17 Reasons You Shouldn't Ignore Adult ADHD Diagnosis
Wiki Article
Adult ADHD Diagnosis
For some, a diagnosis of adult ADHD is the first step towards treatment. They may be unhappy at work, in their social or home lives due to symptoms such as fidgeting, ignoring things or interrupting others.
Being diagnosed with ADHD as an adult often means going through a thorough evaluation that involves interviewing the individual and their family members using standardized tests and rating scales. It typically involves a physical exam too.
Symptoms
For many adults, a diagnosis of ADHD can have a profound impact on their lives. It can help people recognize the reasons they've struggled with for so long, and make sense of their previous choices. It can also offer hope for an improved future. Whether you are having trouble finding your keys, feeling like you can never finish your work or being labeled as lazy or irresponsible, getting an diagnosis is the first step toward finding the treatment that works for you.
For the majority of adults, signs manifest in different areas of their lives. Some are more common in one area than another. They may be indecisive and restless at school, but struggle with keeping up at work. They might forget to make appointments or underestimate the amount of time needed to complete tasks. They may have trouble making friends or get into frequent disputes with their spouses. If the problems are serious, they may affect their daily life and lead to depression or anxiousness.
It's crucial to recognize ADHD However, it's important to identify other factors might be contributing to symptoms. Stress, mental health conditions, and certain medications are frequently the cause of symptoms that are similar. A thorough evaluation by a trained professional is essential to make sure that the root cause is being addressed.
Like children, adults who suffer from ADHD seldom show the more obvious symptoms of hyperactivity. Instead, the symptoms of hyperactivity are displayed more subduedly as fidgeting or difficulty sitting still in a chair. Women who suffer from ADHD are more likely to display these symptoms since they are more able to hide their inattention in their jobs and social lives.
During the examination the doctor will examine the patient's medical background and how their symptoms impact their daily lives. They will also ask for family history and, if it is possible, ask a family member for their opinion on childhood behavior. They can also conduct psycho-, neuropsychological or learning disabilities testing. In certain cases physical exams might be required to rule out illnesses which may resemble symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosis
Adults who think they may have ADHD should discuss their symptoms with their health care provider. This is particularly important if the problems are connected to school or work. Primary health care providers can refer patients to mental health specialists who specialize in adult ADHD evaluations and treatment. These professionals must be able to disclose information about their training level and experiences working with adults suffering from ADHD, Hamdani says. Anyone who is hesitant to provide this information should be considered suspicious, Hamdani adds.
Getting a diagnosis of adult ADHD can be a life-changing event. It can provide a reason for years of frustration and self-criticism for some. Some people are relieved that they have a reason for their problems in life or that they weren't "just in their minds."
In the majority of instances, an adult suffering from ADHD will receive a diagnosis by conducting a thorough interview with a qualified professional. This may include a thorough review of the person's medical background, family and personal background. Additionally, the specialist will likely ask the person to rate his or her behavior on one or more standardized ADHD behavior scales. These ratings are based upon research that compared the behavior of those with ADHD and people who do not suffer from the disorder.
The person will be asked about the symptoms and how they affect their daily life. In order to meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD, an adult must have at least five persistent symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity-impulsivity that cause significant impairment in at least two settings (such as home, school and work) and that are not better explained by other factors.
The people who are diagnosed of adult ADHD typically have co-existing disorders which are referred to as co-morbidities. Common comorbidities associated with ADHD include anxiety disorders, depression and drug or alcohol abuse. Some experts suggest these complications are a result of maladaptive coping mechanisms to deal with the frustrations commonly associated with untreated ADHD.
It is also important to remember that ADHD is more prevalent in males than women, and it may be difficult for many people who are affected to be diagnosed due to long-held prejudices about the symptoms and their impact on males and females. Some women can mask their symptoms more effectively and can lead to delay diagnosis or an inaccurate diagnosis.
Treatment
Adults who receive a diagnosis of ADHD might find it beneficial to talk with an expert in mental health who has experience treating adults with ADHD. The specialist can instruct the adult behavioral strategies get more info to manage their symptoms and improve their functioning at home, at work or at school. They can also assist adults to recognize the reasons why their behavior is different and what triggers them.
A mental health professional should examine an adult thoroughly as they could have other disorders similar to ADHD. This could include a detailed description of the person's symptoms, questionnaires and scales completed by the client and other people who know them well, a full medical history of the family and a psychiatric history, and a thorough physical examination.
It is crucial to conduct a thorough evaluation in order to determine if an adult suffers from a co-occurring disorder like depression or anxiety. These conditions can contribute to the symptoms of ADHD and make treatment more challenging. A mental health professional could also perform cognitive or neuropsychological tests to examine how the brain functions and to rule out other causes of the problem, like an intellectual disability or physical illness.
Adults suffering from ADHD are usually treated by psychotherapy (psychotherapy), and educational programs. Individual talk therapy can help a person develop confidence in their self and deal with the emotional baggage that often is associated with a diagnosis of ADHD. Behavioral therapies can also improve time management and control of impulses. They also can deal with the effect that stressors can affect an individual's ability to function.
Some people with ADHD can benefit from group therapy. This kind of therapy can offer the opportunity to connect with others who face similar challenges and discuss ways to overcome these challenges. These groups are usually organized by an advocacy or support group.
Many people suffering from ADHD can also be treated with medication. There are a myriad of medications available that include stimulants (such as methylphenidate that is sold under the name Ritalin) that increase levels of norepinephrine within the brain. Antidepressants and the antipsychotic drug Wellbutrin (Bupropion) aid in regulating moods and decrease impulse-driven behavior. Your Mercy doctor will discuss all treatment options with you.
Support
Adults suffering from ADHD may have the disorder for years without realizing it. Discontent with everyday issues like missing appointments, making irresponsible mistakes at work or blowing off family or friendship commitments can prompt them to seek an evaluation. It's normal for these people to feel a sense of relief when they receive an answer, particularly when they realize the reason they've been struggling throughout their lives.
A mental health professional could perform an ADHD evaluation, however the primary physician is typically an excellent starting point. If necessary, the physician could refer the patient a specialist. A psychiatric nurse, psychiatrist or psychologist might also be qualified to assess ADHD in adults. Many insurance plans list specialists by specialization and can help people find a health care provider who is knowledgeable about ADHD in adults.
During the examination the mental health specialist will ask questions about the person's behavior, which could include the past issues they have had and how they've been affected by their ADHD symptoms. It is crucial to be honest and open during the evaluation, so that the mental healthcare professional can provide a precise assessment.
Psychological counseling, or therapy can assist people in learning to manage their issues and improve their relationships. Behavioral therapy, for instance cognitive behavioral therapy, helps people develop specific techniques to alter their patterns of thinking and behavior. Therapy is often paired with medication, which can to reduce the effects of the disorder.
Social support groups can be beneficial to a lot of adult ADHD patients. The opportunity to share their experiences with others who are experiencing similar struggles can be a source of encouragement and inspiration. Some of these groups are online and are open to anyone who has ADHD. Some groups are for specific populations such as African Americans who have ADHD, couples affected by the disorder, or those who identify themselves as gay or lesbian.
Some people may be embarrassed or ashamed of their symptoms. This may make them reluctant to seek help. But a health professional should explain that ADHD is not a sign of weakness or failure.