20 Things Only The Most Devoted ADHD Adult Diagnosis Fans Should Know
Adult Diagnosis of ADHD
For those who suffer from ADHD, a diagnosis can have a profound impact on their lives. It can help people to understand why they have difficulties at work, with their families and in their relationships.
However it can be challenging to establish a diagnosis because symptoms are often overlapping with other conditions. A health care provider or a mental health professional will assess the patient and conduct tests.
Symptoms
One may not even be aware they suffer from ADHD until they reach the age of adulthood, perhaps because teachers and parents were not aware of the symptoms at a younger age, or because the demands of college or working caused the disorder to be exposed. Adults with untreated ADHD are being disadvantaged in their school, work and social lives. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD have a range of issues, including financial issues and relationship issues.
A mental health professional will conduct an interview and review the patient's medical, psychiatric and personal history, paying particular attention to the symptoms in various situations. The patient will be asked to describe how these symptoms impact the way they function in their daily lives and relationships. It is crucial that patients are honest about their symptoms and do not hide them out of embarrassment.
It is also crucial for the mental health professional to assess whether these symptoms are related to other comorbidities, such as anxiety and depression, which frequently coexist with ADHD. These conditions can cause ADHD symptoms worse and cause problems with treatment for the disorder.
If the psychiatrist or psychology thinks that the symptoms are being affected by comorbid conditions such as learning disabilities, psychosomatic disorders, or neuropsychological disorders, then additional tests can be conducted to establish an accurate diagnosis. These tests can also be used to determine the level of impairment to function caused by these conditions. In addition the mental health professional could request an interview with one or more significant people like spouses, siblings and coworkers in order to collect a complete picture of the individual's performance and issues.
Diagnosis
For adults, a diagnosis of ADHD is usually determined by a mental health specialist or doctor who conducts a thorough diagnostic assessment. This involves a thorough discussion of the symptoms and their impact on the way you live your life. It also includes the presence of any other mental disorders that can co-occur alongside ADHD like depression and anxiety. The doctor might also ask to speak to significant others like the spouse or a close family member, in order for them collect more information.
A correct diagnosis of ADHD could alter your life. The diagnosis provides adults with an explanation for behaviors that they believed to be "normal". Often, it provides relief to know they're not just naive or forgetful or incompetent; their issues are more complex.
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 care and support they need. In order for a person to be eligible for an ADHD diagnoses they must exhibit symptoms for at least a year and be a significant handicap in a variety of settings, such as home, school or work with family or friends, or other activities. The number of symptoms needed for adults over the age of 17 has been reduced from six to five.
A strong relationship with your primary healthcare provider can help you to recognize ADHD. Many physicians regularly diagnose and treat ADHD in children, and can provide a referral to a mental health professional who is certified to conduct an evaluation in adults.
Treatment
If someone suffering from ADHD is diagnosed, their life may drastically change. They will finally have solutions to their problems at school, with establishing a career, or in relationships. For those who are suffering from depression, it can help them overcome the guilt that has been built up over the years from their symptoms going untreated.
The first step to get an accurate diagnosis is to talk to a doctor or mental health professional. They might inquire about the family history and conduct a physical exam to rule out conditions like sleep disorders or learning disabilities that can cause symptoms similar to ADHD. They may also request the person to complete a list of symptoms.
During the assessment process a doctor may ask to speak with the spouse or partner. This allows the non ADHD spouse or partner to develop an understanding of their loved one's ADHD and a compassionate attitude towards the symptoms. This is essential for improving relationships after a diagnoses. If this isn't possible the clinician may interview friends or colleagues who know the person well.
Medicines are the primary treatment options for adults with ADHD. Adult ADHD is treated using stimulants such as methylphenidate, Adderall, and dextroamphetamine. Other medications, for instance Atomoxetine (Strattera(r)) and guanfacine (Intuniv(r), Tenex(r)) increase the levels of norepinephrine in the brain and may help improve symptoms of ADHD.
Psychotherapy also is an alternative. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can help patients learn skills to manage their ADHD symptoms. These include time management, organizational strategies, self regulation of behaviors and emotions and coping strategies for self-doubt and negative criticism. Other treatments, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), help adults identify the automatic thoughts or irrational thoughts that can lead to negative behavior, and also develop positive self-talk.
Medication
Many people discover that ADHD medication can improve their symptoms. The medication is typically in the form of a stimulant, and it increases brain activity in areas that regulate the behavior and attention. Methylphenidate, the most common medication used by adults suffering from ADHD is available in a variety of forms. It can be taken as immediate-release tablets, or as modified-release tablets that release the medication throughout the day. Clonidine is a different kind of medication that works by reducing brain activity. how to get diagnosed with adhd as an adult is available in liquid or pill form.
The psychiatrist or therapist will look over the medical and family history of the adult patient to identify the factors that can cause similar symptoms. This is crucial as certain medical conditions, such as seizures and thyroid issues can cause symptoms similar to ADHD. Certain medications and dietary supplements can also cause similar signs.
During the examination it is likely that the person will explain their ADHD symptoms to their psychiatrist or therapist. They will be asked for standard ADHD ratings and checklists of symptoms as along with psychological tests to measure executive function, working memory (abilities such as planning and decision making), visual and spatial ability, as well as reasoning skills.
If a psychiatrist or therapist believes that the symptoms of ADHD are causing serious harm to a person's life, they will recommend treatment with medication. In certain instances, the therapist will ask the individual's partner or spouse to speak with them regarding the effects of the symptoms of the patient on their relationship. This will help reduce blaming between individuals and result in more positive, healthier relationships.
Counseling
Many adults with ADHD are relieved when they receive the diagnosis. It's a chance to understand why they have problems at school or at work, and discover ways to overcome them. It's an opportunity to transform negative behavior and boost self-esteem.
A strong support system is crucial to success and counseling can assist. Counseling for ADHD can include psychotherapy (or psychological therapy) as well as a variety of behavioral interventions. For instance a therapist might make a reward chart that rewards positive behavior and is able to impose consequences for negative behavior. The therapist can also teach the patient skills to manage symptoms, like relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditative postures in yoga.
Another benefit of counseling is helping people understand and accept their ADHD. It's difficult to admit you have problems with planning, organizing and paying attention. It can even be embarrassing to reveal to coworkers and supervisors about your ADHD. However, the majority of bosses and teachers will be willing to make accommodations for your condition. For example, they might allow you to use a computer for writing assignments instead of paper or provide more detailed explanations of class material.
In addition, the therapist can help you cope with your ADHD through cognitive behavioral therapy, which is a form of therapy that assists you change negative thoughts and behavior into positive ones. Counseling for ADHD may also include family or marital therapy, which helps loved ones learn to better interact with a person with ADHD and enhance the ability to communicate and solve problems. People who suffer from ADHD may also suffer from other mental disorders such depression or anxiety and may have issues with addiction to drugs.