Adult ADHD Diagnoses - The First Step to Managing Symptoms
The first step in managing adult ADHD symptoms is to obtain a diagnosis. These symptoms can be detrimental to relationships and at work. A doctor will assess the person's mood and medical history, and whether there are any comorbid conditions, such anxiety or depression, that could cause similar symptoms.
An evaluation consists of a planned interview with the person being assessed. Interviews with family members, colleagues and friends are possible to gain a better understanding of the person's past.
Symptoms
Adults who suffer from ADHD may experience many of the same symptoms as children, however those behaviors can affect more aspects of their lives. They may have difficulty keeping their jobs, coordinating relationships and perform well in schools, for instance. The signs include trouble paying attention and impulsively interrupting or uttering answers in a blur, failing to follow up on work assignments and repeatedly missing appointments. The condition can also lead to financial challenges because people are more likely to make careless mistakes or overspend.
A specialist can evaluate adults for ADHD using a variety methods. They can interview the parents of a person and inquire about their childhood. They might also look over the report cards and take note of comments from teachers. They may also gauge an individual's current functioning by interviewing co-workers, friends and family members. They can even use online ratings or self-tests.
Adults are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD if they have had 5 of 9 symptoms in the last 6 months. The symptoms must be present multiple times and not better explained by other mental health conditions such as anxiety or mood disorder, as well as physical ailments such as hearing loss or a visual impairment.
It's normal to experience various emotions when you get an ADHD diagnosis as an adult. It's a feeling of relief when you finally have an answer to the challenges you've faced for so many years. It can also be a bit upsetting to realize that you have a mental health condition, especially when you've had success in other areas of your life.
Someone diagnosed with ADHD is usually treated with psychotherapy, medication or other treatments. In some cases, doctors will recommend accommodations for work or daily activities. Accommodations are tools or changes to a person's environment that help them succeed and minimize the effects of their disability. A step stool can be utilized by those who are taller than average or a computer program can aid those with visual impairments focus on the screen. Adult ADHD is usually treated with behavioral therapy.
Diagnosis
If you suspect you may have ADHD the first step is to make an accurate diagnosis. You can start by asking your primary care physician or mental health professional for a referral to a specialist who can conduct ADHD evaluations. Your doctor will conduct an interview with you and review your medical, family and personal background. They will also ask you about the impact of your health issues on your daily routine at home, school and work.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, also known as DSM-5 is utilized by your doctor to determine whether you meet the ADHD criteria. The following are some of the DSM-5 criteria for inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive types of ADHD:
Inattention: Has difficulty staying focused on tasks and activities for long periods of time. Trouble finishing chores, assignments or schoolwork. Many times, they make mistakes when doing the classroom, at work or in leisure activities. Can easily be distracted by others or everyday activities. Daydreams a lot, appears to be on autopilot, or loses track what they are doing.
Hyperactivity/Impulsivity: Often restless, fidgets or can't sit still in class or at work. Disrupts others often or talks off-topic. Sometimes, they get bored and seeks excitement or a new experience. Frequently gets into disputes or fights 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 other conditions can have their own impact on a person and can complicate diagnosis.
A physical exam is typically performed to rule out any medical problems that might cause similar symptoms. Some medical problems, like seizures and thyroid disorders, can cause ADHD symptoms.
If your symptoms are serious, you may need to undergo additional tests for learning disabilities, psycho-psychological disorders, or neuropsychological disorders. These tests can provide important information regarding how ADHD affects your relationships and functioning. They can also help identify any other issues that need to be addressed.
Treatment
The same treatments that children with ADHD receive -- medications, behavior strategies, life skills training and therapy -usually work for adults as well. Adults may require different medications however, as the ones that were used as children might not be the right fit for them now.
The person with ADHD must see an expert who is trained in the disorder. This could be a primary physician who treats ADHD regularly or a mental health professional like psychologists or psychiatrists. Read the Full Report of insurance plans have online directories of specialists. A local support group for ADHD sufferers or a doctor with expertise in mood disorders could recommend a specialist.
After the evaluation the specialist will make an assessment and prescribe a treatment. They will be looking to speak with the individual about their history, especially how symptoms affected them in the early years of their life. Therapists may suggest couples' or family therapy if a person struggles with their career or in their relationships.
Medication is the most effective treatment for adults suffering from ADHD. They are typically small, fast-acting medicines that reduce the chemical imbalance within the brain that causes ADHD. Many doctors prescribe other medication for the same condition such as anxiety or depression.
Behavioral therapy can help improve issues with time management, organization, impulse control, and emotional self-regulation. Therapists with specialized expertise in working with individuals suffering from ADHD can offer cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) along with other individualized interventions.
Many adults suffering from ADHD are relieved when they are finally diagnosed. Having the right treatment plan can dramatically change their lives to the better. They can be more productive at work or school, or develop healthier and more satisfying relationships. Some people are relieved to finally get a diagnosis after years of regrets over the mistakes they made due to their symptoms being not properly diagnosed or treated. It is possible that the person's behavior has been influenced by his or her gender identity, race, and socioeconomic status.
Support
It's not too early to get an assessment and treatment even if you weren't diagnosed with ADHD as in your early years. A lot of professionals specialize in ADHD and can determine if you suffer from mild or moderate symptoms. They can also rule other mental disorders, physical conditions and stress as the cause of symptoms.
A diagnosis of ADHD could trigger a variety of complex feelings, such as grief over missed chances or relief that you now have a clear explanation for your issues. Adults who suffer from ADHD often feel as if they're being criticized by others for their actions that aren't really their fault, such as inattention or having difficulty keeping their work schedules. They may also be facing financial problems, such as the late payment deadlines or a debt due to impulsive purchases.
It's not unusual for adults with ADHD to engage in self-destructive behavior such as drug or alcohol abuse, poor nutrition, constant stress and tension, low self-esteem, or problems in their relationships with family members and friends. Additionally, they could suffer from issues with their physical well-being. They might neglect important medical checkups or medication, or have difficulty following medical instructions. They may have trouble managing their finances and maintaining jobs because they aren't organized, don't meet corporate expectations and cannot stick to the same routine or schedule.
Adults with ADHD might benefit from therapy or support groups that offer strategies and coping skills to live with the disorder. Specialized ADHD therapists can help adults manage their symptoms, improve their weaknesses and improve their functioning in daily life. They can also work closely with family members to discuss how the disorder affects their relationship, and come up with strategies to help the person they love dearly.
Online communities and peer support can be beneficial. Sites like Sheila Henson and Neuroqueer offer individual and group coaching, seminars and webinars on organizing skills, emotional regulation, and social interaction. Other online resources include ADHD-friendly restaurants, workplace accommodations, and classes on improving communication.
Some people who suffer from ADHD are also able to join support groups for people with ADHD, which can be a source of ideas and inspiration, and also provide a platform for discussing challenges and finding solutions. There are teachers and coaches that can help you create an action plan to improve your functioning and lessen the effects of your symptoms.