Adult ADHD Diagnoses - The First Step to Managing Symptoms
Getting an adult ADHD diagnosis is the first step in managing symptoms that could be debilitating in relationships and at work. A doctor can evaluate the person's mood and medical history, and whether there are any co-morbid conditions, such anxiety or depression, that can cause similar symptoms.
An evaluation consists of a planned interview with the person being assessed. Family members, friends, and coworkers can be questioned to gain perspective on the person's history.
Symptoms
Adults who suffer 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 keep their jobs, manage their relationships, or perform well at school, for example. Symptoms can include attention issues and snorting or blurting out answers impulsively, failing to complete tasks, and frequently missing appointments. The condition can also lead to financial challenges as people are often prone to make mistakes that are not considered prudent or overspend.
Professionals can evaluate adults for ADHD using a variety of methods. They may speak with a person's parents and ask them to talk about their childhood experiences. They can also review their reports and make note of teacher comments. Interviewing family, friends, and colleagues can be used to determine an individual's current functioning. They may also utilize self-tests or online ratings.
The diagnosis of ADHD as an adult typically requires a higher level of suspicion than children, requiring 5 out of 9 signs over the past six months. Symptoms should be present in a variety of situations and cannot be explained by another mental health disorder like anxiety or mood disorders or other physical issues 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 to finally get an explanation for difficulties you've had to face for a long time. It can also be upsetting to discover that you suffer from a mental health condition, especially when you've had success in other areas of your life.
A person diagnosed with ADHD will typically receive medication, psychotherapy or other treatments. In certain cases doctors will suggest accommodations at work or in everyday activities. Accommodations are tools or adjustments to the environment of a person that can help them achieve their goals and lessen the negative impact of their impairment. A step stool could be used by someone who is taller than average, or a computer program to help someone who is visually impaired focus on the screen. Behavioral therapy is a popular treatment for adults with ADHD.
Diagnosis
If you suspect you might have ADHD, the first step is to get an accurate diagnosis. Consult your primary care physician or a mental health professional to refer you to a specialist that performs ADHD assessments. Your doctor will conduct an interview with you and go over all of your medical, family and personal information. Your doctor will also ask about your health issues and how they affect your daily life at school, at work and at home.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, also known as DSM-5, is used by your doctor to determine whether you meet the ADHD criteria. The following are some of the DSM-5 criteria for inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive types of ADHD:
Inattention: Having trouble staying focused on activities and tasks for a long time. Often forgets, loses things or has trouble finishing chores, schoolwork and/or work tasks. Sometimes, they make mistakes that are not their fault in school, at work, or during leisure activities. Can easily be 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. Interrupts others frequently or talks out-of-turn. Frequently gets bored quickly and seeks out excitement or novelty. Sometimes, he gets involved in fights or arguments without thinking about 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 typically done to rule out any medical conditions that could trigger similar symptoms. Certain medical issues, like seizure disorders and thyroid disorders, can mimic ADHD symptoms.
If your symptoms are severe, additional psychological, neuropsychological and/or testing for learning disabilities could be utilized to help determine the diagnosis. These tests can provide important information about how ADHD affects your relationships and functioning. These tests can also help identify any other underlying issues that need to be addressed.
undiagnosed adhd in adults that children with ADHD receive - medications, behavior strategies training in life skills, and therapy -- typically work for adults as well. Adults may require different drugs, however, because those used as children may not be the right fit for them today.
A specialist in ADHD should be sought out by those suffering from ADHD. This can be a primary doctor who treats ADHD regularly or a mental health professional like a psychiatrist or psychologist. Many insurance companies have 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 evaluation the specialist will make the diagnosis and prescribe treatment. They may also want to discuss the background of the person as well as how the symptoms affected him or her in the early years of their life. Therapists may suggest couples' or even family therapy if the individual is struggling in their career or in their relationships.
The most effective treatment is medication. treatment for the majority of adults suffering from ADHD. They are typically small, fast-acting medications that help to reduce the chemical imbalance that causes ADHD. In many cases, a doctor may prescribe additional medication to treat the underlying condition such as depression or anxiety.
Behavioral therapy can help with time management, impulse control and emotional self-regulation. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) along with other specific interventions, can be provided by therapists who have particular expertise working with those suffering from ADHD.
Some adults with ADHD feel a great relief when they finally are diagnosed. A good treatment plan can transform their lives for the better. They can become more productive at work, succeed at school or develop more satisfying and healthier relationships. For some, the diagnosis brings closure to the years of regrets over the mistakes they made in the past because their symptoms went undiagnosed or treated poorly. It is possible that an individual's behavior was influenced by 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 evaluation and treatment. Many professionals are certified in ADHD and can tell whether your symptoms are mild, moderate, or severe. They can also rule out other mental disorders, physical ailments and stress as the root cause of symptoms.
A diagnosis of ADHD can bring up complex emotions, such as grief over missed opportunities or feelings of relief knowing that you now have a clear explanation for your struggles. Adults with ADHD often feel that they are being judged by others for actions that aren't their own fault, such as forgetfulness or difficulty keeping their work organized. They may also be facing financial issues, like late payment deadlines or debt due to impulsive purchases.
It's not uncommon for adults with ADHD to exhibit self-destructive behaviors, such as drug and alcohol abuse, poor nutrition, chronic stress and tension as well as low self-esteem or issues with their relationships with family and friends. They may also be struggling with their physical well-being. They may neglect vital health checks or medications or struggle to follow the medical guidelines. They have difficulty managing their finances and maintaining jobs due to the fact that they aren't organized, do not meet the corporate standards and are unable to adhere to the same routine or schedule.
Adults with ADHD may benefit from support groups or therapy that offer strategies and techniques to manage the disorder. Therapists who specialize in ADHD can help them manage their symptoms, discover ways to overcome their weaknesses, and enhance their lives. They can also collaborate with family members to discuss how the disorder affects their relationship and devise strategies for supporting the person they love.
Peer support and online communities can also be beneficial. Sites like Sheila Henson or Neuroqueer offer workshops, webinars, as well as individual and group coaching on emotional regulation as well as social interaction and organizational skills. Other online resources include ADHD accommodating restaurants, workplace accommodations and classes to improve communication.
Many people suffering from ADHD find it beneficial to join support groups. These groups can be an excellent source of ideas and inspiration and they provide a forum for discussing issues and finding a solution. There are coaches and teachers that can help you develop an action plan to improve your functioning and lessen the effects of your symptoms.