Adult ADHD Diagnoses - The First Step to Managing Symptoms
Getting an adult ADHD diagnosis is the first step in managing symptoms that could be detrimental to relationships and at work. A doctor can assess the person's mood and medical history, as well as whether there are any comorbid conditions, such as anxiety or depression, which could cause similar symptoms.
A formal evaluation involves an interview with the person being evaluated. Family members, friends and coworkers could also be interviewed to gain insight into the history of the person being evaluated.
Symptoms
Adults suffering from ADHD may experience many of the same symptoms as children, but the behaviors they exhibit can affect different aspects of their lives. They may struggle to maintain their jobs, manage their relationships, or do well in school, for example. Signs of trouble include inattention to the present, frequent interruptions or blurting out answers and not being able to follow up on work assignments and repeatedly ignoring appointments. adult diagnosis of adhd can also lead to financial problems because people are more likely to make mistakes that are not considered prudent or overspend.
A professional may evaluate adults for ADHD by using a variety of methods. They may interview the parents of an individual and inquire about their childhood. They can also look over report cards and note teacher comments. Interviewing friends, family and co-workers can also be used to assess an individual's current functioning. They can even utilize self-tests or online ratings.
The diagnosis of ADHD as an adult typically has a higher threshold than for children--5 out of 9 symptoms in the past six months. The symptoms are present in multiple contexts and cannot be than a mental health issue, such as an anxiety or mood disorder or by any other physical ailments such as visual or hearing loss.
It's normal to experience a range of emotions after receiving an ADHD diagnosis as an adult. It can be a relief when you finally discover an answer to the difficulties you've struggled with for so many years. It can be a bit frustrating to learn that you have an illness of mental health even if you've been successful in other areas of your life.
A person who is diagnosed with ADHD typically receives psychotherapy, medication or other treatments. In some instances the doctor may recommend accommodations at work or in everyday activities. Accommodations are changes or tools that can be incorporated into the environment around a person to assist them achieve their goals. A step stool can be used by those who are taller than average or a computer program to help someone with visual impairments focus on the screen. Adult ADHD is usually treated using behavioral therapy.
Diagnosis
If you suspect you might have ADHD the first step is to get an accurate diagnosis. You can start by asking your primary care physician or mental health professional to refer you to a specialist who performs ADHD evaluations. Your doctor will conduct an interview and examine 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 use the American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic guidelines published in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), to determine if you fulfill 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 or tasks for long periods of time. Has trouble finishing chores, tasks or schoolwork. Many times, they make mistakes when doing school, at work, or in leisure activities. Gets easily distracted by others or their daily activities. The person often daydreams, appears to be on autopilot, or loses track of what they are doing.
Hyperactivity/Impulsivity: Often restless, fidgets or can't sit still in class or at work. Frequently interrupts others or talks out of turn. Often, they get bored quickly and seeks out excitement or a new experience. Sometimes, he gets involved in arguments or fights without thinking about 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 may make it difficult to diagnose.
A physical exam is conducted to rule out medical conditions that may cause similar symptoms. Certain medical conditions, such as seizures and thyroid disorders may mimic ADHD symptoms.
If your symptoms are severe, additional psychological, neuropsychological or learning disabilities tests could be performed to aid in making the diagnosis. These tests can provide vital information about the ways in the way that your ADHD affects your behavior and relationships. These tests can also identify any other issues that need to be addressed.
Treatment
Adults are able to benefit from the same therapies as children with ADHD which includes treatment, behavioral strategies, life-skills training, and therapy. Adults might need to try different drugs, however, because those used as children may not be the best fit for them today.
The person suffering from ADHD should consult a specialist trained in the disorder. This can be a primary physician who treats ADHD regularly or a mental healthcare professional such as psychologists or psychiatrists. Many insurance companies offer online directories of specialists. A local support group for ADHD sufferers or a doctor specializing in mood disorders can also recommend an expert.
After the examination the doctor should then identify the cause and prescribe treatment. He or she will likely need to speak with the individual about their history, especially how their symptoms affected them in the early years of their life. Therapists might suggest couples' or family therapy if a person is having difficulty in their work or in their relationships.
The majority of adults suffering from ADHD can be effectively treated with medication. They are typically small, quick-acting medicines that can reduce the chemical imbalance that is the cause of ADHD. In many cases, a doctor will also prescribe other medications to treat related conditions such as depression or anxiety.
Behavioral therapy can help with issues with time management and organization, impulse control and emotional self-regulation. Therapists with specialized expertise in working with people with ADHD can provide cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and other customized interventions.
When adults with ADHD are finally diagnosed, they feel relief. A good treatment plan can dramatically change their lives to the better. They can be more productive at work or in school, or establish a healthy and satisfying relationships. For certain people, diagnosis brings closure to years of regrets over the mistakes they made in their past due to their symptoms going undiagnosed or mistreated. It is also possible that the individual's behavior has been 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 evaluation and treatment. Many specialists specialize in ADHD and can determine whether you have mild or moderate symptoms. They can also rule out other mental disorders, physical conditions and stress as the reason for symptoms.
A diagnosis of ADHD can trigger complex emotions, such as sadness over missed opportunities or relief that you now have a solid explanation for your difficulties. Adults suffering from ADHD might feel judged for behaviors they are not accountable for, like inattention and difficulty organising their work. They may also be struggling with financial issues, such as missing payment deadlines or accruing debt as a result of impulsive spending.
It's not uncommon for adults with ADHD to engage in self-destructive behavior like drug and alcohol abuse, inadequate nutrition, chronic stress and tension as well as low self-esteem or problems in their relationships with family and friends. They may also have issues with their physical health and health, for example, ignoring important medical checkups and medication, or having difficulty following medical instructions and procedures. They may have trouble managing their finances and maintaining jobs because they aren't organized, fail to meet the corporate standards and are unable to stick to the same routine or schedule.
Adults suffering from ADHD may benefit from support groups or therapy that offer strategies and coping skills to manage the disorder. Specialist ADHD therapy can help adults manage their symptoms, compensate for 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 relationship and develop strategies to support their loved one.
Peer support and online communities can also be helpful. Sites such as Sheila Henson or Neuroqueer offer webinars, workshops, and individual and group coaching on emotional regulation, social interaction, and organizational skills. Other online resources include ADHD accommodating workplace accommodations, restaurants, and classes to improve communication.
Many people suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from join support groups. These groups can be an excellent source of inspiration and ideas, and they can be a place for discussing issues and finding a solutions. There are coaches and teachers that can assist you in developing an action plan to improve your functioning and reduce the impact of your symptoms.