Adult ADHD Diagnoses - The First Step to Managing Symptoms
The first step in addressing adult ADHD symptoms can be to be diagnosed. These symptoms can be detrimental to relationships and at work. A doctor can evaluate the person's mood and medical background, and also whether there are any comorbid conditions, such anxiety or depression, which could cause similar symptoms.
An evaluation includes a structured interview with the person being assessed. Family members, friends, and coworkers may also be interviewed to gain perspective on the person's history.
Symptoms
Adults with ADHD may suffer from many of the same symptoms as children, however these behaviors can impact more areas of their lives. They may struggle to keep their jobs, coordinating relationships and perform well in school, for instance. Signs of trouble include inattention, impulsively interrupting or blurting out answers and not being able to follow the instructions of work and repeatedly missing appointments. This can lead to financial difficulties because people are more likely to make mistakes or spend too much.
Professionals can assess adults for ADHD by employing a variety of methods. They may interview parents of a person and ask about their childhood. They can also look over reports and take notes of teacher comments. Interviewing friends, family and co-workers can also be used to evaluate an individual's current functioning. They can also take advantage of online ratings or self-tests.
Adults are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD when they've experienced 5 out of 9 symptoms in the last 6 months. The symptoms must manifest at multiple times and are not explained by other mental health disorders such as an anxiety disorder or mood disorder, as well as physical conditions such as 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 get a concrete reason for the issues you've been struggling with for so many years. It can be frustrating to discover that you suffer from mental health issues even when you've had success in other areas of your life.
A person diagnosed with ADHD is usually treated with psychotherapy, medication or other therapies. In some cases doctors may suggest accommodations for work or everyday activities. Accommodations are modifications or devices that can be added to the environment of a person to help them achieve their goals. A step stool could be utilized by someone who is taller than average, or a computer program that can help someone who has visual impairments focus on the screen. Adult ADHD is usually treated using behavioral therapy.
Diagnosis
The first step to determining if you have ADHD is to receive an accurate diagnosis. Ask your primary care doctor or a mental healthcare professional to refer you to a specialist who conducts ADHD assessments. The doctor will interview you and examine your family, personal and medical history. Your doctor will also inquire about your health issues and how they impact your school, at work and at home.
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: Having trouble staying focused on tasks or activities for long periods of time. Many times, people forget or lose things or has difficulty completing chores, schoolwork or other tasks. Makes frequent mistakes at school, work or during leisure activities. Can easily be distracted by other people or daily activities. Frequently daydreams, seems 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. Often interrupts other people or talks off-topic. Frequently gets bored quickly and seeks out excitement or novelty. In many cases, they get into disputes or fights 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 an individual and make it difficult to diagnose.
Physical examinations are conducted to rule out medical conditions that might cause similar symptoms. Some medical conditions, like seizures and thyroid disorders, could mimic ADHD symptoms.
If your symptoms are severe you may require additional testing for learning disabilities, neuropsychological disorders or psychological disorders. These tests can provide crucial information on the ways in how your ADHD affects your functioning and relationships. These tests can also reveal any other underlying issues that need to be addressed.
Treatment
Adults can benefit from the same treatment as children who have ADHD which includes treatment as well as behavioral strategies, life skills training, and therapy. Adults may require different medications however, as the ones that were used as children might not be the most appropriate for them today.
The person with ADHD must see a specialist trained in the disorder. This may be a primary care physician who is regularly treating ADHD or a mental health professional, like psychiatrist or psychologist. Many insurance companies have online directories of specialists. In addition local support groups for people with ADHD or a specialist in mood disorders may be in a position to recommend the services of a specialist.
After the examination, the specialist should make a diagnosis and prescribe treatment. They will need to speak with the individual about their history, especially how their symptoms affected them in childhood. Therapists may suggest couples' or even family therapy if a person struggles with their career or relationships.
Most adults with ADHD are treated effectively with medication. These are usually small, fast-acting drugs that help to reduce the chemical imbalance that creates ADHD. In many instances, doctors may prescribe additional medications to treat related conditions such as depression or anxiety.
Behavioral therapy can address issues in time management, impulse control, and emotional self-regulation. Therapists with specialized expertise in working with individuals suffering from ADHD can provide cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as well as other interventions that are individualized.
Some adults with ADHD feel a great relief when they are finally diagnosed. A good treatment plan can dramatically change their lives for the better. They can become more productive at work, succeed in school or develop healthier and more fulfilling relationships. Many people are pleased to finally get a diagnosis after years regrets over mistakes made because their symptoms were not properly diagnosed or treated. It is possible that an individual's behavior was influenced by their gender identity, race, and socioeconomic status.
Support
It's not too late to get an assessment and treatment if you weren't diagnosed with ADHD when you were in your early years. Many specialists specialize in ADHD and can determine if you suffer from mild, moderate, or severe symptoms. They can also rule out other mental disorders, physical issues and stress as the reason for symptoms.
A diagnosis of ADHD could trigger a variety of complex emotions, such as regret over missed opportunities or relief that you have a clear explanation for your issues. Adults with ADHD may feel judged for actions they aren't accountable for, like the inability to organize their work. They may also be facing financial problems, such as the late payment deadlines or a the burden of debt from impulse purchases.
It's not uncommon for people with ADHD to engage in self-destructive behavior like drug and alcohol abuse, poor nutrition, constant tension and stress as well as low self-esteem or issues with their relationships with family and friends. Additionally, they could suffer from issues with their physical well-being. diagnose adhd might not attend important health checks or medications or struggle to follow the medical guidelines. They are having trouble managing their finances and maintaining jobs because they aren't organized, do not meet the corporate standards and are unable to follow a routine or schedule.
Adults with ADHD may benefit from therapy and support groups that teach coping skills and strategies to live with their condition. Therapists who specialize in ADHD can assist them in managing their symptoms, discover ways to overcome their weaknesses, and improve their overall functioning. They also can work closely with family members in discussing how the disorder affects their relationship and coming up with strategies to support the person they love dearly.
Online community and peer support can also be helpful. Sites such as 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 restaurants workplace accommodations, and classes for improving communication.
Some people with ADHD find it helpful to join support groups. These groups can be a fantastic source of ideas and inspiration, and they provide a forum to discuss issues and find a solutions. There are also teachers and coaches who can assist you in developing an action plan to improve your functioning and reduce the impact of your symptoms.