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 evaluate the person's mood and medical history, and whether there are any comorbid conditions, such anxiety or depression, that can cause similar symptoms.
An evaluation includes a structured interview with the person being evaluated. Family members, friends and colleagues may also be interviewed to get insight into the history of the person being evaluated.
Signs and symptoms
Adults with ADHD are likely to experience many of these symptoms, but they could affect more aspects of our lives. They may struggle to keep their jobs, coordinating relationships and perform well at school, for instance. Signs of trouble include inattention to the present, frequent interruptions or blurting out answers or not following through on work tasks and repeatedly missing appointments. The condition can also result in financial difficulties because people are more likely to make impulsive mistakes or overspend.
Professionals can assess adults for ADHD using a variety of methods. They may speak with a person's parents and ask them about their childhood experiences. They might also look over report cards and take note of teacher remarks. They may also gauge an individual's current functioning by interviewing co-workers, friends and family. They can even 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 over the past 6 months. Symptoms must be present in multiple settings and are not better explained by another mental health disorder like an anxiety or mood disorder, or by other physical conditions such as hearing loss or vision problem.
If you're diagnosed with ADHD as an adult, it's normal to experience a variety of emotions. It's a feeling of relief when you finally discover a concrete reason for the challenges you've faced for a long time. It can be difficult to learn that you have an illness of mental health 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 treatments. In certain cases doctors will suggest accommodations at work or in daily activities. Accommodations are tools or changes to an individual's environment that can help them achieve their goals and lessen the negative impact of their disability. Examples include an incline step for someone who is smaller than average, or a computer program that allows those with visual impairments to focus on the screen. The use of behavioral therapy is also a popular treatment for adults with ADHD.
Diagnosis
If you suspect you may have ADHD, the first step is to get an accurate diagnosis. Start by asking your primary care physician or mental health professional for a referral to a specialist who can conduct ADHD assessments. Your doctor will interview you and examine your personal, family and medical history. They will also inquire about the effects of your symptoms on your daily life at home, at school and at work.
killer deal will use the American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic guidelines, that are included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), to determine whether you meet the criteria for ADHD. The following are some of the DSM-5 criteria for inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive types of ADHD:
Inattention: Have trouble staying focused on tasks and activities for a long period of time. Has trouble finishing chores, tasks or schoolwork. Frequently makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, at work or in leisure activities. Gets easily distracted by others or their daily activities. The person often daydreams, appears 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. Sometimes interrupts others or speaks in a non-linear manner. Often gets bored quickly and is in search of excitement or a sense of novelty. Frequently gets into fights, arguments or even acts 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 may complicate diagnosis.
A physical exam is performed to rule out medical conditions that could cause similar symptoms. Certain medical issues, like thyroid disorders and seizure disorders, may mimic ADHD symptoms.
If your symptoms are severe, you may require additional tests for neuropsychological disorders, or psychological disorders. These tests can provide crucial information on how ADHD affects your relationships and functioning. These tests can also identify any other underlying problems that require attention.
Treatment
Adults may benefit from the same treatment that children who suffer from ADHD such as medications, behavioral strategies, life-skills training and therapy. Adults may require different medications, however, because those used as children may not be the right fit for them today.
The person with ADHD should consult an expert who is 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 plans offer online directories of specialists. A local support group for ADHD sufferers or a specialist doctor who specializes in mood disorders can also recommend an expert.
After the exam the doctor will determine a diagnosis and recommend treatment. The doctor may wish to discuss the background of the person as well as how the symptoms affected him or her in the early years of their life. If the person is experiencing difficulty in their job or relationships, a therapist may suggest family or couples' therapy to help them develop the skills to cope better.
Most people suffering from 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 cases, a doctor will also prescribe other medications to treat related conditions such as depression or anxiety.
Behavioral therapy can address issues related to time management, impulse control and emotional self-regulation. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as well as other individualized interventions, can be offered by therapists who have particular expertise working with people with ADHD.
When adults with ADHD are finally diagnosed, they experience relief. A good treatment plan can drastically alter their lives to the better. They can become more productive at work, be successful in school or develop healthier and more fulfilling relationships. For some, the diagnosis can bring closure to the years of regrets over the mistakes they made in their past because their issues went undiagnosed or not treated. It is possible that an individual's behavior was influenced by gender identity, race, and socioeconomic status.
Support
If you've never been diagnosed with ADHD as when you were a child, it's too late to seek an assessment and treatment. Many specialists specialize in ADHD and can determine if you have mild or moderate symptoms. They can also rule other mental disorders, physical ailments and stress as the cause of symptoms.
A diagnosis of ADHD could trigger a variety of complex emotions, such as sadness over missed opportunities or relief that you have a clear explanation for your difficulties. Adults who suffer from ADHD might feel judged for actions they aren't accountable for, like the inability to organize their work. They may also have financial issues, like late payment deadlines or debt due to impulsive purchases.
Adults with ADHD are not typically involved in self-destructive behavior, which includes drinking and using drugs. Other self-destructive behaviors include poor nutrition, chronic tension and stress as well as low self-esteem and issues in their relationships with family and friends. Also, they may have problems with their physical well-being. They may neglect vital checkups or medications or struggle to follow medical instructions. They may have trouble managing their finances and sustaining jobs due to the fact that they aren't organized, don't meet the corporate standards and are unable to adhere to a routine or schedule.
Adults who suffer from ADHD might benefit from therapy or support groups which offer strategies and coping skills for living with the disorder. Therapists who specialize in ADHD can help them manage their symptoms, figure out ways to compensate for their weaknesses, and improve their lives. They can also work with family members to discuss how the disorder affects their relationship and devise strategies for helping the person they love.
Online community and peer support can be extremely beneficial. Sites like Sheila Henson or Neuroqueer offer webinars, workshops, and individual and group coaching on emotional regulation, social interaction, and organizational skills. Other online resources include ADHD accommodating restaurants, workplace accommodations and classes to improve communication.
Some people with ADHD are able to benefit from join support groups. These groups can be a fantastic source of inspiration and ideas, and they provide a forum for discussing issues and finding a solution. There are also teachers and coaches who can assist you in developing an action plan to improve your performance and reduce the effects of your symptoms.