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Adult Diagnosis of ADHD

A diagnosis of ADHD can change the life of adults who suffer from the disorder. It can help people recognize the reasons why they struggle in relationships, work, and family.

It is often difficult to determine the cause because symptoms can overlap. A mental health healthcare professional or health professional will examine the individual and conduct tests.

Signs and symptoms

A person may not even be aware they have ADHD until they reach adulthood Perhaps because teachers or parents were not aware of symptoms at a younger age, or because the demands of college or work brought out the disorder. Adults with ADHD who aren't diagnosed suffer in their social, academic and work lives. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD experience a variety of problems, including problems with relationships and financial problems.

A mental health professional will interview and review the patient's medical, mental health and personal history, paying particular attention to symptoms in various settings. The patient will discuss the symptoms and how they affect their daily functioning as well as their relationships. It is crucial that patients are honest about their symptoms and not hide them out of embarrassment.

It is also essential for the mental health professional to determine whether these symptoms are related to comorbid disorders, such as anxiety and depression, which often coexist with ADHD. These conditions can cause ADHD symptoms worse and interfere with treatment for the disorder.

If the psychiatrist or psychology feels that the symptoms are being affected by comorbid disorders such as neuropsychological disorders, or psychological disorders, then additional testing can be conducted to establish an accurate diagnosis. These tests can also be used to determine the extent of impairment to function caused by these conditions. The mental health professional will also ask to interview others who are significant like spouses or siblings to get a complete picture of how the person is doing.

Diagnosis

For adults, a diagnosis of ADHD is usually made by a mental health medical professional or physician who conducts a thorough diagnostic assessment. This involves a thorough interview about the history of symptoms and their impact on daily functioning, as well as the presence of any other mental health issues that may co-occur with ADHD, such as depression and anxiety. The practitioner may also ask to speak to your significant others like the spouse or a close family friend, in order for them collect more information.

Being diagnosed with ADHD in adulthood can be a life-changing event. For many adults, the diagnosis finally gives them an explanation for what always seemed like "normal" behavior. It's usually a relief to find out that their issues aren't just 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 established to ensure that individuals receive the treatment and support they need. For a person to qualify for an ADHD diagnosis, they must have symptoms for at least a year and have caused significant impairment in multiple settings, like at home, school or work with family members or friends or other activities. The number of symptoms that are required for adults over the age of 17 has been reduced from six to five.

A strong relationship with your primary healthcare provider can help determine ADHD. Many physicians diagnose and treat ADHD in children and refer you to a mental health professional qualified to assess adults.

Treatment

If people suffering from ADHD get a diagnosis, their lives can change dramatically. how to get an adhd diagnosis will finally have solutions to their problems at school, and also in the start of a career, or even in relationships. For some, a diagnosis can provide relief from shame that may have built up over years of their symptoms not being addressed.

Talking to a mental health specialist or health care professional is the first step to receiving an assessment. They might inquire about family history and do a physical examination to rule out any conditions that could cause symptoms that are similar to ADHD, such as sleep disorders, learning disabilities or alcohol/drug abuse. They can also request that the person complete the checklist of symptoms.

During the process of assessment, a doctor may ask to interview an individual partner or spouse. This helps the non-ADHD spouse or partner develop a clear understanding and empathetic attitude toward their loved one's ADHD symptoms that is essential in improving relationships after the diagnosis. If this isn't feasible the therapist may ask colleagues or friends who are familiar with the individual.

Adults suffering from ADHD are treated primarily with medication. Adult ADHD is treated with stimulants such as methylphenidate, Adderall, and dextroamphetamine. Other medications, such as Atomoxetine (Strattera(r),) and guanfacine, (Intuniv (r) Tenex (r)) are able to increase the amount of norepinephrine found in the brain. These medications can help improve ADHD symptoms.

Psychotherapy is a different option. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can teach patients skills to manage their ADHD symptoms, such as time management and strategies for organizing, self-regulation of emotions and behavior and dealing with self-criticism and negative feelings. Other therapies, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps adults identify automatic thoughts or irrational thinking that lead to negative behavior, and also develop positive self-talk.

Medication





Many people find that ADHD medication can help alleviate their symptoms. This medicine is typically in the form of a stimulant and works by increasing activity in brain areas that regulate behavior and attention. Methylphenidate is the most commonly used medicine for adults with ADHD, and it is available in various 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 medicine works by reducing the brain activity and can be taken as a pill or liquid.

If treating adult patients suffering from ADHD, the psychotherapist or psychiatrist may look over the person's family and medical history to identify factors that may cause similar symptoms to ADHD. This is crucial, since certain medical conditions such as thyroid problems and seizures can cause symptoms that are similar to ADHD. In addition, some supplements and medications may cause similar symptoms.

During the evaluation, the individual will likely explain their ADHD symptoms to their psychiatrist or therapist. They will be asked to provide standardized ADHD ratings and check lists as well as psychological tests to assess executive function, working memory (abilities like planning and decision making) spatial and visual ability, and reasoning abilities.

If the therapist believes that ADHD symptoms are affecting the quality of life of a person, he or she will suggest treatment. In certain instances a therapist may request the patient's partner or spouse to talk with them about the impact of their ADHD symptoms on their relationship. This can reduce blame between people and encourage healthier, more productive relationships.

Counseling

Being diagnosed is a huge relief for many adults suffering from ADHD. It allows them to understand why they are having problems at school or work and to learn how to overcome these challenges. It's an opportunity to change negative behavior and boost self-esteem.

Having a good support system is essential for success and counseling can assist. Counseling for ADHD can include psychological (or psychotherapy) therapy as well as a variety of behavioral strategies. Therapists may create a chart that encourages positive behaviors and imposes consequences on bad ones. Therapists can also teach the patient skills to manage symptoms, for example relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditative poses in yoga.

Counseling can also help people recognize and accept their ADHD. It can be difficult to admit that you have problems with attention or planning and organizing. It is embarrassing to admit that you have ADHD to your supervisors or coworkers. Most teachers and bosses will offer accommodations to accommodate your condition. For instance, they could allow you to write on a computer for assignments instead of paper and give more in-depth explanations of class material.

Additionally, the therapist can teach you ways to cope with your ADHD through cognitive behavioral therapy, which is a form of therapy that helps to change negative thoughts and behaviors into positive ones. Counseling for ADHD can also include marital or family therapy, which teaches loved ones how to interact better with someone with ADHD and enhance the ability to communicate and solve problems. People suffering from ADHD may also suffer from other mental disorders, such as anxiety or depression, and may have issues with addiction to drugs.