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Adult ADHD Diagnosis
For some people, a diagnosis of adult ADHD is the first step toward getting treatment. They may be frustrated at work, in their homes, or in their social lives due to signs such as being distracted or forgetting things.
Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD will often undergo an exhaustive evaluation, which involves interviewing them and their families, and taking standardized tests. It usually includes a physical examination, too.
Signs and symptoms
A diagnosis of ADHD can alter the course of many adults' lives. It can help them understand why they've struggled so long and understand their past choices. It can also provide hope for the future to be brighter. If you're struggling to locate your keys, feel as if you're not able to finish your work, or are being labeled lazy or irresponsible, or have been accused of being lazy or irresponsible, then getting a diagnosis will help you find the right treatment for you.
For most adults, the signs appear in several areas of their lives. Some are more prevalent in one area than the other. They might be irritable and impulsive at school but have trouble keeping up at work. They might forget to make appointments or underestimate the time required to complete their tasks. They may struggle to make friends or fighting with their spouses regularly. If these problems are severe, they may interfere with the daily routine and lead to anxiety or depression.
While it's crucial to think about a diagnosis of ADHD but it's equally important to look at the other factors that could be that are causing the symptoms. Stress, mental health conditions and certain medications are often the cause of symptoms that are similar. A thorough examination by a trained professional is essential to make sure that the issue is being treated.
Unlike children, adults with ADHD rarely exhibit the more obvious symptoms of hyperactivity. Instead, the signs of hyperactivity are displayed more subtly as fidgeting or a difficulty sitting in a chair. Women who suffer from ADHD are more likely to show these symptoms, as they are more able to hide their inattention at work and in social lives.
During adhd diagnosis uk adults will go over the patient's medical history and examine the ways in which their ailments affect their daily routine. They will also ask for 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 perform psycho-, neuropsychological or learning disabilities testing. In some cases physical examinations might be required to rule out certain illnesses which may resemble symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosis
It is essential for adults who think they might be suffering from ADHD to discuss their symptoms with a medical professional, especially if their issues are related to school or work. Primary health care providers can refer patients to mental health specialists who specialize in adult ADHD assessments and treatment. Hamdani states that professionals who deal with adults with ADHD should be willing and able to give information about their education and experience. Hamdani says that anyone who is reluctant to disclose this information should be treated as suspicious.
A diagnosis of adult ADHD is a life-changing experience. It can provide a reason for years of frustration and self-criticism for some. Some people are happy that they have a reason for their struggles in life, or that they weren't "just in their minds."
Adults who suffer from ADHD are diagnosed with ADHD through an in-depth interview with a specialist. This includes a review of the patient's medical, family, and personal background. Additionally, the specialist will likely request the person to rate his or her behavior on one or more of the standard ADHD behavior rating scales. These ratings are based on research that compared the behavior of people suffering from ADHD and those who don't have the disorder.
The person will be asked about the 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.
The people who are diagnosed of adult ADHD typically have co-existing disorders, called comorbidities. Common comorbidities associated with ADHD include anxiety disorders, depression and alcohol or drug abuse. Some experts believe that these comorbidities result from maladaptive strategies for dealing with the frustrations associated with untreated ADHD.
It is important to recognize that ADHD affects more women than men. Many people with the disorder might struggle to diagnose due to long-held prejudices about the symptoms of the disorder and how they affect men and women. Some women are even better at hiding their symptoms better, which can cause an inaccurate diagnosis or delay in getting it.
Treatment
Adults who receive a diagnosis of ADHD may find it helpful to consult a mental health professional who has 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 the adult recognize the reasons behind their behavior and what triggers it.
A mental health professional must examine an adult thoroughly as they could have other disorders similar to ADHD. This can include a detailed description of the scale and the forms filled out by the person who is the client or by other people who know him/her along with a family and psychiatric history and a thorough physical exam.
It is essential to conduct a thorough assessment in order to determine if an adult suffers from a comorbid disorder such as depression or anxiety. These conditions can contribute to the symptoms of ADHD and make treatment more difficult. A mental health professional may also perform cognitive or neuropsychological tests to examine how the brain functions and determine the cause of the issues, such as an intellectual impairment or physical illness.
Treatment options for adults with ADHD typically include 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 burdens that come with ADHD. Behavioral therapies can also improve time management and control of impulses. They also can deal with the effect that stressors can have on an individual's abilities to function.
Some individuals with ADHD benefit from group therapy. This type of therapy can give them the chance to meet other people who have the same issues and discuss strategies to overcome these challenges. These groups are typically run by groups of support or an advocacy group.
There is also a treatment option for many adults with ADHD. There are a variety of medications available, including stimulants that increase the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain (for example, methylphenidate, which is sold as Ritalin). Others help to regulate moods and reduce impulsive behavior like antidepressants and the anti-psychotic drug bupropion (Wellbutrin). Your Mercy doctor will be able to discuss the various treatment options available to you.
Support
Adults with ADHD might have the disorder for years without even realizing it. Frustration with everyday challenges like not remembering appointments, making rash mistakes at work, or blowing off family or friendship commitments can cause them to seek an assessment. They often feel a sense of relief when they receive a diagnosis.
A mental health professional is able to conduct an evaluation for ADHD however, the primary care physician is typically the best place to begin. If needed, the doctor may refer the patient to a specialist. A psychiatrist, psychiatric nurse or psychologist may also be able to evaluate ADHD in adults. Many insurance plans list specialists by specialization and can help people find a health care provider who is familiar with ADHD in adults.
During the evaluation, a mental health professional will ask about the person's previous issues, as well as how ADHD symptoms have affected them. It is important to speak openly and honestly during the evaluation so that the mental health professional is able to complete a thorough assessment.
Therapy, or psychotherapy, can help people learn to manage their symptoms and improve relationships. Behavioral therapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy, can teach people how to modify their behavior and thinking patterns. The combination of therapy and medication can help reduce the symptoms of the disorder.
Social support groups are beneficial to many adult ADHD patients. The opportunity to share their struggles with others who face similar issues can provide a lot of inspiration and motivation. Some of these groups are based online and are open to anyone who has ADHD. Some groups are for specific populations such as African Americans who have ADHD or couples who are affected by the disorder, or those who identify themselves as gay or lesbian.
Some people may feel embarrassed or ashamed about their symptoms. This may cause them to be reluctant to seek help. A medical professional must explain to the patient that ADHD is not a weakness or failure.
