Adult ADHD Diagnoses - The First Step to Managing Symptoms
Getting an adult ADHD diagnosis is the first step towards managing symptoms that could be debilitating in relationships and at work. A doctor can assess the person's mood and medical history, as well as whether there are any comorbid disorders, like anxiety or depression, that could cause similar symptoms.
A structured interview is an essential part of an evaluation. Family members, friends, and coworkers can also be interviewed to gain perspective on the person's history.
Signs and symptoms
Adults who suffer from ADHD may experience a variety of these symptoms, but they may affect more areas of life. They may struggle to maintain their jobs, manage their relationships, or perform well in school, for example. Signs of trouble include inattention and impulsively interrupting or blurting out answers and not being able to follow through on work tasks and frequently missing appointments. The condition can also cause financial challenges as people are often prone to make careless mistakes or overspend.
Professionals can evaluate adults for ADHD by using different methods. They may interview the parents of a person and ask about their childhood. They might also review reports and record teacher comments. Interviewing family members, friends and co-workers can also be used to assess the current performance of an individual. They can also conduct online rating or self-tests.
The diagnosis of ADHD as an adult usually requires a higher threshold than that of children - 5 out of 9 symptoms over the last 6 months. The symptoms must manifest at multiple times and not better explained by other mental health conditions such as anxiety or mood disorder, or physical conditions such as hearing loss or a visual impairment.
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 that you've struggled with for so long. It can also be a bit upsetting to discover that you suffer from a mental health condition, especially when you've had successes in other areas of your life.
A person who is diagnosed with ADHD is typically treated with psychotherapy, medication or other therapies. In some cases doctors will suggest accommodations for work or everyday activities. Accommodations are the tools or modifications to a person's environment that help them succeed and minimize the impact of their disability. Examples include an incline step for someone who is smaller than average or a computer program that allows those with visual limitations to focus on the screen. Adult ADHD is usually treated using behavioral therapy.
Diagnosis
If you suspect you may have ADHD, the first step is to make an accurate diagnosis. Ask your primary care doctor or a mental health professional to refer you to a specialist that conducts ADHD assessments. Your doctor will conduct an interview and go over your family, personal and medical background. They will also ask you about the impact of your health issues on your life at home, at school and at work.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, also known as DSM-5 is used by your doctor to determine whether you meet the ADHD criteria. The following are some of the DSM-5 criteria for inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive types of ADHD:
Inattention: Has difficulty staying focused on tasks or activities for long periods of time. Sometimes, they forget things, or has difficulty completing chores, schoolwork or other tasks. Many times, they make mistakes at work, school or during leisure activities. Is easily distracted, either by others or everyday activities. Sometimes, they seem 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 gets bored easily and looks for excitement or a new experience. Frequently gets into fights or arguments or acts 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 other conditions may have their own effects on a person, and may make it difficult to diagnose.
adhd in adults diagnosis is typically done to rule out any medical issues that could cause similar symptoms. Certain medical issues, like seizure disorders and thyroid disorders, can mimic ADHD symptoms.
If your symptoms are severe you may need to undergo additional tests for learning disabilities, neuropsychological disorders or psychological disorders. These tests can give you important information about how ADHD affects your relationships and performance. These tests can also help identify any other underlying problems that need to addressed.
Treatment
Adults can benefit from the same therapies as children with ADHD such as medication as well as behavioral strategies, life skills training and therapy. Adults may have to consider different medications since the ones they used to take as children might not be appropriate for them today.
A specialist in ADHD should be an individual who suffers from ADHD. This could be a primary physician who treats ADHD regularly or a mental health professional such as a psychiatrist or psychologist. Many insurance companies offer online directories of specialists. Additionally local support groups for people suffering from ADHD or a doctor who specializes in mood disorders may be able to recommend an expert.
After the examination, the doctor will determine a diagnosis and prescribe a treatment. He or she will likely be looking to speak with the patient about their personal history, and particularly how their symptoms affected them in the early years of their life. Therapists may suggest couples' or even family therapy if a person struggles with their career or in their relationships.
Medication is the most effective treatment for the majority of adults suffering from ADHD. These are typically small, fast-acting drugs that can reduce the imbalance of chemicals in the brain that triggers ADHD. In many instances, a doctor will also prescribe other treatments for related disorders like anxiety or depression.
Behavioral therapy can address issues with time management, impulse control, and emotional self-regulation. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) along with other specific interventions, can be delivered by therapists with particular expertise in working with individuals suffering from ADHD.
A few adults suffering from ADHD feel great relief when they finally are diagnosed. A proper treatment plan can change their lives dramatically. They will be more efficient at work, achieve success in school, or build healthier and more fulfilling relationships. Some people are relieved to finally receive a diagnosis after years regrets over mistakes they made due to their symptoms being misdiagnosed or not treated. It is possible that an individual's behavior was influenced by gender identity, race and socioeconomic status.
Support
If you weren't diagnosed with ADHD as an infant, it's not too late to seek an evaluation and treatment. Many specialists specialize in ADHD and can determine if you have mild, moderate, or severe symptoms. They can also rule out other mental disorders, physical ailments and stress as the root cause of symptoms.
A diagnosis of ADHD can trigger complicated emotions, like regret over missed opportunities or relief that you have a solid explanation for your difficulties. Adults who suffer from ADHD may feel criticized for behaviors they are not responsible for, such as forgetfulness and difficulty organizing their work. They might also have financial issues, like late payment deadlines or the accumulation of debt as a result of excessive spending.
Adults with ADHD are not uncommon to engage in self-destructive behavior, including drug and alcohol abuse. Other self-destructive behaviors include a poor diet, chronic tension and stress and low self-esteem, or issues with their relationships with friends and family. Also, they may be struggling with their physical well-being. They might not attend important medical checkups or medication or are unable to follow the medical guidelines. They are having trouble managing their finances and maintaining jobs due to the fact that they aren't organized, do not meet the corporate standards and are unable to adhere to an established routine or schedule.
Adults suffering from ADHD may benefit from support groups and therapy that teach coping skills and strategies for living with their condition. Therapists who specialize in ADHD can help them manage their symptoms, find ways to compensate for their weaknesses, and improve their lives. They can also collaborate with family members to discuss how the disorder affects their relationships and develop strategies to support their loved one.
Peer support and online communities can be extremely beneficial. Sites such as Sheila Henson or Neuroqueer offer workshops, webinars, and individual and group coaching on emotional regulation as well as social interaction and organizational skills. Other online sources include ADHD friendly establishments, workplace accommodations, and classes to improve communication.
Certain people with ADHD are also able to join support groups for those with ADHD, which can be a source of ideas and inspiration, and also provide an opportunity for discussion of issues and finding 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.