Adult Diagnosis of ADHD
A diagnosis of ADHD can alter the lives 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.
However it can be a challenge to establish a diagnosis because symptoms can be overlapping with other ailments. A mental health specialist or health care professional will assess the patient and perform tests.
Signs and symptoms
It is possible that someone may not be aware of having ADHD until they reach the age of adulthood. It could be because teachers and parents failed to recognize the signs at an earlier time or because work or college demands made the disorder more apparent. Adults with ADHD who are not treated are affected in their social, academic and professional lives. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD experience a variety of problems, including financial issues and relationship issues.
To determine the presence of ADHD, a mental health professional will speak with the patient and go over his or her personal, medical and psychiatric history, paying particular attention to symptoms in various environments. The patient will explain how these symptoms impact his or her daily functioning and relationships. It is crucial that the patient is open about these symptoms, and that he or she does not hide behind feelings of shame or embarrassment.
The mental health professional should also determine if these symptoms are related to comorbid conditions like depression and anxiety, which often coexist with ADHD. These conditions can cause ADHD symptoms worse and cause problems with the treatment of the disorder.
If the psychiatrist or psychology feels that the symptoms are affected by comorbid conditions, such as learning disabilities, psychosomatic disorders, or neuropsychological disorders, then additional tests can be conducted to establish 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 will also request interviews with other significant people such as spouses and siblings to get a complete picture of how the individual is performing.
Diagnosis
For adults the diagnosis of ADHD is usually determined by a mental health care specialist or doctor who conducts a thorough diagnostic evaluation. This includes a detailed analysis of the symptoms and how they impact daily functioning. It also includes the presence of other mental disorders that may co-exist with ADHD, such depression and anxiety. In addition, the practitioner might ask for the assistance of significant others, usually the spouse or a close friend -- to assist in gaining more information about the person's behavior.
learn more of ADHD can alter your life. The diagnosis provides adults with an explanation for their behavior that they believed were "normal". It's often a relief find out that their issues aren't just due to laziness 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 individuals receive the help and treatment they need. To qualify for an ADHD diagnosis, the person must have experienced the symptoms for at least 12 months and they must be causing significant impairment in several environments, such as school, at home, or at work; with friends or family; or with 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 younger than 12.
A good relationship with your primary healthcare provider can help you determine ADHD. Many doctors regularly diagnose and treat ADHD in children, and can provide a referral to a mental health professional who is qualified to perform an evaluation in adults.
Treatment
When those with ADHD receive a diagnosis, their lives can change dramatically. They can finally find some solutions to their issues in the classroom, as well as in starting a new career, or in relationships. A diagnosis can relieve shame that has accumulated for certain people over time.
The first step in obtaining an accurate diagnosis is to talk to a health care provider or mental health professional. They may inquire about the family history and conduct an examination to rule out any condition which could trigger symptoms that resemble ADHD, such as learning disabilities, sleep disorders or alcohol/drug abuse. They may also request that the person complete an assessment scale of symptoms.
In many instances, the doctor will request that a spouse or partner be interviewed during the process of assessment. This allows the non ADHD spouse or partner develop an accurate understanding of their loved one's ADHD, and an empathetic approach to the symptoms. This is important to improve relationships following the diagnosis. If this is not feasible the doctor can conduct an interview with acquaintances or colleagues who know the person well.
Adults suffering from ADHD are treated mostly with medications. stimulants like methylphenidate (Ritalin(r)) and dextroamphetamine (Adderall(r)) are the most effective and commonly prescribed drugs for treating adult ADHD. Other medications, for instance Atomoxetine (Strattera(r)) and guanfacine (Intuniv(r), Tenex(r)) increase the levels of norepinephrine in the brain and may improve symptoms of ADHD.
Psychotherapy also is an alternative. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can teach patients techniques for managing their ADHD symptoms, such as time management and strategies for organizing, self-regulation of emotions and behavior, and coping with negative self-criticism and negative emotions. Other treatments, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, help adults identify subconscious or unfounded thoughts that can lead to negative behavior and learn ways to replace them with positive self-talk.
Medication
Many people discover that ADHD medications can help improve their symptoms. This medicine is typically in the form of a stimulant. It works by increasing the activity of brain regions that control attention and behavior. Methylphenidate is the most popular medicine used for adults with ADHD is available in various forms. It is available in immediate-release tablets, or modified-release tablet forms that release the medication over the course of the day. Clonidine is a different type of medicine works by reducing the activity in the brain and can be taken as a pill or liquid.
The therapist or psychiatrist will examine the medical and family history of the adult patient to determine factors that may cause similar symptoms. This review is important because certain medical conditions such as thyroid problems and seizure disorders can cause symptoms that are similar to those of ADHD. Certain medications and nutritional supplements can cause similar symptoms.
During the test, the person will likely to talk about their ADHD symptoms. They will be asked to provide the standardized ADHD ratings and checklists of symptoms as along with psychological tests that measure working memory, executive function (abilities like making decisions and planning) spatial and visual ability, and reasoning abilities.
If a psychiatrist or therapist believes that the symptoms of ADHD are causing serious harm to the quality of life of a person, they will recommend treatment with medication. In certain instances the therapist might ask the individual's partner or spouse to talk with them regarding the effects of the symptoms on their relationship. This will help reduce blaming between individuals and lead to more positive, healthier relationships.
Counseling
Many people with ADHD find relief in receiving an diagnosis. It gives them a chance understand why they are having difficulties at work or school and to learn how to overcome these problems. It's a chance to alter negative behavior and build self-esteem.
A strong support system is essential for success, and counseling can help. Counseling for ADHD may include psychological (or psychotherapy) therapy and a range of behavioral strategies. A therapist might create a chart that encourages positive behaviors and imposes consequences on negative ones. The therapist can also teach the patient how to manage their symptoms, such as relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditative postures in yoga.
Another benefit of counseling is helping people comprehend and accept their ADHD. It's not easy to admit you struggle in organizing, planning and paying attention. It is embarrassing to admit that you have ADHD to supervisors or colleagues. However, the majority of teachers and bosses will be willing to accommodate for your condition. For example, they might allow you to use a computer for writing assignments instead of paper or provide more detailed explanations of the material in class.
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 change negative thoughts and behaviors into positive ones. Counseling for ADHD can also include family or marital therapy. It teaches family members how to communicate better and resolve problems with someone who has ADHD. People with ADHD may also suffer from other mental disorders such as anxiety or depression, and may have substance abuse problems.