the individual is performing.
Diagnosis
Adults are diagnosed with ADHD by a mental healthcare doctor or a medical professional following an exhaustive examination. This includes a detailed discussion of the symptoms and their impact on the way you live your life. It also considers the presence of other mental disorders that can occur alongside ADHD, such anxiety and mood disorders. Additionally, the doctor may request to speak with significant others, usually a spouse or 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 experience. For many adults, the diagnosis finally gives them an explanation for what has always appeared to be "normal" behavior. It's often a relief to find out that their issues are not simply inattention 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 set to ensure that people receive the treatment and support they require. For a person to qualify for an ADHD diagnosis, they must have symptoms for at minimum a year and cause significant impairment in multiple settings, such as home, school or at work with family or friends or in other activities. For adults who are 17 or older, the number of required symptoms has been reduced to five from the six required for children who are younger than 12.
Maintaining a positive relationship with your primary care physician can help you identify 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 evaluation in adults.
Treatment
When someone with ADHD is diagnosed, their life can change dramatically. They will finally have solutions to their issues in the classroom, as well as in establishing a career, or in relationships. A diagnosis can ease the guilt that has accumulated for certain people over the years.
The first step in obtaining an accurate diagnosis is to talk to a doctor or mental health professional. They can inquire about the family history and conduct physical examinations to rule out conditions that could cause symptoms that are similar to ADHD or other disorders, such as sleeping disorders, learning disabilities or alcohol/drug abuse. They may also ask the patient to fill out a checklist of symptoms.
In many cases the doctor will ask that a spouse or partner be interviewed during the process of assessing. This will help the spouse who is not an ADHD or partner develop an accurate understanding and empathetic attitude toward their loved one's ADHD symptoms, which is important in enhancing relationships following a diagnosis. If this is not possible, the clinician can interview acquaintances or colleagues who know the person well.
Adults with ADHD are treated primarily by medications. Adult ADHD is treated with stimulants like methylphenidate, Adderall and dextroamphetamine. Other medications such as Atomoxetine (Strattera(r),) and guanfacine, (Intuniv (r) Tenex (r)), increase norepinephrine in the brain. These drugs can alleviate ADHD symptoms.
Psychotherapy is also an alternative. Cognitive-behavioral therapies can assist patients develop skills to manage their ADHD symptoms. These include time management and organizational strategies, self regulation of behavior and emotions and coping strategies for negative feelings and self criticism. Other therapies, like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy can help adults recognize the automatic or irrational thoughts that lead to negative behavior and learn ways to overcome them using positive self-talk.
Medication
Many people report that ADHD medication can help alleviate their symptoms. This medication typically comes in the form of a stimulant. It works by increasing the activity in brain regions that control attention and behavior. Methylphenidate, the most common medicine prescribed to adults with ADHD is available in many forms. It is available as immediate-release tablets or as modified-release tablets that release the medication throughout the day. Clonidine, another type of medicine works by reducing the activity in the brain and can be taken as a pill or liquid.
If treating adult patients suffering from ADHD the psychotherapist or psychiatrist may look over the person's family history and medical history to identify causes that could cause similar symptoms to ADHD. This is crucial due to the fact that certain medical conditions such as seizure disorders and thyroid problems can cause symptoms that are similar to those of ADHD. Some medications and dietary supplement can also cause similar signs.
During the evaluation the individual is likely to describe the ADHD symptoms. They will be asked to provide the standardized ADHD ratings and checklists of symptoms as along with psychological tests that measure executive function, working memory (abilities such as planning and decision making) spatial and visual ability, and reasoning abilities.
If the therapist is of the opinion that ADHD symptoms are affecting a person's quality of life the therapist will suggest medication. In certain instances, a therapist may ask the spouse or partner of the patient to interview them about the impact of their condition on their relationship. This will help reduce blaming between individuals and lead to healthier, more productive relationships.
Counseling
Being diagnosed is a great relief for many adults suffering from ADHD. It's an opportunity to discover why they have problems at work or school and learn ways to overcome these issues. It's also a chance for them to change negative behaviors and build self-confidence.
Having a good support system is essential for success and counseling can be a great help. Counseling for ADHD can include psychological (or psychotherapy) therapy as well as a variety of behavioral strategies. ADHD Diagnosis could create a chart that rewards positive behaviors and imposes consequences on negative ones. The therapist may also instruct the patient on techniques to manage their symptoms, for example, relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditative yoga postures.
Counseling can assist people to accept and comprehend their ADHD. It's difficult to admit you struggle in organizing, planning and paying attention. It can be embarrassing to admit that you have ADHD to your supervisors or coworkers. However, the majority of teachers and bosses will be willing to provide accommodations for your condition. They might, for example permit you to write on the computer instead of paper, or provide a more detailed explanation of class material.
In addition, the therapist can teach you how to deal with your ADHD through cognitive behavioral therapy, which is a type of therapy that assists you change negative thoughts and behaviors into positive ones. Counseling for ADHD could also involve marital or family therapy. It teaches family members how to better communicate and solve problems with someone who suffers from ADHD. People suffering from ADHD may also suffer from other mental disorders such as anxiety or depression, and may have issues with substance abuse.