Adult ADHD Diagnosis The Process Isn't As Hard As You Think Adult ADHD Diagnosis

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

Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD are often subjected to an exhaustive evaluation, which includes interviews with them and their families, and using standardized tests. This usually involves an examination of the body.

Symptoms

For many adults, the diagnosis of ADHD can be life-changing. It can help adults recognize the reasons they've struggled with for so long, and make sense of their previous choices. It can also inspire them to look forward to an improved future. If you're experiencing difficulty in locating your keys, feeling that you can never finish your work or being accused of being unreliable or lazy getting an diagnosis is the first step toward finding the best treatment for you.

For most adults, the signs manifest in different areas of their lives. They are more common in one area than another. They might be impulsive and restless at school, but have difficulty with keeping up at work. They may not remember to keep appointments or underestimate the amount of time required to complete their work. They might have difficulty making friends or have frequent arguments with their spouses. If these issues are serious, they may interfere with the daily routine and lead to depression or anxiety.

While it's essential to consider the possibility of a diagnosis of ADHD but it's equally important to consider what other factors might be that are causing the symptoms. Stress, mental health issues and medications can often cause symptoms similar to those of ADHD. A thorough assessment by a trained professional is essential to make sure that the root cause is being addressed.

As opposed to children, adults with ADHD do not show the more obvious symptoms of hyperactivity. Hyperactivity is more subtle and is manifested as fidgeting or a difficulty in sitting. Women with ADHD tend to display these symptoms more frequently because they are able to hide their inattention within their social and professional lives.

During the exam the doctor will look at the patient's medical background and how their symptoms impact their daily lives. They will also ask about family history, and when possible, interview a family member to get their views on childhood behavior. They might also conduct the neuropsychological, psychological or learning disabilities testing. In some instances it is necessary to undergo a physical examination in order to rule out certain diseases which can mimic the symptoms that are associated with ADHD.

Diagnosis

Adults who believe they have ADHD should discuss their symptoms with their physician. This is especially important if the problems are connected to school or work. Primary care providers may refer patients to mental health professionals who have experience in adult ADHD assessments. Those professionals should be willing to provide details about their training level and experience working with adults with ADHD, Hamdani says. Anyone who is hesitant to provide this information should be regarded with suspicion Hamdani adds.

Getting a diagnosis of adult ADHD can be a life-changing moment. It can provide a reason for years of frustration and self-criticism for some. Others feel a sense satisfaction that there's a rationale for the challenges they've encountered in their lives or that their issues weren't just "in their head."

In most cases, an adult with ADHD will be diagnosed through a comprehensive interview with a certified professional. This may include a thorough review of the patient's medical family, personal, and medical history. Additionally, the doctor will likely ask the individual to rate their behaviors using one or more standardized ADHD behavior rating scales. These ratings are from research that compares the behaviors of those with ADHD to those of people who do not have the disorder.

The person will be asked about their symptoms and how they impact their 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 with ADHD include anxiety disorders, depression and alcohol or drug dependence. Some experts suggest these co-morbidities are maladaptive strategies to cope with the stressors that are typically associated with untreated ADHD.

It's important to remember that ADHD is more prevalent in males than females. Many people suffering from the disorder struggle to be diagnosed because of long-held beliefs about the symptoms of the disorder and how they affect men and women. Some women are even capable of masking their symptoms better, which could cause an inaccurate diagnosis or delay in getting it.

Treatment

It is recommended for those who have been diagnosed with ADHD to consult a mental healthcare professional, preferably one with experience in treating adults with ADHD. This individual can teach the adult strategies for managing their symptoms and improve their performance at home, work or at school. They can also assist the adult to understand why their behavior is different and what triggers it.

Because a person might suffer from multiple disorders that cause similar symptoms to those of ADHD, it's important for a mental health professional to thoroughly examine the adult. This could include a thorough description of the individual's symptoms, questionnaires and scales completed by the client and other people who know them well, a complete medical and psychiatric history, and an extensive physical examination.

A thorough evaluation is also crucial to determine if the adult suffers from a co-morbid condition, such as depression or anxiety. These conditions can cause the symptoms of ADHD and make treatment more challenging. A mental health professional could also perform cognitive or neuropsychological tests to examine how the brain functions and to identify other causes for the issues, such as a learning impairment or physical illness.

adult diagnosis of adhd for adults suffering from ADHD typically include counseling for psychological issues (psychotherapy) and educational programs. Individual therapy can help a person develop confidence in their self and cope with the emotional baggage that often is associated with a diagnosis of ADHD. Behavioral therapies may also improve time management and organization, as well as impulse control. They can also tackle the effects that stressors have on an individual's abilities to function.

Some people with ADHD may benefit from group therapy. This type of therapy gives you the chance to meet others who have similar challenges and discuss strategies to overcome these challenges. These groups are usually run by a support group or an advocacy group.

Many people suffering from ADHD can also be treated with medication. There are several medications available which include stimulants that boost the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain (for example, methylphenidate, which is also known as Ritalin). Antidepressants and the antipsychotic drug Wellbutrin (Bupropion) aid in regulating moods and decrease the impulsive behavior. Your Mercy doctor can discuss all treatment options.

Support

Many adults who are diagnosed with ADHD suffer from the disorder for decades without even realizing it. The frustration of everyday problems like missing appointments, making irresponsible mistakes at work, or breaking family or friendship commitments can lead them to seek an assessment. These people often feel relieved when they receive an answer to their questions.

A mental health professional can perform an evaluation for ADHD however, the primary care physician is usually an ideal place to begin. The doctor can also refer the patient 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 include specialists according to their specialization and help people find the right health professional who is familiar with ADHD in adults.


During the examination, a mental health professional will inquire about the person's past issues, as well as how ADHD symptoms have affected them. It is essential to be open and truthfully during the evaluation so that the mental health professional can complete a thorough assessment.

Therapy, also known as psychotherapy, can help people learn to manage their symptoms and improve relationships. Behavioral therapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy, helps people develop specific techniques to alter their thinking patterns and behaviors. The combination of therapy and medication can help to reduce the symptoms of the disorder.

Many adults ADHD sufferers benefit from social support groups. Being able to share their experiences with others who have similar struggles can be a source of motivation and inspiration. A few of these groups can be found online and are available to anyone suffering from ADHD. Some groups are geared towards specific populations, like African Americans who have ADHD or couples who are affected by the disorder, or people who identify as gay or lesbian.

Certain people may feel a sense of shame or embarrassment about their symptoms, which may make it difficult for them to seek assistance. A medical professional must explain to the patient that ADHD is not a weakness or failure.