Adult ADHD Diagnosis

A diagnosis of adult ADHD can be the first step towards finding treatment for certain people. They may feel frustrated in their jobs, social or home lives due to symptoms like fidgeting, forgetting things, or interrupting others.

Getting diagnosed with ADHD as an adult often involves undergoing a thorough evaluation that involves conducting interviews with the person and family members, using standard tests and rating scales. The evaluation usually includes a physical exam, as well.

Signs and symptoms

A diagnosis of ADHD may change the course of a lot of adult lives. It can help them understand why they have been struggling for so long and help them understand their past decisions. It can also provide hope for a brighter future. If you're struggling with losing your keys, feeling as if you can never finish your work, or being labeled as lazy or irresponsible, getting an diagnosis is the first step toward finding the treatment that works for you.

Most adults experience symptoms in different areas of their lives, but certain areas are more prominent than others. They might be impulsive and restless at school, but struggle with keeping up at work. They may forget to keep appointments or underestimate the time required to complete their tasks. They may have trouble making friends or have frequent arguments with their spouses. If these issues are serious, they can interfere with the daily routine and can lead to depression or anxiousness.

It's crucial to recognize ADHD, but it's also important to identify other factors could be contributing to symptoms. Stress, mental health issues, and certain medications are frequently the cause of symptoms that are similar. To ensure that the root problem is treated an in-depth evaluation by a qualified professional is necessary.

Like children, adults who suffer from ADHD seldom show the more obvious signs of hyperactivity. Hyperactivity is less obvious and can be seen as fidgeting or difficulty sitting still. Women who suffer from ADHD tend to display these signs more frequently because they are able to hide their inattentional behavior within their social and professional lives.

During the examination, the doctor will examine the patient's medical background and how their symptoms impact their daily lives. They will also inquire about family history and when possible, interview a family member for their perspectives on childhood behavior. They can also conduct neuropsychological, psychological, or learning disabilities tests. In some instances it might be necessary to undergo an examination of the body to rule out certain diseases that can cause symptoms that are associated with ADHD.

Diagnosis

Adults who believe they have ADHD should discuss their symptoms with their health care provider. This is particularly important if the symptoms are related to work or school. Primary healthcare providers can refer people to mental health professionals who specialize in adult ADHD evaluations and treatment. These professionals must be able to share information about their level of training and experience working with adults with ADHD, Hamdani says. Anyone who is reluctant to disclose this information should be treated with suspicion, Hamdani adds.

A diagnosis of adult ADHD is a life-changing experience. It can provide a reason for years of frustration and self-criticism for certain. Others feel a sense satisfaction that there's a rationale for the difficulties they've experienced in their lives or that their issues weren't just "in their heads."

In most cases, an adult with ADHD will be diagnosed through a comprehensive interview with a professional who is qualified. This may include a thorough review of the person's personal medical, family and personal history. The professional will also ask the patient to rate their behavior on one or more of the standard ADHD scales for behavioral assessment. These ratings are from research that compares the behavior of people suffering from ADHD to those of people who don't have the disorder.

The individual will be asked about the symptoms and how they impact their daily 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.

Comorbidities are common in those who have been diagnosed as having adult ADHD. Common comorbidities that are associated with ADHD include depression, anxiety disorders and alcohol or drug dependence. Some experts believe that these comorbidities are a result of maladaptive strategies for coping with the frustrations of untreated ADHD.

It's important to note that ADHD affects more men than women. Many people suffering from the disorder may struggle to be diagnosed because of long-held beliefs about the symptoms of the disorder and how they affect both men and women. Women can also be able to mask their symptoms better, which could cause an inaccurate diagnosis or delay in obtaining a diagnosis.

Treatment

It is recommended for those who have been diagnosed with ADHD to talk to a mental healthcare professional who has experience treating adults with ADHD. The professional can help adults learn ways to manage their symptoms and improve their performance at the workplace, at school or at home. They can also assist adults recognize the reasons behind their behavior and what triggers it.

A mental health professional should take a thorough look at an adult's health for other disorders that are similar to ADHD. This may include a detailed description of the person's symptoms as well as questionnaires and scales filled out by the person who is being evaluated and by other people who know them well, a complete medical history of the family and a psychiatric history, as well as a thorough physical examination.

A thorough evaluation is also essential to determine whether the adult suffers from a comorbid condition, such as anxiety or depression. These conditions can worsen ADHD symptoms and make treatment more difficult. A mental health professional can also conduct neurologic or cognitive testing to examine how the brain works and to rule out other causes, like a physical illness or learning disabilities.

Adults who suffer from ADHD are usually treated through psychological counseling (psychotherapy) and educational programs. Individual talk therapy can help an adult develop better self-esteem and learn to deal with the emotional baggage that often comes with the diagnosis of ADHD. Behavioral therapies may also improve time management and organization, as well as impulse control. They can also deal with the effect that stressors can have on a person's ability to function.

Some people who suffer from ADHD benefit from group therapy. This type of therapy can provide an opportunity to meet other people with the same challenges and discuss ways to overcome them. These groups are often organized by groups of support or an advocacy group.

There is also a treatment option for a lot of adults suffering from ADHD. There are many medications available which include stimulants that boost the levels of norepinephrine as well as dopamine in the brain (for example, methylphenidate, which is also known as Ritalin). Others aid in managing mood and reduce impulsive behaviors, Adult ADHD Diagnosis such as antidepressants or the anti-psychotic drug bupropion (Wellbutrin). Your Mercy doctor will be able to discuss all treatment options.

Support

Many adults diagnosed with ADHD live with the disorder for decades without even realizing it. The frustration of everyday problems such as not remembering appointments, Adult ADHD Diagnosis making rash mistakes at work, or breaking family or friendship commitments can cause people to seek a diagnosis. People often feel relieved when they are given the diagnosis.

A mental health professional can perform an assessment for ADHD, but an primary care physician is usually the best place to begin. If necessary, the doctor may refer the patient to a specialist. A psychiatrist, psychiatric nurse or psychologist can also assess ADHD in adults. Many insurance plans list professionals according to their specialties. This can assist people in finding an expert in health care who is knowledgeable about ADHD among adults.

During the examination the mental health professional will ask questions regarding the person's behavior, such as previous issues and how they have been affected by their ADHD symptoms. It is essential to be open and honestly during the evaluation so that the mental health professional can complete a thorough assessment.

Psychotherapy, or psychological counseling can help people manage their symptoms and improve their relationships. Behavioral therapy, also known as cognitive behavioral therapy teaches people how to modify their behavior and patterns of thinking. Therapy is often combined with medication, which can reduce the effects of the disorder.

Social support groups can be beneficial to many adults ADHD patients. Having the chance to discuss their experiences with other people who have similar struggles can be a source of motivation and inspiration. Some of these groups are available online and are open for anyone with ADHD. Other groups are for specific groups, such as African Americans with ADHD, couples affected by the disorder, or people who identify as gay or lesbian.

Certain people may feel a sense of shame or embarrassment over their symptoms, which may hinder their desire to seek assistance. A health professional should explain to the patient that ADHD is not a weakness or failure.