Adult Diagnosis of ADHD
A diagnosis of ADHD can change the life of those suffering from the condition. It can help people discover the reason for their struggles at work, in their family and in their relationships.
It can be difficult to determine the cause because symptoms often overlap. A health care provider or mental health professional will examine the person and perform tests.
Signs and symptoms
One may not realize they suffer from ADHD until they reach adulthood, perhaps because teachers and parents were not aware of the symptoms until a younger age or because the demands of college or work life caused the disorder to be exposed. Adults who are not treated for ADHD are at a disadvantage in their academic, professional and social lives. Undiagnosed ADHD can lead to numerous problems including relationship problems and financial problems.
In order to diagnose ADHD to diagnose it, a mental health professional will talk to the patient and go over the patient's personal medical and mental health history, with particular attention paid to symptoms in various settings. The patient will explain how these symptoms impact the way they function in their daily lives and relationships. It is crucial that the patient is honest about these symptoms and that he or she do not shy away due to feelings of shame or embarrassment.
how to diagnosis adhd must also determine if these symptoms are related 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 psychiatrist or psychologist feels that the symptoms of ADHD are influenced by other conditions, additional psychological, neuropsychological or testing for learning disabilities could be utilized to establish an accurate diagnosis. These tests can also be used to determine the level of impairment in function caused by these conditions. In addition, the mental health professional might ask to interview one or more significant people such as spouses, siblings and coworkers to get an entire picture of the individual's performance and challenges.
Diagnosis
Adults are diagnosed with ADHD by a mental health specialist or physician following an exhaustive examination. This involves a thorough discussion about the history of symptoms and their impact on everyday functioning and the presence of any other mental health issues that may be co-occurring with ADHD like depression and anxiety. The practitioner may also ask to speak to your significant others like the spouse or a close family friend, in order for them gather more information.
Getting a proper diagnosis of ADHD in adulthood can be a life-changing event. For many adults, this diagnosis finally gives them an explanation for what has always appeared to be "normal" behavior. Often, it provides relief to know that they're not just lazy or forgetful and 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 standard is designed to ensure that individuals receive the assistance and treatment they require. In order for a person to be eligible for an ADHD diagnosis they must exhibit symptoms for at least one year and be a significant handicap in a variety of settings including school, home or at work with family or friends or other activities. For adults aged 17 and older the number of necessary symptoms has been reduced to five, from the six that are required for children younger than 12.
A strong relationship with your primary healthcare provider 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 those with ADHD receive a diagnosis, their lives can change dramatically. They might finally have reasons for their failures in school or a struggle to find relationships or pursue a career. For certain people, a diagnosis may help them overcome the guilt that has built up over years of their symptoms not being addressed.
Talking to a mental health healthcare professional or health care professional is the first step towards finding out if you have a diagnosis. They might inquire about family history and perform an examination to rule out any conditions like sleep disorders or learning disabilities that may cause symptoms that are similar to ADHD. They can also ask the person to complete the checklist of symptoms.
In many instances the doctor will suggest that the spouse or partner be interviewed during the process of assessment. This assists the non ADHD spouse or partner to develop an accurate understanding of their loved one's ADHD and a sympathetic approach to the symptoms. This is essential to improve relationships following the diagnosis. If this isn't an option the therapist may ask colleagues or friends who are familiar with the person.
Adults with ADHD are treated primarily by medication. Adult ADHD is treated with stimulants such as methylphenidate and 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 improve symptoms of ADHD.
Psychotherapy is another alternative. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can help patients learn strategies for managing their ADHD symptoms, such as time management and self-regulation of emotions and behavior and dealing with negative feelings and self-criticism. Other therapies, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), help adults identify the automatic thoughts or irrational thoughts that can lead to negative behavior, and also develop positive self-talk.
Medication
Many people discover that ADHD medications help to improve their symptoms. The medication is usually in the form a stimulant, and it increases the activity of the brain in areas that control the behavior and attention. Methylphenidate, the most common medication used by adults suffering from ADHD is available in many forms. It can be taken 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 decreasing brain activity. It can be taken in pill or liquid form.
The psychiatrist or therapist will review the medical and family background of the adult patient to identify factors that may cause similar symptoms. This is crucial due to the fact that certain medical conditions, such as seizures and thyroid issues can cause symptoms that are similar to those of ADHD. Certain medications and dietary supplements can also cause similar signs.
During the assessment during the evaluation, the patient will be asked to describe their ADHD symptoms to their psychiatrist or therapist. They will be asked to provide the standardized ADHD ratings and checklists of symptoms as along with psychological tests to measure executive function, working memory (abilities like planning and decision making) spatial and visual ability, and reasoning abilities.
If the therapist believes that ADHD symptoms affect the quality of life of a person the therapist will recommend medication. In some instances the therapist may ask the person's spouse or partner to interview them about the effects of the symptoms on their relationship. This step can help to decrease blame between individuals and lead to better, more productive relationships.
Counseling
Being diagnosed is a huge relief for many adults suffering from ADHD. It's an opportunity to discover why they have problems at school or at work, and discover ways to overcome these issues. It's an opportunity to change negative behaviors and increase self-esteem.
Counseling is a great way to help you build a strong support system. Counseling for ADHD can include psychotherapy (or psychological therapy) and a variety behavioral treatments. For example, a therapist may create a reward chart which rewards positive behavior, and enforces consequences for bad behavior. The therapist may also instruct the patient on techniques to manage their symptoms, such as relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditative yoga postures.
Another benefit of counseling is helping people understand and accept their ADHD. It's difficult to admit you struggle with planning, organizing and paying attention. It can even be embarrassing to tell co-workers and supervisors about your ADHD. However, the majority of bosses and teachers will be willing to make accommodations for your condition. For instance, they could allow you to make use of a computer to write assignments instead of paper and provide more in-depth explanations of classroom material.
Additionally the therapist will teach you ways to cope with your ADHD through cognitive behavioral therapy, which is a form of therapy that assists you change negative thoughts and behaviors to positive ones. Counseling for ADHD could also involve family or marital therapy. This teaches loved-ones how to better communicate and solve issues with someone suffering from ADHD. People who suffer from ADHD frequently suffer from mental health issues like depression or anxiety and may suffer from substance abuse and addiction, which can exacerbate their symptoms.