ADHD in Adults Diagnosis and Treatment
Untreated ADHD can create problems in all aspects of your life. You may find it difficult to maintain relationships as well as employment. This can lead to frequent changes in your job or low performance ratings.
Request your primary care physician to refer you to a health professional who can evaluate adults suffering from ADHD. You will then be able to get an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
Diagnosis
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that causes problems with staying focussed, paying attention, and responding to impulses. Adults suffering from ADHD typically have difficulties at school, at work and in their relationships. It is a common disorder however, it isn't always easy to identify because many adults don't remember having symptoms as children or being misdiagnosed as kids.
A person seeking to receive a diagnosis should visit a medical professional who has experience in conducting ADHD tests on adults. A doctor's request to refer you to a specialist who is an ADHD specialist can be performed by a person. They can also call local medical schools or graduate schools to request an appointment.
When interviewing adults, a therapist will look at how long the symptoms have been present and if they have interfered with the person's life. They will also look at 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 diagnose ADHD, the person must exhibit significant impairment in at least two aspects of their life for example, at home or work as well as with family and friends or while engaging in specific activities like driving or playing sports. The symptoms must be severe and persistent for a minimum of six months to be deemed impaired.
When determining a diagnosis, the doctor will also attempt to rule out other conditions that could cause the same problems as ADHD, such as depression, anxiety, or addiction disorders. They can also conduct psycho-educational, learning disabilities, or neuropsychological testing to determine if a person has a co-existing disorder.
People who haven't been diagnosed ADHD may feel frustrated that they aren't getting the help and support they require. Adults have reported feeling rejoicing and renewed after finally getting a diagnosis. Some adults regret missed opportunities or failed to realize their ADHD symptoms were not recognized and not treated. Certain people suffering from ADHD are reluctant to admit they have ADHD, especially women who were assigned a female at birth. Others are hesitant because of the stigma that surrounds it.
Signs and symptoms
As opposed to children, adults suffering from ADHD don't typically outgrow their condition. It is a condition that persists into adulthood and can cause similar impacts on their relationships, work, family life and mental health. The signs of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity are present in both children and adults with ADHD, but the symptoms are often more serious in adults. For instance, they can affect the performance of a worker and lead to troubled relationships. A professional can provide treatment and help.
The first step is to find an accredited evaluator, like psychiatrist or psychologist. Ask for recommendations from family members and family, or search online for professionals in your region. Many people who suffer from ADHD are also suffering from other illnesses like depression and anxiety that must be considered in their diagnosis and treatment.
Your evaluator would like to learn as much as they can about your life. A thorough history, particularly one that covers your childhood, could provide clues to determine if your ADHD symptoms are linked to any other disorder. Your evaluator will likely ask about your physical and emotional health, your growth from childhood, your academic and work experiences, driving history, any drugs or alcohol abuse and how you handle stress in your everyday life.
If the person who evaluated you suspects that you are suffering from ADHD then they will assess your symptoms to determine the degree to which they impact your everyday life. Your symptoms must be sufficient to cause impairments in at two different areas. Examples of impairment could include losing a job because of poor time management skills, or getting in financial trouble as a result of reckless spending or inability to pay bills on time, and interpersonal issues in your relationship due to communication issues.
You can increase your ability to manage ADHD symptoms by learning how to cope with their challenges. You can reduce stress by keeping a clear schedule and observing a routine. diagnosis of adhd can also get better sleep, avoid eating sweet or caffeinated drinks prior to bed and exercise regularly. Certain people suffering from ADHD benefit from cognitive behavior therapy or psychotherapy to manage their symptoms. Some people use medication to lessen their symptoms.
Treatment
If you are an adult and suspect that you are suffering from ADHD, the first step is to speak with a healthcare professional. They can refer you a mental health specialist who specializes in adult ADHD assessments, or suggest specialists who are experts in this. Certain insurance companies also list professionals by specialty and can assist those who take part in their plans to find the right specialist.
The most important aspect in diagnosing ADHD in adults is the person's past. For example, a doctor may ask to review school report cards from a person's childhood or talk to family members about the person's behavior in early life. The health professional will then search for patterns of behavior that could be indicative of ADHD.
During the examination the health care professional may also employ one or several standardized rating scales. These questionnaires compare the behavior of a patient to those of people who do not have ADHD, and may help a physician determine whether the symptoms are in line with diagnostic criteria.
In addition medical exams are typically required to identify medical conditions that may cause symptoms that resemble ADHD. For instance, thyroid issues, seizures or hearing or vision issues, sleep disorders, and other dietary issues like lead poisoning or food allergies can have similar effects to ADHD.
Adults with ADHD can benefit from psychological and behavioral therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy, in particular can assist patients in changing negative attitudes and behaviors. This can reduce stress and anxiety, which can make ADHD symptoms worse. Counseling can also teach people how to manage their time better, improve their organizational skills, and develop more effective coping mechanisms to deal with stressful situations.
Adults who suffer from ADHD are frequently treated with stimulants. They appear to regulate and increase the levels of certain brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters. These drugs can cause serious side effects for some people, particularly children and teenagers. These medications are typically prescribed for short-term use and are not suitable for everyone.
Changes in lifestyle and psychotherapy are also options. For example, some adults who suffer from ADHD find that increasing physical exercise can help them focus and be more productive. Others with ADHD benefit from learning to improve their organization and planning capabilities. Additionally, those who are having difficulty keeping jobs or maintain relationships can seek help from a disability support service such as Access to Work.
Support
Finding a doctor and receiving a successful treatment can help you deal with issues that affect your life. It can also improve your self-image as well as your relationships with your family as well as your friends and colleagues. It's never too late for a diagnosis or treatment of ADHD.
Your GP might refer you to an expert mental health service that specializes in treating adults with ADHD. This may be an Community Mental Health Service or a specialised Neurodevelopmental Service.
Support groups for adults suffering from ADHD can provide advice and a sense of community. You can join online discussion forums and share your experiences with others. There are coaches or mentors who specialize in helping those with ADHD. You should be aware, however, that coaching and mentorship are self-regulated jobs and there are a variety of differences in quality and expertise.
Symptoms of ADHD typically manifest in childhood, but may persist into adulthood. The disorder is more common in boys and men compared to girls and women. People with the inattentive subtype of the condition (formerly referred to as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) are more likely to be diagnosed than those with 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 can vary from one person to the next. A history of problems in work, school or relationships can help a physician find the pattern. A thorough medical history is also useful. Certain medical conditions can trigger similar symptoms as ADHD A thorough medical history can help to rule out or identify other possible causes of the symptoms. These include developmental disorders, seizure disorders anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and certain medications.
Untreated ADHD can lead to a person developing a low self-esteem as well as a negative self-image due to frustration and failure. They may also develop comorbidities like anxiety or depression which can make ADHD worse.
Certain adults suffering from ADHD are involved in clinical trials to help researchers learn more about the disorder. This could result in better treatments in the near future. On the NIMH site, you will get some suggestions on how to speak with your doctor about participating in a study.
