Adult ADHD Diagnoses - The First Step to Managing Symptoms
Finding an adult ADHD diagnosis is the first step in managing symptoms that can be a hindrance in relationships and work. A doctor will assess the person's mood and medical history, as well as whether there are any co-morbid conditions, such anxiety or depression, that can cause similar symptoms.
A structured interview is an essential part of an evaluation. Family members, friends and coworkers may also be interviewed to gain insight into the history of the person being evaluated.
Signs and symptoms
Adults who suffer from ADHD may suffer from many of the same symptoms as children, but those behaviors can affect more aspects of their lives. They may have difficulty keeping their jobs, manage relationships and perform well at schools, for instance. The signs include trouble paying attention and impulsively interrupting or uttering answers in a blur and not being able to follow the instructions of work and repeatedly missing appointments. The condition can also lead to financial challenges because people are more likely to make impulsive mistakes or overspend.
Professionals can test adults for ADHD by using different methods. They may speak with a person's parents and ask them to talk about their childhood experiences. They may review reports and make note of teacher comments. Interviewing friends, family and colleagues can be used to assess the performance of an individual. They may also utilize online rating or self-tests.
The diagnosis of ADHD as an adult typically has a higher threshold than for children--5 out of 9 signs over the past six months. The symptoms are present in multiple contexts and cannot be explained by a mental health disorder such as anxiety or mood disorders, or by other physical issues, such as a hearing loss or vision problem.
It's normal to experience a range of emotions after receiving an ADHD diagnosis as an adult. It can be a great relief when you finally discover a concrete reason for the challenges you've faced for a long time. It can be difficult to find out that you suffer from a condition of mental health, especially if you've been successful in other areas of your life.
A person diagnosed with ADHD is usually treated with medication, psychotherapy or other treatments. In some cases doctors will suggest accommodations for work or everyday activities. Accommodations are tools or changes to a person's environment that help them succeed and lessen the effects of their disability. Examples include an incline step for someone who is smaller than average, or a computer program that allows those with visual impairments to focus on the screen. Behavioral therapy is also an effective treatment for adults with ADHD.
Diagnosis
The first step to determine if you have ADHD is to receive an accurate diagnosis. Ask your primary care doctor or a mental health professional to refer you to a specialist that conducts ADHD assessments. The doctor will interview you and review your personal, family and medical background. Your doctor will also ask about your health issues 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 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. Has trouble finishing chores, assignments or schoolwork. Frequently makes careless mistakes in the classroom, at work or during leisure activities. is easily distracted by other people or their daily activities. Often, they daydream, appear to be in autopilot, or loses their focus on what they are doing.
Hyperactivity/Impulsivity: Often restless, fidgets or can't sit still in class or at work. Disrupts others often or talks off-topic. Often gets bored easily and looks for excitement or novelty. Sometimes, he gets involved in fights or disputes 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 conditions can have effects on an individual, and complicate the diagnosis.
A physical exam is generally conducted to rule out medical issues that could cause similar symptoms. Certain medical conditions, such as thyroid disorders and seizures, may be similar to ADHD symptoms.
If your symptoms are serious, you may need to undergo additional tests for learning disabilities, neuropsychological disorders or psychological disorders. These tests can provide vital information about the ways in how your ADHD affects your behavior and relationships. They can also help you identify any other issues that need to be addressed.
Treatment
Adults can benefit from the same treatments as children with ADHD, including treatment, behavioral strategies, life-skills training, and therapy. Adults may need to test different medications, however, because those taken as a child may not be the most appropriate for them now.
The person with ADHD should consult an expert who is trained in the disorder. This may be a primary-care doctor who routinely treats ADHD or an expert in mental health, such as psychiatrists or psychologists. Many insurance companies have online directories of specialists. Additionally local support groups for people suffering from ADHD or a specialist in mood disorders may be able to recommend an expert.
After the exam the doctor should then identify the cause and prescribe treatment. The doctor may wish to discuss the background of the person as well as how the symptoms affected him or her during childhood. A therapist might suggest couples' or family therapy if the person is struggling in their career or in relationships.
Most people suffering from ADHD are treated effectively by medication. They are typically small, fast-acting drugs that reduce the chemical imbalance in the brain that causes ADHD. Many doctors prescribe other medications for related conditions like anxiety or depression.
Behavioral therapy can address issues related to time management, impulse control, and emotional self-regulation. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), along with other individualized interventions, can be provided by therapists who have particular expertise in working with individuals suffering from ADHD.
A few adults suffering from ADHD feel a great relief when they are finally diagnosed. A good treatment plan can transform their lives for the better. They can be more productive at work, be successful in school, or build more satisfying and healthier relationships. Many people are pleased to finally receive a diagnosis after years regrets over mistakes made because their symptoms were not properly diagnosed or treated. It is possible that an individual's behavior was influenced by their gender identity, race, and socioeconomic situation.
Support
If you were never diagnosed with ADHD as an infant, it's not too late to get an assessment and treatment. Many professionals specialize in ADHD and can determine if you suffer from mild, moderate, or severe symptoms. They can also rule out other mental health disorders physical conditions, stress as the reason for your symptoms.
A diagnosis of ADHD can bring up complex emotions, such as grief over missed opportunities or feelings of relief that you finally have a concrete reason for your problems. Adults suffering from ADHD often feel like they're being criticized by others for actions that aren't their own fault, such as forgetfulness or difficulty keeping their work schedules. adults diagnosed with adhd may also be facing financial issues, like the late payment deadlines or a debt due to impulsive purchases.
It's not unusual for adults with ADHD to engage in self-destructive behavior, such as drug and alcohol abuse, poor nutrition, constant tension and stress and low self-esteem. They may also experience problems with their relationships with family members and friends. Also, they may have problems with their physical health. They might neglect important checkups or medications or are unable to follow medical instructions. They may have trouble managing their finances and keeping their jobs due to the fact that they aren't organized, fail to conform to corporate standards and do not stick to the same routine or schedule.
Adults suffering from ADHD might benefit from support groups or therapy that provide strategies and strategies for living with the disorder. Specialized ADHD therapists can help adults manage their symptoms, improve their weaknesses and improve their functioning in life. They can also collaborate with family members in discussing how the disorder affects their relationship and coming up with strategies for supporting their loved ones.
Online communities and peer support are also helpful. Sites such as Sheila Henson or Neuroqueer offer workshops, webinars, as well as individual and group coaching on emotional regulation, social interaction, and organizational skills. Other online sources include ADHD-friendly restaurants, workplace accommodations, and classes for improving communication.
Some people with ADHD also find it useful to join support groups for those with ADHD, which can provide ideas and inspiration, and provide an opportunity for discussion of issues and finding solutions. In addition to support groups, there are coaches and teachers who can assist you to create a plan to improve your functioning and reducing the impact of your symptoms.