Adult ADHD Diagnoses - The First Step to Managing Symptoms
The first step to manage adult ADHD symptoms can be to be diagnosed. These symptoms can be a problem for relationships and at work. A doctor can examine the mood of a person, their medical history, and the presence of any comorbidities that can cause similar symptoms, such as depression or anxiety.
A structured interview is part of an evaluation. Interviews with family members, colleagues and even friends can be conducted to get more information about the person's past.
Signs and symptoms
Adults suffering from ADHD might experience many of the same symptoms as children, but the behaviors they exhibit can affect different aspects of their lives. They may struggle to keep their jobs, manage relationships, and do well in school, for example. The signs include trouble paying attention, impulsively interrupting or uttering answers in a blur or not following through on work tasks and repeatedly ignoring appointments. The condition can also cause financial difficulties since people are more likely to make impulsive mistakes or overspend.
A specialist can evaluate adults for ADHD using a variety of methods. They may interview a person's parents and ask them to talk about their childhood experiences. They can also review their report cards and take note of teacher comments. They may also assess the performance of an individual by interviewing friends, coworkers and family members. They can also conduct online rating or self-tests.
Adults are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD when they've experienced 5 out of 9 symptoms in the last six months. The symptoms must be present at multiple times and are not explained by other mental health conditions such as a mood disorder or anxiety disorder, as well as physical conditions such as hearing loss or a vision problem.
It's normal to experience a range of emotions when you receive an ADHD diagnosis as an adult. It can be a great relief to finally get an reason for the difficulties you've been struggling with for a long time. It can also be a bit upsetting to realize you have a mental health condition even if you've had successes in other areas of your life.
A person who is diagnosed with ADHD typically receives treatment with psychotherapy, medication or other treatments. In some cases doctors may recommend accommodations for work or everyday activities. Accommodations are modifications or tools that can be incorporated into the environment around a person to assist them achieve their goals. Examples include the use of a step stool for those who is shorter than average, or a computer program that allows someone with vision difficulties to concentrate on the screen. The use of behavioral therapy is also a popular treatment for adults with ADHD.
Diagnosis
The first step to determining whether you suffer from ADHD is to receive an accurate diagnosis. Ask your primary care doctor or a mental health professional to refer you to a specialist that performs ADHD assessments. Your doctor will conduct an interview with you and go over your medical, family and personal background. Your doctor will also inquire about your health issues and how they impact your work, school and at home.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, or DSM-5, is utilized by your doctor to determine if you meet the ADHD criteria. The following are some of the DSM-5 criteria for inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive types of ADHD:
Inattention: Has trouble staying focused on activities or tasks for long periods of time. Sometimes, they forget things, or has difficulty completing chores, schoolwork and/or work tasks. Sometimes, they make mistakes that are not their fault in school, at work, or during leisure activities. is easily distracted by people around them or their daily activities. It is often a daydreamer, and appears 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 out of turn. Often, they get bored quickly and seeks excitement or novelty. Frequently engages in fights or disputes without weighing 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 complicate diagnosis.
adhd in adults diagnosis are conducted to determine if there are medical conditions that may cause similar symptoms. Certain medical conditions, like seizures and thyroid disorders, can be similar to ADHD symptoms.
If your symptoms are severe, additional psychological, neuropsychological and/or learning disabilities testing may be used to help make the diagnosis. These tests can provide crucial details about the ways which your ADHD affects your functioning and relationships. They can also help you identify any other issues that require to be addressed.
Treatment
The same methods that children with ADHD receive, such as medications, behavior strategies training in life skills, and therapy -- usually work for adults as well. Adults may need to test other medications because the ones they were prescribed as children might not be right for them today.
A specialist in ADHD should be sought out by those suffering from ADHD. This could be a primary physician who treats ADHD regularly or a mental health professional such as psychologist or psychiatrist. Many insurance companies provide online directories of specialists. A local support group for ADHD sufferers or a doctor with expertise in mood disorders may recommend an expert.
After the evaluation the specialist will make the diagnosis and prescribe treatment. The doctor will need to speak with the individual about their personal history, and particularly how symptoms affected them in the early years of their life. If the person is experiencing difficulty in their job or relationships, a therapist might suggest couples' or family therapy to help them learn to cope better.
Medication is the most effective treatment for the majority of adults suffering from ADHD. 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 address issues related to time management, impulse control and emotional self-regulation. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) along with other specific interventions, can be delivered by therapists with specific expertise in working specifically with individuals suffering from ADHD.
Some adults with ADHD feel great relief when they finally are diagnosed. Having the right treatment plan can drastically alter their lives for the better. They will be more efficient at work or at school, or develop healthier and more satisfying relationships. For some, the diagnosis can bring closure to years of regrets over mistakes they've made in the past because their symptoms went undiagnosed or not treated. It is possible that the person's behavior has been affected by their gender identity, race or 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 or moderate symptoms. They can also rule out other mental health disorders physical conditions, stress as the cause of your symptoms.
A diagnosis of ADHD can trigger a variety of complicated emotions, including sadness over missed opportunities or feelings of relief knowing that you now have a clear reason for your problems. Adults suffering from ADHD often feel that they are being judged by others for their actions that aren't really their own fault, such as forgetfulness or difficulty keeping their work in order. They may also struggle with financial issues, such as missing payment deadlines or accruing debt as a result of impulsive spending.
It's not uncommon for adults with ADHD to exhibit self-destructive behaviors, such as drug and alcohol abuse, poor nutrition, constant tension and stress and low self-esteem. They may also experience problems with their relationships with family members and friends. They might also be struggling with their physical health, such as neglecting important medical checkups and medication or having trouble following medical instructions and procedures. They are having trouble managing their finances and keeping their jobs because they aren't organized, don't meet the corporate standards and are unable to stick to the same routine or schedule.
Adults who suffer from ADHD might benefit from support groups or therapy that provide strategies and strategies to live with the disorder. Therapists who specialize in ADHD can assist them in managing their symptoms, discover ways to compensate for their weaknesses, and enhance their lives. They can also collaborate with family members to discuss how the disorder impacts their relationship, and come up with strategies to help the person they love dearly.
Peer support and online communities can also be beneficial. Sites like Sheila Henson or Neuroqueer offer workshops, webinars, and individual and group coaching on emotional regulation, social interaction, and organizational skills. Other online resources include ADHD friendly workplace accommodations, restaurants, and classes to improve communication.
Some people who suffer from ADHD also find it useful to join support groups for those with ADHD which can provide ideas and inspiration, as well as a platform for discussing challenges and finding solutions. There are also coaches and teachers that can help you create an action plan to improve your performance and reduce the impact of your symptoms.