Adult ADHD Diagnoses - The First Step to Managing Symptoms
The first step in managing adult ADHD symptoms is to obtain a diagnosis. These symptoms can be debilitating for relationships and at work. A doctor will assess the person's mood and medical history, and whether there are any comorbid conditions, such anxiety or depression, that could cause similar symptoms.
A structured interview is part of an evaluation. Family members, friends and coworkers may also be interviewed to gain perspective on the person's history.
Symptoms
Adults with ADHD may suffer from many of the same symptoms as children, but the behaviors they exhibit can affect different areas of their lives. They may have difficulty keeping their jobs, manage relationships and perform well in school, for instance. Symptoms can include a lack of focus, interrupting or blurting answers at random, not being able to complete tasks, and a tendency to miss appointments frequently. The condition can also cause financial challenges because people are more likely to make mistakes that are not considered prudent or overspend.
A professional may evaluate adults for ADHD by 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 look over report cards and note teacher remarks. Interviewing family, friends, and coworkers can be used to determine the current performance of an individual. They may even take advantage of online ratings or self-tests.
Adults are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD when they have had 5 of 9 symptoms over the past 6 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 ailments such as hearing loss or a vision issue.
When you are diagnosed with ADHD as an adult, it's normal to experience a range of emotions. It can be a relief to finally have an explanation for difficulties you've had to face for a long time. It can also be a bit upsetting to discover that you suffer from a mental health condition, especially when you've had success in other aspects of your life.
A person who is diagnosed with ADHD is typically treated with medication, psychotherapy or other treatments. In some instances doctors may suggest adjustments for work or daily activities. Accommodations are modifications or devices that can be added to the environment around a person to assist them succeed. A step stool can be used by someone who is taller than average, or a computer program that can aid those with visual impairments focus on the screen. Adult ADHD is usually treated using behavioral therapy.
Diagnosis
If you suspect you have ADHD, the first step is to obtain an accurate diagnosis. Contact your primary care physician or a mental health professional to refer you to a specialist who does ADHD assessments. The doctor will interview you and review your personal, family and medical history. They will also inquire about the impact of your symptoms on your daily life at home, at school and at work.
Your doctor will use the American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic guidelines, that are included 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: Has difficulty staying focused on tasks and activities for long periods of time. It is difficult to finish chores, assignments or schoolwork. It is prone to making mistakes at school, work or in leisure activities. is easily distracted by other people or by everyday activities. Sometimes, they seem to be in autopilot, or loses 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. Most often, he is bored and seeks excitement or a new experience. Frequently engages in fights or disputes 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 can have their own impact on an individual and make it difficult to diagnose.
A physical exam is performed to determine if there are medical conditions that could cause similar symptoms. Some medical problems, like seizure disorders and thyroid disorders, may mimic ADHD symptoms.
If your symptoms are severe you may need to undergo additional tests for neuropsychological disorders or psychological disorders. These tests can provide important information regarding how ADHD affects your functioning and relationships. They can also help identify any other underlying issues that need to be addressed.
Treatment
The same methods that children with ADHD receive -- medications, behavior strategies life skills training, medication and therapy -usually work for adults, too. Adults may have to consider other treatments because the ones they took as children might not be suitable for them now.
A specialist in ADHD should be sought out by those suffering from ADHD. This may be a primary care physician who regularly treats ADHD or a mental health professional, like psychiatrists or psychologists. Many insurance plans have online directories of specialists. A local support group for ADHD sufferers or a doctor with expertise in mood disorders can also recommend an expert.
After the examination the doctor should then make a diagnosis and prescribe treatment. The doctor will be looking to speak with the individual about their personal history, and particularly how their symptoms affected them in childhood. A therapist might suggest couples' or family therapy if the person is having difficulty in their work or in their relationships.
The most effective treatment is medication. treatment for adults suffering from ADHD. These are usually small, quick-acting medicines that help to reduce the chemical imbalance that causes ADHD. Many doctors will prescribe other medications for related conditions, such as depression or anxiousness.
Behavioral therapy can address issues related to time management, impulse control and emotional self-regulation. Therapists with specialized expertise in working with those suffering from ADHD can offer cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as well as other customized interventions.
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 will be more productive at work or in school, or develop healthier and more fulfilling relationship. For certain people, diagnosis brings closure to years of regrets about mistakes they've made in the past due to their symptoms going undiagnosed or treated poorly. It is possible that an individual's behavior was influenced by their gender identity, race, and socioeconomic status.
Support
It's not too late to seek an assessment and treatment if you weren't diagnosed with ADHD as a child. Many specialists specialize in ADHD and can determine if you have mild or moderate symptoms. They can also rule out other mental health disorders, physical conditions, and stress as the reason for your symptoms.
A diagnosis of ADHD can trigger complex emotions, including grief over missed opportunities or feelings of relief that you now have a clear reason for your problems. Adults who suffer from ADHD often feel as if they're being judged by others for their actions that aren't really their own fault, such as the inability to keep their work in order. They might also have financial issues, like missing payment deadlines or accruing debt from excessive spending.
Adults suffering from ADHD are not uncommon to engage in self-destructive behavior, which includes drinking and using drugs. more info -destructive behavior includes poor nutrition, chronic tension and stress, low self-esteem or difficulties with their relationships with their family and friends. They may also have issues with physical well-being by ignoring vital health checks and medications or having trouble following medical instructions and procedures. They may have trouble managing their finances and keeping their jobs because they are not organized, fail to conform to corporate standards and do not stick to the same routine or schedule.
Adults who suffer from ADHD can benefit from support and therapy groups that teach coping skills and strategies for living with their condition. Therapists who specialize in ADHD can help them manage their symptoms, figure out ways to overcome their weaknesses, and improve their overall functioning. They also can work closely with family members to discuss how the disorder affects their relationship and coming up with strategies to help their loved ones.
Online communities and peer support can be useful. Sites such as Sheila Henson and Neuroqueer offer individual and group coaching, workshops and webinars on organizing skills emotional regulation, social interaction. Other online resources include ADHD friendly workplace accommodations, restaurants, and classes to improve communication.
Some people with ADHD find it beneficial to join support groups. These groups can be a fantastic source of ideas and inspiration, and also provide a platform to discuss issues and find a solutions. There are teachers and coaches that can help you develop an action plan to improve your performance and lessen the effects of your symptoms.