Adult ADHD Diagnosis

A diagnosis of adult ADHD can be the first step in getting treatment for some people. They may feel frustrated at work, in their homes or in their social lives due to symptoms such as fidgeting or forgetting things.

Getting diagnosed with ADHD as an adult usually involves undergoing an extensive evaluation that includes conducting interviews with the person and family members, using standardized tests and rating scales. The evaluation usually includes physical examination.

Signs and Adult ADHD Diagnosis symptoms

A diagnosis of ADHD can alter the course of many adult lives. It can help them understand why they've been struggling for so long and help them discover the meaning behind their previous choices. It can also provide hope for a brighter future. If you're having trouble finding your keys, feeling as if you'll never finish your work, or being called lazy or irresponsible, obtaining an assessment is the first step towards finding the right treatment for you.

For most adults, the signs manifest in different areas of their lives. Some are more common in one area in comparison to another. They might be impulsive and irritable at school, but struggle to keep up with work. They might forget to make appointments or underestimate the time needed to complete tasks. They might have difficulty making friends or engage in frequent fights with their spouses. If the issues are severe, they may interfere with everyday life and cause anxiety or depression.

It's important to diagnose ADHD however, it's crucial to determine what other factors may be contributing to symptoms. Stress, other mental health conditions, and certain medications can often cause symptoms similar to the symptoms of ADHD. A thorough evaluation by a qualified professional is essential to make sure that the issue is being addressed.

As opposed to children, adults with ADHD rarely exhibit the more prominent signs of hyperactivity. Hyperactivity is less obvious and is manifested as fidgeting or difficulty sitting still. Women with ADHD tend to display these symptoms more often, as they can hide their inattention at work and in social lives.

During the exam, the doctor will examine the patient's medical background and how the symptoms affect their daily lives. They will also inquire about family history, and should they be able to ask a family member their perspectives on childhood behavior. They might also conduct psychological, neuropsychological or learning disabilities testing. In some cases it is necessary to perform an examination physical to rule out certain illnesses which can mimic the symptoms of ADHD.

Diagnosis

Adults who believe they have ADHD should discuss their symptoms with their doctor. This is particularly crucial if the issues are connected to school or work. Primary care providers can refer patients to mental health professionals who have expertise in adult ADHD evaluations. Those professionals should be willing to provide information regarding their level of training and experience working with adults with ADHD, Hamdani says. Hamdani suggests that anyone who is reluctant to disclose this information should be treated with suspicion.

Getting a diagnosis of adult ADHD can be a life-changing experience. It offers a rationale for years of self-criticism and frustration for certain. Some people are relieved that they have an explanation for their struggles in life, or that they weren't "just in their minds."

Adults who suffer from ADHD are diagnosed through an in-depth interview with a professional. This may include a thorough review of the individual's personal medical, family and personal history. The doctor will also ask the patient to rate their behavior using one or more of the standardized ADHD ratings for behavior. These ratings are from research that compares behaviors of people suffering from ADHD to those of people who don't have the disorder.

The person will also be asked how the symptoms impact their lives. 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 with adult ADHD. Depression, anxiety disorders and alcohol or drug use are common comorbidities of ADHD. Some experts suggest these complications are a result of maladaptive coping strategies to manage the stressors that are typically related to untreated ADHD.

It is important to recognize that ADHD affects more men than women. Many people with the disorder might struggle to diagnose because of long-held beliefs about the symptoms of the disorder and how they affect both men and women. Some women are able to hide their symptoms better and this can lead to being diagnosed later or to an inaccurate diagnosis.

Treatment

It is recommended for adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD to speak with a mental healthcare professional that has expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD. The professional can help teach adult strategies for managing their symptoms and improve their performance at home, at work or at school. They can also assist adults to learn to understand why their behavior is different and what triggers them.

A mental health professional must examine an adult thoroughly because they may have other disorders that are similar to ADHD. This may include a detailed description of the person's symptoms, questionnaires and scales completed by the person in question and others who know them well, a complete psychiatric history and family medical history, and an extensive physical examination.

A thorough examination is important for determining whether the adult suffers from a comorbid condition such as anxiety or depression. These conditions can exacerbate ADHD symptoms and make treatment more difficult. A mental health professional could also conduct neuropsychological or cognitive testing to look at how the brain functions and to rule out other causes of the problem, like the presence of a learning impairment or physical illness.

Adults with ADHD are typically treated with psychotherapy (psychotherapy) as well as educational programs. Adults may benefit from individual talk therapy to improve their self-esteem and cope 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 benefit from group therapy. This type of therapy gives you the opportunity to connect with others who have similar challenges and discuss ways to overcome these challenges. These groups are usually run by a support group or an advocacy group.

The use of medication is also an option for a lot of adults suffering from ADHD. There are a myriad of medications available including 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) help regulate moods and decrease the impulsive behavior. Your Mercy doctor can discuss all of your treatment options with you.

Support

Adults suffering from ADHD may suffer from the disorder for a long time without realizing it. They may seek an assessment because they are frustrated by everyday challenges such as forgetting appointments or making a mistake at work, or not paying attention to commitments to friends and family. These people often feel relieved when they are given the diagnosis.

A mental health professional is able to conduct an evaluation for ADHD however, an primary care physician is usually a good place to start. If necessary, the doctor could refer the patient an expert. A psychiatrist, psychiatric nurse or psychologist might be qualified to examine ADHD in adults. Many insurance plans list professionals according to their specialties, which can help people locate a health care provider that is experienced in treating ADHD among adults.

During the evaluation the mental health specialist will ask questions about the person's behavior, which could include previous issues and how they've 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.

Therapy, or psychotherapy can help people learn to manage their problems and improve their relationships. Behavioral therapy, for instance cognitive behavioral therapy, helps people develop specific techniques to alter their thinking patterns and behaviors. Therapy is often combined with medication, which can lessen the effects of the disorder.

Social support groups can be beneficial to many adult ADHD patients. Being able to share their experiences with others who are facing similar challenges can be a source of inspiration and encouragement. Some of these groups are based online and are open to anyone who has ADHD. Some groups are geared towards specific populations such as African Americans who have ADHD, couples affected by the disorder, or people who identify as gay or lesbian.

Some people may experience feelings of shame or embarrassment about their symptoms, which can hinder their willingness to seek assistance. However, a doctor should explain that ADHD is not a sign of insufficiency or failure.