ADHD in Adults Diagnosis and Treatment
If you are suffering from untreated ADHD, it can cause problems throughout your life. It may be difficult to maintain relationships and employment. This could lead to frequent changes in your job or poor performance ratings.
It is recommended to first ask your primary care doctor for a referral to a health professional who can conduct evaluations for adults suffering from ADHD. You will then be able to get an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
Diagnosis
ADHD is an neurodevelopmental disorder that causes problems in staying focused, paying attention and acting upon impulses. Adults suffering from ADHD typically have difficulties at school, at work and in their relationships. It's a very common condition, but it can be difficult to recognize since many adults don't remember having symptoms as children, or were incorrectly diagnosed as children.
A person seeking a diagnosis must visit an expert in health care who has experience in conducting ADHD evaluations in adults. Requesting a doctor to refer you to a specialist who is an ADHD specialist can be done by a doctor. You can also ask for a referral by contacting local universities, medical schools or graduate schools.
When evaluating adults, a clinician will look at how long the symptoms have been present and whether they've affected the life of the patient. They will also determine if the underlying ADHD symptoms were present in childhood. The clinician will also determine if the person meets diagnostic guidelines for either the predominantly inattentive, the predominantly hyperactive-impulsive or combined subtypes of the disorder.
To diagnose ADHD to be diagnosed, the patient must have significant impairment in at least two different areas of their lives, such as at work or home or with family and friends or while engaging in particular activities, such as driving or playing sports. Impairment means the symptoms cause significant difficulty and have lasted for at minimum six months.
When determining a diagnosis, the doctor will also try to rule out other conditions that might cause the same issues as ADHD like depression, anxiety, or addiction disorders. They may also conduct additional neuropsychological, psychosocial or learning disabilities testing to determine if a person suffers from co-existing disorders.
People who haven't been diagnosed ADHD might be frustrated because they aren't getting the help and support that they need. Some adults have reported feeling a sense of relief and renewed energy after they finally get a diagnosis. Many adults regret missed opportunities or failings due to the fact that their ADHD symptoms were not recognized and not treated. Some people with ADHD are reluctant to admit they have ADHD, especially women who were assigned female at birth. Some people are reluctant to admit that they suffer from ADHD because of the stigma that surrounds it.
Signs and symptoms
Like children, adults with ADHD do not typically overcome their condition. It can persist into adulthood, and have similar effects on work, relationships, family life, and mental health. Signs of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity can be seen in both children and adults with ADHD however, the signs are more prevalent in adults. For example, they may impact a person's job performance and cause troublesome relationships. A professional can provide support and help.
The first step is to locate an expert evaluator who is qualified, like a psychiatrist or psychologist. Ask for recommendations from family members and family or search on the internet for experts in your region. Many people suffering from ADHD are also suffering from other illnesses such as anxiety and depression that should be considered in their diagnosis and treatment.
Your evaluator will want to learn as much information about your life as they can. A detailed history, especially one that covers your childhood, can give clues to determine if your ADHD symptoms are connected to any other disorders. Your evaluator may ask about your physical health and well-being, your growth from childhood, your experiences in school and at work, driving history, alcohol and drug abuse, and how you deal with stress on a daily on a daily basis.
If your evaluator suspects you are suffering from ADHD, he or she will evaluate your symptoms to determine the extent to which they impact your daily life. Your symptoms must be sufficient to cause impairments in at two different areas. Examples of impairment include losing your job due to poor time management skills, or getting into financial trouble because of excessive spending or failure to pay on time, or having interpersonal issues in your relationship due to communication issues.
You can enhance your ability to manage your ADHD symptoms by learning to cope with the challenges they pose. For example you can lower your stress levels by following a regular routine and keeping your calendar clean. You should also ensure you get enough sleep, stay away from sweet or caffeine-rich meals prior to bedtime, and exercise regularly. Certain people with ADHD benefit from cognitive behavior therapy or psychotherapy to manage their symptoms. Others use medication to lessen their symptoms.
Treatment
The first step for adults who suspect they may have ADHD is to consult with their health care provider. They may refer you to a mental health specialist who specializes in adult ADHD evaluations, or recommend professionals who do this. Some insurance companies provide professionals based on their specialties and can assist those who are part of their plans to find an expert.
The most important factor in diagnosing ADHD in adults is the history of the individual. A doctor might ask, for instance, to examine the child's school report card or speak with family about the child's behavior in the beginning. The health professional could analyze signs of behavior that could indicate a diagnosis of ADHD.
During the assessment process the health care provider may also use one or more standardized rating scales. These tests compare the behavior of the patient with those of people who don't have ADHD and may aid the doctor in determining whether or not the symptoms meet diagnostic criteria.
A medical examination is essential to rule out any conditions that may cause symptoms that are similar to ADHD. For instance, thyroid issues seizures or hearing or vision issues sleep disorders, and dietary issues such as food allergies or lead poisoning may have similar effects as ADHD.
Psychological and behavioral therapy can be helpful for adults with ADHD. Particularly, cognitive behavior therapy can help patients to change their negative thoughts and behavior. This can lessen stress, which can make ADHD symptoms worse. Counseling can teach people to better manage their time, improve their organizational skills, and discover more effective ways to deal with stressful situations.
Stimulants are the most popular medications used to treat ADHD in adults. They are believed to increase and balance the levels of certain brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters. These medications can cause serious side effects in certain people, particularly adolescents and children. They are typically prescribed for short-term treatment and are not suitable for everyone.
Other treatment options include lifestyle changes and psychotherapy. For example, some adults with ADHD find that exercising more regularly can help them focus and be more productive. Certain people who suffer from ADHD might benefit from enhancing their planning and organization skills. Additionally, those who struggle to keep jobs or maintain relationships can benefit through a disability support program such as Access to Work.
Support
Diagnosed and treated effectively, you can manage issues that are affecting your daily life. It can also help improve your self-image and relationships with family members and friends as well as coworkers. It is never too late to seek a diagnosis or treatment of ADHD.
Your GP may recommend a mental health facility that specializes in treating adults with ADHD. This could be a Community Mental Health Service, or a Neurodevelopmental Service.
There are support groups for adults with ADHD which can offer advice and a sense that you are part of a community. You can join online discussion forums and discuss your experiences with other people. There are also getting diagnosed with adhd as an adult and mentors that specialize in helping people with ADHD. However, you must be aware that coaching and mentorship are self-regulated and there are differences in the quality and competence.
The signs of ADHD typically manifest in childhood, but may persist into adulthood. The disorder is more prevalent in males and boys as compared to girls and women. People who suffer from the inattentive type of the disorder (formerly known as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) are more likely to be diagnosed than those who suffer from the combined type. Symptoms of the hyperactive/impulsive subtype are less common in adults than those of the inattentive type, but they can still occur.
It can be difficult to determine adult ADHD because symptoms vary from person to. A history of issues at work, school or relationships can help a doctor identify the pattern. A thorough medical history can also be useful. Many medical conditions can cause similar symptoms to ADHD The background information can help determine or pinpoint other possible causes of the symptoms. These include seizures, developmental disorders anxiety, depression as well as certain medications.
Untreated ADHD may develop a negative self-image and low self-esteem as a result of persistent frustration and failure. They may also develop disorders that are comorbid, such as anxiety or depression, which can make ADHD symptoms worse.
Some adults with ADHD take part in clinical trials to help researchers understand more about the disorder. This could lead to more effective treatments in the future. On the NIMH website, you can get some suggestions on how to talk with your doctor about taking part in a study.