The 10 Most Terrifying Things About Adult ADHD Diagnosis
Adult ADHD Diagnosis
For some being diagnosed with adult ADHD is the first step toward getting treatment. They may be frustrated at work, at homes, or even in their social life because of symptoms like being distracted or forgetting things.
Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD will often undergo an extensive evaluation that involves interviewing them and their families and using tests that are standardized. The evaluation usually involves a physical exam as well.
Signs and symptoms
A diagnosis of ADHD could alter the course of a lot of adult lives. It can help adults understand why they've struggled for so long and make sense out of their past choices. It can also provide hope for the future to be brighter. Whether you are having trouble finding your keys, feeling that you'll never be able to finish your work or being accused of being unreliable or lazy, getting an assessment is the first step towards finding the best treatment for you.
For the majority of adults, signs are present in a variety of areas of their lives. Some are more prevalent in one area than the other. They may be restless and impulsive at school, but have trouble keeping up at work. They may forget appointments or struggle to estimate how much time they need to complete tasks. They may struggle to make friends or argue with their spouses regularly. If these problems are severe, they may interfere with the daily routine and lead to depression or anxiety.
While it's important to consider the possibility of being diagnosed with ADHD however, it's equally important to consider the other factors that could be contributing to the symptoms. Stress, mental health problems, and certain medications are typically the cause of symptoms that are similar. To ensure that the underlying problem is treated an in-depth evaluation by a qualified professional is necessary.
Adults who suffer from ADHD do not exhibit the same signs of hyperactivity as children. Instead, the symptoms of hyperactivity manifest more subtly, such as fidgeting or a difficulty sitting in the chair. Women who suffer from ADHD are more likely to display these symptoms, as they are more able to hide their inattentive behavior within their work and social interactions.
During an assessment during an assessment, the doctor will review the patient's medical history and examine how their symptoms interfere with their daily life. They will also ask about family history and, if possible, ask a family member their views on childhood behavior. They may also perform psycho-, neuropsychological or learning disabilities testing. In some instances it might be necessary to undergo a physical examination in order to rule out certain illnesses which can mimic the symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosis
It's important for those who believe they might be suffering from ADHD to discuss their symptoms with a health care professional, especially if their issues stem from school or work. Primary care providers may refer patients to mental health professionals who have experience in adult ADHD assessments. Hamdani states that professionals who work with adults suffering from ADHD should be willing and able to share information about their training and experiences. Anyone who is hesitant to share this information will be considered suspicious Hamdani says.
Being diagnosed with adult ADHD can be a life-changing event. For some, it gives a reason for the years of frustration and self-criticism. Others feel a sense satisfaction that there's a rationale for the challenges they've encountered in their lives, or that their struggles were not just "in their head."
In most cases, an adult with ADHD will be diagnosed by conducting a thorough interview with a certified professional. This may include a thorough review of the individual's personal medical, family, and background. The doctor will also ask the patient to rate their behavior using one or more of the standardized ADHD scales for behavioral assessment. These ratings are based upon research that compared the behavior of people with ADHD and people who do not suffer from the disorder.
The individual will also be asked about how the symptoms affect 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.
Comorbidities are often present in people who have been diagnosed as having adult ADHD. Common comorbidities with ADHD include anxiety disorders, depression and drug or alcohol abuse. Some experts suggest these complications are a result of maladaptive coping strategies to manage the stressors that are typically related to untreated ADHD.
It is also important to remember that ADHD is more prevalent in males than women, and it can be difficult for people who are affected to be diagnosed due long-held prejudices about the symptoms and their impact on males and females. Women may be able to mask their symptoms more effectively, which can lead them to being diagnosed later or to an inaccurate diagnosis.
Treatment
It can be beneficial for adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD to speak with a mental healthcare professional that has experience in treating adults with ADHD. The person who treats adults can teach them behavior strategies to help them manage their symptoms and improve their functioning in the workplace, at school or at home. 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 can cause similar symptoms to those of ADHD, it's important for a mental health professional to evaluate the adult thoroughly. This could include a thorough description and scales filled out by the client or other people who know him/her along with a family and psychiatric history, as well as a thorough physical exam.
It is important to conduct a thorough evaluation to determine if an adult suffers from a co-occurring disorder such as depression or anxiety. These conditions can increase ADHD symptoms and make treatment more difficult. A mental health professional can also conduct neurological or cognitive 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 disability.
Adults with ADHD are usually treated by psychological counseling (psychotherapy) and educational programs. Individual talk therapy can help an adult develop confidence in their self and deal with the emotional burden that usually comes with the diagnosis of ADHD. Behavioral therapies can also help improve time management and organization, as well as impulse control. They also can deal with the effect that stressors can have on a person's ability to function.
Certain people with ADHD may benefit from group therapy. This type of therapy gives you the opportunity to meet people who face similar issues and discuss strategies to overcome them. These groups are typically organized by a support or advocacy group.
Many adults suffering from ADHD can also be treated with medications. There are a variety of medications available including stimulants (such as methylphenidate, which is sold under the name Ritalin) that increase levels of norepinephrine within the brain. Others help to regulate moods and decrease impulsive behavior, such as antidepressants or bupropion, an antipsychotic drug (Wellbutrin). Your Mercy doctor can discuss all treatment options with you.
Support
Many adults who are diagnosed with ADHD suffer from the disorder for decades without even realizing it. They may seek an assessment because they are annoyed by everyday issues like not remembering appointments and making mistakes at work, or not paying attention to the demands of friends and family. These people often feel relieved when they receive an answer to their questions.
A mental health professional may perform an ADHD assessment, but a primary physician is usually an excellent starting point. The doctor may also refer the patient to a specialist when needed. A psychiatric nursing, psychiatrist or psychologist can also assess ADHD in adults. Many insurance plans list specialists by specialization and can help people find the right health professional who is knowledgeable about ADHD in adults.
During the examination, the mental health professional will ask questions about the person's behavior, including previous issues and how they've been affected by their ADHD symptoms. It's important to talk openly and truthfully during the evaluation so that the mental health professional can conduct a thorough evaluation.
Psychological counseling, or therapy can help people learn to manage their symptoms and improve relationships. Behavioral therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, teaches people specific skills to change their thinking patterns and behaviors. The combination of therapy and medication can help reduce the symptoms of the disorder.
Social support groups are beneficial to a lot of adults ADHD patients. The opportunity to share their experiences with others who face similar struggles can provide a lot of inspiration and motivation. A few of these groups are accessible online and are available to all people with adhd diagnosis for adults. Some groups are geared towards specific groups, such as African Americans who have ADHD or couples who are affected by the disorder, or people who identify as gay or lesbian.
Some people may experience feelings of shame or Adult Adhd Diagnosis embarrassment about their condition, which could hinder their willingness to seek assistance. However, a healthcare professional should explain that ADHD is not an indication of failing or weakness.