ADHD in Adults Diagnosis and Treatment
Untreated ADHD can cause problems in every area of your life. You may struggle to maintain relationships and employment which can lead to frequent job changes or low ratings for performance.
You should first ask your primary care doctor for an appointment with a health professional who can conduct evaluations for adults with ADHD. You will then receive a diagnosis and treatment plan.
Diagnosis
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that causes problems staying focused, paying attention and responding to impulses. Adults suffering from ADHD are often troubled working, at school and in their relationships. It is a common disorder however, it can be difficult to diagnose since many adults don't remember having symptoms as children or being incorrectly diagnosed as children.
A person who is seeking an assessment of ADHD in adults should speak with an expert in health care who has experience in ADHD evaluations. One may ask their doctor for a referral to a doctor who is an expert in ADHD. They can also contact local hospitals that are affiliated with universities, medical schools or graduate schools to request an appointment.
In evaluating adults, a doctor will consider how long the symptoms have been present and how they affect the person's life. They will also examine whether the 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, a person must show significant impairment in two aspects of their life. This includes at home at work, in the company, with family and friends or in certain activities such as driving or playing sports. Impairment means the symptoms cause significant difficulties and last for at least six months.
In determining a diagnosis the clinician will also try to rule out other conditions that might cause the same problems as ADHD, such as depression, anxiety or other substance use disorders. They can also conduct psychological, learning disabilities or neuropsychological tests to determine if a patient has a co-existing disorder.
People who don't have a diagnosis of ADHD might be feeling dissatisfied because they're not receiving the help and support they need. Adults have reported feeling happy and renewed after finally getting the diagnosis. Many adults regret missed opportunities or failures because their ADHD symptoms were not identified and treated. Some people with ADHD are hesitant about admitting that they have the disorder, particularly women who are assigned female at birth (AFAB). Some people are reluctant to admit they have ADHD because of the stigma surrounding it.
Signs and symptoms
As opposed to children, adults suffering from ADHD do not typically overcome their condition. It persists into adulthood and can have the same impact on their work, friendships as well as family life and health. Symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity can be seen in both children and adults with ADHD, but the symptoms are often more serious in adults. For instance, they could impact a person's job performance and lead to troubled relationships. A professional can help with treatment and support.
The first step is finding an expert evaluator who is qualified, like psychologist or psychiatrist. Ask your friends and family for recommendations or search online to locate professionals in your area. Many people suffering from ADHD are also suffering from other illnesses like depression and anxiety that must be considered in their diagnosis and treatment.
Your evaluator would like to learn the most details possible about your life. A detailed account of your life, particularly one that spans from childhood, could provide clues to determine if ADHD symptoms are linked to other disorders. The evaluator will inquire about your physical health and well-being, your development since early childhood, experiences in school and at work, driving history, drug and alcohol abuse and how you deal with stress on a daily day basis.
If the person who evaluated you suspects that you have ADHD, he or she will examine your symptoms to determine the extent to which they impact your daily routine. For a diagnosis, your symptoms must be significant enough to cause impairment in at least two major settings. Examples of impairment include losing your job due to poor time management skills, getting into financial trouble due to reckless spending or inability to pay bills on time, or having interpersonal problems in your relationship because of difficulty communicating.
You can enhance your ability to manage your ADHD symptoms by learning how to deal with the challenges they pose. For instance, you can reduce your stress level by following a regular routine and keeping your schedule clear. You can also get better sleep, avoid eating sugary or caffeinated foods close to bedtime and regularly exercise. Some people with ADHD discover that psychotherapy or cognitive behavioral therapy can help them manage their symptoms, and others take medication to lessen the impact of their symptoms.
Treatment
For adults who suspect they have ADHD the first step is to speak with a health professional. They may refer you to an expert in mental health that is specialized in adult ADHD evaluations or provide recommendations for professionals who are able to do this. Some insurance companies also list professionals by specialty and can assist those who take part in their plans to find an expert.
The most important factor in determining ADHD in adults is the history of the individual. A doctor may ask to look over the child's report card or speak with family about the child's behavior in the beginning. The health professional will then search for patterns of behavior that may indicate ADHD.
During the process of assessment, the health care provider may also employ one or more standard rating scales. These questionnaires compare the patient's behavior to that of people who do not suffer from ADHD and may aid the doctor in determining whether or not symptoms fit diagnostic criteria.
In addition medical exams are generally required to determine if there are medical conditions that may cause symptoms that mimic ADHD. Seizures, thyroid problems, and hearing and vision issues can all be associated with similar effects.
Adults with ADHD can benefit from psychotherapy and behavioral therapy. Cognitive therapy for behavior, specifically, can help patients change negative thoughts and behavior. This can reduce stress and anxiety, which can make ADHD symptoms worse. Counseling can also teach people how to manage their time better, enhance their organizational skills, and develop more effective coping strategies to deal with stressful situations.
Stimulants are among the most commonly used drugs used to treat ADHD in adults. They appear to regulate and increase the levels of certain brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters. These medications can cause serious side effects in certain individuals, particularly adolescents and children. These medications are typically prescribed for short-term use and are not suitable for all people.
Other treatments include lifestyle changes as well as psychotherapy. For instance, some adults with ADHD discover that increasing physical exercise can help them focus and be more productive. Others with ADHD benefit from learning to improve their planning and organizational capabilities. In addition, some people who are having difficulty keeping jobs or maintain relationships can seek help through a disability support program such as Access to Work.
Support
Being diagnosed and receiving effective treatment can help you deal with symptoms that interfere with your life. It can also improve your self-image and relationships with family members and friends as well as coworkers. It's never too late to seek an assessment and treatment for ADHD.
Your GP can recommend a mental health facility that specializes in treating adult ADHD. This could be a Community Mental Health Service, or a Neurodevelopmental Service.
There are support groups for adults suffering from ADHD that can provide advice and a sense of belonging. adhd diagnose can also join online forums and talk with other members about their experiences. There are coaches or mentors who are specialized in helping people with ADHD. However, it is important to be aware that coaching and mentoring are self-regulated professions, and there are variations in quality and knowledge.
ADHD symptoms usually start in childhood, but they can continue until adulthood. The disorder is more prevalent in males and boys as than women and girls. The inattentive subtype of the disorder (formerly referred to 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.
Adult ADHD is a difficult diagnosis because the symptoms differ from one person to another. A doctor can find patterns in a patient's past of issues at work, school or with relationships. A thorough medical history may also be useful. Certain medical conditions can trigger similar symptoms as ADHD A thorough medical history can help to rule out or identify other possible causes of the symptoms. These include developmental disorders and seizures disorders. They also include anxiety, depression, drug abuse, and certain medications.
A person with untreated ADHD can develop a poor self-image and low self-esteem due to the constant frustration and failure. They could also develop comorbidities such as depression or anxiety and this can make ADHD symptoms worse.
Some adults with ADHD take part in clinical trials to help researchers learn more about the disorder. This can lead to improved treatments in the future. On the NIMH site, you will get some suggestions on how to speak with your doctor about taking part in a clinical study.