Adult ADHD Diagnoses - The First Step to Managing Symptoms
Finding an adult ADHD diagnosis is the first step towards managing symptoms that could be a hindrance in relationships and at work. A doctor can evaluate the person's mood, medical history, and the presence of any comorbid conditions that cause similar symptoms, such as depression or anxiety.
A structured interview is part of an evaluation. Interviews with family members, coworkers and friends are possible to gain an understanding of the person's past.
Signs and symptoms
Adults who suffer from ADHD may experience many of the same symptoms as children, but these behaviors can impact more aspects of their lives. They may have difficulty keeping their jobs, coordinating relationships and perform well in schools, for instance. Some signs of this include attention issues and snorting or blurting out answers at random, not being able to complete tasks, and frequently missing appointments. The condition can also lead to financial challenges because people are more likely to make careless mistakes or overspend.
A professional may evaluate adults for ADHD using a variety of methods. They may interview the parents of a person and inquire about their childhood. They may review the report cards and take note of comments from teachers. Interviewing family members, friends and co-workers can also be used to evaluate the performance of an individual. They can also conduct online rating or self-tests.
The diagnosis of ADHD as an adult typically has a higher threshold than children, requiring 5 out of 9 symptoms in the past 6 months. The symptoms must be present multiple times and cannot be better explained by other mental health conditions like anxiety or mood disorder, or physical conditions such as hearing loss or a vision issue.
It's normal to feel various emotions when you receive an ADHD diagnosis as an adult. It can be a great relief when you finally discover an answer to the challenges you've faced for so many years. It can be difficult to discover that you suffer from an illness of mental health, especially if you've been successful in other areas of your life.
More diagnosed with ADHD typically receives psychotherapy, medication or other treatments. In some instances doctors may suggest accommodations for work or everyday activities. Accommodations are tools or adjustments to an individual's environment that allow them to succeed and minimize the impact of their disability. Examples include an incline step for someone who is smaller than average, or an application for computers that allows someone with vision limitations to concentrate on the screen. Adult ADHD is usually treated using behavioral therapy.
Diagnosis
The first step in determining if you have ADHD is to get an accurate diagnosis. You can start by asking your primary care physician or a mental health professional to refer you to a specialist who can conduct ADHD assessments. Your doctor will conduct an interview and review your personal, family and medical background. Your doctor will also inquire about your health issues and how they impact your school, work and home.
Your doctor will refer to the American Psychiatric Society's diagnostic guidelines, that are included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), to determine whether you meet the criteria for ADHD. The following are some of the DSM-5 criteria for inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive types of ADHD:
Inattention: Have trouble staying focused on tasks and activities for a long period of time. Often forgets, loses things or has trouble finishing chores, schoolwork or other tasks. Many times, they make mistakes when doing school, at work, or during leisure activities. Is easily distracted, either by why not look here or everyday 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. Sometimes interrupts others or speaks out of turn. Often gets bored quickly and seeks out excitement or a new experience. Sometimes, he gets involved in fights or arguments or acts without considering 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 other conditions can have their own effects on a person, and may complicate diagnosis.
A physical exam is generally done to rule out any medical issues that could cause similar symptoms. Certain medical issues, like thyroid disorders and seizure disorders, can mimic ADHD symptoms.
If your symptoms are serious If your symptoms are severe, additional neuropsychological, psychological or learning disabilities tests could be performed to aid in making the diagnosis. These tests can give you crucial information on how ADHD affects your functioning and relationships. They can also assist in identifying any other underlying issues that need to be addressed.
Treatment
The same treatments that children with ADHD receive, such as medication, behavior strategies life skills training, medication and therapy -- typically work for adults, too. Adults may need to test different medications since the ones they were prescribed as children may not be appropriate for them at the moment.
The person with ADHD should see a specialist trained in the disorder. This may be a primary care physician who routinely treats ADHD or a mental health professional, such as psychiatrists or psychologists. A lot of insurance plans have online directories of specialists. Additionally, a local support group for people suffering from ADHD or a doctor who specializes in mood disorders may be in a position to recommend an expert.
After the exam the doctor should then make a diagnosis and prescribe treatment. He or she may want to discuss the background of the person and how the symptoms affected him or her during childhood. A therapist might suggest couples' or family therapy if the individual is struggling in their career or relationships.
Medication is the most effective treatment for adults suffering from ADHD. These are usually small, fast-acting medications that reduce the chemical imbalance that is the cause of ADHD. In many cases, a doctor may also prescribe other medications to treat related conditions like anxiety or depression.
Behavioral therapy can help solve problems with time management and organization, impulse control and emotional self-regulation. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), along with other individualized interventions, are provided by therapists who have particular expertise in working with people with ADHD.
Many adults suffering from ADHD are relieved when they are finally diagnosed. A good treatment plan can drastically alter their lives for the better. They will be more productive at work or school, or establish a healthy and satisfying relationships. Some people are happy to finally receive an appointment after years of regrets over mistakes made due to their symptoms being misdiagnosed or not treated. It is also possible that the individual's behavior has been affected by their gender identity, race and socioeconomic status.
Support
If you were never diagnosed with ADHD as an infant, it's not too late to get an evaluation and treatment. A lot of professionals specialize in ADHD and can determine if you have mild or moderate symptoms. They can also rule out other mental disorders, physical issues and stress out as the cause of symptoms.
A diagnosis of ADHD can trigger complicated emotions, including sadness over missed opportunities or feelings of relief that you finally have a concrete reason for your problems. Adults suffering from ADHD often feel as if they're being judged by other people for behaviors that aren't their own fault, such as the inability to keep their work in order. They might also face financial issues, like late payment deadlines or debt due to impulsive purchases.
Adults suffering from ADHD are not typically involved in self-destructive behavior, including alcohol and drug abuse. Other self-destructive behaviors include a poor diet, chronic tension and stress, low self-esteem or difficulties with their relationships with their family and friends. They also may have trouble with their physical health and health, for example, ignoring important medical checkups and medication or having trouble following medical guidelines and procedures. They may have trouble managing their finances and maintaining jobs because they are not organized, do not meet the corporate standards and are unable to adhere to a routine or schedule.
Adults with ADHD might benefit from therapy or support groups which offer strategies and coping skills to live with the disorder. Therapists who specialize in ADHD can assist them in managing their symptoms, find ways to improve their weaknesses, and enhance their overall functioning. They also can work closely with family members, discussing how the disorder impacts their relationship and coming up with strategies to help their loved ones.
Online communities and peer support are also helpful. Sites such as Sheila Henson or Neuroqueer offer webinars, workshops, and individual and group coaching on emotional regulation as well as social interaction and organizational skills. Other online resources include ADHD-friendly restaurants workplace accommodations, and classes on improving communication.
Some people with ADHD are able to benefit from join support groups. These groups can be an excellent source of inspiration and ideas, and they provide a forum for discussing challenges and finding solution. In addition to support groups, there are coaches and teachers who can help you create a plan to improve your functioning and reducing the impact of your symptoms.