ADHD in Adults Diagnosis and Treatment
If you're suffering from untreated ADHD it can lead to problems throughout your life. You may have difficulty to maintain relationships as well as employment. This could result in frequent changes in your job or low ratings for performance.
You should first consult your primary care doctor for a referral to a health professional who conducts assessments for adults suffering from ADHD. You will then receive an assessment and treatment plan.
Diagnosis
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that causes difficulty staying focused, paying attention and acting on impulses. Adults with ADHD frequently have issues at work, school and in their relationships. It's a very common condition, but can be difficult for adults to diagnose, because they may not be able to recall the symptoms they experienced as children or have been incorrectly diagnosed.
Anyone seeking an assessment of ADHD in adults should speak with an expert in health care who has expertise in ADHD evaluations. A person can ask their personal doctor for a referral to a specialist who is specialized in ADHD. You can also request a referral by contacting local medical schools, universities or graduate schools.
In evaluating adults, a doctor will consider how long the symptoms have been present and how they affect the life of the patient. They will also examine whether the ADHD symptoms were present in the early years of childhood. The clinician will also determine if the person meets diagnostic guidelines for either the predominantly inattentive, the predominantly hyperactive-impulsive or combined subtypes of the disorder.
To be diagnosed with ADHD to be diagnosed, the person must demonstrate significant impairment in two areas of their life. These include at home, at work, with family and friends, or in specific activities like driving or playing sports. Impairment means that the symptoms cause significant difficulty and have lasted for at minimum six months.
The physician will also rule out any other conditions that could cause similar symptoms to ADHD such as anxiety, depression or other addiction disorders. They may also do additional psychological, neuropsychological or learning disabilities testing to determine if the patient suffers from co-existing disorders.
People who haven't been diagnosed with ADHD might be frustrated because they're not receiving the assistance and support that they need. Some adults have reported feeling a sense of relief and renewal after they are finally able to get a diagnosis. Some adults regret missed opportunities or failings due to the fact that their ADHD symptoms were not recognized and not treated. Some people who suffer from ADHD are reluctant to admit they suffer from ADHD particularly women who were assigned a female at birth. Some people are hesitant to admit they have ADHD due to the stigma associated with it.
Symptoms
Like children, adults with ADHD don't typically outgrow their condition. It is a condition that persists into adulthood and can have similar effects on their relationships, work and family life, as well as their mental health. The signs of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity can be seen in both adults and children with ADHD however, the signs are often more serious in adults. For instance, they could affect a person's work performance and can cause problems with relationships. A professional can help with treatment and support.
The first step is to locate an accredited evaluator like a psychiatrist or psychologist. Request recommendations from your friends and family, or search online for professionals in your area. Many people suffering from ADHD also suffer from other disorders such as anxiety and depression that must be considered when determining their diagnosis and treatment.
Your evaluator will wish to learn as much information about your life as they can. A detailed history of your life, especially one that goes back to childhood, could provide clues to determine if ADHD symptoms are linked to other conditions. Your evaluator may ask about your physical health and emotional well-being, the development of your personality in the early years of your life, academic and work experiences, driving history, drug and alcohol abuse and how you handle stress on a regular day basis.
If your evaluator suspects that you may have ADHD they will evaluate your current symptoms to determine if they impact your daily life. To be considered a diagnosed patient, your symptoms must be severe enough to cause impairment in at least two major settings. Examples of impairment include losing a job because of poor time management skills, getting in financial trouble as a result of impulsive spending or failing to make payments on time, and interpersonal issues in your relationship because of difficulty communicating.
adhd diagnosis in adult can enhance your ability to manage ADHD symptoms by learning to cope with their challenges. For instance you can reduce the stress level by implementing a regular routine and keeping your schedule free of distractions. Also, you can ensure you get enough sleep, stay away from sugary or caffeine-rich foods before bedtime, and do regular exercise. Certain people suffering from ADHD discover that psychotherapy or cognitive behavior therapy helps them manage their symptoms, whereas others use medications to ease the effects of their symptoms.
Treatment
The first step for adults who suspect that they may have ADHD is to talk to their health care provider. They may refer you to an expert in mental health who specialises in adult ADHD evaluations or provide suggestions for professionals who can perform such evaluations. Some insurance companies list professionals according to their specialties and may help those who are part of their plans to find an expert.
The background of the adult is crucial in determining ADHD. A doctor could ask to examine the child's school report card or interview family about the child's early behavior. The health professional will then search for patterns in behavior that could be indicative of ADHD.
During the examination the health professional can also use one or several rating scales that are standardized. These questionnaires evaluate the patient's behavior with the behavior of those who do not have ADHD and can aid the doctor in determining whether or not symptoms meet the diagnostic criteria.
A medical examination is required to rule out other conditions that may cause symptoms similar to ADHD. Seizures, thyroid problems, and hearing and vision issues can all be associated with similar effects.
Adults with ADHD can benefit from psychotherapy and behavioral therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy, in particular helps patients overcome negative thoughts and behaviors. This can decrease stress, which may cause ADHD symptoms worse. Counseling can help people better manage their time, increase their organizational abilities, and learn more effective ways of dealing with stressful situations.
Adults with ADHD are typically treated with stimulants. They appear to regulate and increase the levels of certain brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. These drugs can trigger serious side effects for some individuals, particularly children and teenagers. They are typically used for short-term treatments and are not appropriate for everyone.
Other treatments include lifestyle changes as well as psychotherapy. For instance, some adults who suffer from ADHD discover that increasing physical exercise can help them focus and be more productive. Other people with ADHD benefit from learning to improve their organization and planning capabilities. Access to Work, a disability support group, can aid people who are having difficulty maintaining relationships or keeping a job.
Support
Finding a doctor and receiving a successful treatment can help you deal with issues that affect your daily routine. It can also improve your self-image and relationships with your family as well as your friends and colleagues. adhd in adults diagnosis is never too late to get a diagnosis and treatment for ADHD.
Your GP may recommend an area of mental health care that specializes in treating adults with ADHD. It could be a Community Mental Health Service or a specialized Neurodevelopmental Service.
Support groups for adults suffering from ADHD can provide advice and a community-like feeling. You can also join online forums and talk to other members about their experiences. There are coaches and mentors that specialize in helping those suffering from ADHD. You must be aware, however, that mentorship and coaching are self-regulated jobs and there are some differences in terms of expertise and quality.
ADHD symptoms usually begin in childhood but can persist until adulthood. The disorder is more prevalent for men and boys than girls and women. The inattentive type (formerly known as attention deficit disorder hyperactivity) is more prevalent than the combined type. Symptoms of the hyperactive/impulsive subtype are less common in adults than those of the inattentive type, but they can still occur.
Adult ADHD is a difficult diagnosis because the symptoms differ between individuals. A history of difficulties in school, at work or in relationships can help a physician identify patterns. A thorough medical history is also useful. Many medical conditions can cause similar symptoms to ADHD The background information can help determine or identify other possible causes of the symptoms. These include seizures, developmental disorders depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and certain medications.
Untreated ADHD can result in the sufferer developing a low self-esteem and a negative self-image as a result of disappointment and failure. They might also experience mental health disorders such as depression or anxiety which can make ADHD worse.
A few adults suffering from ADHD are involved in clinical trials to help researchers learn more about the disorder. This can lead to more effective treatments in the future. On the NIMH website, you can learn some helpful tips on how to talk with your doctor about taking part in a clinical study.