Adult Diagnosis of ADHD
A diagnosis of ADHD can alter the lives of adults who suffer from the disorder. It can help people to recognize the reasons they face difficulties at work, with their families and in their relationships.
It is often difficult to determine the cause because symptoms often overlap. A mental health specialist or health care professional will evaluate the individual and conduct tests.
Symptoms
It is possible that a person does not realize they have ADHD until they reach adulthood. It could be because parents and teachers did not detect the signs at an earlier age, or due to the demands of college or work made the disorder more apparent. Adults with ADHD who are not diagnosed suffer in their social, academic and professional lives. Undiagnosed ADHD can lead to many issues, including relationship problems and financial problems.
To diagnose ADHD A mental health professional will talk to the patient and review his or her personal, medical and psychiatric history with particular attention paid to symptoms in various settings. The patient will explain how these symptoms affect his or her daily life and relationships. It is essential that patients are honest about their symptoms and do not hide them out of embarrassment.
adhd diagnosis uk adults should be able to determine if the symptoms are linked to comorbid conditions like anxiety and depression which are often associated with ADHD. These conditions can make the symptoms of ADHD worse and may hinder the effective treatment of the disorder.
If the psychologist or psychiatrist feels that the symptoms are being affected by comorbid conditions, such as learning disabilities, neuropsychological disorders, or psychological disorders, then additional tests can be used to establish an accurate diagnosis. These tests can also aid in determining the extent of impairment to function that is caused by these conditions. The mental health professional may also conduct interviews with other significant people like spouses or siblings, to get a full picture of how the individual is doing.
Diagnosis
For adults, a diagnosis of ADHD is usually determined by a mental health specialist or doctor who conducts a thorough diagnosis. This involves a thorough interview about the history of symptoms and their impact on everyday functioning and the presence of any other mental health disorders that could co-occur with ADHD such as depression and anxiety. In addition, the practitioner may ask to speak with significant others--usually a spouse or close friend--to provide more details about the person's behavior.
Finding a reliable diagnosis of ADHD in adulthood can be a life-changing moment. The diagnosis gives adults an explanation for the behaviors they believed were "normal". It's often a relief to find out that their issues aren't simply 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 set to ensure that people receive the help and treatment they require. In order for a person to be eligible for an ADHD diagnoses they must exhibit symptoms for at least one year and be a significant handicap in multiple settings, such as home, school or at work with family or friends or in other activities. The number of symptoms needed for adults over 17 has been reduced from six to five.
A good relationship with your primary healthcare provider can help you to recognize ADHD. Many doctors diagnose and treat ADHD in children and refer you to a mental health professional qualified to evaluate adults.
Treatment
When those with ADHD receive a diagnosis their lives may change drastically. They will finally have solutions to their issues in the classroom, as well as in establishing a career, or in relationships. For certain people, a diagnosis may help them overcome the anxiety that could have been built up over the years from their symptoms not being addressed.
Talking to a mental health specialist or health care professional is the first step in finding out if you have an diagnosis. They might inquire about family history and then conduct a physical exam to rule out other conditions like sleep disorders or learning disabilities that can cause symptoms similar to ADHD. They may also ask the person to complete the checklist of symptoms.
During the assessment process a doctor may ask to speak with a spouse or partner. This helps the non-ADHD spouse or partner develop an accurate understanding and compassionate attitude towards their loved one's ADHD symptoms, which is important in improving relationships after the diagnosis. If this isn't an option, the clinician may interview colleagues or friends who know the individual.
Medications are the main treatment options for adults with ADHD. Adult ADHD is treated with stimulants like methylphenidate, Adderall, and dextroamphetamine. Other medications, like Atomoxetine (Strattera(r)) and Guanfacine (Intuniv(r), Tenex(r)) increase norepinephrine levels in the brain and may help improve symptoms of ADHD.
Psychotherapy is another alternative. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can help patients develop skills to manage their ADHD symptoms. These include time management, self-regulation strategies, organizing strategies of behavior and emotions, and coping techniques for negative feelings and self criticism. Other therapies, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), help adults identify subconscious thoughts or irrational thought patterns that cause negative behavior, and also develop positive self-talk.
Medication
Many people report that ADHD medication helps alleviate their symptoms. This medication typically comes in the form of a stimulant and helps to increase the activity in brain regions that regulate attention and behavior. Methylphenidate is the most popular medicine prescribed to adults with ADHD is available in many forms. It is available as immediate-release tablets, or as modified-release tablets that release the medication throughout the day. Clonidine is a different type of medication that works by reducing brain activity. It can be taken in liquid or pill form.
The psychiatrist or therapist will look over the medical and family background of the adult patient to identify factors that may cause similar symptoms. This is necessary because some medical conditions, such as seizure disorders and thyroid problems can cause symptoms similar to those of ADHD. In addition, some medications and dietary supplements can also cause similar symptoms.
During the evaluation the individual will likely to talk about their ADHD symptoms. They will be asked to fill out standard ADHD rating scales and check lists along with complete psychological tests that measure working memory, executive functioning (abilities such as decision-making and planning) spatial and visual capabilities, as well as reasoning skills.
If the therapist believes that ADHD symptoms affect a person's quality of life, he or she will recommend medication. In some cases, the therapist will ask the individual's partner or spouse to talk with them about the effects of the symptoms of the patient on their relationship. This can help reduce the blame between the two people and help to foster healthier, more productive relationships.
Counseling
Receiving a diagnosis is a huge relief to many adults with ADHD. how to get an adult adhd diagnosis 's a chance to understand the reason why they face difficulties at school or at work, and discover ways to overcome these issues. It's also a chance for them to overcome negative habits and increase confidence in themselves.
Having a good support system is crucial to success, and counseling can help. Counseling for ADHD can involve psychological (or psychotherapy) therapy and a range of behavioral interventions. For example, a therapist may create a reward chart which rewards positive behavior and is able to impose consequences for negative behavior. The therapist may also instruct the patient in skills to manage their symptoms, like relaxation techniques like deep breathing or yoga postures.
Another benefit of counseling is helping people understand and accept their ADHD. It's not always easy to admit you have difficulties paying attention or planning and organizing. It can even be embarrassing to reveal to coworkers and supervisors about your ADHD. However, most bosses and teachers will be willing to make accommodations for your situation. For example, they might allow you to use a computer for writing assignments instead of paper or give more in-depth explanations of class material.
In addition the therapist will help you cope with your ADHD through cognitive behavioral therapy which is a type of therapy that assists to change negative thoughts and behavior into positive ones. Counseling for ADHD can also involve family or marital therapy which helps loved ones learn to better interact with a person suffering from ADHD and to improve the ability to communicate and solve problems. People with ADHD often have other mental health issues like depression or anxiety and may be afflicted by substance abuse and addiction, which can exacerbate their symptoms.