The 10 Scariest Things About Adult ADHD Diagnosis
Adult ADHD Diagnosis
For some who are diagnosed with adult ADHD is the first step towards treatment. They may be frustrated in their jobs, homes or social lives because of symptoms like fidgeting, ignoring things or interrupting others.
Getting diagnosed with ADHD as an adult typically requires an extensive evaluation that includes interviewing the individual and their family members, using standardized tests and rating scales. The evaluation usually includes a physical exam, as well.
Symptoms
A diagnosis of ADHD could alter the course of many adult lives. It can help people understand why they've struggled for untreated so long and help them make sense out of their past choices. It can also offer hope for a brighter future. Whether you are having trouble finding your keys, feeling that you'll never be able to finish your work, or being accused of being irresponsible or lazy, getting an assessment is the first step towards finding the best treatment for you.
For the majority of adults, signs appear in several areas of their lives and are more common in one area in comparison to another. They might be unruly and impulsive at school but have trouble keeping up at work. They may forget appointments or have difficulty estimating the amount of time they require to complete tasks. They may have trouble making friends or get into frequent fights with their spouses. If the problems are serious, they could affect everyday life and cause anxiety or depression.
It's crucial to recognize ADHD However, it's important to determine what other factors might be contributing to the symptoms. Stress, mental health conditions and certain medications are often responsible for symptoms that are similar. To ensure that the underlying problem is resolved an in-depth evaluation by a specialist is required.
Adults suffering from ADHD don't show the same symptoms of hyperactivity that children do. Instead, the symptoms of hyperactivity present themselves more subtly, such as fidgeting or having trouble sitting in chairs. Women who suffer from ADHD tend to exhibit these symptoms more frequently, as they can hide their inattentional behavior at work and in social lives.
During an evaluation the doctor will go over the patient's medical history and examine the ways in which their ailments affect their daily routine. They will also ask about family history and if possible, ask a family member their views on childhood behavior. They can also conduct psycho-, neuropsychological or learning disabilities testing. In some cases, a physical exam may be needed to rule out certain diseases which may resemble the symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosis
Adults who think they may have ADHD should discuss their symptoms with their physician. This is particularly important if the problems are related to work or school. Primary health care providers can refer patients to mental health specialists who specialize in adult ADHD assessment and treatment. Those professionals should be willing to share information about their level of training and experience working with adults with ADHD, Hamdani says. Hamdani says that anyone who is reluctant to share the information needed to be viewed with suspicion.
Getting a diagnosis of adult ADHD can be a life-changing event. For some, it provides an explanation for the years of frustration and self-criticism. Some people are happy that they have a reason for their struggles in life or that they weren't "just in their minds."
Adults with ADHD are diagnosed through an extensive interview with a professional. This will include a review the person's medical background, family and personal history. In addition, the professional will likely request the person to rate their behaviors using one or more of the standard ADHD behavior rating scales. These ratings are based on research that compares behaviors of those with adhd diagnosis adults to those of people who do not have the disorder.
The individual will also be asked how the symptoms impact their life. In order to meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD, an adult must have at least five persistent symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity-impulsivity that cause significant impairment in at least two settings (such as home, school and work) and that are not better explained by other factors.
People who receive a diagnosis of adult ADHD often have coexisting conditions which are referred to as co-morbidities. Depression, anxiety disorders, and drug or alcohol use are common comorbidities of ADHD. Some experts suggest that these co-morbidities are maladaptive mechanisms to deal with the stressors that are typically related to untreated ADHD.
It's also important to note that ADHD is more prevalent in men than women, and it can be difficult for those who do have the disorder to get diagnosed because of long-held biases about the symptoms and the impact they have on men versus women. Women are also capable of masking their symptoms better, which could lead to an incorrect diagnosis or delay in obtaining a diagnosis.
Treatment
It is recommended for adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD to consult an expert in mental health that has expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD. This individual can teach the adult behavioral strategies to manage their symptoms and improve their performance at work, home or at school. They can also assist adults to learn to understand why their behavior is different and what triggers them.
Since a person could suffer from multiple disorders that cause similar symptoms to the symptoms of ADHD It is essential for a mental health professional to thoroughly examine the adult. This may include a detailed description of the condition and scales completed by the patient or other individuals who are familiar with him/her as well as a psychiatric and family history as well as an extensive physical examination.
It is important to conduct a thorough assessment to determine if the adult suffers from a co-occurring disorder like depression or anxiety. These conditions can trigger the symptoms of ADHD and make treatment more challenging. A mental health professional may also perform cognitive or neurological tests to determine the way that the brain functions and to rule out any other causes, such as an illness that affects the body or a learning disabilities.
Treatment options for adults suffering from ADHD typically include counseling for psychological issues (psychotherapy) and educational programs. Individual talk therapy can help an adult develop confidence in their self and manage the emotional baggage that often comes with the diagnosis of ADHD. Behavioral therapies may also improve time management and control of impulses. They can also address the impact stressors have on an individual's abilities to perform.
Some people with ADHD might benefit from group therapy. This kind of therapy gives you the chance to meet people who face similar issues and discuss strategies to overcome them. These groups are usually organized by a support or advocacy group.
Many people suffering from ADHD are treated by medication. There are a myriad of medications available including stimulants (such as methylphenidate that is sold under the name Ritalin) that increase levels of norepinephrine in the brain. Antidepressants and the antipsychotic drug Wellbutrin (Bupropion) help regulate moods and decrease impulse-driven behavior. Your Mercy doctor will discuss all of your treatment options with you.
Support
Many adults diagnosed with ADHD suffer from the disorder for a long time without knowing it. Frustration with everyday challenges such as missing appointments, making irresponsible mistakes at work or blowing off family or friendship commitments can lead people to seek a diagnosis. It's common for these people to feel a sense of relief when they receive a diagnosis, especially when they can see why they have been struggling all their lives.
A mental health professional can conduct an ADHD assessment, but a primary physician is usually the best place to start. The doctor can also refer the person to a specialist in the event of need. A psychiatric nurse, psychiatrist or psychologist could also be qualified to assess ADHD in adults. Many insurance plans list specialists according to their specialization and assist people in finding the right health professional who is familiar with ADHD in adults.
During the assessment the mental health specialist will ask questions about the person's behavior, including the past issues they have had and how they have been affected by their ADHD symptoms. It's crucial to be honest and forthcoming during the assessment, so that the mental healthcare professional can provide a precise assessment.
Psychotherapy, also known as psychological counseling, can help people manage their issues and improve their relationships. Behavioral therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, can teach people specific techniques to alter their thinking patterns and behaviors. The combination of therapy and medication can help reduce the symptoms of the disorder.
Many adults ADHD patients benefit from social support groups. The chance to share their struggles with other people who are experiencing similar issues can provide a lot of inspiration and encouragement. Some of these groups are online and are open to anyone who has ADHD. Some groups are for specific populations such as African Americans who have ADHD, couples affected by the disorder, or people who identify as gay or lesbian.
Some people may experience feelings of shame or embarrassment about their symptoms, which can hinder their desire to seek help. A medical professional must explain to the patient that ADHD is not a weakness or failure.
