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Adult Diagnosis of ADHD

A diagnosis of ADHD can alter the lives of adults who suffer from the condition. It can help people to discover the reason for their struggles at work, with their families and in their relationships.

It can be difficult to diagnose since symptoms tend to overlap. A mental health professional or health care provider will evaluate the individual and conduct tests.

Signs and symptoms

It is possible that someone doesn't realize they have ADHD until they reach adulthood. This may be because parents and teachers failed to detect the signs at an earlier time or due to the demands of college or work brought out the disorder. Adults who are not treated for ADHD are at a disadvantage in their school, work and social lives. Undiagnosed ADHD can cause a wide range of issues, including relationship problems and financial difficulties.

A mental health professional will conduct an interview and review the patient's medical, mental health and personal history, paying particular attention to symptoms in various situations. The patient will explain how these symptoms impact his or her daily functioning and relationships. It is crucial that patients are honest about their symptoms and not cover them up to avoid embarrassment.

It is also crucial for the mental health professional to assess whether the symptoms are linked to comorbid conditions like anxiety and depression, which often coexist with ADHD. These conditions can make ADHD symptoms worse and cause problems with the treatment of the disorder.

If a psychologist or psychiatrist believes that the symptoms of ADHD are influenced by other conditions, additional cognitive, neuropsychological, or testing for learning disabilities could be performed to determine an accurate diagnosis. These tests can also be used to determine the degree of impairment to function caused by these conditions. In addition the mental health professional might request an interview with one or more significant people, such as spouses, siblings, and coworkers to get a complete picture of the individual's performance and difficulties.

Diagnosis

For adults the diagnosis of adhd diagnosis for adults is usually made by a mental health medical professional or physician who conducts a thorough diagnostic evaluation. This includes a detailed analysis of the symptoms and nearest how they affect the way you live your life. It also considers the presence of any other mental disorders that can occur with ADHD like anxiety and mood disorders. In addition, the physician may ask to speak with significant others, usually the spouse or a close friend -- to assist in gaining more information about the individual's behavior.

Getting a proper diagnosis of ADHD in adulthood can be a life-changing experience. The diagnosis gives adults an explanation for their behavior that they thought were "normal". It is often a relief knowing that they're not just naive or forgetful and their issues are more complex.

The American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth edition (DSM-5) requires that adults meet specific criteria for symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity. This is a standard established to ensure that people receive the treatment and support they require. In order for a person to be eligible for an ADHD diagnosis the person must be suffering from symptoms for at least a year and be a significant handicap in a variety of settings, such as home, school or work with family members or friends, or other activities. For adults who are 17 or older the number of necessary symptoms has been reduced to five from the six that are required for children younger than 12 years old.

A positive relationship with your primary healthcare provider can help determine ADHD. Many doctors diagnose and treat ADHD in children and refer you to a mental health professional qualified to assess adults.

Treatment

When those with ADHD receive a diagnosis their lives can alter dramatically. They may finally have reasons for their failures in school, a struggle to establish an occupation or a relationship. A diagnosis can relieve shame that has been accumulating for some people over the years.

Talking to a mental health healthcare professional or health care professional is the first step towards finding out if you have a diagnosis. They might inquire about family history and perform an examination to rule out any conditions that could cause symptoms that resemble ADHD or other disorders, such as learning disabilities, sleep disorders or alcohol/drug use. They also can ask the person to complete an assessment scale of symptoms.

During the process of assessment, doctors may decide to interview the spouse or partner. This allows the non ADHD spouse or partner develop an accurate understanding of their loved one's ADHD, and an empathetic attitude towards the symptoms. This is crucial to strengthen relationships following diagnosis. If this isn't possible the therapist may ask colleagues or friends who know the person.

Medicines are the primary treatment options for adults with ADHD. Adult ADHD is treated with stimulants such as methylphenidate, Adderall and dextroamphetamine. Other medications like atomoxetine (Strattera(r),) and guanfacine, (Intuniv (r) Tenex (r)) are able to increase norepinephrine in the brain. These medications can improve ADHD symptoms.

Psychotherapy is also an option. Cognitive-behavioral therapies can help patients learn skills to manage their ADHD symptoms. They include time management and self-regulation strategies, organizational strategies, of emotions and behaviors and coping strategies for negative feelings and self criticism. Other therapies, like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps adults recognize the automatic thoughts or irrational thoughts that can lead to negative behavior, and also develop positive self-talk.

Medication

Many people find that ADHD medication helps to improve their symptoms. The medication is usually in the form of a stimulant and works by increasing the activity in brain regions that regulate behavior and attention. Methylphenidate is the most frequently used medication for Nearest adults with ADHD and is available in a variety of forms. It is available as immediate-release tablets or as modified-release tablets that release the medication throughout the day. Clonidine is a different kind of medication that works by reducing brain activity. It is available in liquid or pill form.

The therapist or psychiatrist will look over the medical and family history of the adult patient to determine factors that could cause similar symptoms. This is crucial due to the fact that certain medical conditions, such as seizure disorders and thyroid problems can cause symptoms similar to the symptoms of ADHD. Certain medications and nutritional supplements can cause similar symptoms.

During the test, the person will likely to discuss their ADHD symptoms. They will be asked to provide standardized ADHD ratings and check lists, as well as psychological tests to measure executive function, working memory (abilities such as making decisions and planning), visual and spatial ability, as well as reasoning skills.

If the therapist is of the opinion that ADHD symptoms are affecting a person's quality of life they will suggest medication. In some instances the therapist might ask the spouse or partner of the patient to interview them about the impact of their symptoms on the relationship. This can reduce blame between people and encourage healthier, more productive relations.

Counseling

Being diagnosed is a great relief for many adults with ADHD. It's a chance to understand the reason why they face difficulties at school or at work, and learn ways to overcome them. It's also a chance for them to alter negative behavior and build confidence in themselves.

A strong support system is essential for success and counseling can assist. Counseling for ADHD may include psychotherapy (or psychological therapy) and a variety behavioral treatments. Therapists may create a chart that encourages positive behaviors and imposes punishments for negative behaviors. The therapist can also teach the patient skills to manage symptoms, for example relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditative postures in yoga.

Counseling can help people recognize and accept their ADHD. It's not always easy to admit you have difficulties paying attention or planning and organizing. It can be embarrassing to admit that you have ADHD to supervisors or colleagues. However, most teachers and bosses will be willing to provide accommodations to accommodate your needs. For instance, they could permit you to make use of a computer to write assignments instead of writing on paper and give more in-depth explanations of the material in class.

In addition, the therapist can help you cope with your ADHD through cognitive behavioral therapy which is a structured type of talk therapy that helps you transform negative thoughts and behaviors into positive ones. Counseling for ADHD can also include marital or family therapy, which teaches family members how to better interact with someone with ADHD and to improve communication and problem-solving abilities. People with ADHD might also be suffering from other mental disorders, such as anxiety or depression, and they may also be suffering from issues with addiction to drugs.