Adult ADHD Diagnoses - The First Step to Managing Symptoms
Finding an adult ADHD diagnosis is the first step to managing symptoms that can be a hindrance in relationships and at work. A doctor can evaluate the mood of a person, their medical history and the presence of comorbid conditions that trigger similar symptoms such as anxiety or depression.
An organized interview is a part of an evaluation. Interviews with family members, coworkers and even friends can be conducted to gain an understanding of the person's past.
Signs and symptoms
Adults suffering from ADHD may experience many of the same symptoms as children, but those behaviors can affect more areas of their lives. They may have difficulty keeping their jobs, manage their relationships, or do well at school, for example. The signs include trouble paying attention, impulsively interrupting or uttering answers in a blur and not being able to follow up on work assignments and repeatedly missing appointments. The condition can also lead to financial problems as people are often prone to make mistakes that are not considered prudent or overspend.
A professional can test adults for ADHD using a variety of methods. They can interview the parents of an individual and inquire about their childhood. They may review report cards and take note of teacher comments. They may also assess an individual's current functioning through interviews with co-workers, friends and family. They may also utilize online rating or self-tests.
Adults are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD when they have had 5 of 9 symptoms over the last six months. Symptoms should be present in a variety of contexts and cannot be than a mental health issue, such as a mood or anxiety disorder or other physical ailments, such as a visual or hearing loss.
When you are diagnosed with ADHD as an adult, it's normal to experience a variety of emotions. It can be a relief when you finally have an explanation for the issues you've been struggling with for a long time. It can also be upsetting to realize you have an illness of the mind particularly when you've experienced successes in other areas of your life.
Someone diagnosed with ADHD typically receives psychotherapy, medication or other treatments. In some instances doctors may recommend adjustments for work or daily activities. Accommodations are adjustments or devices that can be made to the environment around a person to assist them achieve their goals. Examples include the use of a step stool for those who is less than average or computer programs that allow people with vision impairments to concentrate on the screen. Behavioral therapy is an effective treatment for adults with ADHD.
Diagnosis
The first step to determine whether you suffer from ADHD is to get an accurate diagnosis. You can begin by asking your primary care physician or a mental health professional for a referral to a specialist who can conduct ADHD evaluations. Your doctor will conduct an interview with you and review your medical personal, family and medical background. Read the Full Report will also ask you about the impact of your symptoms on your daily life at home, school and work.
Your doctor will refer to 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: Has difficulty staying focused on tasks and activities for a long period of time. It is difficult to finish chores, tasks or schoolwork. It is prone to making mistakes at school, work or during leisure activities. Is easily distracted by others or by everyday activities. It is often a daydreamer, and appears to be on 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 off-topic. Often, they get bored quickly and seeks excitement or novelty. In most cases, they engage in arguments or fights 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 may have their own effects on a person, and may complicate diagnosis.
A physical exam is conducted to rule out medical conditions that could cause similar symptoms. Certain medical issues, like thyroid disorders and seizure disorders, can mimic ADHD symptoms.
If your symptoms are extreme, additional psychological, neuropsychological and/or learning disabilities testing may be utilized to help determine the diagnosis. These tests can provide important information about the ways in the way that your ADHD affects your behavior and relationships. These tests can also reveal any other underlying issues that require attention.
Treatment
The same treatment that children with ADHD receive - medication, behavioral strategies training in life skills, and therapy -- usually work for adults, too. Adults might need to try different drugs however, as the ones used as children may not be the best fit for them now.
A specialist in ADHD should be consulted by the person with ADHD. This can be a primary physician who treats ADHD regularly or a mental health professional like psychologist or psychiatrist. A lot of insurance plans have online directories of specialists. A local support group for ADHD sufferers or a specialist doctor who specializes in mood disorders could recommend a specialist.
After the evaluation the doctor should then make a diagnosis and prescribe treatment. The doctor will need to speak with the person about their history, especially how the symptoms affected them during childhood. Therapists may suggest couples' or family therapy if the person is having difficulty in their work or relationships.
Medication is the most effective treatment for the majority of adults suffering from ADHD. They are typically small, fast-acting drugs that can reduce the chemical imbalance that creates ADHD. Many doctors prescribe other treatments for similar conditions such as depression or anxiousness.
Behavioral therapy can address issues related to time management, impulse control and emotional self-regulation. Therapists with specific expertise in working with individuals suffering from ADHD can provide cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) as well as other interventions that are individualized.
Many adults suffering from ADHD feel great relief when they finally get diagnosed. Having the right treatment plan can dramatically change their lives to the better. They can be more productive at work, be successful in school, or build more satisfying and healthier relationships. For certain people, diagnosis brings closure to the years of regrets over the mistakes they made in their past because their symptoms went undiagnosed or not treated. It is possible that a person's behavior was influenced by gender identity, race and socioeconomic status.
Support
It's not too early to get an assessment and treatment if you were not diagnosed with ADHD when you were a child. Many professionals are certified in ADHD and can tell you if your symptoms are mild, moderate or severe. They can also rule out other mental health disorders, physical conditions, and stress as a cause of your symptoms.
A diagnosis of ADHD can trigger complex emotions, such as regret over missed opportunities or relief that you have a reason for your struggles. Adults who suffer from ADHD may feel criticized for actions they aren't responsible for, such as forgetfulness and difficulty organizing their work. They may also struggle with financial issues, like late payment deadlines or the accumulation of debt due to the impulsive spending.
It's not uncommon for adults with ADHD to experience self-destructive behaviors, such as drug and alcohol abuse, poor nutrition, chronic stress and tension, low self-esteem, or issues with their relationships with family and friends. They might also be struggling with their physical health, such as neglecting important medical checkups and medication or having trouble following the medical guidelines and procedures. They often have trouble sustaining jobs and managing their finances because they struggle with organization, meeting corporate expectations, and adhering to a plan or routine.
Adults who suffer from ADHD may benefit from support and therapy groups which teach coping skills and strategies for dealing with their condition. Specialized ADHD therapists can help adults manage their symptoms, overcome their shortcomings and improve their performance in everyday life. They can also work with family members to discuss how the disorder affects their relationship and devise strategies to support the person they love.
Support from peers and online communities can also be helpful. Websites like Sheila Henson and Neuroqueer offer individual and group coaching, seminars, and webinars on organizational skills emotional regulation, social interaction. Other online resources include ADHD-friendly restaurants workplace accommodations, and classes on improving communication.
Some people with ADHD find it beneficial to join support groups. These groups can be a fantastic source of inspiration and ideas, and they can be a place to discuss issues and find a solution. There are also teachers and coaches who can help you develop an action plan to improve your performance and lessen the impact of your symptoms.