Adult ADHD Diagnoses - The First Step to Managing Symptoms
The first step to manage adult ADHD symptoms is to get a diagnosis. These symptoms can be detrimental to relationships and at work. A doctor can assess a person's mood, medical history and the presence of comorbid conditions that trigger similar symptoms such as depression or anxiety.
An organized interview is a 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 suffering from ADHD might experience many of the same symptoms as children, but these behaviors can impact more areas of their lives. They may struggle to keep their jobs, manage relationships and perform well at school, for example. Symptoms can include attention issues, interrupting or blurting answers impulsively, failing to complete work tasks, and a tendency to miss appointments frequently. This condition can also cause financial difficulties as people are more likely to make careless mistakes or spend too much.
Professionals can assess adults for ADHD by employing a variety of methods. They can interview parents and ask them about their childhood experiences. They may look at report cards and note teacher remarks. They may also gauge the performance of an individual by interviewing co-workers, friends and family members. They may also use self-tests or online ratings.
The diagnosis of ADHD as an adult usually has a higher threshold than children, requiring 5 out of 9 signs over the past six months. Symptoms must be present in multiple settings and are not better explained by a mental health issue, such as anxiety or mood disorders or other physical conditions, such as a hearing loss or a vision issue.
If you're diagnosed with ADHD as an adult it's normal to experience a range emotions. It can be a relief when you finally discover an answer to the difficulties you've struggled with for so many years. It can also be upsetting to realize that you have an illness of the mind even if you've had success in other areas of your life.
Someone diagnosed with ADHD is usually treated with medication, psychotherapy or other treatments. In certain cases the doctor may recommend accommodations for work or daily activities. Accommodations are changes or devices that can be made to the environment around a person to assist them achieve their goals. Examples include an incline step for someone who is smaller than average, or computer programs that allow those with visual impairments to concentrate on the screen. Behavioral therapy is a popular treatment for adults with ADHD.
Diagnosis
If you suspect you might have ADHD the first step is to obtain an accurate diagnosis. You can begin by asking your primary care physician or mental health professional to refer you to a specialist who can conduct ADHD assessments. Your doctor will conduct an interview with you and review all of your medical and family information. Your doctor will also ask about your symptoms and how they affect your work, school and at home.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (also known as 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 difficulty staying focused on activities and tasks for a long period of time. Has trouble finishing chores, tasks or schoolwork. Many times, they make mistakes at work, school or in leisure activities. Is easily distracted by others or by everyday activities. Sometimes, they seem to be on autopilot, or loses the 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 off-topic. Often gets bored easily and is looking for excitement or a new experience. Sometimes, he gets involved in arguments 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 effects on a person and can complicate diagnosis.
A physical examination is usually performed to rule out any medical conditions that could trigger similar symptoms. Some medical conditions, such as seizures and thyroid disorders, may be similar to ADHD symptoms.
If your symptoms are severe, you may need to undergo additional testing for neuropsychological disorders or psychological disorders. These tests can provide important information about the ways in how your ADHD affects your functioning and relationships. These tests can also reveal any other underlying problems that need to addressed.
Treatment
The same treatment that children with ADHD receive - medication, behavioral strategies life skills training, medication and therapy -- usually are effective for adults too. adhd in adults diagnosis might need to try different medications however, as the ones that were used as children might not be the most appropriate for them at the moment.
A specialist in ADHD should be an individual who suffers from ADHD. This may be a primary care physician who is regularly treating ADHD or a mental health professional, like psychiatrists or psychologists. Many insurance companies provide online directories of specialists. A local support group for ADHD sufferers or a specialist doctor who specializes in mood disorders can also recommend the services of a specialist.
After the evaluation the doctor should then identify the cause and prescribe treatment. They will be looking to speak with the person about their personal history, and particularly how symptoms affected them in the early years of their life. A therapist might suggest couples' or even family therapy if the individual is struggling in their career or in their relationships.
Medication is the most effective treatment for the majority of adults suffering from ADHD. They are typically small, fast-acting medications that help to reduce the chemical imbalance in the brain that triggers ADHD. In many instances, doctors will also prescribe other medication to treat the underlying condition such as depression or anxiety.
Behavioral therapy can improve issues with time management, impulse control and emotional self-regulation. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), as well as other individualized interventions, are provided by therapists who have particular expertise in working with individuals suffering from ADHD.
When people suffering from ADHD are finally diagnosed, they feel a sense of relief. The right treatment plan can drastically alter their lives to the better. They can become more productive at work, be successful at school or develop more satisfying and healthier relationships. For some, the diagnosis brings closure to years of regrets over the mistakes they made in their past due to their symptoms going undiagnosed or treated poorly. It is possible that a person's behavior was influenced by gender identity, race, and socioeconomic status.
Support
It's not too late to seek an assessment and treatment even if you were not diagnosed with ADHD when you were in your early years. Many professionals are trained in ADHD and can tell if your symptoms are mild, moderate, or severe. They can also rule out other mental health disorders or physical ailments, as well as stress as the reason for your symptoms.
A diagnosis of ADHD may bring up complicated emotions, like sadness over missed opportunities or relief that you have a solid explanation for your struggles. Adults with ADHD may feel judged for actions they aren't responsible for, such as forgetfulness and difficulty organizing their work. They may also be facing financial issues, like missed payment deadlines or debt resulting from impulsive purchases.
It's not unusual for adults with ADHD to exhibit self-destructive behaviors such as drug or alcohol abuse, inadequate nutrition, chronic stress and tension as well as low self-esteem or issues with their relationships with family and friends. They may also have problems with their physical well-being. They might neglect important medical checkups or medication or struggle to follow medical instructions. They may have difficulty maintaining jobs and managing their finances due to their difficulty organizing and meeting corporate requirements and sticking to a schedule or routine.
Adults suffering from ADHD might benefit from therapy or support groups that offer strategies and techniques to manage the disorder. Specialized ADHD therapy can help adults manage their symptoms, overcome their weaknesses and improve their functioning in life. 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 are also useful. Sites like Sheila Henson and Neuroqueer offer individual and group coaching, workshops and webinars on organizational skills as well as emotional regulation and social interaction. Other online sources include ADHD-friendly restaurants, workplace accommodations, and classes on improving communication.
Some people with ADHD may also find it beneficial to join support groups for those with ADHD that can be a source of ideas and inspiration, as well as a platform for discussing challenges and finding solutions. In addition to support groups there are coaches as well as teachers who can assist you to make a plan for improving your performance and reducing the impact of your symptoms.