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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 at work, in their homes, or in their social lives due to symptoms such as fidgeting or ignoring things. Getting diagnosed with ADHD as an adult usually involves undergoing an extensive assessment that involves interviewing the person and their family members, using standardized tests and rating scales. The evaluation usually includes physical examination. Signs and symptoms For many adults, a diagnosis of ADHD can be life-changing. It can help adults to understand why they've had to struggle for so long and help them make sense of their past choices. adhd diagnosis in adults iampsychiatry.uk can also provide them with hope for the future. If you're struggling to find your keys, feel like you can't finish your work, or are being labeled lazy or irresponsible or you have been accused of being lazy or irresponsible then getting a diagnosis will help you find the right treatment for you. Most adults experience symptoms in different areas of their lives, but certain areas are more prominent than others. They might be unruly and impulsive at school but have trouble keeping up at work. They might forget to make appointments or underestimate the amount of time required to complete their work. They may have trouble making friends or get into frequent fights with their spouses. If these issues are serious, they may interfere with daily living and lead to depression or anxiety. While it's essential to consider the possibility of a diagnosis of ADHD but it's equally important to consider what other factors might be that are causing the symptoms. Stress, other mental health conditions and certain medications can often cause symptoms similar to the symptoms of ADHD. To ensure that the underlying problem is resolved an in-depth evaluation by a qualified professional is necessary. Adults suffering from ADHD don't show the same symptoms of hyperactivity that children do. Instead, the symptoms of hyperactivity present themselves more subtly, such as fidgeting or having trouble sitting in chairs. Women with ADHD tend to display these symptoms more frequently, as they can hide their inattentional behavior within their social and professional lives. During an assessment 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 request the family history of the patient and, if they are able, ask a family member for their view on the behavior of children. They can also conduct psychological, neuropsychological or testing for learning disabilities. In some cases physical exams may be needed to rule out certain diseases that may mimic the symptoms of ADHD. Diagnosis Adults who think they may have ADHD should discuss their symptoms with their physician. This is especially important if the problems are related to school or work. Primary care providers can refer individuals to mental health specialists who specialize in adult ADHD evaluations and treatment. Hamdani states that professionals who work with adults with ADHD should be willing and able to give information about their education and experience. Hamdani warns that anyone who is hesitant to share such information should be viewed as suspicious. Getting a diagnosis of adult ADHD can be a life-changing moment. For some, it finally provides an explanation for years of frustration and self-criticism. Some people feel relieved that they have an explanation for their difficulties in life or that they aren't “just in their heads.” Adults who suffer from ADHD are diagnosed by an extensive interview with a specialist. This may include a thorough review of the person's personal, family and medical history. The doctor will also ask the patient to rate their behavior on one or more of the different ADHD scales for behavioral assessment. These ratings are based upon research that compares the behavior of people with ADHD and those who don't have the disorder. The person will also be asked if the symptoms impact 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. People who receive a diagnosis of adult ADHD typically have co-existing disorders known as co-morbidities. Anxiety disorders, depression and alcohol or drug use are all common comorbidities associated with ADHD. Some experts suggest that these co-morbidities are maladaptive mechanisms to deal with the frustrations commonly caused by untreated ADHD. It is also important to remember that ADHD is more prevalent in men than women, and it may be difficult for people who suffer from the disorder to be diagnosed due long-held prejudices about the symptoms and their impact on men versus women. Some women are even capable of masking their symptoms better, which can lead to an incorrect diagnosis or delay in getting it. Treatment It may be helpful for adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD to consult an expert in mental health care, preferably one with experience treating adults with ADHD. This individual can teach the adult behavioral strategies to manage their symptoms and improve their performance at home, work or school. They can also help adults learn to understand why their behavior is different and what triggers it. Because a person may suffer from multiple disorders which cause similar symptoms as those of ADHD, it's important for a mental health professional to examine the adult thoroughly. This may include a detailed description of the person's symptoms, questionnaires and scales completed by the person who is being evaluated and by other people who know them well, a complete medical and psychiatric history, as well as an exhaustive physical exam. A thorough assessment is essential to determine whether the adult suffers from a comorbid condition, such as anxiety or depression. These conditions can worsen ADHD symptoms and make treatment more difficult. A mental health professional may also conduct neuropsychological or cognitive testing to look at how the brain functions, and to identify other causes for the issues, such as an intellectual disability or physical illness. Treatment options for adults with ADHD typically involve psychological counseling (psychotherapy) and educational programs. Adults may benefit from individual talk therapy to boost their self-esteem and deal with the emotional baggage that comes with ADHD. Behavioral therapies may also improve time management and organization, as well as impulse control. They can also address the impact stressors have on an individual's abilities to perform. Certain people with ADHD may benefit from group therapy. This type of therapy offers you the opportunity to connect with other people who are facing similar challenges and discuss how to overcome them. These groups are often organized by a support group or an advocacy group. The use of medication is also an option for many adults with ADHD. There are a myriad of medications available that include stimulants (such as methylphenidate that is sold under the name Ritalin) that increase levels of norepinephrine within the brain. Antidepressants and the antipsychotic drug Wellbutrin (Bupropion) aid in regulating moods and reduce impulse-driven behavior. Your Mercy doctor can discuss all treatment options. Support Adults suffering from ADHD may suffer from the disorder for years without realizing it. Discontent with everyday issues such as forgetting appointments, making careless mistakes at work or abandoning family or friend commitments can prompt people to seek a diagnosis. These people often feel relieved when they are given an answer to their questions. A mental health professional may conduct an ADHD evaluation, however the primary physician is typically an excellent starting point. The doctor can also refer the patient to a specialist if necessary. A psychiatric nursing, psychiatrist or psychologist can also evaluate ADHD in adults. A lot of insurance plans include professionals according to their specialties, which can help people locate an expert in health care who is familiar with ADHD among adults. During the examination the mental health professional will inquire about the person's previous issues, as well as how ADHD symptoms have affected them. It is important to speak openly and truthfully during the evaluation so that the mental health professional can make a full assessment. Psychotherapy, also known as psychological counseling, can help people manage their symptoms and improve their relationships. Behavioral therapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy, teaches people how to alter their behavior and thinking patterns. The combination of therapy and medication can help reduce the symptoms of the disorder. Many adult ADHD patients benefit from support groups for adults. Being able to share their experiences with others who are experiencing similar struggles can be a great source of inspiration and encouragement. Some of these groups are accessible online and are available to all people with ADHD. Others are geared towards specific groups, like African Americans with ADHD, couples affected by the disorder, or people who identify as gay or lesbian. There are people who experience feelings of shame or embarrassment over their symptoms, which may hinder their willingness to seek help. However, a doctor should explain that ADHD is not an indication of failing or weakness.