Adult ADHD Diagnoses - The First Step to Managing Symptoms
Finding an adult ADHD diagnosis is the first step to managing symptoms that could be debilitating in relationships and at work. A doctor can evaluate the person's mood and medical background, and also whether there are any comorbid conditions, such as anxiety or depression, which could cause similar symptoms.
An organized interview is a part of an evaluation. adhd diagnosis in adults , friends and coworkers may also be interviewed to gain insight into the history of the person being evaluated.
Signs and symptoms
Adults with ADHD may experience many of the same symptoms as children, however those behaviors can affect more aspects of their lives. They may struggle to maintain their jobs, maintain their relationships, or perform well in school, for example. Symptoms include difficulty paying attention and impulsively interrupting or uttering answers in a blur or not following through on work tasks and frequently missing appointments. This condition can also cause financial difficulties as people are more likely to make careless errors or overspend.
Professionals can assess adults for ADHD by using different methods. They can interview parents and ask them to talk about their childhood experiences. They can also look over reports and take notes of teacher remarks. Interviewing family members, friends and colleagues can be used to assess an individual's current functioning. They can even use online ratings or self-tests.
The diagnosis of ADHD as an adult typically requires a higher threshold than that of children - 5 out of 9 symptoms in the last 6 months. The symptoms must manifest at multiple times and cannot be better explained by other mental health disorders such as an anxiety disorder or mood disorder, or physical conditions such as hearing loss or a vision problem.
If you're diagnosed with ADHD as an adult it's normal to experience a range emotions. It's a feeling of relief when you finally have an answer to the challenges you've faced for a long time. It can also be a bit upsetting to realize that you have mental health issues, especially when you've had successes in other areas of your life.
A person diagnosed with ADHD is usually treated with psychotherapy, medication or other treatments. In some instances doctors may recommend adjustments for work or daily activities. Accommodations are tools or adjustments to a person's environment that can help them achieve their goals and lessen the impact of their disability. Examples include a step stool for someone who is less than average or a computer program that allows people with vision impairments to focus on the screen. The use of behavioral therapy is also a popular treatment for adults with ADHD.
Diagnosis
The first step to determine whether you suffer from ADHD is to receive an accurate diagnosis. You can start by asking your primary care physician or a mental health professional for a referral to a specialist who performs ADHD assessments. Your doctor will conduct an interview with you and will review all of your medical, family and personal history. Your doctor will also ask about your symptoms and how they impact your life at school, at work and at home.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (also known as DSM-5 is used 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: Have trouble staying focused on tasks and activities for a long period of time. Many times, people forget or lose things or has difficulty finishing chores, schoolwork and/or work tasks. Sometimes, they make mistakes that are not their fault in the classroom, at work or in leisure activities. Can easily be distracted by people around them or their daily activities. Often, they daydream, appear 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. Frequently interrupts others or talks out of turn. Often gets bored quickly and is in search of excitement or novelty. Frequently gets into fights or arguments or acts without considering 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 conditions can have effects on an individual and can complicate the diagnosis.
A physical exam is conducted to determine if there are medical conditions that could cause similar symptoms. Certain medical issues, like seizure disorders and thyroid disorders, can mimic ADHD symptoms.
If your symptoms are extreme, additional psychological, neuropsychological and/or testing for learning disabilities could be performed to aid in making the diagnosis. These tests can provide important details about the ways how your ADHD affects your behavior and relationships. They can also assist in identifying any other underlying issues that need to be addressed.
Treatment
The same treatments that children with ADHD receive - medication, behavioral strategies training in life skills, and therapy -- usually work for adults, too. Adults might need to try different medications but the ones used as children may not be the most appropriate for them at the moment.
The person suffering from ADHD should see a specialist trained in the disorder. This could be a primary doctor who treats ADHD regularly or a mental healthcare professional like a psychiatrist or psychologist. Many insurance plans have online directories of specialists. A local support group for ADHD sufferers or a doctor specializing in mood disorders may recommend the services of a specialist.
After the examination, the doctor will come up with the diagnosis and prescribe treatment. They may also want to discuss the background of the person and how the symptoms affected him or her in the early years of their life. If the person is having issues with their job or relationships, a therapist might suggest family or couples' therapy to help them understand how to deal with their problems better.
Most people suffering from ADHD can be effectively treated with medication. They are typically small, fast-acting medications that help to reduce the chemical imbalance that creates ADHD. Many doctors prescribe other medication for the same condition, such as anxiety or depression.
Behavioral therapy can improve issues in time management, impulse control, and emotional self-regulation. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as well as other individualized interventions, can be offered by therapists who have particular expertise in working with people with ADHD.
When people suffering from ADHD are finally diagnosed, they feel an immense relief. A good treatment plan can drastically alter their lives for the better. They can be more productive at work, succeed at school or develop more satisfying and healthier 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 a person's behavior was influenced by gender identity, race and socioeconomic situation.
Support
If you were never diagnosed with ADHD as a child, it's not enough time to seek an evaluation and treatment. Many professionals are certified in ADHD and can tell whether your symptoms are mild, moderate or severe. They can also rule other mental disorders, physical issues and stress as the reason for symptoms.
A diagnosis of ADHD can trigger complex emotions, such as regret over missed opportunities or relief that you now have a clear explanation for your difficulties. Adults who suffer from ADHD often feel that they are being criticized by others for behaviors that aren't their fault, like forgetfulness or difficulty keeping their work in order. They may also be struggling with financial issues, such as not paying on time or accumulating debt as a result of impulsive spending.
It's not uncommon for people with ADHD to exhibit self-destructive behaviors such as drug or alcohol abuse, inadequate nutrition, constant tension and stress and low self-esteem. They may also experience problems with their relationships with family and friends. They might also be struggling with physical well-being, such as neglecting important checkups and medications, or having difficulty following medical guidelines and procedures. They may have trouble managing their finances and sustaining jobs because they aren't organized, do not conform to corporate standards and do not adhere to a routine or schedule.
Adults who suffer from ADHD might benefit from therapy or support groups which offer strategies and techniques to manage the disorder. Specialist ADHD therapists can help adults manage their symptoms, improve their weaknesses and improve their performance in everyday life. They are also able to work with family members to discuss how the disorder affects their relationship and develop strategies for helping their loved ones.
Online communities and peer support are also beneficial. Sites such as Sheila Henson and Neuroqueer offer individual and group coaching, seminars, and webinars on organizational skills, emotional regulation, and social interaction. Other online resources include ADHD-friendly restaurants, workplace accommodations, and classes on improving communication.
Certain people with ADHD also find it useful to join support groups for people with ADHD which can be a source of ideas and inspiration, and also provide an opportunity for discussion of issues and finding solutions. There are coaches and teachers that can help you develop an action plan to improve your functioning and reduce the effects of your symptoms.