Adult ADHD Diagnoses - The First Step to Managing Symptoms
Getting an adult ADHD diagnosis is the first step towards managing symptoms that can be debilitating in relationships and work. A doctor will 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 structured interview is part of an evaluation. Interviews with family members, colleagues and friends are possible to gain more information about the person's past.
Signs and symptoms
Adults suffering from ADHD may suffer from many of the same symptoms as children, however these behaviors can impact more areas of their lives. They may struggle to maintain their jobs, maintain their relationships, or perform well in school, for example. Signs of trouble include inattention, impulsively interrupting or blurting out answers, failing to follow the instructions of work and frequently missing appointments. This condition can also lead to financial issues as people are more likely to make careless mistakes or overspend.
Professionals can test adults for ADHD using a variety of methods. They can interview the parents of a person and inquire about their childhood. They can also review their reports and make note of teacher remarks. Interviewing friends, family and co-workers can also be used to assess an individual's current functioning. They can also utilize self-tests or online ratings.
Adults are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD when they have experienced 5 out of nine symptoms in the last six months. The symptoms must be present at multiple times and not better explained by other mental health conditions such as an anxiety disorder or mood disorder, or physical ailments like hearing loss or a vision issue.
If you're diagnosed with ADHD as an adult it's normal to experience a variety of emotions. It can be a relief to finally have a concrete explanation for difficulties you've had to face for so long. It can be difficult to find out that you suffer from a condition of mental health even if you've been successful in other areas of your life.
A person diagnosed with ADHD will typically receive treatment with psychotherapy, medication or other treatments. In some cases, doctors will recommend adjustments for work or daily activities. Accommodations are tools or adjustments to a person's environment that allow them to succeed and lessen the negative impact of their disability. Examples include the use of a step stool for those who is less than average or computer programs that allow someone with vision limitations to focus on the screen. Adult ADHD is often treated with behavioral therapy.
Diagnosis
If you suspect you might have ADHD, the first step is to make an accurate diagnosis. Consult your primary care physician or a mental health professional to refer you to a specialist who conducts ADHD assessments. Your doctor will conduct an interview with you and will review your medical and family information. Your doctor will also ask about your symptoms and how they affect your daily life at school, work and home.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (also known as DSM-5, is used by your doctor to determine if you meet the ADHD criteria. The following are some of the DSM-5 criteria for inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive types of ADHD:
Inattention: Has difficulty staying focused on tasks and activities for a long time. Sometimes, they forget things, or has difficulty completing chores, schoolwork or other tasks. Many times, they make mistakes when doing the classroom, at work or in leisure activities. is easily distracted by others or everyday activities. Frequently daydreams, seems to be in autopilot, or loses the track of what they are doing.
Hyperactivity/Impulsivity: Often restless, fidgets or can't sit still in class or at work. Often interrupts other people or talks in a non-linear manner. Often, they get bored quickly and seeks excitement or a sense of novelty. In most cases, they engage in arguments or fights 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 other conditions may have their own effects on a person, and may make diagnosis more difficult.
A physical exam is generally done to rule out any medical conditions that could trigger similar symptoms. Certain medical conditions, such as seizures and thyroid disorders, can cause ADHD symptoms.
If your symptoms are serious, you may need to undergo additional testing for neuropsychological disorders, or psychological disorders. These tests can provide important information about how ADHD affects your functioning and relationships. These tests can also reveal any other underlying issues that need to addressed.
Treatment
The same methods that children with ADHD receive, such as medications, behavior strategies life skills training, medication and therapy -- typically work for adults as well. Adults might need to try different drugs but the ones that were used as children might not be the most appropriate for them at the moment.
A specialist in ADHD should be an individual who suffers from ADHD. This may be a primary care physician who is regularly treating ADHD or a mental health professional such as psychiatrists or psychologists. Many insurance companies offer online directories of specialists. A local support group for ADHD sufferers or a specialist doctor who specializes in mood disorders could recommend an expert.
After the exam the doctor should then determine a diagnosis and recommend treatment. The doctor may wish to talk about the past of the person as well as how the problems affected them in childhood. Therapists may suggest couples' or family therapy if a person struggles with their career or in their relationships.
The majority of adults suffering from ADHD are treated effectively with medication. These are typically small, fast-acting medications that reduce the chemical imbalance in the brain that causes ADHD. In many instances, doctors will also prescribe other treatments for related disorders like anxiety or depression.
Behavioral therapy can help related to time management, impulse control and emotional self-regulation. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), along with other specific interventions, can be delivered by therapists with particular expertise working with people with ADHD.
When adults with ADHD are finally diagnosed, they experience an immense relief. The correct treatment plan could alter their lives drastically. They can be more productive at work, be successful in school or develop healthier and more fulfilling relationships. For certain people, diagnosis brings closure to years of regrets over the mistakes they made in the past due to their symptoms going undiagnosed or treated poorly. It is possible that an individual's behavior was influenced by gender identity, race, and socioeconomic status.
Support
If you were never diagnosed with ADHD as a child, it's not too late to seek an evaluation and treatment. Many professionals are certified in ADHD and can tell whether your symptoms are mild, moderate or severe. click to investigate can also rule other mental disorders, physical conditions and stress as the reason for symptoms.
A diagnosis of ADHD can trigger complex feelings, such as regret over missed opportunities or relief that you now have a solid explanation for your issues. Adults suffering from ADHD may feel criticized for behaviors they are not responsible for, such as inattention and difficulty organising their work. They might also face financial problems, such as missed payment deadlines or the burden of debt from impulse purchases.
It's not uncommon for adults with ADHD to engage in self-destructive behavior such as drug or alcohol abuse, inadequate nutrition, chronic stress and tension, low self-esteem, or problems in their relationships with family and friends. They might also be struggling with their physical health, such as neglecting important medical checkups and medication, or having difficulty following medical guidelines and procedures. They often have trouble sustaining jobs and managing their finances because they have trouble organizing and meeting corporate standards and sticking to a schedule or routine.
Adults suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from support groups and therapy which teach coping skills and strategies for dealing with the disorder. Therapists who specialize in ADHD can help them manage their symptoms, find ways to improve their weaknesses, and enhance their overall functioning. They can also work closely with family members, discussing how the disorder affects their relationship and coming up with strategies to support the person they love dearly.
Online communities and peer support are also useful. 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 sources include ADHD-friendly restaurants, workplace accommodations, and classes on improving communication.
Certain people with 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 to discuss issues and finding solutions. There are coaches and teachers that can assist you in developing an action plan to improve your performance and reduce the effects of your symptoms.