Adult Diagnosis of ADHD
A diagnosis of ADHD can alter the lives of those suffering from the disorder. It can help people to understand why they have difficulties at work, at home and in their relationships.
However it can be a challenge to establish a diagnosis because symptoms often overlap with other conditions. A mental health healthcare professional or health professional will evaluate the individual and perform tests.
Symptoms
A person may not realize they have ADHD until they reach the age of adulthood or 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 with ADHD who aren't treated suffer in their social, academic and professional lives. Many people who are not diagnosed with ADHD suffer from a variety of problems, such as relationship issues and financial difficulties.
A mental health professional will review and interview the patient's medical, psychiatric and personal history, paying special attention to the symptoms in different settings. The patient will discuss the symptoms and how they impact their daily functioning and their relationships. It is essential that the patient is open about the symptoms, and do not shy away due to feelings of shame or embarrassment.
The mental health professional must be able to determine if the symptoms are connected to comorbid conditions such as anxiety and depression, which often coexist with ADHD. These conditions can make ADHD symptoms worse and interfere with the treatment of the disorder.
If the psychologist or psychiatrist feels that the symptoms of ADHD are influenced by comorbid conditions, further cognitive, neuropsychological, or testing for learning disabilities could be performed to determine an accurate diagnosis. These tests can help determine the level of impairment in function caused by these conditions. The mental health professional will also conduct interviews with other significant people like spouses or siblings, to get a full picture of how a person is performing.
Diagnosis
For adults, a diagnosis of ADHD is usually made by a mental health care medical professional or physician who conducts a thorough diagnosis. This involves a thorough discussion about the history of symptoms and their impact on everyday functioning, as well as the presence of any other mental health issues that may be co-occurring with ADHD such as mood disorders and anxiety. The practitioner may also ask to speak to your significant others like a spouse or close family member, in order for them gather more information.
Finding a reliable diagnosis of ADHD in adulthood can be a life-changing moment. The diagnosis gives adults an explanation for the behaviors they believed were "normal". Often, it provides relief knowing that they're not just lazy or forgetful and their issues are more complex.
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 that has been established to ensure that people receive the care and support they require. In order for a person to be eligible for an ADHD diagnoses they must exhibit symptoms for at least a year and have caused significant impairment in multiple 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 required for children who are younger than 12.
Having a good relationship with your primary healthcare provider can help you identify ADHD. Many providers diagnose and treat ADHD in children and refer you to an expert in mental health to assess adults.
Treatment
When a person with ADHD is diagnosed, their life may change dramatically. They can finally find some solutions to their problems at school, with establishing a career, or even in relationships. A diagnosis can relieve shame that has accumulated for certain people over time.
Talking to a mental health specialist or health care professional is the first step to finding out if you have an assessment. They may ask about family history and conduct a physical exam to rule out other conditions such as sleep disorders or learning disabilities which can cause symptoms that are similar to ADHD. They may also request the person to complete a list of symptoms.
During the process of assessment, a doctor may ask to speak with a spouse or partner. This helps the non ADHD spouse or partner to gain an understanding of their loved one's ADHD, and an empathetic attitude towards the symptoms. This is important to improve relationships following diagnosis. If this isn't possible the therapist may ask friends or co-workers who are familiar with the person.
Adults suffering from ADHD are treated primarily by medications. stimulants like methylphenidate (Ritalin(r)) and dextroamphetamine (Adderall(r)) are the most effective and commonly used medications to treat adult ADHD. Other medications, such as atomoxetine (Strattera(r),) and Guanfacine (Intuniv (r) Tenex (r)), increase norepinephrine in the brain. These medications can improve ADHD symptoms.
Psychotherapy is also an alternative. Cognitive-behavioral therapies can assist patients develop the skills needed to manage their ADHD symptoms. They include time management, self-regulation strategies, organizational strategies, of behaviors and emotions and coping strategies for negative feelings and self criticism. Other therapies, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) can help adults identify the automatic thoughts or irrational thoughts that lead to negative behavior and develop positive self-talk.
Medication
Many people have found that ADHD medication can improve their symptoms. This medicine is typically in the form of a stimulant and helps to increase activity in brain areas that regulate behavior and attention. Methylphenidate is the most popular medication used by adults suffering from ADHD is available in many forms. It is available as immediate-release tablets or modified-release tablet forms that release the medication throughout the day. Clonidine is a different type of medication, works by decreasing brain activity and can be taken in pill form or liquid.
The psychiatrist or therapist will review the medical and family background of adhd diagnosis adults uk private the adult patient in order to determine the factors that can cause similar symptoms. This is crucial, since some medical conditions like seizures and thyroid issues can cause symptoms similar to ADHD. Some medications and dietary supplement may also cause similar symptoms.
During the test, the person is likely to describe their ADHD symptoms. They will be asked to complete standard ADHD rating scales and check lists, as well as complete psychological tests that measure executive functioning, working memory (abilities such as making decisions and planning) spatial and visual capabilities, as well as reasoning skills.
If the therapist believes that ADHD symptoms affect a person's quality of life, he or she will recommend treatment. In certain instances the therapist may ask the individual's spouse or partner to interview them regarding the effects of the symptoms on their relationship. This can lessen the burden of blame between people and encourage healthier, more productive relations.
Counseling
Being diagnosed is a great relief for many adults with ADHD. It allows them to to understand the reasons for their difficulties at work or school and to learn how to overcome these problems. It's an opportunity to change negative behavior and build self-esteem.
A solid support system is crucial to success, and counseling can help. Counseling for ADHD can include psychotherapy (or psychological therapy) and a range of behavioral treatments. A therapist could create a chart that rewards positive behaviors and imposes consequences on bad ones. The therapist can also instruct the patient on how to manage their symptoms, for example, relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditative yoga poses.
Another benefit of counseling is helping people comprehend and accept their ADHD. It's not always easy to admit that you have difficulties paying attention and planning. It can be embarrassing to inform coworkers and supervisors about your ADHD. Most teachers and bosses will offer accommodations to accommodate your needs. For instance, they may permit you to make use of a computer to write assignments instead of paper and provide more detailed explanations of class material.
Additionally the therapist can also teach you ways to cope with your ADHD through cognitive behavioral therapy which is a form of therapy that helps you transform negative thoughts and behaviors to positive ones. Counseling for ADHD could also involve family or marital therapy. This helps loved ones learn to communicate better and resolve problems with someone who suffers from ADHD. People who suffer from ADHD frequently suffer from mental health disorders such as anxiety or depression and may be afflicted by substance abuse that can make their symptoms worse.