Adult ADHD Diagnosis
For some being diagnosed with adult ADHD is the first step toward getting treatment. They may be unhappy in their jobs, homes, or social life due to symptoms like fidgeting, forgetting things or interrupting others.
Being diagnosed with ADHD as an adult usually requires an extensive evaluation that includes interviewing the individual and their family members using standardized tests and rating scales. The evaluation usually includes a physical exam, too.
Symptoms
A diagnosis of ADHD can alter the course of many adult lives. It can help them understand why they've struggled so long and understand their past choices. It can also give them hope for the future. If you're struggling to find your keys, feel as if you can't finish your work or you're being labelled as irresponsible or lazy, or have been accused of being irresponsible or lazy, then getting a diagnosis will aid you in finding the best treatment for you.
Most adults experience symptoms in different areas of their life but some are more prominent than others. adult adhd diagnosis uk might be irritable and impulsive at school, but struggle to keep up with work. They might forget to make appointments or underestimate the amount of time required to complete their work. They may have difficulty making friends or argue with their spouses frequently. If these problems are severe they could affect daily living and lead to anxiety or depression.
It's important to diagnose ADHD however, it's important to determine what other factors may be contributing to symptoms. Stress, other mental health issues and medications can trigger symptoms that are similar to those of ADHD. To ensure that the underlying problem is treated, a thorough evaluation by a specialist is required.
Adults who suffer from ADHD do not show the same signs of hyperactivity as children. Instead, the symptoms of hyperactivity manifest more subtly, such as fidgeting or difficulty sitting still in a chair. Women with ADHD tend to exhibit these symptoms more frequently, as they can hide their inattentive behaviors at work and in social lives.
During an assessment the doctor will go over the patient's medical history and look at the ways in which their ailments affect their daily lives. They will also inquire about information about the family and, if possible interview a relative to get their view on the behavior of children. They might also conduct psycho-, neuropsychological or learning disabilities tests. In some instances physical examinations may be needed to rule out illnesses which may resemble the symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosis
It's important for adults who believe they may have ADHD to discuss their symptoms with a health care specialist, especially if the 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 work with adults with ADHD should be willing and able to share information about their training and experiences. Anyone who is reluctant to disclose this information should be considered suspicious, Hamdani adds.
Getting a diagnosis of adult ADHD can be a life-changing moment. It can provide a reason for years of self-criticism and frustration for certain. Others feel a sense of satisfaction that there's a rationale for the challenges they've encountered in their lives, or that their struggles were not just "in their head."
Adults with ADHD are diagnosed by an in-depth interview with a specialist. This will include a review of the individual's personal, family and medical history. Additionally, the specialist will likely request the person to rate their behaviors on one or more of the standardized ADHD behavior rating scales. These ratings are based upon research that compares the behaviors of people with ADHD and those 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.
People who receive a diagnosis of adult ADHD often have coexisting conditions which are referred to as co-morbidities. Common comorbidities associated with ADHD include anxiety disorders, depression and drug or alcohol abuse. Some experts believe that these comorbidities result from maladaptive coping strategies to deal with the frustrations of untreated ADHD.
It is also important to remember that ADHD is more prevalent in males than women, and it can be difficult for many people who suffer from the disorder to be diagnosed due long-held biases about the symptoms and their impact on men and women. Some women are able to hide their symptoms better, which can lead them to delay diagnosis or an incorrect diagnosis.
Treatment
It can be beneficial for adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD to speak with a mental healthcare professional who has experience treating adults with ADHD. The professional can help teach adult behavioral strategies to manage their symptoms and improve their functioning at home, work or at school. They can also assist adults understand the reasons behind their behavior and what triggers it.
A mental health professional must take a thorough look at an adult's health because they may have other disorders that are similar to ADHD. This could include a detailed description of the individual's symptoms along with questionnaires and scales that are completed by the person in question and others who know them well, a full medical and psychiatric history, and a thorough physical examination.
A thorough evaluation is also crucial to determine if the adult suffers from a comorbid condition such as depression or anxiety. These conditions can contribute to the symptoms of ADHD and make treatment more difficult. A mental health professional can also conduct neuropsychological or cognitive tests to examine how the brain functions and determine the cause of the problems, such as an intellectual impairment or physical illness.
Treatment options for adults with ADHD typically include psychological counseling (psychotherapy) and educational programs. Adults are able to benefit from individual therapy to improve their self-esteem as well as deal with the emotional baggage associated with ADHD. Behavioral therapies can also improve time management and organization, as well as impulse control. They also can address the impact stressors affect an individual's ability to perform.
Some people suffering from ADHD may benefit from group therapy. This type of therapy can provide an opportunity to meet other people with the same issues and discuss strategies to overcome these challenges. These groups are usually organized by a support or advocacy group.
Many adults suffering from ADHD can also be treated with medication. There are many medications, including stimulants (such as methylphenidate, which is sold under the name Ritalin) that increase levels of norepinephrine inside the brain. Antidepressants and the antipsychotic drug Wellbutrin (Bupropion) help regulate moods and decrease the impulsive behavior. Your Mercy doctor will discuss all of your treatment options with you.
Support
Many adults diagnosed with ADHD suffer from the disorder for decades without realizing it. Discontent with everyday issues such as missing appointments, making irresponsible mistakes at work or abandoning family or friend commitments can prompt them to seek an evaluation. People often feel relieved when they receive an answer to their questions.
A mental health professional can conduct an evaluation for ADHD however a primary care physician is typically an ideal place to begin. The doctor can also refer the patient to a specialist if necessary. A psychiatric nursing, psychiatrist or psychologist can also assess ADHD in adults. A lot of insurance plans include professionals according to their specialties. This can help people locate an expert in health care who is experienced in treating ADHD in adults.
During the assessment, a mental health professional will ask about the person's previous issues, as well as how ADHD symptoms have affected them. It's crucial to be honest and forthcoming during the assessment, so that the mental healthcare professional can provide an accurate assessment.
Psychotherapy, or psychological counseling, can aid people in managing their symptoms and improve their relationships. Behavioral therapy, also known as cognitive behavioral therapy, can teach people how to change their thinking and behavior. The combination of therapy and medication can help to reduce the symptoms of the disorder.
Social support groups are beneficial to a lot of adults 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 accessible online and are open for all people with ADHD. Certain groups are specifically targeted for populations, like African Americans who have ADHD, couples affected by the disorder, or people who identify themselves as gay or lesbian.
There are people who experience feelings of shame or embarrassment over their symptoms, which can hinder their desire to seek help. adhd diagnosis uk adults must explain to the patient that ADHD is not a sign of weakness or failure.