ADHD in Adults Diagnosis and Treatment
If you are suffering from untreated ADHD it could cause issues in all aspects of your life. You may struggle to maintain relationships and employment which can lead to frequent job changes or low performance ratings.
It is recommended to first ask your primary care physician for an appointment with a health care professional who performs evaluations for adults with ADHD. You will then be able to get an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
Diagnosis
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that causes difficulties with staying focussed, paying attention, and responding to impulses. Adults who suffer from ADHD frequently have issues at school, at work and in their relationships. It is a common disorder however, it can be difficult to recognize because many adults don't remember having symptoms as children, or were misdiagnosed as kids.
A person who is seeking an evaluation for ADHD in adults should speak with a health care provider with expertise in ADHD evaluations. The patient could ask their physician for a referral to a specialist who is an expert in ADHD. You can also request an appointment by calling local medical schools, universities, or graduate schools.
In evaluating adults, a clinician will look at how long the symptoms have been present and how they affect the individual's life. They will also look at whether the root of the ADHD symptoms have been present in 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 diagnose ADHD, one must show significant impairment in two aspects of their life. This includes at home, at work, with friends and family, or in specific activities like driving or playing sports. The symptoms must be significant and persistent for a minimum of six months to be deemed impaired.
In determining a diagnosis the clinician will also try to rule out other illnesses that could trigger similar problems to ADHD, such as depression, anxiety, or substance use disorders. They can also conduct psychological, learning disabilities or neuropsychological tests to determine if a patient suffers from a co-existing disorder.
People who haven't been diagnosed with ADHD might be frustrated because they're not getting the help and support that they need. Adults have reported feeling rejoicing and rejuvenated after receiving the diagnosis. Others report having many regrets over lost opportunities or failures in their lives due to the fact that their ADHD symptoms were not recognized and untreated. Some people suffering from ADHD have a hard time admitting that they suffer from the disorder, particularly women who were born female (AFAB). Some are afraid because of the stigma associated with it.
Symptoms
Adults suffering from ADHD tend not to overcome the disorder. It can persist into adulthood, and can have similar effects on relationships at work family life, and mental health. The signs of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity are seen in both adults and children with ADHD but the symptoms are more prevalent in adults. They can affect the performance of a person at work and cause troubled relationships. A professional can provide treatment and counseling.
The first step is to locate an expert evaluator who is qualified, like psychologist or psychiatrist. Ask for recommendations from friends and family members or look online for professionals in your region. Many people with ADHD are also suffering from other illnesses like depression and anxiety that must be considered when determining their diagnosis and treatment.
Your evaluator is likely to know as much about your life as they can. A detailed account of your life, particularly one that spans your childhood, can provide clues to determine if your ADHD symptoms are related to any other disorder. Your evaluator may ask about your physical health and well-being, the development of your personality from childhood, your educational and work experiences and driving history, as well as drinking and drug use and how you deal with stress on a regular basis.
If your evaluator suspects you have ADHD, he or she will examine your symptoms to determine the extent to which they impact your daily routine. To be considered a diagnosed patient, your symptoms must be significant enough to cause impairment in at least two major settings. Some examples of impairment include losing your job because of poor time management, getting into financial difficulties because of impulsive spending, or failing to make payments on time.
You can improve your ability to manage your ADHD symptoms by learning to manage the challenges they bring. For instance you can lower your stress level by following an established routine and keeping your schedule free of distractions. You can also get better sleep, avoid eating sugary or caffeinated foods close to bedtime and exercise regularly. Certain people suffering from ADHD discover that psychotherapy or cognitive behavior therapy helps them to manage their symptoms, while others take medication to lessen the effects of their symptoms.
Treatment
If you are an adult and suspect that you are suffering from ADHD, the first step is to discuss the issue with a health professional. They may refer you to an expert in mental health that is specialized in adult ADHD evaluations or provide suggestions for professionals who can are able to do this. Certain insurance companies also provide professionals by specialty and can help those who are part of their plans to find an expert.
Iampsychiatry in determining ADHD in adults is the person's history. A doctor may ask to see the child's school report card or interview family regarding the child's early behavior. The health care professional may then examine signs of behavior that could indicate the diagnosis of ADHD.
During the assessment process the health care professional could utilize one or more standard rating scales. These tests compare the patient's behavior to those of people who don't have ADHD and may aid the doctor in determining whether or not symptoms fit diagnostic criteria.
A medical examination is also required to rule out other conditions that could cause symptoms that are similar to ADHD. The thyroid, seizures, and issues with hearing and vision can all cause similar symptoms.
Psychological and behavioral therapy can be beneficial for adults with ADHD. Cognitive therapy for behavior, specifically helps patients overcome negative thoughts and behaviors. This can help reduce stress and anxiety, which can make ADHD symptoms worse. Counseling can also teach people how to manage their time better, enhance their ability to organize their lives, and develop more effective coping strategies for dealing with stressful situations.
Stimulants are among the most commonly used drugs used to treat ADHD in adults. They seem to increase and balance the levels of certain brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. These drugs can cause serious side effects in some people, especially adolescents and children. These drugs are usually prescribed for short-term use and are not suitable for all people.
Other treatments include lifestyle changes as well as psychotherapy. For example, some adults with ADHD discover that exercising more can help them focus and be more productive. Other people with ADHD benefit from learning how to improve their organizational and planning capabilities. In addition, some people who have difficulty keeping jobs or maintaining relationships can get assistance through a disability support program such as Access to Work.
Support
When you are properly diagnosed and treated, you can manage problems that affect your life. It can also help improve your self-image and improve your relationships with your family, friends and coworkers. It's never too late to seek the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD.
Your GP may recommend a mental health facility that specialises in treating adult ADHD. This could be a Community Mental Health Service, or a Neurodevelopmental Service.
There are support groups for adults suffering from ADHD which can offer advice and a sense of belonging. You can also join online forums and chat with others about their experiences. There are also coaches and mentors that specialize in helping people with ADHD. However, you should be aware that coaching and mentoring are self-regulated professions, and there are a variety of quality and competence.
ADHD symptoms usually start in the early years of childhood, but they can last throughout adulthood. The disorder is more prevalent among males and boys than girls and women. The inattentive subtype of the condition (formerly referred to as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) are more likely to be diagnosed as compared to those who have 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 can be difficult to diagnose because the symptoms differ from one person to another. A history of issues at school, at work or in relationships can help a doctor identify a pattern. A thorough medical history may be helpful. Numerous medical conditions can cause similar symptoms as ADHD A thorough medical background information can help determine or determine the cause of the symptoms. These include seizures, developmental disorders, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and certain medications.
Untreated ADHD can lead to the sufferer developing a low self-esteem and negative self-image as a result of frustration and failure. They may also develop mental health disorders such as depression or anxiety which can cause ADHD worse.
Certain adults suffering from ADHD take part in clinical trials to help researchers learn more about the disorder. This could lead to better treatments in the future. On the NIMH website, you can get some suggestions about how to speak to your doctor about participating in a study.