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Adult ADHD Diagnosis A diagnosis of adult ADHD could be the first step towards getting treatment for some people. They may feel frustrated in their work, homes or social lives due to symptoms like fidgeting, ignoring things or interrupting others. Being diagnosed with ADHD as an adult often means going through a thorough evaluation that involves interviewing the individual and their family members, using standardized tests and rating scales. It usually involves a physical exam too. Signs and symptoms A diagnosis of ADHD may change the course of a lot of adult lives. It can help them understand why they've struggled so long and make sense of their past decisions. It can also offer hope for the future to be brighter. If you're struggling with losing your keys, feeling like you'll never finish your work, or being labeled as unreliable or lazy, getting an diagnosis is the first step to finding the treatment that works for you. The majority of adults experience symptoms in different areas of their life however, certain symptoms are more prevalent than others. They might be unruly and impulsive at school but are unable to keep up at work. They may forget to keep appointments or underestimate the time required to complete their tasks. They may struggle to make friends or fighting with their spouses often. If the issues are severe, they may interfere with the daily routine and lead to depression or anxiety. diagnosing adhd adults to recognize ADHD However, it's crucial to determine what other factors may be contributing to the symptoms. Stress, other mental health issues and medications can trigger symptoms similar to the symptoms of ADHD. To ensure that the root problem is treated with a thorough assessment by a qualified professional is necessary. Adults with ADHD do not show the same signs of hyperactivity as children. Instead, the signs of hyperactivity are displayed more subtly as fidgeting or difficulty sitting still in a chair. Women who suffer from ADHD are more likely to exhibit these symptoms since they are more able to hide their inattentive behavior within their work and social lives. During an evaluation during an assessment, the doctor will review the patient's medical history and consider the ways in which their ailments affect their daily lives. They will also ask for information about the family and, if they are able, ask a family member for their perspective on childhood behavior. They might also conduct psychological, neuropsychological or learning disabilities testing. In certain instances it might be necessary to undergo an examination of the body to rule out specific illnesses that can cause symptoms associated with ADHD. Diagnosis Adults who think they may have ADHD should discuss their symptoms with their health care provider. This is especially crucial if the issues are connected to school or work. Primary care providers may refer patients to mental health professionals who have expertise in adult ADHD evaluations. Hamdani says that professionals who work with adults suffering from ADHD should be willing and able to give information about their education and experiences. Hamdani suggests that anyone who is unwilling to provide this information should be treated with suspicion. A diagnosis of adult ADHD is a life-changing diagnosis. For some, it provides an explanation for years of frustrations and self-criticism. Some people are relieved that there is an explanation for their problems in life or that they weren't “just in their minds.” Adults who suffer from ADHD are diagnosed through an in-depth interview with a specialist. This includes a thorough examination of the individual's personal, family and medical history. The professional will also ask the patient to rate their behavior using one or a variety of standardized ADHD scales for behavioral assessment. These ratings are based on research that compares the behavior of those with ADHD and people who do not suffer from the disorder. The person will also be asked about how the symptoms affect their daily 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 those who have been diagnosed as having adult ADHD. Anxiety disorders, depression and alcohol or drug use are typical comorbidities of ADHD. Some experts suggest that these complications are a result of maladaptive coping strategies to cope with the frustrations commonly caused by untreated ADHD. It's also important to recognize that ADHD is more prevalent in men than women, and it can be difficult for many people who suffer from 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 better at hiding their symptoms better, which can result in an incorrect diagnosis or delay in getting it. Treatment It can be beneficial for adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD to talk to an expert in mental health care, preferably one with expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD. The specialist can instruct the adult strategies for managing their symptoms and improve their functioning at home, at work or school. They can also assist adults to understand why their behavior differs and what triggers them. Because a person might suffer from multiple conditions that cause similar symptoms to the symptoms of ADHD, it's important for an expert in mental health to examine the adult thoroughly. This could include a thorough description of the person's symptoms along with questionnaires and scales that are completed by the person in question and others who know him or her well, a full medical history of the family and a psychiatric history, and an exhaustive physical exam. It is crucial to conduct a thorough evaluation to determine if the adult suffers from a comorbid 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 testing to examine the way that the brain functions and to rule out any other causes, such as an illness of the body or a learning disabilities. Adults suffering from ADHD are usually treated through psychological counseling (psychotherapy) and educational programs. Adults may benefit from individual talk therapy to boost their self-esteem as well as deal with the emotional baggage that comes with ADHD. Behavioral therapies may also improve time management, organization and impulse control. They also can deal with the effect that stressors can have on a person's ability to function. Some people with ADHD might benefit from group therapy. This type of therapy may give them the chance to meet others who face similar issues and discuss strategies to overcome these challenges. These groups are typically organized by a support or advocacy group. The use of medication is also an option for a lot of adults suffering from ADHD. There are a variety of medications available that include stimulants (such as methylphenidate, which is sold under the name Ritalin) which increase the levels of norepinephrine within the brain. Others aid in managing mood and reduce impulsive behaviors, like antidepressants and bupropion, an antipsychotic drug (Wellbutrin). Your Mercy doctor can discuss all treatment options with you. Support Adults suffering from ADHD may suffer from the disorder for a long time without even realizing it. The frustration of everyday problems such as forgetting appointments, making careless mistakes at work or abandoning family or friend commitments can prompt people to seek a diagnosis. It is common for people to feel a sense relief once they get a diagnosis, especially when they realize why they have been struggling throughout their lives. A mental health professional can perform an evaluation for ADHD however the primary care physician is usually the best place to begin. If necessary, the physician can refer the patient to a specialist. A psychiatric nurse, psychiatrist or psychologist may also be qualified to assess ADHD in adults. Many insurance plans include professionals by specialty and can help individuals locate the right health professional who is familiar with ADHD in adults. During the evaluation, a mental health professional will ask about the person's previous issues and also how ADHD symptoms have affected them. It is important to speak openly and honestly during the evaluation so that the mental health professional can make a full assessment. Therapy, also known as psychotherapy can assist people in learning to manage their symptoms and improve relationships. Behavioral therapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy, helps people develop specific skills to change their patterns of thinking and behavior. Therapy is often combined with medication, which can lessen the effects of the disorder. Many adults ADHD sufferers benefit from social support groups. The opportunity to share their experiences with other people who are facing similar challenges can be a great source of motivation and inspiration. Some of these groups can be found online and are available to anyone suffering from ADHD. Certain groups are specifically targeted for populations such as African Americans who have ADHD or couples who are affected by the disorder, or people who identify themselves as gay or lesbian. Some people may experience feelings of shame or embarrassment over their condition, which could make it difficult for them to seek assistance. A healthcare professional should explain to the patient that ADHD is not a sign of weakness or failure.