Adult ADHD Diagnoses - The First Step to Managing Symptoms
Finding an adult ADHD diagnosis is the first step in managing symptoms that can be a hindrance in relationships and work. A doctor can assess the mood of a person, their medical history and the presence of any comorbid conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as anxiety or depression.
A structured interview is an essential part of an evaluation. Interviews with family members, colleagues and friends may be conducted to gain a better understanding of the person's past.
Symptoms
Adults who suffer from ADHD may suffer from many of the same symptoms as children, however 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. Signs of trouble include inattention, impulsively interrupting or blurting out answers, failing to follow up on work assignments and repeatedly missing appointments. This can lead to financial difficulties as people are more likely to commit errors 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 about their childhood experiences. They may review report cards and take note of comments from teachers. Interviewing family, friends, and co-workers can also be used to evaluate an individual's current functioning. They may also use self-tests or online ratings.
Adults are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD when they've had 5 of nine symptoms in the past 6 months. The symptoms must be present at multiple times and are not explained by other mental health disorders, such a mood disorder or anxiety disorder, as well as physical conditions such as hearing loss or a vision problem.
It's normal to feel an array of emotions when you receive an ADHD diagnosis as an adult. It can be a relief to finally have an explanation for the issues that you've struggled with for a long time. It can also be a bit upsetting to realize that you have an illness of the mind even if you've had success in other areas of your life.
A person diagnosed with ADHD is usually treated with psychotherapy, medication or other treatments. In certain cases, a doctor will recommend accommodations for work or everyday activities. Accommodations are modifications or devices that can be added to the environment around a person to assist them succeed. Examples include an incline step for someone who is smaller than average or an application for computers that allows someone with vision difficulties to concentrate on the screen. Behavioral therapy is also a popular treatment for adults with ADHD.
Diagnosis
The first step to determining whether you suffer from ADHD is to receive an accurate diagnosis. You can begin by asking your primary care physician or mental health professional for a referral to a specialist who can conduct ADHD assessments. The doctor will interview you and examine your personal, family and medical background. They will also ask you about the impact of your medical conditions on your daily routine at home, school and work.
Your doctor will use the American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic guidelines published in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), to determine whether you meet the criteria for ADHD. The following are some of the DSM-5 criteria for inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive types of ADHD:
Inattention: Have trouble staying focused on tasks and activities for a long period of time. Often forgets, loses things or has difficulty finishing chores, schoolwork and/or work tasks. Frequently makes careless mistakes in the classroom, at work or in leisure activities. Is easily distracted by others or the daily activities. Often, they daydream, appear to be on autopilot or loses their focus on what they are doing.
Hyperactivity/Impulsivity: Often restless, fidgets or can't sit still in class or at work. Talks frequently to others or interrupts them off-topic. Often, they get bored quickly and seeks out excitement or a sense of novelty. In most cases, they engage in fights or disputes 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 conditions can have impacts on a person, and complicate the diagnosis.
A physical examination is usually conducted to rule out medical issues that could cause similar symptoms. Certain medical conditions, such as seizure disorders and thyroid disorders, may mimic ADHD symptoms.
If your symptoms are serious, additional psychological, neuropsychological and/or learning disabilities testing may be performed to aid in making the diagnosis. These tests can provide vital information on the ways in which your ADHD affects your behavior and relationships. They can also help identify any other underlying issues that require to be addressed.
Treatment
Adults are able to benefit from the same therapies as children with ADHD, including medications as well as behavioral strategies, life skills training, and therapy. Adults may require different medications but the ones that were used as children might not be the right fit for them at the moment.
The person suffering from ADHD should see an expert who is trained in the disorder. This may be a primary care doctor who routinely treats ADHD or an expert in mental health, like psychiatrist or psychologist. Many insurance companies 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 evaluation the specialist will come up with the diagnosis and prescribe treatment. They will want to talk with the patient about their personal history, and particularly how the symptoms affected them during the early years of their life. Therapists might suggest couples' or family therapy if a person struggles with their career or in their relationships.
The majority of adults suffering from ADHD are treated effectively by medication. These are typically small, fast-acting drugs that help to reduce the chemical imbalance in the brain that triggers ADHD. In many instances, a doctor may prescribe additional medications to treat related conditions like anxiety or depression.
Behavioral therapy can help with problems with time management and organization, impulse control, and emotional self-regulation. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), as well as other specific interventions, can be provided by therapists who have particular expertise in working with individuals suffering from ADHD.
Many adults suffering from ADHD are relieved when they finally are diagnosed. The right treatment plan can drastically alter their lives for the better. They will be more efficient at work, achieve success in school, or build more satisfying and healthier relationships. For certain people, diagnosis brings closure to years of regrets over the mistakes they made in their past because their issues went undiagnosed or not treated. It is possible that a person's behavior was influenced by their gender identity, race, and socioeconomic circumstances.
Support
It's not too early to get an assessment and treatment if you weren't diagnosed with ADHD when you were in your early years. Many professionals are trained in ADHD and can tell you whether your symptoms are mild, moderate or severe. They can also rule other mental disorders, physical issues and stress out as the cause of symptoms.
A diagnosis of ADHD may bring up complex emotions, such as grief over missed chances or relief that you have a solid explanation for your issues. Adults suffering from ADHD often feel as if they're being judged by others for actions that aren't their own fault, such as forgetfulness or difficulty keeping their work organized. They may also struggle with financial issues, such as not paying on time or accumulating debt from excessive spending.
Adults suffering from ADHD are not uncommon to engage in self-destructive behavior, including drug and alcohol abuse. Other self-destructive behaviors include poor nutrition, chronic tension and stress and low self-esteem, or issues with their relationships with family and friends. They may also have issues with physical well-being by ignoring vital medical checkups and medication, or having difficulty following medical instructions and procedures. They may have trouble managing their finances and sustaining jobs due to the fact that they aren't organized, do not meet corporate expectations and cannot stick to the same routine or schedule.
Adults who suffer from ADHD may benefit from therapy or support groups that offer strategies and coping skills to live with the disorder. get diagnosed with adhd who specialize in ADHD can assist them in managing their symptoms, figure out ways to overcome their weaknesses, and improve their overall functioning. They can also work with family members to discuss how the disorder affects their relationship and devise strategies for helping their loved one.
Online communities and peer support can be helpful. Websites like Sheila Henson and Neuroqueer offer individual and group coaching, seminars and webinars on organizing skills emotional regulation, social interaction. Other online resources include ADHD-friendly restaurants, workplace accommodations, and classes for improving communication.
Some people with ADHD find it beneficial to join support groups. These groups can be a great source of ideas and inspiration, and they provide a forum for discussing challenges and finding solution. In addition to support groups there are coaches and teachers who can assist you to develop a plan for improving your functioning and reducing the impact of your symptoms.