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Adult ADHD Diagnosis
A diagnosis of adult ADHD could be the first step towards seeking treatment for some people. They may be unhappy at work, in their homes or in their social lives due to symptoms such as fidgeting or forgetting things.
Getting diagnosed with ADHD as an adult often involves undergoing an extensive assessment that involves conducting interviews with the person and family members, using standardized tests and rating scales. This usually involves physical examination.
Signs and symptoms
For many adults, the diagnosis of ADHD can be life-changing. It can help adults understand why they've struggled for so long, and make sense of their previous choices. It can also give hope for the future to be brighter. If you're experiencing difficulty in locating your keys, feeling that you can never finish your work, or being called unreliable or lazy, getting an assessment is the first step towards finding the right treatment for you.
Most adults experience symptoms in different areas of their lives but some are more prominent than others. They may be impulsive and irritable at school, but struggle with keeping up at work. They may forget appointments or have difficulty estimating how much time they need to complete their tasks. They may struggle to make friends or argue with their spouses regularly. If these issues are serious they could affect daily living and lead to anxiety or depression.
It is crucial to identify ADHD, but it's also important to identify other factors may be contributing to symptoms. Stress, other mental health conditions, and certain medications can trigger symptoms similar to those of ADHD. To ensure that the root problem is treated an in-depth evaluation by a qualified professional is necessary.
As opposed to children, adults with ADHD rarely exhibit the more obvious symptoms of hyperactivity. Instead, the signs of hyperactivity manifest more subduedly as fidgeting or a difficulty sitting in chairs. Women with ADHD tend to exhibit these signs more frequently since they are able to conceal their inattention in their work and social lives.
During the assessment, the doctor will look at the patient's medical background and how their symptoms impact their daily lives. They will also request information about the family and, if they are able, interview a relative to get their view on the behavior of children. They may also perform the neuropsychological, psychological or learning disabilities tests. In some cases, a physical exam may be needed to rule out certain diseases that may mimic the symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosis
Adults who suspect they have ADHD should discuss their symptoms with their health care provider. This is particularly important if the problems are related to work or school. Primary care providers can refer patients to mental health professionals with experience in adult ADHD assessments. Hamdani says that professionals who deal with adults with ADHD should be willing and able to provide information regarding their training and experiences. Hamdani says that anyone who is unwilling to provide such information should be viewed as suspicious.
A diagnosis of adult ADHD is a life-changing experience. For some, it finally gives an explanation for years of frustration and self-criticism. Others feel a sense of satisfaction that there's a rationale for the difficulties they've experienced in their lives, or that their struggles weren't just "in their heads."
In the majority of cases, an adult with ADHD will receive a diagnosis by conducting a thorough interview with a professional who is qualified. This may include a thorough review of the person's personal, family and medical history. Additionally, the doctor will likely ask the individual to rate his or her behaviors on one or more of the standard ADHD behavior scales. These ratings are basing on research that compares the behavior of those with ADHD to the behavior of those who don't have the disorder.
The person will also be asked about how the symptoms impact 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. Anxiety disorders, depression, and drug or alcohol use are typical comorbidities of ADHD. Some experts suggest these comorbidities develop as maladaptive coping mechanisms to deal with the frustrations that are commonly related to untreated ADHD.
It is important to recognize that ADHD affects more women than men. Many people with the disorder struggle to be diagnosed because of the long-standing prejudices regarding the symptoms of the disorder and how they affect men and women. Some women can mask their symptoms better and this can lead to a delayed diagnosis or an incorrect diagnosis.
Treatment
It may be helpful for adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD to speak with an expert in mental health, preferably one with experience treating adults with ADHD. This person can teach adults behavioral strategies to help them manage their symptoms and improve their performance at the workplace, at school or at home. They can also help adults understand why their behavior differs and what triggers it.
Since a person could have several disorders which cause similar symptoms as the symptoms of ADHD It is crucial for professionals in mental health to examine the adult thoroughly. This can include a detailed description and scales filled out by the patient or other individuals who know him/her along with a family and psychiatric history as well as an extensive physical examination.
A thorough evaluation is also essential to determine whether the adult has a comorbid condition such as anxiety or depression. These conditions can exacerbate ADHD symptoms and make treatment more difficult. A mental health professional can also perform cognitive or neuropsychological testing to look at how the brain functions, and to identify other causes for the problems, such as an intellectual disability or physical illness.
Adults with ADHD are typically treated with psychotherapy (psychotherapy) and educational programs. Individual therapy can help an adult develop confidence in their self and manage the emotional burden that usually is associated with a diagnosis of ADHD. Behavioral therapies can also help improve efficiency, time management and impulse control and may address the impact of stressors on the individual's ability to function.
Some people suffering from ADHD might benefit from group therapy. This type of therapy offers you the opportunity to meet other people who are facing similar challenges and discuss how to overcome these challenges. These groups are often organized by a support group or an advocacy group.
Many adults suffering from ADHD can also be treated by medication. There are a myriad of medications available that include stimulants (such as methylphenidate sold under the name Ritalin) that boost levels of norepinephrine in the brain. Antidepressants and the antipsychotic drug Wellbutrin (Bupropion) help regulate moods and reduce impulsive behavior. Your Mercy doctor will be able to discuss the various treatment options available to you.
Support
Adults with ADHD might have the disorder for many years without realizing it. They may seek an evaluation due to their frustration with everyday issues like not remembering appointments, making mistakes at work, or not paying attention to family and friendship commitments. They often feel a sense of relief when they receive a website diagnosis.
A mental health professional can conduct an assessment for ADHD however, the primary care physician is usually an ideal place to begin. If necessary, the doctor may refer the patient to a specialist. A psychiatrist, psychiatric nurse or psychologist can also evaluate ADHD in adults. A lot of insurance plans have specialists by specialization and can help people find the right health professional who is experienced in ADHD in adults.
During the examination, a mental health professional will inquire about the person's past issues and how ADHD symptoms have affected them. It is essential to be open and truthfully during the evaluation so that the mental health professional can conduct a thorough evaluation.
Psychotherapy, also known as psychological counseling can help people manage their issues and improve their relationships. Behavioral therapy, or cognitive behavioral therapy, teaches people how to change their thinking and behavior. The combination of therapy and medication can reduce the symptoms of the disorder.
Social support groups can be beneficial to many adult ADHD patients. The opportunity to share their struggles with others who face similar struggles can provide a lot of inspiration and encouragement. Some of these groups can be found online and are available to anyone suffering from ADHD. Certain groups are specifically targeted for populations, like African Americans who have ADHD or couples with the disorder, or those who identify themselves as gay or lesbian.
Some people might feel embarrassed or ashamed about their symptoms. This could cause them to be reluctant to seek help. A medical professional must explain to the patient that ADHD is not a sign of weakness or failure.