Adult Diagnosis of ADHD
For those who suffer from ADHD the diagnosis can have a profound impact on their lives. It can help people recognize the reasons why they struggle in family, work and in relationships.
It is often difficult to diagnose because symptoms can overlap. A health care provider or mental health professional will evaluate the patient and run tests.
Signs and symptoms
The person might not be aware that they have ADHD until they reach the age of adulthood, perhaps because teachers and parents were not aware of symptoms earlier, or because the demands of college or work brought out the disorder. Adults who are not treated for ADHD are more vulnerable in their academic, professional and social lives. Undiagnosed ADHD can cause a wide range of issues including relationship problems as well as financial problems.
A mental health professional will review and interview the patient's medical, mental health and personal history, paying particular attention to the symptoms in different settings. The patient will discuss the symptoms and how they affect their daily life and relationships. It is important that the patient is honest about these symptoms, and do not shy away due to feelings of embarrassment or shame.
The mental health professional should also determine if these symptoms are related to comorbid conditions such as anxiety and depression which are often associated with ADHD. These conditions can cause ADHD symptoms worse and interfere with the treatment of the disorder.
If the psychiatrist or psychologist believes that the symptoms of ADHD are influenced by other conditions, additional psychological, neuropsychological or testing for learning disabilities could be performed to determine an accurate diagnosis. These tests can also be used to determine the extent 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 colleagues in order to collect an accurate picture of the person's behavior and difficulties.
Diagnosis
For adults the diagnosis of ADHD is usually determined by a mental health care specialist or doctor who conducts a thorough diagnosis. This includes a detailed analysis 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 depression and anxiety. In addition, the practitioner may request to speak with significant others--usually an intimate partner or a close friend to assist in gaining more information about the individual's behavior.
Finding a reliable 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 seemed to be "normal" behaviors. It's often a relief to find out that their issues aren't simply due to 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 standard is created to ensure that people receive the assistance and treatment they need. For a person to qualify for an ADHD diagnosis the person must be suffering from symptoms for at minimum a year and be a significant handicap in a variety of settings such as home, school or at work with family members or friends or other activities. The number of symptoms required for adults over the age of 17 has been reduced from six to five.
A good relationship with your primary healthcare provider can help you to recognize ADHD. Many providers routinely diagnose and treat ADHD in children, and may refer you to an expert in mental health who is able to perform an assessment of adults.
Treatment
When someone with ADHD is diagnosed, their life can transform dramatically. how to get an adult adhd diagnosis will finally have solutions to their issues in school, with starting a new career, or in relationships. A diagnosis can help relieve the shame that has been accumulating for some people over time.
The first step in getting an accurate diagnosis is to talk to a doctor or mental health professional. They might inquire about the family history and conduct a physical examination to rule out conditions that can cause symptoms that resemble ADHD, such as learning disabilities, sleep disorders or alcohol/drug use. They may also ask the patient to complete the checklist of symptoms.
In many instances, the doctor will request that the spouse or partner be interviewed during the assessment process. This can help the non-ADHD spouse or partner develop an accurate understanding and empathetic attitude toward their loved one's ADHD symptoms which is crucial in enhancing relationships following an assessment. If this is not feasible, the clinician can interview acquaintances or colleagues who are familiar with the person.
Medicines are the primary treatment options for adults suffering from ADHD. Adult ADHD is treated with stimulants such as methylphenidate and Adderall and dextroamphetamine. Other medications, like atomoxetine (Strattera(r)) and Guanfacine (Intuniv(r), Tenex(r)) increase norepinephrine levels in the brain and may help improve symptoms of ADHD.
Psychotherapy is another option. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a way to teach patients skills to manage their ADHD symptoms, such as time management and organizational strategies, self-regulation of emotions and behavior and managing self-criticism and negative feelings. Other therapies, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) can help adults recognize automatic thoughts or irrational thinking that cause negative behavior and develop positive self-talk.
Medication
Many people have found that ADHD medications can help improve their symptoms. This medication is usually in the form of a stimulant and is effective by increasing the activity of the brain in areas that control the behavior and attention. Methylphenidate is the most well-known medicine used for adults with ADHD is available in various forms. It can be taken as immediate-release tablets, or as modified-release tablets that release the medication throughout the day. Clonidine is another kind of medicine works by reducing the activity in the brain and can be taken as a pill or liquid.
When treating adult patients with ADHD The psychotherapist or psychiatrist may look over the person's family and medical history to identify any factors that may cause similar symptoms as ADHD. This review is important because some medical conditions, such as seizures and thyroid issues can cause symptoms that are similar to those of ADHD. In addition, certain supplements and medications can cause similar symptoms.
During the test, the person will likely to discuss the ADHD symptoms. They will be asked for the standardized ADHD ratings and checklists of symptoms as well as psychological tests to measure executive function, working memory (abilities like making decisions and planning), visual and spatial ability, and reasoning abilities.
If the therapist or psychiatrist believes that the symptoms of ADHD are causing serious harm to a person's life they will suggest treatment with medication. In some cases the therapist may request the patient's spouse or partner to interview them regarding the effects of the symptoms of the patient on their relationship. This step can help to decrease blame between individuals and can lead to better, more productive relationships.
Counseling
Many adults with ADHD are relieved when they receive the diagnosis. It allows them to to understand the reasons for their problems at school or work and to understand how to overcome these problems. It's also a chance for them to overcome negative habits and boost confidence in themselves.
Counseling is a great method to create a strong support system. Counseling for ADHD may include psychological (or psychotherapy) therapy and a range of behavioral strategies. A therapist could create a chart that rewards positive behaviors and imposes punishments on bad ones. The therapist can also instruct the patient in skills to manage their symptoms, such as relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or yoga postures.
Another benefit of counseling is helping people understand and accept their ADHD. It's not easy to admit you struggle with planning, organizing and paying attention. It can be embarrassing to confess that you suffer from ADHD to co-workers or supervisors. However, the majority of bosses and teachers will be willing to accommodate for your condition. They could, for instance let you write on computers instead of paper, or provide more in-depth explanations of the material in class.
In addition the therapist will teach you ways to cope with your ADHD through cognitive behavioral therapy, which is a type of talk therapy that helps you change negative thoughts and behaviors into positive ones. Counseling for ADHD can also include marital or family therapy. This helps loved ones learn to communicate more effectively and solve problems with someone who has ADHD. People suffering from ADHD may also suffer from other mental disorders such as anxiety or depression, and may have issues with addiction to drugs.