Searching For Inspiration? Check Out ADHD Adult Diagnosis
Adult Diagnosis of ADHDA diagnosis of ADHD can change the life of adults suffering from the disorder. It can help people understand why they have difficulties at work, at home and in their relationships.
However, it can be difficult to determine a diagnosis since symptoms are often overlapping with other ailments. A health care professional or a mental health professional will assess the patient and run tests.
Symptoms
The person might not even be aware they have ADHD until they reach adulthood or perhaps because teachers and parents were not aware of the symptoms at a younger age, or because the demands of college or working made the disorder more apparent. Adults with ADHD who aren't diagnosed suffer in their academic, social and work lives. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD have a range of problems, such as financial issues and relationship issues.
A mental health professional will interview and review the patient's medical, psychiatric and personal history, paying particular attention to the symptoms in various situations. The patient will describe how these symptoms impact his or her daily functioning and relationships. It is essential that the patient is open about these symptoms, and that he or she not hold back due to feelings of shame or embarrassment.
The mental health professional should also determine if these symptoms are connected to comorbid conditions such as anxiety and depression which are often associated with ADHD. These conditions can make ADHD symptoms worse and interfere with the treatment of the disorder.
If the psychologist or psychiatrist thinks that the symptoms of ADHD are influenced by other conditions, additional psychological, neuropsychological or learning disabilities tests could be performed to determine an accurate diagnosis. These tests can help determine the level of impairment to function that is caused by these conditions. The mental health professional may also ask to interview other significant people, such as spouses or siblings, to get a full picture of how the individual is doing.
Diagnosis
Adults are diagnosed with ADHD by a mental health doctor or a medical professional following a thorough assessment. This includes a detailed discussion of the symptoms and their impact on the daily activities. Additionally, it is important to consider the presence of other mental disorders that can co-occur alongside ADHD like depression and anxiety. In addition, the physician may ask to speak with significant others--usually the spouse or a close friend -- to help gather more information about the individual's behavior.
A correct diagnosis of ADHD can change your life. The diagnosis gives adults an explanation for their behavior that they believed to be "normal". It's often a relief to discover that the 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 standard is created to ensure that people get the support and treatment they need. To qualify for an ADHD diagnosis, the person must have been suffering from the symptoms for at least 12 consecutive months and they must be causing significant impairment in several settings, including school, at home, or at work as well as with family members or friends; or with other activities. The number of symptoms needed for adults older than 17 has been reduced from six to five.
Maintaining a positive relationship with your primary care provider can help you identify ADHD. Many physicians diagnose and treat ADHD in children and refer you to an expert in mental health to assess adults.
Treatment
If someone suffering from ADHD is diagnosed, their lives can change dramatically. They may finally discover answers to their problems in the classroom, as well as in starting a new career, or in relationships. For some, a diagnosis can help them overcome the guilt that has built up over years of their symptoms going untreated.
Talking to a mental health specialist or health care professional is the first step to receiving an assessment. They can inquire about the family history and conduct a physical exam to rule out conditions like learning disabilities or sleep disorders which can cause symptoms that are similar to ADHD. They may also ask the person to complete an assessment scale of symptoms.
During the assessment process, a doctor may ask to interview a spouse or partner. This helps the non-ADHD spouse or partner gain a better understanding and empathetic attitude toward their loved one's ADHD symptoms that is essential in improving relationships after an assessment. If this is not possible the clinician may interview friends or colleagues who are familiar with the individual.
Medicines are the primary treatment options for adults with ADHD. Stimulants such as methylphenidate (Ritalin(r)) and dextroamphetamine (Adderall(r)) are the most effective and widely used drugs to treat adult ADHD. Other medications, such as atomoxetine, (Strattera(r),) and Guanfacine (Intuniv (r) Tenex (r)) are able to increase norepinephrine in the brain. These medications can improve ADHD symptoms.
Psychotherapy also is an option. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can help patients learn skills for managing their ADHD symptoms, including time management and self-regulation of behavior and emotions and managing negative feelings and self-criticism. Other therapies, like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, help adults identify subconscious or unfounded thoughts that can lead to negative behaviors and develop ways to overcome them using positive self-talk.
Medication
Many people have found that ADHD medications can help improve their symptoms. This medicine is typically in the form of a stimulant. It works by increasing the activity in brain regions that control attention and behavior. Methylphenidate is the most commonly used medication for adults with ADHD, and it is available in different forms. It is available in immediate-release tablets as well as modified-release tablet forms that release the medication throughout the day. Clonidine is a different kind of medication that works by decreasing brain activity. It is available in liquid or pill form.
The psychiatrist or therapist will look over the medical and family history of the adult patient to determine factors that may cause similar symptoms. This is important, as certain medical conditions, such as seizures and thyroid problems can cause symptoms that are similar to ADHD. In addition, some drugs and nutritional supplements can also cause similar symptoms.
During the assessment it is likely that the person will be asked to describe their ADHD symptoms to their therapist or psychiatrist. They will be asked to fill in the standardized ADHD rating scales and check lists, as well as full psychological tests that assess working memory, executive functioning (abilities such as decision-making and planning), visual and spatial abilities, and reasoning skills.
If the therapist is of the opinion that ADHD symptoms are affecting a person's quality of life, he or she will suggest medication. In certain instances the therapist might request the patient's spouse or partner to interview them about the effects of the symptoms of the patient on their relationship. This can reduce blame between the two people and help to foster healthier, more productive relationships.
Counseling
Many people suffering from ADHD find relief in receiving a diagnosis. It's an opportunity to discover the reason why they face difficulties at school or at work, and learn ways to overcome these issues. It's also an opportunity to change negative behaviors and increase self-confidence.
Counseling can be a great method to build a strong support network. Counseling for ADHD may include psychological (or psychotherapy) therapy as well as a variety of behavioral treatments. For instance the therapist could make a reward chart that rewards positive behavior and imposes consequences for negative behavior. The therapist can also instruct the patient in skills to manage their symptoms, like relaxation techniques like deep breathing or yoga poses.
Counseling can help people accept and understand their ADHD. It can be difficult to admit you have difficulties paying attention or planning and organizing. It can be embarrassing to confess that you suffer from ADHD to supervisors or colleagues. check here However, the majority of bosses and teachers will be willing to accommodate for your situation. For example, they might allow you to make use of a computer to write assignments instead of paper and provide more detailed explanations of classroom material.
In addition, the therapist can teach you ways to cope with your ADHD through cognitive behavioral therapy which is a structured type of talk therapy that helps to change negative thoughts and behaviors to positive ones. Counseling for ADHD can also include family or marital therapy. This teaches loved-ones how to better communicate and solve issues with someone suffering from ADHD. People suffering from ADHD may also suffer from other mental disorders such depression or anxiety, and may have issues with substance abuse.