Adult Diagnosis of ADHD
A diagnosis of ADHD can alter the lives of adults suffering from the condition. It can help people to understand the reasons they struggle with family, work and in relationships.
It is often difficult to diagnose since symptoms tend to overlap. A health care provider or mental health professional will evaluate the patient and conduct tests.
Symptoms
It is possible that a person doesn't realize they have ADHD until adulthood. This may be because teachers and parents failed to detect the signs at an earlier time or due to the demands of college or work brought out the disorder. Adults with untreated ADHD are more vulnerable in their work, school and social lives. Undiagnosed ADHD can cause many issues, including relationship problems and financial problems.
A mental health professional will interview and review the patient's medical, psychiatric and personal history, paying special attention to the symptoms in various settings. The patient will be asked to describe the symptoms and how they impact their daily functioning and their relationships. It is important that patients are open about their symptoms and do not conceal them to avoid embarrassment.
The mental health professional must also assess whether these symptoms are linked to comorbid conditions like depression and anxiety, which often coexist with ADHD. These conditions typically make the symptoms of ADHD worse and may interfere with effective treatment of the disorder.
If the psychologist or psychiatrist feels that the symptoms are being affected by comorbid conditions, such as psychosomatic disorders, or neuropsychological disorders, then additional testing could be performed to determine an accurate diagnosis. These tests can also be used to determine the degree of impairment in function caused by these conditions. In addition the mental health professional may request an interview with one or more significant people, such as spouses, siblings and coworkers, in order to gather an accurate picture of the person's functioning and difficulties.
Diagnosis
Adults are diagnosed with ADHD by a mental health specialist or physician following an exhaustive evaluation. This includes a detailed discussion of the symptoms and how they affect the daily activities. It also considers the presence of any other mental disorders that may co-exist with ADHD like mood disorders and anxiety. The doctor might also ask to speak to significant others such as your spouse or a close family friend to collect more information.
Getting a proper diagnosis of ADHD in adulthood can be a life-changing experience. For many adults, the diagnosis finally provides an explanation for what always appeared to be "normal" behaviors. It's often a relief to discover that the issues aren't just 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 is a standard that has been established to ensure that people receive the care and support they require. To be eligible for an ADHD diagnosis, the person must have had the symptoms for at least 12 consecutive months and they must cause significant impairment in multiple settings, including home, school, or work as well as with family members or friends; or with other activities. The number of symptoms needed for adults older than 17 has been reduced from six to five.
A good relationship with your primary healthcare provider can help you to recognize ADHD. Many physicians diagnose and treat ADHD in kids and can refer you to an expert in mental health to evaluate adults.
Treatment
If someone suffering from ADHD is diagnosed, their life can transform dramatically. They can finally find some solutions to their problems at school, and also in the start of a career, or even in relationships. For certain people, a diagnosis may relieve the anxiety that could have built up over years of their symptoms going untreated.
Talking to a mental health professional or health care provider is the first step to receiving a diagnosis. They can inquire about family history and perform a physical examination to rule out conditions which could trigger symptoms that are similar to ADHD, such as sleeping disorders, learning disabilities or alcohol/drug use. They may also ask the patient to complete an assessment scale of symptoms.
During the assessment process doctors may decide to speak with a spouse or partner. This allows the non ADHD spouse or partner to gain an accurate understanding of their loved one's ADHD and a sympathetic attitude towards the symptoms. This is important to improve relationships following a diagnoses. If this is not feasible, the clinician can interview acquaintances or colleagues who are familiar with the individual.
Medicines are the primary treatment options for adults with 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)) are able to increase the amount of norepinephrine found in the brain. These medications can improve ADHD symptoms.
Psychotherapy is a different option. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can teach patients strategies to manage their ADHD symptoms, including time management and organizational strategies, self-regulation of behavior and emotions, and coping with negative feelings and self-criticism. Other treatments, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy can help adults recognize automatic or irrational thoughts that cause negative behavior and devise strategies to overcome them using positive self-talk.
Medication
Many people have found that ADHD medication can improve their symptoms. adult adhd diagnosis uk comes in the form of a stimulant. It works by increasing activity in brain areas that regulate attention and behavior. Methylphenidate is the most well-known medicine prescribed to adults with ADHD 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 medicine, works by decreasing brain activity. It can be taken as a pill or liquid.
If treating adult patients suffering from ADHD the psychotherapist or psychiatrist may look over the person's family history and medical history to identify any causes that could cause similar symptoms similar to ADHD. This is necessary because certain medical conditions, such as thyroid problems and seizure disorders can cause symptoms similar to those of ADHD. Certain medications and dietary supplements can cause similar symptoms.
During the evaluation, the individual will likely explain their ADHD symptoms to the psychiatrist or therapist. They will be asked for standard ADHD ratings and checklists of symptoms as along with psychological tests that measure executive function, working memory (abilities such as planning and decision making), visual and spatial ability, as well as reasoning skills.
If the therapist is of the opinion that ADHD symptoms affect a person's quality of life they will suggest medication. In some instances a therapist may request the spouse or partner of the patient to talk with them about the impact of their ADHD symptoms on their relationship. This can reduce blame between the two people and help to foster healthier, more productive relations.
Counseling
Receiving a diagnosis is a great relief for many adults suffering from ADHD. It allows them to to understand the reasons for their difficulties at work or school and to discover ways to overcome these problems. It's an opportunity to transform negative behavior and build self-esteem.
Counseling can be a wonderful way to help you build a strong support network. Counseling for ADHD can include psychological (or psychotherapy) therapy and a range of behavioral strategies. For instance the therapist could create a reward chart that rewards positive behavior and enforces consequences for bad behavior. The therapist may also instruct the patient on techniques to manage their symptoms, such as relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or yoga poses.
Counseling can assist people to accept and comprehend their ADHD. It's not always easy to admit that you're having trouble with paying attention and planning. It can even be embarrassing to tell co-workers and supervisors about your ADHD. The majority of teachers and supervisors will make accommodations to accommodate your condition. They could, for instance, allow you to write on a computer instead of paper, or provide a more detailed explanation of the material in class.
In addition the therapist can also 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 behavior into positive ones. Counseling for ADHD can also include marital or family therapy. It teaches family members how to communicate better and resolve problems with someone who has ADHD. People suffering from ADHD often have other mental health issues like depression or anxiety and may also be afflicted by substance abuse, which can also cause more symptoms.