Adult ADHD Diagnoses - The First Step to Managing Symptoms
Getting an adult ADHD diagnosis is the first step to managing symptoms that could be a hindrance in relationships and at work. A doctor will assess the person's mood and medical background, and also whether there are any comorbid disorders, like anxiety or depression, which could cause similar symptoms.
An organized interview is a part of an evaluation. Family members, friends and coworkers could also be interviewed to gain insight into the history of the person being evaluated.
Signs and symptoms
Adults with ADHD can experience many of these symptoms, but they could affect more aspects of our lives. They may have trouble keeping their jobs, coordinating relationships and perform well in schools, for instance. Some signs of this include difficulty paying attention, interrupting or blurting answers at random, not being able to complete work tasks and missing appointments repeatedly. The condition can also lead to financial problems since people are more likely to make mistakes that are not considered prudent or overspend.
Professionals can test adults for ADHD using a variety of methods. They can interview the parents of a person and inquire about their childhood. They might also look over the report cards and take note of teacher remarks. They may also assess the performance of an individual through interviews with co-workers, friends and family. They can even take advantage of online ratings or self-tests.
Adults are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD when they have experienced 5 out of 9 symptoms over the past 6 months. Symptoms must be present in multiple situations and cannot be explained by another mental health issue, such as anxiety or mood disorders or other physical issues, such as a hearing loss or vision problem.
It's normal to feel an array of emotions after receiving an ADHD diagnosis as an adult. It can be a great relief to finally have an reason for the difficulties that you've struggled with for so long. It can be a bit frustrating to learn that you have a condition of mental health particularly if you've been successful in other areas of your life.
A person diagnosed with ADHD is usually treated with treatment with psychotherapy, medication or other treatments. In some instances doctors will suggest accommodations for work or everyday activities. Accommodations are the tools or modifications to an individual's environment that can help them achieve their goals and minimize the impact of their impairment. Examples include an incline step for someone who is smaller than average or a computer program that allows people with vision difficulties to focus on the screen. Adult ADHD is often treated with behavioral therapy.
Diagnosis
The first step to determining if you have ADHD is to get an accurate diagnosis. You can start by asking your primary care physician or a mental health professional to refer you to a specialist that can perform ADHD evaluations. Your doctor will interview you and go over your family, personal and medical background. Your doctor will also ask about your symptoms and how they impact your life at school, work and home.
Your doctor will apply the American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic guidelines included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), to determine if you meet the criteria for ADHD. The following are some of the DSM-5 criteria for inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive types of ADHD:
Inattention: Having trouble staying focused on activities and tasks for a long period of time. Sometimes, they forget things, or has difficulty finishing schoolwork, chores and/or work tasks. Sometimes, they make mistakes that are not their fault in schoolwork, at work or in leisure activities. Is easily distracted by others or by everyday activities. Sometimes, they seem to be on autopilot, or loses their focus on what they are doing.
Hyperactivity/Impulsivity: Often restless, fidgets or can't sit still in class or at work. Sometimes interrupts others or speaks off-topic. Often gets bored quickly and seeks excitement or a new experience. Sometimes, he gets involved in arguments or fights without considering 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 may have their own effects on a person, and may make diagnosis more difficult.
A physical exam is typically performed to rule out any medical problems that might cause similar symptoms. Some medical conditions, like thyroid disorders and seizures, could mimic ADHD symptoms.
If your symptoms are serious, you may need to undergo additional testing for psycho-psychological disorders, or neuropsychological disorders. These tests can provide important information about how ADHD affects your relationships and functioning. These tests can also identify any other issues that require attention.
Treatment
The same methods that children with ADHD receive, such as medication, behavior strategies life skills training, medication and therapy -- usually are effective for adults too. Adults may need to test different medications however, as the ones taken as a child may not be the best fit for them now.
adhd diagnosis in adults in ADHD should be an individual who suffers from ADHD. This may be a primary care doctor who regularly treats ADHD or a mental health professional, like psychiatrist or psychologist. Many insurance plans have online directories of specialists. A local support group for ADHD sufferers or a doctor specializing in mood disorders may recommend the services of a specialist.
After the examination the doctor should then identify the cause and prescribe treatment. He or she will likely want to talk with the patient about their personal history, and particularly how symptoms affected them in childhood. If the person is having difficulties in their work or relationships, a therapist may suggest family or couples' therapy to help them develop the skills to cope better.
Most people suffering from ADHD can be effectively treated with medication. They are typically small, fast-acting medications that help to reduce the chemical imbalance that is the cause of ADHD. Many doctors prescribe additional medication for the same condition such as anxiety or depression.
Behavioral therapy can help improve problems with time management and organization, impulse control and emotional self-regulation. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) along with other specific interventions, can be provided by therapists who have specific expertise in working specifically with individuals suffering from ADHD.
When people with ADHD are finally diagnosed, they feel an immense relief. A good treatment plan can dramatically change their lives for the better. They can be more efficient at work or at school, or build a healthy and satisfying relationships. Some people are happy to finally get a diagnosis after years regrets over mistakes made due to their symptoms being misdiagnosed or not treated. It is possible that the person's behavior has been influenced by his or her gender identity, race or socioeconomic status.
Support
If you've never been diagnosed with ADHD as when you were a child, it's enough time to seek an evaluation and treatment. adhd diagnosis adult specialize in ADHD and can determine whether you have mild or moderate symptoms. They can also rule out other mental disorders, physical ailments and stress as the reason for symptoms.
A diagnosis of ADHD can bring up complex emotions, such as grief over missed opportunities or feelings of relief knowing that you now have a clear explanation for your struggles. Adults with ADHD might feel judged for behavior they aren't responsible for, such as the inability to organize their work. They may also be struggling with financial issues, like not paying on time or accumulating debt from excessive spending.
Adults suffering from ADHD are not often found engaging in self-destructive behavior, including alcohol and drug abuse. Other self-destructive behaviors include a poor diet as well as stress and tension that is constant and low self-esteem, or issues in their relationships with family and friends. Additionally, they could be struggling with their physical health. They might not attend important checkups or medications or are unable to follow medical advice. They often have trouble sustaining jobs and managing their finances due to their difficulty organizing and meeting corporate requirements and adhering to a plan or routine.
Adults who suffer from ADHD may benefit from therapy or support groups which offer strategies and techniques for living with the disorder. Specialist ADHD therapy can help adults manage their symptoms, overcome their shortcomings and improve their performance in daily life. They are also able to work with family members to discuss how the disorder affects their relationships and develop strategies for supporting their loved ones.
Peer support and online communities can also be helpful. Websites like Sheila Henson and Neuroqueer offer individual and group coaching, workshops, and webinars on organizational skills emotional regulation, social interaction. Other online resources 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 a fantastic source of ideas and inspiration and they can be a place to discuss issues and find a solutions. There are teachers and coaches that can help you develop an action plan to improve your functioning and lessen the impact of your symptoms.