Adult ADHD Diagnoses - The First Step to Managing Symptoms
Finding an adult ADHD diagnosis is the first step to managing symptoms that could be a hindrance in relationships and work. A doctor can assess the person's mood and medical background, and also whether there are any co-morbid conditions, such as anxiety or depression, that could cause similar symptoms.
An evaluation consists of a planned interview with the person being assessed. Family members, friends, and coworkers could also be interviewed to get insight into the history of the person being evaluated.
Symptoms
Adults suffering from ADHD might experience many of the same symptoms as children, however the behaviors they exhibit can affect different aspects of their lives. They may have trouble keeping their jobs, coordinating relationships and perform well at schools, for instance. Symptoms can include attention issues and snorting or blurting out answers at random, not being able to complete work tasks and missing appointments repeatedly. This condition can also cause financial difficulties because people are more likely to commit mistakes or overspend.
Professionals can evaluate adults for ADHD using a variety of methods. They can interview the parents of an individual and ask about their childhood. They might also look over report cards and take note of comments from teachers. They may also assess the current performance of a person by interviewing friends, coworkers and family. They can also take advantage of online ratings or self-tests.
The diagnosis of ADHD as an adult usually requires a higher threshold than children, requiring 5 out of 9 symptoms in the past six months. The symptoms must be present multiple times and not better explained by mental health disorders such as a mood disorder or anxiety disorder, or physical ailments such as hearing loss or a vision issue.
It's normal to experience an array of emotions when you receive an ADHD diagnosis as an adult. It can be a great relief to finally get an reason for the difficulties that you've struggled with for so long. It can be frustrating to find out that you suffer from a condition of mental health particularly if you've been successful in other areas of your life.
Someone diagnosed with ADHD will typically receive medication, psychotherapy or other treatments. In certain cases, a doctor will recommend accommodations for work or daily activities. Accommodations are changes or devices that can be incorporated into the environment around a person to assist them succeed. Examples include an incline step for someone who is shorter than average or a computer program that allows those with visual impairments to focus on the screen. Behavioral therapy is an effective treatment for adults with ADHD.
Diagnosis
If you suspect you might have ADHD the first step is to make an accurate diagnosis. Start by asking your primary care physician or a mental health professional for a referral to a specialist that can perform ADHD evaluations. Your doctor will conduct an interview with you and review your medical and family information. They will also inquire about the effects of your symptoms on your life at school, home and at work.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, also known as DSM-5 is utilized by your doctor to determine if you meet the ADHD criteria. The following are some of the DSM-5 criteria for inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive types of ADHD:
Inattention: Have trouble staying focused on activities and tasks for long periods of time. Often forgets, loses things or has difficulty completing schoolwork, chores and/or work tasks. adhd diagnosis in adults , they make errors at work, school or during leisure activities. Is easily distracted, either by other people or daily activities. It is often a daydreamer, and appears to be on autopilot, or loses track what they are doing.
Hyperactivity/Impulsivity: Often restless, fidgets or can't sit still in class or at work. Interrupts others frequently or talks off-topic. Often gets bored quickly and seeks excitement or a new experience. Sometimes, he gets involved in arguments or fights without weighing the consequences.
Often, people with inattentive or hyperactive/impulsive type ADHD have coexisting conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, learning disabilities and other mental illnesses. These other conditions can have their own effects on an individual and make it difficult to diagnose.
A physical exam is performed to determine if there are medical conditions that could cause similar symptoms. Some medical conditions, like seizures and thyroid disorders could be similar to ADHD symptoms.
If your symptoms are serious, additional psychological, neuropsychological and/or testing for learning disabilities could be utilized to help determine the diagnosis. These tests can provide important information about the ways in which your ADHD affects your functioning and relationships. These tests can also reveal any other issues that need to be addressed.
Treatment
The same treatments that children with ADHD receive - medication, behavior strategies training in life skills, and therapy -- usually are effective for adults too. Adults may have to consider different medications since the ones they took as children may not be right for them today.
A specialist in ADHD should be an individual who suffers from ADHD. This could be a primary doctor who treats ADHD regularly or a mental health professional such as psychologist or psychiatrist. Many insurance plans offer online directories of specialists. A local support group for ADHD sufferers or a doctor specializing in mood disorders may recommend an expert.
After the exam the doctor will identify the cause and prescribe treatment. The doctor may wish to discuss the background of the patient and how the problems affected them during childhood. Therapists might suggest couples' or even family therapy if a person struggles with their career or in relationships.
Most adults with ADHD are treated effectively with medication. They are typically small, fast-acting medications that reduce the chemical imbalance in the brain that causes ADHD. Many doctors prescribe additional medications for related conditions, such as anxiety or depression.
Behavioral therapy can help with issues with time management and control of impulses, organization and emotional self-regulation. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), as well as other specific interventions, can be offered by therapists who have particular expertise working with individuals suffering from ADHD.
A few adults suffering from ADHD feel great relief when they finally get diagnosed. The right treatment plan can dramatically change their lives to the better. They will be more productive at work or in school, or develop healthier and more fulfilling relationship. For certain people, diagnosis brings closure to the years of regrets over mistakes they made in their past because their symptoms went undiagnosed or not treated. It is possible that the patient's behavior has been influenced by his or her gender identity, race, and socioeconomic status.
Support
It's not too late to seek an assessment and treatment if you were not diagnosed with ADHD as in your early years. Many professionals are certified in ADHD and can tell if your symptoms are mild, moderate, or severe. They can also rule out other mental health issues physical conditions, stress as a cause of your symptoms.
A diagnosis of ADHD could trigger a variety of complex feelings, such as sadness over missed opportunities or relief that you now have a reason for your issues. Adults suffering from ADHD may feel criticized for actions they aren't responsible for, such as the inability to organize their work. They might also have financial issues, like late payment deadlines or the accumulation of debt from impulsive spending.
It's not unusual for adults with ADHD to experience self-destructive behaviors such as drug or alcohol abuse, inadequate nutrition, chronic stress and tension, low self-esteem, or issues with their relationships with family and friends. They might also be struggling with physical well-being and health, for example, ignoring important checkups and medications or having trouble following medical instructions and procedures. They have difficulty managing their finances and sustaining jobs because they aren't organized, fail to meet the corporate standards and are unable to adhere to a routine or schedule.
Adults suffering from ADHD may benefit from support groups and therapy which teach coping skills and strategies for living with their disorder. Specialist ADHD therapists can assist adults manage their symptoms, compensate for their weaknesses and improve their performance in daily life. They can also work closely with family members in discussing how the disorder impacts their relationship, and come up with strategies to support their loved ones.
Online communities and peer support can be beneficial. Websites like Sheila Henson and Neuroqueer offer individual and group coaching, workshops and webinars on organizing skills emotional regulation, social interaction. Other online sources include ADHD-friendly restaurants, workplace accommodations, and classes for improving communication.
Many people suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from join support groups. These groups can be an excellent source of ideas and inspiration and they can be a place to discuss issues and find a solution. There are teachers and coaches that can help you create an action plan to improve your functioning and lessen the impact of your symptoms.