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Adult Diagnosis of ADHD

A diagnosis of ADHD can change the life of adults who suffer from the disorder. It can help people understand why they struggle in relationships, work, and family.

However, it can be difficult to determine a diagnosis since symptoms are often overlapping with other ailments. A health care provider or a mental health professional will assess the patient and conduct tests.

Symptoms

One may not even be aware they have ADHD until they reach the age of adulthood or perhaps because teachers and parents did not recognize symptoms at a younger age, or because the demands of college or work made the disorder more apparent. Adults with ADHD who aren't diagnosed suffer in their social, academic and professional lives. Many people who are not being diagnosed with add as an adult with ADHD suffer from a variety of issues, including financial issues and relationship issues.

A mental health professional will review and interview the patient's medical, psychiatric and personal history, paying particular attention to symptoms in various settings. The patient will explain how these symptoms impact his or her daily functioning and relationships. It is crucial that patients are honest about their symptoms and not cover them up to avoid embarrassment.

It is also essential for the mental health professional to determine whether these symptoms are related to comorbid disorders like anxiety and depression, which frequently coexist with ADHD. These conditions can make ADHD symptoms worse and cause problems with the treatment of the disorder.

If the psychologist or psychiatrist thinks that the symptoms of ADHD are influenced by comorbid conditions, additional cognitive, neuropsychological, or learning disabilities testing may be used to help establish an accurate diagnosis. These tests will also aid in determining the degree of impairment to function that is caused by these conditions. Additionally the mental health professional could require an interview with one or more significant others such as spouses, siblings and coworkers in order to collect an accurate picture of the individual's performance and challenges.

Diagnosis

For adults the diagnosis of ADHD is usually determined by a mental health care specialist or doctor who conducts a thorough diagnosis. This includes a detailed discussion of the symptoms and their impact on the way you live your life. Additionally, it is important to consider the presence of any other mental disorders that can occur alongside ADHD, such mood disorders and anxiety. The practitioner may also ask to speak to your significant others like a spouse or close family member, in order for them gather more information.

A correct diagnosis of ADHD could alter your life. For many adults, the diagnosis finally gives them an explanation for what always appeared to be "normal" behaviors. It's often a relief find out that their issues aren't simply due to lazyness or forgetfulness.

The American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth edition (DSM-5) requires that adults meet specific criteria for symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity. This is a standard established to ensure that individuals receive the care and support they need. In order for a person to be eligible for an ADHD diagnosis they must exhibit symptoms for at least one year and cause significant impairment in a variety of settings including school, home or work with family members or friends or other activities. The number of symptoms required for adults over 17 has been reduced from six to five.

A good relationship with your primary health care provider can help you identify ADHD. Many providers diagnose and treat ADHD in children and refer you to an expert in mental health to assess adults.

Treatment

If someone suffering from ADHD is diagnosed, their lives can transform dramatically. They may finally discover solutions to their problems at the classroom, as well as in establishing a career, or in relationships. For some, a diagnosis can provide relief from shame that may have been accumulated over the years of their ailments going untreated.

The first step in getting an diagnosis is speaking to a health care professional or mental health professional. They might ask questions about family history and do physical examinations to rule out conditions that can cause symptoms that are similar to ADHD like learning disabilities, sleep disorders or alcohol/drug use. They may also request the person to fill out a checklist of symptoms.

During the process of assessment, the doctor may request to speak with an individual partner or spouse. This will help the spouse who is not an ADHD or partner develop a clear understanding and empathetic attitude toward their loved one's ADHD symptoms, which is important in improving relationships after the diagnosis. If this isn't an option the therapist may ask colleagues or friends who know the person.

Medicines are the primary treatment options for adults with ADHD. Adult ADHD is treated with stimulants like methylphenidate, Adderall and dextroamphetamine. Other medications like Atomoxetine (Strattera(r),) and Guanfacine (Intuniv (r) Tenex (r)) can increase the amount of norepinephrine that is produced in the brain. These medications can improve ADHD symptoms.

Psychotherapy is a different option. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can teach patients strategies to manage their ADHD symptoms, including time management and organizational strategies, self-regulation of emotions and behavior and dealing with negative feelings and self-criticism. Other therapies, like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy can help adults recognize automatic or irrational thoughts that lead to negative behavior and devise strategies to replace them with positive self-talk.

Medication

Many people find that ADHD medication can help improve their symptoms. The medication is typically in the form of a stimulant, and it increases the activity of the brain in areas that control behavior and attention. Methylphenidate is the most commonly prescribed medication for adults suffering from ADHD and is available in different forms. It is available as immediate-release tablets or modified-release tablets that release the medication throughout the day. Clonidine is a different type of medication that works by reducing brain activity. It can be taken in pill or liquid form.

The psychiatrist or therapist will review the medical and family history of the adult add diagnosis patient to identify factors that could cause similar symptoms. This is crucial because certain medical conditions like thyroid problems and seizure disorders can cause symptoms similar to those of ADHD. Some medications and dietary supplement can cause similar symptoms.

During the test, the person is likely to describe the ADHD symptoms. They will be asked to complete standardized ADHD rating scales and check lists, along with comprehensive psychological tests that test executive functioning, working memory (abilities such as making decisions and planning) spatial and visual abilities, and reasoning skills.

If the therapist is of the opinion that ADHD symptoms are seriously affecting the quality of life of a person the therapist will recommend medication. In some cases the therapist might ask the spouse or partner of the patient to talk with them about the impact of their ADHD symptoms on their relationship. This can reduce blame between individuals and promote healthy, productive relationships.

Counseling

Receiving a diagnosis is a huge relief to many adults suffering from ADHD. It allows them to understand why they are having difficulties at work or school and to discover ways to overcome these issues. It's also a chance to overcome negative habits and boost self-esteem.

Counseling can be a wonderful method to build a strong support system. Counseling for ADHD could include psychotherapy (or psychological therapy) as well as a variety of behavioral treatments. For instance a therapist might create a reward chart which rewards positive behavior, and is able to impose consequences for negative behavior. The therapist can also instruct the patient in skills to manage their symptoms, such as relaxation techniques like deep breathing or yoga postures.

Another benefit of counseling is helping people comprehend and accept their ADHD. It's difficult to admit you have problems in organizing, planning and paying attention. It is embarrassing to admit that you have ADHD to co-workers or supervisors. The majority of teachers and supervisors will provide accommodations to accommodate your condition. For instance, they may permit you to use a computer for writing assignments instead of paper and give more in-depth explanations of classroom material.

The therapist will also show you how to manage ADHD through cognitive therapy for behavioral disorders. It is a method of therapy that helps you transform negative behavior and thoughts into positive ones. Counseling for ADHD may also include family or marital therapy which teaches loved ones how to get diagnosed with adhd as an adult to interact better with a person suffering from ADHD and enhance the ability to communicate and solve problems. People with ADHD typically suffer from other mental health issues such as depression or anxiety and may be afflicted by substance abuse that can cause more symptoms.