Adult ADHD Diagnoses - The First Step to Managing Symptoms
The process of obtaining an adult ADHD diagnosis is the first step in managing symptoms that could be a hindrance in relationships and work. A doctor can evaluate a person's mood, medical history, and the presence of comorbid conditions that can cause similar symptoms, like depression or anxiety.
A structured interview is an essential part of an evaluation. Interviews with family members, colleagues and even friends can be conducted to get more information about the person's past.
Symptoms
Adults suffering from ADHD are likely to experience many of these symptoms, but they may be affected by more aspects of life. They may have difficulty keeping their jobs, managing relationships, and do well in schools, for instance. The signs include a lack of focus and snorting or blurting out answers in a hurry, failing to complete work tasks and frequently missing appointments. The condition can also result in financial problems because people are more likely to make impulsive mistakes or overspend.
A professional can test adults for ADHD by using a variety of methods. They can speak with the parents of an individual and ask about their childhood. They may look at reports and record teacher remarks. They may also assess the performance of an individual through interviews with co-workers, friends and family. They can also utilize self-tests or online ratings.
Adults are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD if they have had 5 of nine symptoms in the last six months. Symptoms must be present in multiple settings and are not better explained by a mental health issue like anxiety or mood disorders or other physical conditions like hearing loss or a vision issue.
If you're diagnosed with ADHD as an adult, it's normal to experience a variety of emotions. It's a feeling of relief when you finally get a concrete reason for the issues you've been struggling with for a long time. It can also be 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 some instances doctors will suggest accommodations at work or in daily activities. Accommodations are tools or changes to the environment of a person that help them succeed and minimize the effects of their impairment. Examples include a step stool for someone who is smaller than average, or a computer program that allows those with visual impairments to focus on the screen. The use of behavioral therapy is also a popular treatment for adults with ADHD.
Diagnosis
The first step in determining whether you suffer from ADHD is to get an accurate diagnosis. Contact your primary care physician or a mental health professional to refer you to a specialist who conducts ADHD evaluations. Your doctor will conduct an interview and go over your family, personal and medical history. They will also ask you about the impact of your medical conditions on your life at school, home 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 activities and tasks for long periods of time. Sometimes, they forget things, or has difficulty finishing chores, schoolwork and/or work tasks. It is prone to making mistakes at work, school or in leisure activities. Is easily distracted, either by people around them or their 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. Disrupts others often or talks off-topic. Often, they get bored quickly and is in search of excitement or a new experience. Frequently gets into disputes or fights without considering 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 their effects on individuals and can complicate the diagnosis.
A physical exam is typically conducted to rule out medical issues that could cause similar symptoms. Some medical conditions, like thyroid disorders and seizures, could be similar to ADHD symptoms.
If your symptoms are severe you may require additional testing for neuropsychological disorders or psychological disorders. These tests can provide vital information on the ways in which your ADHD affects your behavior and relationships. These tests can also help identify any other underlying problems that require attention.
Treatment
The same treatment that children with ADHD receive - medication, behavior strategies training in life skills, and therapy -- typically work for adults, too. Adults may need to test different medications since the ones they took as children might not be right for them at the moment.
The person with ADHD should consult a specialist who is knowledgeable about the disorder. This can be a primary doctor who treats ADHD regularly or a mental healthcare professional such as psychologists or psychiatrists. Many insurance companies have online directories of specialists. A local support group for ADHD sufferers or a doctor specializing in mood disorders can also recommend an expert.
After the evaluation the specialist will make an assessment and prescribe a treatment. He or she will likely need to speak with the person about their history, especially how their symptoms affected them in childhood. If the person is experiencing difficulty in their job or relationships, a therapist might suggest family or couples' therapy to help them learn to deal with their problems better.
The majority of adults suffering from ADHD can be effectively treated by medication. These are generally small, fast-acting drugs that can reduce the imbalance of chemicals in the brain that causes ADHD. Many doctors will prescribe other treatments for similar conditions, such as anxiety or depression.
Behavioral therapy can help improve issues with time management, control of impulses, organization and emotional self-regulation. Therapists with specific expertise in working with people with ADHD can offer cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other customized interventions.
A few adults suffering from ADHD are relieved when they finally are diagnosed. The right treatment plan can change their lives dramatically. They can be more productive at work or in school, or establish a healthier and more fulfilling relationship. Some people are happy to finally receive an appointment after years of regrets over mistakes made due to their symptoms being misdiagnosed or not treated. It is also possible that the individual's behavior is influenced by his or her gender identity, race or socioeconomic status.
Support
If you've never been diagnosed with ADHD as when you were a child, it's enough time to seek an assessment and treatment. Many professionals are trained in ADHD and can tell whether your symptoms are mild, moderate or severe. adhd diagnosis uk adult can also rule out other mental health disorders physical conditions, stress as the reason for your symptoms.
A diagnosis of ADHD can trigger a variety of complex emotions, including grief over missed opportunities or feelings of relief that you now have a clear explanation for your difficulties. Adults with 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 be struggling with financial issues, such as missing payment deadlines or accruing debt from excessive spending.
Adults with ADHD are not typically involved in self-destructive behaviors, such as drinking and using drugs. Other self-destructive behavior includes poor nutrition and stress, chronic tension and low self-esteem, or issues in their relationships with family and friends. They may also suffer from issues with their physical health. They may neglect vital health checks or medications or are unable to follow the medical guidelines. They have difficulty managing their finances and maintaining jobs because they aren't organized, fail to conform to corporate standards and do not stick to a routine or schedule.
Adults suffering from ADHD might benefit from support groups or therapy that provide strategies and coping skills to live with the disorder. Therapists who specialize in ADHD can help them manage their symptoms, figure out ways to overcome their weaknesses, and improve their lives. They can also collaborate with family members to discuss how the disorder affects their relationships and come up with strategies for helping their loved ones.
Online community and peer support can also be helpful. Sites such as Sheila Henson or Neuroqueer offer webinars, workshops, and individual and group coaching on emotional regulation as well as social interaction and organizational skills. Other online sources include ADHD-friendly restaurants, workplace accommodations, and classes on improving communication.
Some people with ADHD find it helpful to join support groups. These groups can be an excellent source of ideas and inspiration and also provide a platform to discuss issues and find a solution. There are also coaches and teachers that can assist you in developing an action plan to improve your performance and reduce the effects of your symptoms.
