20 Reasons Why ADHD Adult Diagnosis Will Never Be Forgotten
20 Reasons Why ADHD Adult Diagnosis Will Never Be Forgotten
Blog Article
Adult Diagnosis of ADHD
A diagnosis of ADHD can change the life of those suffering from the disorder. It can help people understand why they struggle in work, family and relationships.
It can be difficult to diagnose because symptoms often overlap. A health care provider or mental health professional will examine the person and perform tests.
Symptoms
It is possible that someone does not realize they have ADHD until they reach adulthood. This may be because teachers and parents failed to detect the signs at an earlier age or because work or college demands brought out the disorder. Adults with ADHD who are not treated suffer in their academic, social and professional lives. Undiagnosed ADHD can cause numerous issues, including relationship problems and financial difficulties.
A mental health professional will interview and review the patient's medical, mental health and personal history, paying special attention to the symptoms in various settings. The patient will discuss the symptoms and how they impact their daily life and relationships. It is essential that patients are open about their symptoms and do not conceal them to avoid embarrassment.
The mental health professional must also determine if these symptoms are connected to other comorbidities, such as depression and anxiety that often coexist with ADHD. These conditions can cause ADHD symptoms worse and cause problems with treatment for the disorder.
If the psychiatrist or psychology believes that the symptoms are being affected by comorbid conditions such as psycho-psychological disorders, or neuropsychological disorders, then additional tests can be used to establish an accurate diagnosis. These tests can also aid in determining the degree of functional impairment caused by these conditions. Additionally the mental health professional might ask to interview one or more significant people, such as spouses, siblings and colleagues to get a complete picture of the individual's performance and challenges.
Diagnosis
Adults are diagnosed with ADHD by a mental health doctor or a medical professional following an extensive examination. This includes a detailed discussion of the symptoms and their impact on daily functioning. It also includes the presence of other mental disorders that can occur with ADHD like anxiety and mood disorders. Additionally, the doctor might ask for the assistance of significant others -- typically an intimate partner or a close friend to help gather more information regarding the person's behavior.
Being diagnosed with ADHD in adulthood can be a life-changing moment. The diagnosis gives adults an explanation for behaviors that they thought were "normal". Often, it provides relief knowing that they're not simply naive or oblivious; their problems are more complex.
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 is a standard set to ensure that people receive the help and treatment they need. For a person to qualify for an ADHD diagnoses they must exhibit symptoms for at least one year and cause significant impairment in a variety of settings including school, home or at work with family or friends or other activities. For adults who are 17 or older the number of needed symptoms has been reduced to five, from the six required for children who are younger than 12.
A good relationship with your primary healthcare provider can be beneficial in identifying ADHD. Many physicians regularly diagnose and treat ADHD in children, and may refer you to a mental health professional who is able to perform an evaluation in adults.
Treatment
If someone suffering from ADHD is diagnosed, their life can drastically change. They can finally find some solutions to their issues in the classroom, as well as in the start of a career, or in relationships. For those who are suffering from depression, it can help them overcome the anxiety that could have been accumulated over the years of their ailments being ignored.
Talking to a mental health specialist or health care professional is the first step towards finding out if you have an diagnosis. They may ask about family history and then conduct an examination to rule out other conditions like sleep disorders or learning disabilities that may cause symptoms similar to ADHD. They also can ask the person to complete an assessment scale of symptoms.
In many instances the doctor will suggest that the spouse or partner be interviewed during the process of assessment. This helps the non-ADHD spouse or partner gain a better understanding and an understanding of their loved one's ADHD symptoms, which is important in enhancing relationships following an assessment. If this isn't possible the doctor may conduct an interview with acquaintances or colleagues who are familiar with the individual.
Adults with ADHD are treated primarily by medication. Stimulants such as methylphenidate (Ritalin(r)) and dextroamphetamine (Adderall(r)) are the most effective and commonly used drugs to treat adult ADHD. Other medications, such as atomoxetine (Strattera(r)) and Guanfacine (Intuniv(r), Tenex(r)) increase norepinephrine levels in the brain and can help improve symptoms of ADHD.
Psychotherapy is a different option. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can help patients develop the skills needed to manage their ADHD symptoms. They include time management and self-regulation strategies, organizing strategies of emotions and behaviors and coping strategies for negative feelings and self criticism. Other treatments, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps adults identify subconscious thoughts or irrational thought patterns that lead to negative behavior, and also develop positive self-talk.
Medication
Many people find that ADHD medication can improve their symptoms. This medication is usually in the form of a stimulant, and it increases brain activity in areas that control behavior and attention. Methylphenidate, the most common medicine used for adults with ADHD is available in a variety of forms. It is available as immediate-release tablets, or modified-release tablet forms that release the medication throughout here the day. Clonidine is a different type of medication that works by reducing 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 could cause similar symptoms. This is crucial because some medical conditions like seizure disorders and thyroid problems can trigger symptoms similar to those of ADHD. Certain medications and nutritional supplements can also cause similar signs.
During the evaluation the individual will likely to discuss the ADHD symptoms. They will be asked for the standardized ADHD ratings and check lists, as and psychological tests to measure working memory, executive function (abilities like planning and decision-making) spatial and visual ability, and reasoning skills.
If the therapist or psychiatrist believes that the symptoms of ADHD are seriously affecting the life of a person they may recommend treatment with medication. In some instances the therapist may ask the person's partner or spouse to talk with them regarding the effects of the symptoms of the patient on their relationship. This step can help to reduce blame between people and can lead to better, more productive relationships.
Counseling
Many adults with ADHD are relieved when they receive an diagnosis. It gives them a chance to understand the reasons for their issues at school or at work and to discover ways to overcome these challenges. It's also an opportunity to alter negative behavior and increase self-esteem.
Counseling can be a great way to help you create a strong support system. Counseling for ADHD could include psychotherapy (or psychological therapy) and a variety behavioral treatments. For example a therapist might create a reward chart which rewards positive behavior, and is able to impose consequences for negative behavior. Therapists can also teach the patient skills to manage their symptoms, such as relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditative postures in yoga.
Another benefit of counseling is helping people understand and accept their ADHD. It's not easy to admit you struggle with planning, organizing and paying attention. It can be embarrassing to reveal to coworkers and supervisors about your ADHD. Most teachers and bosses provide accommodations to accommodate your needs. For example, they might permit you to use a computer for writing assignments instead of writing on paper and give more in-depth explanations of class material.
The therapist will also teach you how to cope with ADHD by using cognitive behavior therapy. This is a method of therapy that helps you transform negative thoughts and behaviors into more positive ones. Counseling for ADHD can also include marital or family therapy. This teaches loved-ones how to better communicate and solve problems with someone who suffers from ADHD. People with ADHD might also be suffering from other mental disorders, such as anxiety or depression, and they may also be suffering from issues with addiction to drugs.