5 Common Myths About Adult ADHD Diagnosis You Should Avoid
Wiki Article
Adult ADHD Diagnosis
For some being diagnosed with adult ADHD is the first step to get treatment. They may be unhappy at work, in their homes or in their social life because of symptoms like being distracted or forgetting things.
Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD typically undergo an exhaustive evaluation, which involves interviewing them and their families and using standardized tests. The evaluation usually includes a physical examination.
Signs and symptoms
For many adults, a diagnosis of ADHD can be life-changing. It can help adults recognize the reasons they've struggled with for so long, and make sense out of their past choices. It could also give them hope for an improved future. If you're having trouble finding your keys, feeling like you'll never complete your task or are accused of being unreliable or lazy getting an assessment is the first step to finding the right treatment for you.
The majority of adults experience symptoms across various areas of their lives, but some are more prominent than others. They might be unruly and impulsive in school, but have trouble keeping up at work. They might forget to make appointments or underestimate the time required to complete their tasks. They may struggle to make friends or engage in frequent disputes with their spouses. If these problems are severe, they may interfere with everyday life and cause depression or anxiety.
While it's essential to consider the possibility of a diagnosis of ADHD but it's equally important to look at the other factors that are causing the symptoms. Stress, other mental health issues and medications can often cause symptoms similar to those of ADHD. A thorough evaluation by a qualified professional is necessary to make sure that the root cause is being treated.
Adults with ADHD do not show the same signs of hyperactivity as children. Hyperactivity is less obvious and can be seen as fidgeting or having trouble sitting. Women with ADHD are more likely to exhibit these signs, since they are more likely to hide their inattentive behavior in their jobs and social lives.
During the exam the doctor will review the patient's medical history as well as how the symptoms affect their daily lives. They will also ask about family history and, should they be able to interview a family member for their perspective on childhood behaviors. They can also conduct psychological, neuropsychological or tests for learning disabilities. In certain cases, a physical exam might be required to rule out certain illnesses that can mimic symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosis
Adults who believe they have ADHD should discuss their symptoms with their physician. This is especially important if the symptoms are connected to school or work. Primary care providers can refer patients to mental health professionals with expertise in adult ADHD evaluations. Hamdani says that professionals who deal with adults with ADHD should be able and willing to give information about their education and experience. Hamdani suggests that anyone who is unwilling to share the information needed to be viewed with suspicion.
Getting a diagnosis of adult ADHD can be a life-changing event. For some, it finally gives an explanation for years of frustrations 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 the majority of instances, an adult suffering from ADHD will receive a diagnosis through a comprehensive interview with a professional who is qualified. This will include a review the patient's medical family, personal, and medical background. In addition, the professional will likely ask the person to rate their behaviors using one or more of the standard ADHD behavior scales. These ratings are based on research that compared the behavior of people with ADHD and those who do not have the disorder.
The individual will be asked about their symptoms and how they 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 frequently present among those who have been diagnosed with adult ADHD. Common comorbidities with ADHD include anxiety disorders, depression and alcohol or drug dependence. Some experts believe that these comorbidities are a result of maladaptive coping strategies to deal with the stress and frustrations that come with untreated ADHD.
It is also important to remember that ADHD is more prevalent in males than women, and it may be difficult for many people who suffer from the disorder to get diagnosed because of persistent prejudices regarding the symptoms and their impact on men versus women. Some women can mask their symptoms better and can lead to delay diagnosis or an inaccurate diagnosis.
Treatment
It may be helpful for those who have been diagnosed with ADHD to talk to a mental healthcare professional who has expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD. The specialist can instruct the adult behavioral strategies to manage their symptoms and improve their performance at home, at work or at school. They can also assist adults to understand why their behavior differs and what triggers them.
A mental health professional should examine an adult thoroughly because they may have other disorders similar to ADHD. This can include a detailed description of the condition and scales completed by the person who is the client or by other people who know him/her along with a family and psychiatric history as well as a thorough physical exam.
It is important to conduct a thorough evaluation to determine if an adult suffers from a co-occurring disorder such as anxiety or depression. These conditions can increase ADHD symptoms and make treatment more difficult. A mental health professional can also conduct neuropsychological or cognitive testing to look at how the brain functions and to rule out other causes of the issues, such as a learning disability or physical illness.
Treatment options for adults with ADHD typically include counseling for psychological issues (psychotherapy) and educational programs. Adults can benefit from individual talk therapy to improve their self-esteem as well as deal with the emotional burdens that come with ADHD. Behavioral therapies may also improve time management and organization, as well as impulse control. They can also deal with the effect that stressors can affect an individual's ability to perform.
Some people with ADHD can benefit from group therapy. This kind of therapy gives you the chance to meet people who face similar issues and discuss ways to overcome these challenges. These groups are usually run by a support group or an advocacy group.
Medication is also an option for many adults suffering from ADHD. There are a variety of medications available including stimulants (such as methylphenidate, which is sold under the name Ritalin) that increase levels of norepinephrine inside the brain. 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 live with the condition for a long time, without knowing it. They may seek an evaluation because they are frustrated by everyday issues like not remembering appointments and making mistakes at work, or neglecting the demands of friends and family. It's normal for these people to feel a sense of relief once they get an diagnosis, particularly when they can see the reason they've been struggling all their lives.
A mental health professional can conduct an assessment for ADHD however an primary care physician is usually a good place to start. If necessary, the physician could refer the patient a specialist. A psychiatrist, psychiatric nurse or psychologist could also be able to evaluate ADHD in adults. A lot of insurance plans include professionals according to their specialties. This will help individuals find the right health professional who is familiar with ADHD among adults.
During the evaluation, a mental health professional will ask about the person's previous issues, as well as how ADHD symptoms have affected them. It is important to speak openly and honestly during the evaluation so that the mental health professional is able to complete a thorough assessment.
Therapy, also known as psychotherapy can assist people in learning to manage their issues and improve their relationships. Behavioral therapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy teaches people how to modify their thinking and behavior. The combination of therapy and medication can help reduce the symptoms of the disorder.
Many adults ADHD sufferers benefit from support groups for adults. The opportunity to share their experiences with others who are facing similar challenges can be a great source of inspiration and encouragement. A few of these groups are diagnosed adhd accessible online and are open for anyone with ADHD. Some groups are geared towards specific groups, such as African Americans who have ADHD or couples who are affected by the disorder, or those who identify themselves as gay or lesbian.
Some people may experience feelings of shame or embarrassment over their symptoms, which can hinder their desire to seek help. A health professional should explain to the patient that ADHD is not a sign of weakness or failure.