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, medical history and the presence of comorbid conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as depression or anxiety.
A structured interview is part of an evaluation. Interviews with family members, colleagues and friends are possible to get an understanding of the person's past.
Signs and symptoms
Adults with ADHD are likely to experience many of these symptoms, but they can affect more aspects of our lives. They may struggle to keep their jobs, maintain their relationships, or perform well at school, for instance. Some signs of this include difficulty paying attention and snorting or blurting out answers impulsively, failing to complete work tasks and a tendency to miss appointments frequently. This can lead to financial problems because people are more likely to make mistakes or spend too much.
A professional can test adults for ADHD using a variety of methods. They may interview the parents of an individual and inquire about their childhood. They might also review report cards and note teacher comments. They may also gauge the performance of an individual by interviewing friends, coworkers and family. They may also utilize online rating or self-tests.
Adults are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD when they've experienced 5 out of nine symptoms in the last 6 months. Symptoms must be present in multiple contexts and cannot be than a mental health issue, such as anxiety or mood disorders or by any other physical conditions such as visual or hearing loss.
When you are diagnosed with ADHD as an adult, it's normal to experience a range of emotions. It can be a relief to finally have a concrete explanation for difficulties that you've struggled with for a long time. It can be frustrating to discover that you suffer from an illness of mental health, especially when you've had success in other areas of your life.
Someone diagnosed with ADHD is usually treated with psychotherapy, medication or other treatments. In some instances doctors may recommend adjustments for work or daily activities. Accommodations are modifications or tools that can be made to a person's surroundings to help them succeed. Examples include a step stool for someone who is shorter than average or computer programs that allow people with vision impairments to focus on the screen. Adult ADHD is usually treated using behavioral therapy.
Diagnosis
If you suspect that you might have ADHD the first step is to get an accurate diagnosis. You can start by asking your primary care physician or a mental health professional for a referral to a specialist who can conduct ADHD evaluations. Your doctor will interview you and go over your family, personal and medical background. They will also inquire about the effects of your medical conditions on your daily life at school, home and at work.
Your doctor will use the American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic guidelines, published 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: Has trouble staying focused on tasks or activities for long periods of time. Many times, people forget or lose things or has difficulty finishing chores, schoolwork and/or work tasks. Sometimes, they make mistakes that are not their fault in the classroom, at work or during leisure activities. Gets easily distracted by others or by everyday activities. Daydreams a lot, 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. Frequently interrupts others or talks in a non-linear manner. Most often, he is bored and seeks excitement or a new experience. In most cases, they engage in fights or arguments 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 conditions can have their effects on an individual, and complicate the diagnosis.
A physical examination is usually conducted to rule out medical problems that might cause similar symptoms. Some medical conditions, such as seizures and thyroid disorders can mimic ADHD symptoms.
If your symptoms are serious and severe, additional neuropsychological, psychosocial or learning disabilities tests could be performed to aid in making the diagnosis. These tests can provide important information regarding how ADHD affects your relationships and performance. These tests can also help identify any other underlying issues that need to addressed.
Treatment
Adults may benefit from the same therapies as children with ADHD, including treatment as well as behavioral strategies, life skills training and therapy. Adults may need to test other treatments because the ones they took as children might not be appropriate for them today.
The person suffering from ADHD should see an expert who is trained in the disorder. This may be a primary-care doctor who is regularly treating ADHD or a mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. Many insurance companies offer online directories of specialists. In addition there is a local support group for people with ADHD or a doctor who specializes in mood disorders may be able to recommend the services of a specialist.
After the examination, the doctor will determine a diagnosis and prescribe a treatment. adhd undiagnosed in adults or she may want to talk about the past of the person and how the issues affected them in the early years of their life. If the person is having difficulty in their job or relationships, a therapist could suggest family or couples' therapy to help them understand how to cope better.
The most effective treatment is medication. treatment for adults suffering from ADHD. These are typically small, fast-acting drugs that reduce the chemical imbalance in the brain that triggers ADHD. Many doctors will prescribe other medication for the same condition such as depression or anxiousness.
Behavioral therapy can help in time management, impulse control and emotional self-regulation. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as well as other individualized interventions, can be delivered by therapists with particular expertise working with people with ADHD.
Many adults suffering from ADHD are relieved when they finally get diagnosed. A good treatment plan can dramatically change their lives to the better. They will be more productive at work, succeed at school or develop healthier and more fulfilling relationships. Some people are relieved to finally get a diagnosis after years regrets over mistakes they made because their symptoms were misdiagnosed or untreated. It is also possible that the individual's behavior is influenced by his or her gender identity, race, and socioeconomic status.
Support
If you weren't diagnosed with ADHD as a child, it's not too late to get an assessment and treatment. 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 or physical ailments, as well as stress as a cause of your symptoms.
A diagnosis of ADHD can trigger complex emotions, such as grief over missed opportunities or feelings of relief knowing that you now have a clear explanation for your difficulties. Adults suffering from ADHD often feel that they are being criticized by others for actions that aren't their own fault, such as inattention or having difficulty keeping their work organized. They might also face financial problems, such as the late payment deadlines or a debt resulting from impulsive purchases.
Adults with ADHD are not typically involved in self-destructive behaviors, such as drug and alcohol abuse. Other self-destructive behaviors include poor nutrition, chronic tension and stress and low self-esteem, or issues in their relationships with their family and friends. They may also have issues with their physical health and health, for example, ignoring important checkups and medications, or having difficulty following medical instructions and procedures. They have difficulty managing their finances and keeping their jobs due to the fact that they aren't organized, don't conform to corporate standards and do not stick to a routine or schedule.
Adults with ADHD may benefit from support groups and therapy that teach coping skills and strategies to live with the disorder. Specialized ADHD therapists can assist adults manage their symptoms, overcome their weaknesses and improve their functioning in life. They can also work closely with family members to discuss how the disorder impacts their relationship, and come up with strategies to help their loved ones.
Peer support and online communities can be extremely beneficial. Sites such as Sheila Henson or Neuroqueer offer workshops, webinars, as well as individual and group coaching on emotional regulation, social interaction, and organizational skills. Other online resources include ADHD friendly establishments, workplace accommodations, and classes to improve communication.
Some people who suffer from ADHD also find it useful to join support groups for people with ADHD which can be a source of ideas and inspiration, and provide an opportunity for discussion of issues and finding solutions. There are also teachers and coaches that can assist you in developing an action plan to improve your performance and lessen the impact of your symptoms.