ADHD in Adults Diagnosis and Treatment
Untreated ADHD can cause problems in every area of your life. You may experience difficulties maintaining relationships and work, resulting in frequent job changes and/or low ratings for performance.
You should first consult your primary care doctor for a referral to a health care professional who can conduct evaluations for adults suffering from ADHD. You will then receive a diagnosis and treatment plan.
Diagnosis
ADHD is an neurodevelopmental disorder that causes problems in staying focused, paying to one's surroundings and responding to impulses. Adults suffering from ADHD typically have difficulties at work, school and in their relationships. It's a very common condition however, it can be difficult to recognize because a lot of adults don't recall having symptoms as children or being mistakenly diagnosed as children.
Anyone seeking an evaluation for ADHD for adults should consult an experienced health professional with experience in ADHD evaluations. A person could ask their physician for a referral to someone who is an expert in ADHD. They can also call local medical schools or graduate schools to request recommendations.
When conducting an evaluation of adults, a doctor will look at how long the symptoms have been present and whether they have affected the life of the patient. They will also examine whether the ADHD symptoms were present in the early years of 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 person must demonstrate significant impairment in two areas of their life. These include at home or at work, as well as with family and friends or in particular activities such as driving or playing sports. Impairment means the symptoms cause significant problems and have been present for at least 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 anxiety, depression or addiction disorders. They can also conduct additional mental, learning or neuropsychological tests to determine if a patient has a co-existing disorder.
People who don't have a diagnosis of ADHD may be unhappy because they're not receiving the help and support they need. Some adults have experienced a sense satisfaction and renewal once they are finally able to be diagnosed. Many adults regret missed opportunities or failings due to the fact that their ADHD symptoms were not identified and treated. Some people suffering from ADHD have a hard time admitting that they have the disorder, particularly women who were born female (AFAB). Some people are reluctant to admit that they suffer from ADHD because of the stigma surrounding it.
Signs and symptoms
Adults suffering from ADHD tend not to overcome the condition. It continues to affect them throughout their lives and can have the same impact on their relationships, work and family life, as well as their mental health. The signs of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity can be seen in both adults and children with ADHD but the symptoms are often more serious in adults. They can affect the person's performance at work and lead to troublesome relationships. A professional can provide treatment and help.
The first step is to find an accredited evaluator, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. Ask your family and friends for recommendations or search online to locate professionals in your area. Many people with ADHD also suffer from other disorders such as anxiety and depression that must be considered when determining their diagnosis and treatment.
Your evaluator is likely to learn as much information about your life as possible. A thorough history, particularly one that covers your childhood, can provide clues as to whether your ADHD symptoms are linked to any other disorders. Your evaluator is likely to inquire about your physical and mental health, your development that began in early childhood as well as your academic and work experiences, driving history, any drugs or alcohol use, and how you cope with stress in your daily life.
If the evaluator suspects you may have ADHD, they will assess your current symptoms to determine how they impact your everyday life. Your symptoms must be severe enough to cause impairments in at least two areas. Some examples of impairment are losing your job because of inadequate time management, or getting into financial difficulties due to excessive spending, or not making payments on time.
You can increase your ability to manage your ADHD symptoms by learning to cope with the challenges they pose. For instance you can lower your stress level by following a regular routine and keeping your schedule clear. You can also get more sleep, avoid eating sugary or caffeinated foods before bed, and regularly exercise. Certain people suffering from ADHD benefit from cognitive behavior therapy or psychotherapy to manage their symptoms. Others use medications to manage their symptoms.
Treatment
The first step for adults who think they might have ADHD is to consult with their health medical professional. They can refer you a mental health specialist who is specialized in adult ADHD evaluations, or recommend professionals who do this. Certain insurance companies will provide professionals based on their specialties and can assist those who are part of their plans to find an expert.
The most crucial factor in determining ADHD in adults is the person's history. For instance, a physician might request to review school reports from the person's childhood or interview relatives about his or her behaviors during the early years of life. The health care professional can analyze patterns of behavior that indicate a diagnosis of ADHD.
During the assessment process, the health professional may also use one or more standard rating scales. These tests compare the patient's behavior with that of people who do not have ADHD and can help the doctor determine whether or not the symptoms meet diagnostic criteria.
In addition, a medical examination is generally required to determine if there are medical conditions that may cause symptoms that resemble ADHD. For instance, thyroid issues, seizures or hearing or vision issues, sleep disorders, and food-related issues like lead poisoning or food allergies can have similar effects to ADHD.
Psychological and behavioral therapy can be helpful for adults suffering from ADHD. Cognitive behavioral therapy, in particular, can help patients change negative attitudes and behaviors. This can help reduce stress, which can make ADHD symptoms worse. Counseling can help people better manage their time, increase their organizational abilities, and learn more effective ways of dealing with stressful situations.
Adults with ADHD are typically treated with stimulants. They are believed to boost and balance levels of certain brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. These drugs can cause serious side effects in certain individuals, particularly children and teenagers. These drugs are usually prescribed for short-term use and are not suitable for all people.
Other treatment options include lifestyle changes and psychotherapy. Many adults suffering from ADHD find that increasing their physical activity can help them focus more effectively and become more productive. Other people with ADHD benefit from learning to improve their planning and organizational abilities. Additionally, those who struggle to keep jobs or maintain relationships can seek help from a disability support service like Access to Work.
Support
When you are properly diagnosed and treated, you can manage symptoms that are interfering with your life. It can also improve your self-image and improve relationships with your family, friends, and coworkers. It is never too late to seek a diagnosis and treatment for ADHD.
Your GP could recommend a mental health facility that specializes in treating adults with ADHD. This may be a Community Mental Health Service or an specialized Neurodevelopmental Service.
Support groups for adults suffering from ADHD can offer advice and a community-like feeling. You can also join online discussion forums and discuss your experiences with other people. There are coaches and mentors who specialize in helping people with ADHD. However, it is important to be aware that coaching and mentoring are self-regulated professions and there are differences in the quality and knowledge.
ADHD symptoms usually start in childhood but can persist until adulthood. The disorder is more common for men and boys than women and girls. The inattentive type (formerly known as hyperactivity disorder causing attention deficit) is more common than 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 can be difficult diagnose because the symptoms differ between individuals. A history of difficulties in school, work or in relationships can help a doctor to identify the pattern. A thorough medical history may be helpful. adult adhd diagnosis can trigger similar symptoms to ADHD, so the history can help rule out or identify other possible causes of the symptoms. These include developmental disorders, seizure disorders anxiety, depression as well as certain medications.
Untreated ADHD can lead to people developing low self-esteem and negative self-image as a result of frustration and failure. They may also develop compulsive disorders like depression or anxiety and this can make ADHD symptoms worse.
Adults suffering from ADHD might be able to participate in clinical trials that help researchers better understand the disorder. This can lead to improved treatments in the near future. There are tips to talk with your doctor about participating in clinical trials on the NIMH website.