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Adult ADHD Diagnosis

A diagnosis of adult ADHD can be the first step in seeking treatment for some people. They may be frustrated at work, at homes, or in their social lives because of symptoms like fidgeting or forgetting things.

Adults diagnosed with ADHD typically undergo a thorough evaluation, which includes interviews with them and their families and using standardized tests. This usually involves a physical examination.

Symptoms

For many adults, the diagnosis of ADHD can be life-changing. It can help them understand why they have been through so much and discover the meaning behind their previous choices. It may also provide them with hope for the future. If you're experiencing difficulty in locating your keys, feeling like you'll never be able to finish your work, or being labeled as unreliable or lazy, getting an assessment is the first step towards finding the right treatment for you.

The majority of adults experience symptoms across different areas of their life however, certain areas are more prominent than others. They might be unruly and impulsive at school but have trouble keeping up at work. They may forget appointments or struggle to estimate how to get diagnosed with adhd adult long they will need to complete their tasks. They may have trouble making friends or have frequent arguments with their spouses. If the problems are serious, they can interfere with daily life and lead to depression or anxiousness.

While it's essential to consider the possibility of a diagnosis of ADHD, it's just as important to look at what other factors might be that are causing the symptoms. Stress, mental health issues and medications can often cause symptoms similar to those of ADHD. To ensure that the underlying problem is treated, a thorough evaluation by a specialist is required.

Unlike children, adults with ADHD do not show the more prominent signs of hyperactivity. Instead, the signs of hyperactivity manifest more subtly, such as fidgeting or having trouble sitting in the chair. Women who suffer from ADHD tend to exhibit these symptoms more often because they are able to hide their inattentive behaviors at work and in social lives.

During the exam the doctor will look at the patient's medical background and how symptoms affect their daily lives. They will also request family history and, if it is possible, talk to a loved one to gain their view on the behavior of children. They might also conduct the neuropsychological, psychological or learning disabilities testing. In certain instances it is necessary to perform an examination of the body to rule out certain diseases that may mimic the symptoms associated with ADHD.

Diagnosis

Adults who suspect they have ADHD should discuss their symptoms with their physician. This is particularly important if the problems are related to school or work. Primary care providers can refer patients to mental health professionals with experience in adult ADHD evaluations. Hamdani states that professionals who work with adults suffering from ADHD should be willing and able to provide information regarding their training and experiences. Hamdani says that anyone who is hesitant to disclose such information should be viewed with suspicion.

A diagnosis of adult ADHD can be a life-changing event. For some, it gives an explanation for the years of frustration and self-criticism. Others feel a sense relief that there's a reason for the struggles they've faced in their lives, or that their struggles weren't simply "in their heads."

In the majority of cases, an adult diagnosed with ADHD is diagnosed by conducting a thorough interview with a certified professional. This will include a review of the person's personal, family and medical history. Additionally, the doctor will likely ask the individual to rate their behaviors on one or more standardized ADHD behavior rating scales. These ratings are based on research that compares the behavior of those with ADHD and people who do not suffer from the disorder.

The person will be questioned about their symptoms and how they impact their daily life. In order to meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD, an adult must have at least five persistent symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity-impulsivity that cause significant impairment in at least two settings (such as home, school and work) and that are not better explained by other factors.

People who receive a diagnosis of adult ADHD frequently have coexisting conditions, called co-morbidities. Depression, anxiety disorders, and drug or alcohol use are common comorbidities of ADHD. Some experts suggest these comorbidities develop as maladaptive coping mechanisms to deal with the stressors that are typically associated with untreated ADHD.

It is also important to remember that ADHD is more prevalent in men than women, and it may be difficult for many people who suffer from the disorder to get diagnosed because of long-held biases about the symptoms and the impact they have on men and women. Women may be able to mask their symptoms better and can lead to delay diagnosis or an incorrect diagnosis.

Treatment

Adults who receive a diagnosis of ADHD might find it beneficial to talk with an expert in mental health, especially one with experience treating adults with ADHD. This individual can teach the adult behavior strategies to manage their symptoms and improve their functioning at work, home or at school. They can also help adults understand why their behavior differs and what triggers them.

A mental health professional must take a thorough look at an adult's health for other disorders that are similar to ADHD. This may include a detailed description of the scale and the forms filled out by the patient or other individuals who are familiar with him/her as well as a psychiatric and family history, as well as a thorough physical exam.

It is crucial to conduct a thorough evaluation in order to determine if the adult suffers from a comorbid disorder such as anxiety or depression. These conditions can worsen ADHD symptoms and make treatment more difficult. A mental health professional can also conduct neurologic or cognitive tests to assess the way that the brain functions and to rule out any other causes, such as a physical illness or learning disability.

Adults with ADHD are usually treated through psychological counseling (psychotherapy), and educational programs. Individual talk therapy can help an adult build better self-esteem and learn to manage the emotional baggage that often accompanies a diagnosis of ADHD. Behavioral therapies can help improve organization, time management and impulse control, and could tackle the impact of stressors on an individual's ability to function.

Some people with ADHD benefit from group therapy. This type of therapy may give them the chance to meet other people with the same issues and discuss strategies to overcome these challenges. These groups are typically run by a support or advocacy group.

The use of medication is also an option for a lot of adults suffering from ADHD. There are a variety of medications available that include stimulants, which increase the levels of norepinephrine as well as dopamine in the brain (for example, methylphenidate, which is also known as Ritalin). Others assist in regulating moods and decrease impulsive behavior, like antidepressants and bupropion, an antipsychotic medication (Wellbutrin). Your Mercy doctor can discuss all treatment options.

Support

Adults with ADHD may suffer from the disorder for a long time without realizing it. They might seek an evaluation because they are annoyed by everyday challenges such as forgetting appointments and making mistakes at work, or neglecting commitments to friends and family. It is common for people to feel a sense of relief once they get a diagnosis, especially when they can see why they have been struggling throughout their lives.

A mental health professional could perform an ADHD assessment, but the primary physician is typically the best place to start. If needed, the doctor could refer the patient a specialist. A psychiatric nursing, psychiatrist or psychologist may also be able to assess ADHD in adults. Many insurance plans list specialists by specialization and can help people find an expert in health care who is knowledgeable about ADHD in adults.

During the assessment, a mental health professional will inquire about the person's previous issues and how to diagnose adults with adhd ADHD symptoms have affected them. It's important to talk openly and truthfully during the evaluation so that the mental health professional can conduct a thorough evaluation.

Psychotherapy, or psychological counseling, can help people manage their issues and improve their relationships. Behavioral therapy, or cognitive behavioral therapy teaches people how to modify their behavior and patterns of thinking. The combination of therapy and medication can alleviate the symptoms of the disorder.

Many adults ADHD sufferers benefit from support groups for adults. Being able to share their experiences with others who have similar struggles can be a great source of inspiration and encouragement. Some of these groups are based online and are open to anyone who suffers from ADHD. Other groups are for specific groups, like African Americans with ADHD, couples impacted by the disorder or those who identify as gay or lesbian.

Some people might be embarrassed or ashamed of their symptoms. This could make them less willing to seek assistance. But a health professional should explain that ADHD is not an indication of failing or weakness.