Adult ADHD Diagnoses - The First Step to Managing Symptoms
Finding an adult ADHD diagnosis is the first step to managing symptoms that can be debilitating in relationships and at work. A doctor can examine a person's mood, medical history, and the presence of comorbid conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as anxiety or depression.
A structured interview is an essential part of an evaluation. Family members, friends and coworkers may be questioned to gain insight into the history of the person being evaluated.
Symptoms
Adults with 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, coordinating relationships and perform well at school, for instance. Signs of trouble include inattention and impulsively interrupting or uttering answers in a blur and not being able to follow up on work assignments and repeatedly missing appointments. This condition can also lead to financial difficulties because people are more likely to make errors or overspend.
A professional may evaluate adults for ADHD using a variety of methods. They can interview the parents of an individual and inquire about their childhood. They might also review reports and record teacher remarks. They can also evaluate the performance of an individual through interviews with co-workers, friends and family members. They can also use online ratings or self-tests.
The diagnosis of ADHD as an adult typically requires a higher level of suspicion than children, requiring 5 out of 9 symptoms over the past six months. The symptoms must be present multiple times and not better explained by other mental health disorders like a mood disorder or anxiety disorder, or physical conditions such as hearing loss or a vision problem.
It's normal to feel various emotions after receiving an ADHD diagnosis as an adult. It can be a relief to finally have a concrete explanation for difficulties you've had to face for so long. It can be a bit frustrating to find out that you suffer from a condition of mental health even if you've been successful in other areas of your life.
A person who is diagnosed with ADHD is usually treated with medication, psychotherapy or other treatments. In some cases, doctors will recommend adjustments for work or daily activities. Accommodations are tools or changes to the environment of a person that help them succeed and lessen the impact of their disability. A step stool can be utilized by people who are taller than average, or a computer program to assist people who has visual impairments focus on the screen. The use of behavioral therapy is also a popular treatment for adults with ADHD.
Diagnosis
If you suspect that you have ADHD, the first step is to get an accurate diagnosis. Consult your primary care physician or a mental health professional to refer you to a specialist who performs ADHD evaluations. Your doctor will conduct an interview with you and review your medical and family information. They will also inquire about the effects of your symptoms on your daily life at home, at school and at work.
Your doctor will use the American Psychiatric Society's diagnostic guidelines, that are included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), to determine if you fulfill the criteria for ADHD. The following are some of the DSM-5 criteria for inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive types of ADHD:
Inattention: Have trouble staying focused on activities and tasks for long periods of time. Trouble finishing tasks, chores or schoolwork. It is prone to making mistakes at school, work or in leisure activities. Is easily distracted by others or their daily activities. The person often daydreams, 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. Sometimes interrupts others or speaks in a non-linear manner. Most often, he is bored and seeks excitement or novelty. Frequently gets into fights or arguments or acts without thinking about 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 can have their own effects on a person, and may make diagnosis more difficult.
Physical examinations are conducted to determine if there are medical conditions that could cause similar symptoms. Certain medical conditions, such as seizures and thyroid disorders, can cause ADHD symptoms.
If your symptoms are serious and severe, additional neuropsychological, psychosocial and/or learning disabilities testing may be used to help make the diagnosis. These tests can provide important information regarding how ADHD affects your functioning and relationships. They can also help you identify any other issues that need to be addressed.
Treatment
The same treatment that children with ADHD receive, such as medications, behavior strategies, life skills training and therapy -- usually are effective for adults too. Adults may need to test other medications because the ones they were prescribed as children might not be appropriate for them now.
The person with ADHD must see an expert who is trained in the disorder. This could be a primary-care doctor who routinely treats ADHD or an expert in mental health, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. Many insurance plans have online directories of specialists. A local support group for ADHD sufferers or a doctor with expertise in mood disorders could recommend an expert.
After the evaluation the specialist will come up with the diagnosis and prescribe treatment. They will want to talk with the person about their past, particularly how the symptoms affected them during childhood. If the person is having difficulty in their job or relationships, a therapist might suggest family or couples' therapy to help them develop the skills to manage their issues better.
Most people suffering from ADHD are treated effectively by medication. These are typically small, fast-acting drugs that help to reduce the chemical imbalance in the brain that causes ADHD. In many instances, a doctor may prescribe additional medication to treat the underlying condition like anxiety or depression.
Behavioral therapy can improve issues related to time management, impulse control and emotional self-regulation. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), as well as other individualized interventions, are delivered by therapists with specific expertise in working specifically with people with ADHD.
When people suffering from ADHD are finally diagnosed, they feel an immense relief. The correct treatment plan could transform their lives in a dramatic way. They will be more productive at work, be successful at school or develop more satisfying and healthier relationships. Some people are happy to finally receive a diagnosis after years regrets over the mistakes they made because their symptoms were not properly diagnosed or treated. It is possible that the person's behavior has been affected by his or her gender identity, race, and socioeconomic status.
Support
If you were never diagnosed with ADHD as a child, it's not enough time to seek an assessment and treatment. Many professionals are certified in ADHD and can tell whether your symptoms are mild, moderate or severe. They can also rule out other mental disorders, physical ailments and stress out as the root cause of symptoms.
A diagnosis of ADHD can bring up complicated emotions, including sadness over missed opportunities or feelings of relief that you finally have a concrete reason for your problems. Adults with ADHD may feel judged for behavior they aren't accountable for, like the inability to organize their work. They might also have financial issues, like late payment deadlines or the accumulation of debt as a result of excessive spending.
Adults with ADHD are not uncommon to engage in self-destructive behavior, including alcohol and drug abuse. Other self-destructive behavior includes poor nutrition and stress, chronic tension, low self-esteem or difficulties in their relationships with family and friends. They also may have trouble with their physical health and health, for example, ignoring important health checks and medications or having trouble following medical instructions and procedures. They are often struggling to sustain their jobs and managing their finances due to their difficulty organizing and meeting corporate standards and adhering to a plan or routine.
Adults who suffer from ADHD are able to benefit from support groups and therapy which teach coping skills and strategies to live with their disorder. Therapists who specialize in ADHD can assist them in managing their symptoms, find ways to overcome their weaknesses, and improve their lives. They can also work with family members to discuss how the disorder affects their relationship and devise strategies to support their loved one.
Online communities and peer support can be useful. Sites like Sheila Henson or Neuroqueer offer workshops, webinars, and individual and group coaching on emotional regulation as well as social interaction and organizational skills. Other online resources include ADHD friendly workplace accommodations, restaurants, and classes to improve communication.
Many people suffering from ADHD find it beneficial to join support groups. These groups can be a great source of inspiration and ideas, and they can be a place for discussing challenges and finding solution. In addition to support groups there are coaches as well as teachers who can help you create a plan to improve your functioning and reducing the impact of your symptoms.