Beware Of These "Trends" Concerning Adult ADHD Diagnosis Adult ADHD Diagnosis

For some being diagnosed with adult ADHD is the first step to get treatment. They may be unhappy in their work, homes or social lives because of symptoms like fidgeting, forgetting things or interrupting others.

Getting diagnosed with ADHD as an adult usually means going through an extensive assessment that involves interviewing the individual and their family members using standardized tests and rating scales. It typically includes a physical examination, too.

Symptoms

For many adults, the diagnosis of ADHD can have a profound impact on their lives. It can help them understand why they've been through so much and discover the meaning behind their previous decisions. It could also provide them with hope for an improved future. Whether you are having trouble finding your keys, feeling like you can never finish your work or being labeled as unreliable or lazy, obtaining a diagnosis is the first step towards finding the best treatment for you.

For the majority of adults, signs appear in several areas of their lives and are more common in one area than the other. They might be impulsive and irritable at school, but have difficulty in keeping up with their work. They might forget appointments or struggle to estimate how much time they need to complete their tasks. They may have difficulty making friends or argue with their spouses frequently. If these problems are severe, they may interfere with daily living and lead to depression or anxiety.

While it's important to consider the possibility of being diagnosed with ADHD but it's equally important to look at the other factors contributing to the symptoms. Stress, mental health conditions and certain medications can trigger symptoms similar to the symptoms of ADHD. To ensure that the underlying problem is resolved with a thorough assessment by a qualified professional is necessary.

Like children, adults who suffer from ADHD seldom show the more obvious symptoms of hyperactivity. Instead, undiagnosed adhd in adults of hyperactivity are displayed more subtly as fidgeting or having trouble sitting in chairs. Women with ADHD are more likely to exhibit these signs, since they are more likely to conceal their inattention in their jobs and social lives.

During the assessment the doctor will examine the patient's medical history and how symptoms affect their daily lives. They will also inquire about information about the family and, if it is possible, talk to a loved one to gain their view on the behavior of children. They may also conduct neuropsychological, psychological, or learning disabilities tests. In certain instances, it may be necessary to undergo a physical examination in order to rule out specific illnesses which can mimic the symptoms associated with ADHD.

Diagnosis

It is crucial for those who believe they may have ADHD to discuss their symptoms with a health care specialist, especially if the problems stem from work or school. Primary care providers can refer patients to mental health professionals with expertise in adult ADHD evaluations. They should be able to share information regarding their level of training and experience working with adults with ADHD, Hamdani says. Anyone who isn't willing to disclose this information should be considered suspicious, Hamdani adds.

Getting a diagnosis of adult ADHD can be a life-changing experience. For some, it finally provides an explanation for years of frustrations and self-criticism. Some people feel relieved that they have an explanation for their struggles in life or that they weren't "just in their heads."

Adults who suffer from ADHD are diagnosed with ADHD through a thorough interview with a specialist. This will include a review of the individual's personal medical, family, and background. The doctor will also ask the patient to rate their behavior on one or more of the different ADHD ratings for behavior. These ratings are basing on research that compares behaviors of people suffering from ADHD to those of people who do not have the disorder.

The person will be questioned about their 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.

The people who are diagnosed of adult ADHD typically have co-existing disorders which are referred to as co-morbidities. Depression, anxiety disorders and alcohol or drug use are all common comorbidities associated with ADHD. Some experts believe that these comorbidities are maladaptive strategies for dealing with the stress and frustrations that come with untreated ADHD.

It's also important to recognize that ADHD is more prevalent in males than women, and it may be difficult for those who do have the disorder to be diagnosed due long-held biases about the symptoms and the impact they have on men and women. Some women can mask their symptoms more effectively, which can lead them to delay diagnosis or an inaccurate diagnosis.

Treatment

It is recommended for those who have been diagnosed with ADHD to talk to an expert in mental health, preferably one with experience in treating adults with ADHD. This person can teach adults behavioral strategies to help them manage their symptoms, and improve their performance in school, at work or at home. They can also help adults recognize the reasons why their behavior is different and what triggers them.

A mental health professional must examine an adult thoroughly as they could have other disorders that are similar to ADHD. This may include a detailed description of the individual's symptoms as well as questionnaires and scales filled out by the person in question and others who know him or her well, a complete medical and psychiatric history, as well as a thorough physical examination.

A thorough examination is crucial to determine if the adult suffers from a comorbid condition, such as depression or anxiety. These conditions can contribute to the symptoms of ADHD and make treatment more challenging. A mental health professional may also conduct neuropsychological or cognitive tests to determine how the brain functions and to rule out other causes of the problems, such as the presence of a learning disability or physical illness.

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


Certain people with ADHD might benefit from group therapy. This kind of therapy gives you the chance to meet people who face similar issues and discuss how to overcome these challenges. These groups are usually run by a support group or an advocacy group.

Many adults suffering from ADHD can be treated with medications. There are many medications that include stimulants (such as methylphenidate, which is sold under the name Ritalin) which increase the levels of norepinephrine within the brain. Antidepressants and the antipsychotic drug Wellbutrin (Bupropion) can help control moods and reduce impulse-driven behavior. Your Mercy doctor will discuss all treatment options with you.

Support

Many adults who are diagnosed with ADHD suffer from the disorder for a long time without knowing it. They might seek an evaluation because they are annoyed by daily challenges like forgetting appointments or making a mistake at work, or not paying attention to family and friendship commitments. People often feel relieved when they receive an answer to their questions.

A mental health professional can perform an ADHD evaluation, however the primary doctor is usually an excellent starting point. The doctor can also refer the person to a specialist in the event of need. A psychiatrist, psychiatric nurse or psychologist might also be able to evaluate ADHD in adults. Many insurance plans list professionals by specialty and can assist people in finding a health care provider who is knowledgeable about ADHD in adults.

During the assessment the mental health professional will ask about the person's past issues and also how ADHD symptoms have affected them. It is essential to be honest and transparent during the evaluation so that the mental healthcare professional can make an accurate assessment.

Psychotherapy, or psychological counseling can aid people in managing their symptoms and improve their relationships. Behavioral therapy, also known as cognitive behavioral therapy, teaches people how to change their behavior and patterns of thinking. The combination of therapy and medication can help reduce the symptoms of the disorder.

Many adult ADHD patients benefit from support groups for adults. The chance to share their struggles with others who face similar struggles can provide a lot of motivation and inspiration. Some of these groups are accessible online and are available to all people with ADHD. Some groups are specifically for populations, such as African Americans with ADHD, couples afflicted by the disorder, or people who identify as gay or lesbian.

Some people may experience feelings of shame or embarrassment over their symptoms, which may make it difficult for them to seek help. However, a doctor must explain that ADHD is not an indication of failing or weakness.