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Adult Diagnosis of ADHD
A diagnosis of ADHD can alter the lives of adults suffering from the condition. It can help people recognize the reasons they face difficulties at work, at home and in their relationships.
However it can be challenging to determine a diagnosis since symptoms often overlap with other conditions. A mental health healthcare professional or health professional will examine the individual and perform tests.
Signs and symptoms
A person may not even be aware 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 made the disorder more apparent. Adults who are not treated for ADHD are more vulnerable in their work, school and social lives. Undiagnosed ADHD can cause a wide range of issues including relationship problems as well as financial issues.
A mental health professional will conduct an interview and review the patient's medical, mental health and personal history, paying special attention to the symptoms in various settings. The patient will discuss the symptoms and how they affect their daily functioning and their relationships. It is crucial that patients are open about their symptoms and do not cover them up to avoid embarrassment.
The mental health professional must be able to determine if the symptoms are linked to comorbid conditions like anxiety and depression that often coexist with ADHD. These conditions can make ADHD symptoms worse and interfere with treatment for the disorder.
If the psychiatrist or psychologist believes that the symptoms of ADHD are influenced by comorbid conditions, additional psychological, neuropsychological or learning disabilities tests could be utilized to establish an accurate diagnosis. These tests will also help determine the level of impairment in function caused by these conditions. Additionally, the mental health professional might require an interview with one or more significant people such as spouses, siblings and colleagues, in order to gather an entire picture of the individual's performance and difficulties.
Diagnosis
For adults, a diagnosis of ADHD is usually determined by a mental health care 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 conditions that could co-occur with ADHD like depression and anxiety. Additionally, the doctor may ask to speak with significant others -- typically the spouse or a close friend -- to provide more details about the individual's behavior.
Finding a reliable diagnosis of ADHD in adulthood can be a life-changing experience. For many adults, this diagnosis finally provides an explanation for what has always appeared to be "normal" behaviors. It's usually a relief to learn that their problems 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 standard is created to ensure that people receive the help and treatment they require. To qualify for an ADHD diagnosis, one must have experienced the symptoms for at least 12 months, and they must be causing significant impairment in a variety of settings, including school, at home, or at work as well as with family members or friends or in other activities. The number of symptoms needed for adults over 17 has been reduced from six to five.
A positive relationship with your primary healthcare provider can help determine ADHD. Many doctors diagnose and treat ADHD in children and refer you to an expert in mental health to evaluate adults.
Treatment
When a person with ADHD is diagnosed, their life may change dramatically. They might finally have explanations for failures in school or a struggle to find a career or relationship problems. For those who are suffering from depression, it can help them overcome the guilt that has been accumulated over the years of their ailments not being addressed.
The first step in getting an accurate diagnosis is to talk to a health care professional or mental health professional. They may ask about the family history and perform a physical exam to rule out conditions like learning disabilities or sleep disorders that can cause symptoms similar to ADHD. They may also ask the person to complete a list of symptoms.
In many instances, the doctor will request that the spouse or partner be interviewed during the process of assessing. This assists the non ADHD spouse or partner to gain an understanding of their loved one's ADHD, and an empathetic approach towards those symptoms. This is important to strengthen relationships following a diagnoses. If how to get an adhd diagnosis uk isn't possible the therapist may ask friends or co-workers who are familiar with the person.
Adults suffering from ADHD are treated mostly with medications. Stimulants such as 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 levels in the brain and can improve symptoms of ADHD.
Psychotherapy is also an option. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a way to teach patients techniques for managing their ADHD symptoms, such as time management and self-regulation of emotions and behavior, and coping with self-criticism and negative feelings. Other therapies, like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) can help adults recognize the automatic thoughts or irrational thoughts that cause negative behavior, and also develop positive self-talk.
Medication
Many people report that ADHD medication can help alleviate their symptoms. This medication typically comes in the form of a stimulant and works by increasing activity in brain areas that regulate behavior and attention. Methylphenidate is the most frequently prescribed medication for adults suffering from ADHD, and it is available in a variety of forms. It can be taken in immediate-release tablets or modified-release tablets that release the medication throughout the day. Clonidine is a different type of medication that works by decreasing brain activity. It is available in pill or liquid form.
If treating adult patients suffering from ADHD The psychotherapist or psychiatrist may look over the person's family history and medical history to determine if there are any factors that can cause similar symptoms to ADHD. This is necessary because certain medical conditions such as thyroid problems and seizure disorders can trigger symptoms similar to those of ADHD. In addition, certain drugs and nutritional supplements may cause similar symptoms.
During the assessment it is likely that the person will describe their ADHD symptoms to their therapist or psychiatrist. They will be asked to fill out standardized ADHD rating scales and check lists, and comprehensive psychological tests that test executive functioning, working memory, (abilities such as making decisions and planning) spatial and visual capabilities, as well as reasoning skills.
If the therapist believes ADHD symptoms affect the quality of life of a person they will recommend treatment. In some cases, a therapist may ask the patient's partner or spouse to talk with them about the impact of their symptoms on their relationship. This can lessen the burden of blame between individuals and promote healthier, more productive relations.
Counseling
Many people with ADHD find relief in receiving the diagnosis. It's a chance to comprehend the reason why they face difficulties at school or at work, and learn ways to overcome them. It's also an opportunity to change negative behaviors and boost confidence in themselves.
Counseling can be a great method to create a strong support system. Counseling for ADHD can involve psychological (or psychotherapy) therapy and a variety of behavioral strategies. Therapists may make a chart to reward positive behaviors and imposes consequences on negative ones. The therapist can also instruct the patient on techniques to manage their symptoms, such as relaxation techniques like deep breathing or yoga poses.
Counseling can help people accept and understand their ADHD. It can be difficult to admit that you struggle with planning, organizing and paying attention. It can be embarrassing to reveal to coworkers and supervisors about your ADHD. However, most teachers and bosses will be willing to make accommodations for your condition. They might, for example, allow you to write on the computer instead of paper, or provide an explanation of classroom material.
In addition the therapist will teach you how to deal with your ADHD through cognitive behavioral therapy which is a form of therapy that assists to change negative thoughts and behaviors into positive ones. Counseling for ADHD can also involve family or marital therapy, which teaches loved ones how to interact better with a person suffering from ADHD and to improve the ability to communicate and solve problems. People with ADHD may also suffer from other mental disorders such as anxiety or depression, and they may also be suffering from issues with substance abuse.