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Adult ADHD Diagnosis For some people who are diagnosed with adult ADHD is the first step to get treatment. They may be unhappy at work, in their homes, or social life because of symptoms like fidgeting, forgetting things, or interrupting others. Being diagnosed with ADHD as an adult typically means going through an extensive assessment that involves interviewing the individual and their family members, using standard tests and rating scales. It typically includes a physical examination, too. Symptoms A diagnosis of ADHD may change the course of many adults' lives. It can help them understand why they've been through so much and make sense of their past decisions. It can also inspire them to look forward to an improved future. If you're having trouble finding your keys, feeling that you can never finish your work, or being accused of being unreliable or lazy, getting an assessment is the first step to finding the treatment that works for you. For the majority of adults, signs manifest in different areas of their lives and are more common in one area than the other. They may be impulsive and irritable at school, but have difficulty in keeping up with their work. They may forget appointments or struggle to estimate how long they will need to complete their tasks. They may be unable to make friends or fighting with their spouses regularly. If these issues are serious, they could affect daily life and lead to anxiety or depression. While it's important to consider a diagnosis of ADHD however, it's equally important to consider the other factors contributing to the symptoms. Stress, mental health problems, and certain medications are typically associated with symptoms that are similar. A thorough assessment by a trained professional is essential to make sure that the underlying issue is being addressed. Adults suffering from ADHD don't show the same symptoms of hyperactivity that children do. Hyperactivity is less obvious and is manifested as fidgeting or difficulty sitting still. Women with ADHD tend to exhibit these symptoms more often because they are able to hide their inattention within their social and professional lives. During the exam, the doctor will look at the patient's medical background and how the symptoms affect their daily lives. They will also request family history and, if it is possible, talk to a loved one to gain their perspective on childhood behavior. They can also conduct neuropsychological, psychological, or learning disabilities tests. In certain instances it is necessary to perform a physical examination in order to rule out certain illnesses that may mimic the symptoms of ADHD. Diagnosis Adults who believe they have ADHD should discuss their symptoms with their physician. adhd diagnoses ADHD Diagnosis is particularly important if the problems are related to school or work. Primary care providers can refer individuals to mental health professionals who specialize in adult ADHD assessments and treatment. Hamdani states that professionals who work with adults with ADHD should be willing and able to provide information regarding their training and experience. Hamdani warns that anyone who is reluctant to share this information should be treated with suspicion. Being diagnosed with adult ADHD can be a life-changing moment. For some, it finally gives an explanation for years of frustration and self-criticism. Some people are relieved that there is an explanation for their struggles in life or that they weren't “just in their heads.” In most cases, an adult with ADHD will receive a diagnosis by conducting a thorough interview with a qualified professional. This may include a thorough review of the patient's medical family, personal, and medical history. Additionally, the doctor will likely ask the person to rate their behaviors on one or more of the standardized ADHD behavior scales. These ratings are based upon research that compares the behaviors of people suffering from ADHD and those who do not have the disorder. The person will be questioned about their symptoms and how they affect their lives. 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. People who receive a diagnosis of adult ADHD typically have co-existing disorders which are referred to as comorbidities. Anxiety disorders, depression, and drug or alcohol use are all common comorbidities associated with ADHD. Some experts believe that these comorbidities are maladaptive strategies for dealing with the frustrations associated with untreated ADHD. It's also important to recognize that ADHD is more prevalent in men than women, and it may be difficult for many people who are affected to be diagnosed due to persistent prejudices regarding the symptoms and the impact they have on males and females. Women may be able to mask their symptoms better, which can lead them to a delayed diagnosis or an incorrect diagnosis. Treatment Adults who are diagnosed of ADHD might find it beneficial to consult an expert in mental health particularly one who has experience treating adults with ADHD. The person who treats adults can teach them behavioral strategies to help them manage their symptoms and improve their performance at the workplace, at school or at home. They can also assist adults recognize why their behavior is different and what triggers it. Because a person might have several disorders that cause similar symptoms to those of ADHD It is essential for a mental health professional to thoroughly examine the adult. This could include a thorough description of the scale and the forms filled out by the client or other people who know him/her along with a family and psychiatric history and an extensive physical examination. A thorough evaluation is also important for determining whether the adult suffers from a co-morbid disorder, such as anxiety or depression. These conditions can contribute to the symptoms of ADHD and make treatment more challenging. A mental health professional can also perform cognitive or neuropsychological tests to examine how the brain functions, and to identify other causes for the problems, such as the presence of a learning disability or physical illness. Treatment options for adults suffering from ADHD typically include counseling for psychological issues (psychotherapy) and educational programs. Adults may benefit from individual talk therapy to improve their self-esteem and deal with the emotional burdens that come with ADHD. Behavioral therapies can help improve efficiency, time management and impulse control and may help to reduce the effects of stressors on a person's ability to function. Some individuals who suffer from ADHD benefit from group therapy. This kind of therapy can give them the chance to meet others who face similar challenges and discuss ways to overcome them. These groups are usually run by groups of support or an advocacy group. There is also a treatment option for many adults suffering from ADHD. There are many medications available which include stimulants that boost the levels of norepinephrine as well as dopamine in the brain (for example, methylphenidate, which is also known as Ritalin). Antidepressants and the antipsychotic drug Wellbutrin (Bupropion) can help control moods and reduce impulse-driven behavior. Your Mercy doctor will be able to talk with you about all your treatment options. Support Many people diagnosed with ADHD suffer from the condition for a long time, without knowing it. The frustration of everyday problems like forgetting appointments, making careless mistakes at work or breaking family or friendship commitments can lead people to seek a diagnosis. People often feel relieved when they are given an answer to their questions. A mental health professional can conduct an assessment for ADHD, but an primary care physician is typically an ideal place to begin. If needed, the doctor may refer the patient to an expert. A psychiatric nursing, psychiatrist or psychologist can also assess ADHD in adults. Many insurance plans will list specialists according to their specialties. This will help individuals find the right health professional who is experienced in treating ADHD in adults. During the evaluation the mental health professional will inquire about the person's previous issues, as well as how ADHD symptoms have affected them. It is crucial to be honest and open during the assessment, so that the mental health professional can provide an accurate assessment. Psychotherapy, or psychological counseling, can help people manage their issues and improve their relationships. Behavioral therapy, for instance cognitive behavioral therapy, can teach people specific skills to change their patterns of thinking and behavior. The combination of therapy and medication can help alleviate the symptoms of the disorder. Many adult ADHD patients benefit from support groups for adults. The opportunity to share their struggles with other people who are experiencing similar struggles can provide a lot of motivation and inspiration. A few of these groups are accessible online and are available to all people with ADHD. Other groups are for specific populations, such as African Americans with ADHD, couples affected by the disorder, or people who identify as gay or lesbian. Some people may feel embarrassed or ashamed about their symptoms. This could make them reluctant to seek help. A health professional should explain to the patient that ADHD is not a sign of weakness or failure.