5 Adult ADHD Diagnosis Myths You Should Stay Clear Of
Wiki Article
Adult ADHD Diagnosis
A diagnosis of adult ADHD can be the first step to seeking treatment for some people. They may be unhappy in their work, homes, or social life due to symptoms such as fidgeting, ignoring things or interrupting others.
Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD typically undergo an extensive evaluation that includes interviews with them and their families, and using tests that are standardized. It usually includes a physical examination, too.
Symptoms
A diagnosis of ADHD can alter the course of a lot of adult lives. It can help them understand why they have been struggling for so long and help them make sense of their past decisions. It can also give hope for a brighter future. If you're struggling to locate your keys, feel as if you're not able to finish your work or you're being labelled as irresponsible or lazy, or have been accused of being lazy or irresponsible, then getting a diagnosis will assist you in finding the best treatment for you.
The majority of adults experience symptoms across different areas of their lives however, certain symptoms are more prevalent than others. They may be restless and impulsive at school, but are unable to keep up at work. They may forget to keep appointments or underestimate the time needed to complete tasks. They may have difficulty making friends or fighting with their spouses frequently. If these problems are severe they may affect their everyday life and cause depression or anxiousness.
While it's essential to consider a diagnosis of ADHD, it's just as important to determine what other factors might be contributing to the symptoms. Stress, mental health conditions and certain medications are often associated with symptoms that are similar. To ensure that the underlying problem is resolved with a thorough assessment by a qualified professional is necessary.
As opposed to children, adults with ADHD rarely exhibit the more obvious symptoms of hyperactivity. Hyperactivity is more subtle and is manifested as fidgeting or a difficulty in sitting. Women who suffer from ADHD tend to display these signs more frequently since they are able to conceal their inattentional behavior in their work and social lives.
During the exam the doctor will review the patient's medical history and how the symptoms affect their daily lives. They will also request the family history of the patient and, if it is possible, talk to a loved one to gain their view on the behavior of children. They might also conduct neuropsychological, psycho-psychological, or learning disabilities tests. In certain instances, it may be necessary to undergo a physical examination in order to rule out certain diseases that can cause symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosis
Adults who suspect they have ADHD should discuss their symptoms with their health care provider. This is especially important if the problems are connected to school or work. Primary care providers may refer patients to mental health professionals who have expertise in adult ADHD evaluations. Hamdani states that professionals who work with adults with ADHD should be able and willing to provide information regarding their training and experiences. Anyone who is reluctant to share this information will be regarded with suspicion Hamdani says.
Being diagnosed with adult ADHD can be a life-changing experience. For some, it finally provides an explanation for years of frustration and self-criticism. Some people are happy 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 be diagnosed through a comprehensive interview with a professional who is qualified. This may include a thorough review of the patient's medical, family, and personal background. In addition, the professional will likely ask the person to rate their behaviors using one or more of the standardized ADHD behavior rating scales. These ratings are based on research that compares the behavior of people suffering from ADHD to those of people who don't suffer from the disorder.
The individual will be asked about their symptoms and how they 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 which are referred to as co-morbidities. Common comorbidities associated with ADHD include depression, anxiety disorders, and drug or alcohol abuse. Some experts suggest these comorbidities develop as maladaptive coping strategies to manage the stressors that are typically caused by untreated ADHD.
It is important to recognize that ADHD affects more men than women. Many people with the disorder may struggle to diagnose because of long-held beliefs about the symptoms of the disorder and how they affect both men and women. Some women are even capable of masking their symptoms better, which can result in an incorrect diagnosis or delay in obtaining a diagnosis.
Treatment
Adults who receive a diagnosis of ADHD might find it beneficial to speak with an expert in mental health particularly one who has experience treating adults with ADHD. The professional can help teach adult behavior strategies to manage their symptoms and improve their performance at home, at work or school. They can also help adults understand the reasons behind their behavior and what triggers it.
Because a person may suffer from multiple disorders that can cause similar symptoms to the symptoms of ADHD, it's important for professionals in mental health to thoroughly examine the adult. This could include a thorough description and scales filled out by the person who is the client or by other people who know them as well as a psychiatric and family history, as well as a thorough physical exam.
A thorough assessment is essential to determine whether the adult suffers from a comorbid condition such as depression or anxiety. These conditions can increase ADHD symptoms and make treatment more difficult. A mental health professional could also perform cognitive or neuropsychological testing to look at how the brain functions and to identify other causes for the problems, such as an intellectual impairment 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 boost their self-esteem and deal with the emotional burdens that come with ADHD. Behavioral therapies can also help improve time management and control of impulses. They also can address the impact stressors have on an individual's abilities to perform.
Some people suffering from ADHD may benefit from group therapy. This kind of therapy can offer the opportunity to connect with other people who have the same challenges and discuss ways to overcome these challenges. These groups are usually run by groups of support or an advocacy group.
Medication is also an option for a lot of adults suffering from ADHD. There are a myriad of medications available that include stimulants (such as methylphenidate sold under the name Ritalin) which increase the levels of norepinephrine in the brain. Others help to regulate moods and reduce impulsive behaviors, such as antidepressants or bupropion, an antipsychotic drug (Wellbutrin). Your Mercy doctor will be able to discuss all treatment options with you.
Support
Adults with ADHD might have the disorder for many years without even realizing it. The frustration of everyday problems such as not remembering appointments, making rash mistakes at work, or blowing off family or friendship commitments can cause them to seek an assessment. It's normal for these people to feel a sense of relief when they receive a diagnosis, especially when they can see why they've struggled throughout their lives.
A mental health professional may conduct an ADHD evaluation, however a primary physician is usually a good starting point. If necessary, the physician may refer the patient to an expert. A psychiatric nursing, psychiatrist or psychologist may also be able to assess ADHD in adults. Many insurance plans list professionals according to their specialties, which will help individuals find the right health professional who is experienced in treating ADHD among adults.
During the evaluation the mental health professional will inquire about the person's previous issues and how ADHD symptoms have affected them. It is important to speak openly website and truthfully during the evaluation so that the mental health professional can make a full assessment.
Psychological counseling, or therapy can assist people in learning to manage their issues and improve their relationships. Behavioral therapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy, can teach people how to alter their behavior and thinking patterns. Therapy is often paired with medication, which can lessen the effects of the disorder.
Social support groups can be beneficial to many adults ADHD patients. Having the chance to discuss 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 anyone with ADHD. Certain groups are specifically targeted for populations, like African Americans who have ADHD or couples with the disorder, or people who identify as gay or lesbian.
There are people who experience feelings of shame or embarrassment over their condition, which could hinder their willingness to seek help. A health professional should explain to the patient that ADHD is not a sign of weakness or failure.