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Getting a Diagnosis of ADHD in Adults
There are adults who may not be aware of ADHD symptoms. A diagnosis as an adult could offer treatment options.
To be diagnosed with ADHD, you must have at least five persistent symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity-impulsivity. These symptoms must significantly interfere with your daily activities at home, work and socially. Talk therapy can aid in improving the communication and problem-solving abilities. Counseling for marriage and family can be beneficial.
Symptoms
If you struggle with symptoms of ADHD it might seem that you're not living up to your potential. You may be overwhelmed as an adult due to your responsibilities. You could be working full-time, caring for aging parents or children, and taking care of household chores.
Your inability to keep up with the pace can lead to embarrassment, frustration despair, and the loss of confidence. If you have ADHD It's not your fault. But it's important to know that there are solutions to your problems. The first step in an assessment.
A medical professional can detect ADHD in adults by conducting an exhaustive psychiatric assessment. This includes talking with you about symptoms, having you complete standardized behavior rating scales and ADHD list of symptoms, and gathering information on your mental health and medical history. The doctor may inquire about the history of ADHD in your family.
To qualify for a diagnosis of ADHD, you must have experienced at least five persistent symptoms of inattention and/or hyperactivity/impulsivity. These symptoms must have been present prior to the age of 12 and continue to affect your life. You should also be struggling with these behaviors in multiple settings, such as at school, work as well as in your social relationships.
If your inattention is a significant issue, you could miss appointments, make careless mistakes at work or at home and fail to fulfill your responsibilities. You may have difficulty managing your health and finances and you might also experience problems with tasks that are simple such as remembering to visit the doctor or take your medication.
how is adhd diagnosed in adults with ADHD are prone to making difficult situations more difficult by acting before they think. You might interrupt conversations, respond to questions before others are done or have trouble waiting in the line. Your impulsivity might result in reckless actions, like driving too fast or spending money recklessly.
According to research the genetics and the environment are key factors in the development of ADHD. Symptoms tend to be inherited from families, and some researchers believe that issues with the central nervous system at key developmental points increase your risk for this condition.
Diagnosis
A health professional with an expertise in ADHD can help adults who are experiencing symptoms of the disorder. A typical assessment consists of an interview as well as reviewing medical documents, school or work records as well as family medical histories and a mental health screening. A specialized professional also may conduct a physical exam and/or lab tests to determine if there are other conditions that have similar symptoms. A diagnosis of ADHD is only given to an adult or adolescent when symptoms have been present for six months or more and are causing significant impairments in the daily routine.
People with undiagnosed or under-treated ADHD can struggle for the rest of their lives with chronic difficulties which could have been avoided or treated. This can cause depression, family problems, work-related or financial stress, substance abuse and even serious accidents, such as motor vehicle accidents.
Many adults who have not been diagnosed with ADHD are at risk of being misunderstood and criticized by family members, friends and colleagues. They could be seen as lazy, irresponsible or a poor employee, or simply crazy. In addition, people with undiagnosed ADHD are more at risk for anxiety and depression.
Women are more adept at concealing ADHD symptoms than men. This can make it more difficult for them to receive a proper diagnosis. They may use distractions or daydreaming to mask their impulsivity and inattention. Sometimes, they rely on tools and techniques to help them overcome their lack of time management and disorganization. Women with ADHD also might have trouble identifying their own symptoms as they are more likely to suffer from symptoms of inattention, not the impulsivity or hyperactivity.
It's important to understand that ADHD isn't an indicator of intelligence or ability. It's merely an alternative way of thinking and behave that can create difficulties in certain situations.
Adults may experience different symptoms as children. Adults who suffer from ADHD still meet the criteria set by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5) of the American Psychiatric Association.
Treatment
Undiagnosed ADHD can make it difficult for people to stay on track, complete their work and school assignments, and maintain healthy relationships with others. The symptoms can also affect everyday functioning and can trigger depression or anxiety. People suffering from hyperactivity or impulsive subtypes of the condition may appear restless and attempt to complete multiple things at once, failing to complete tasks or meet deadlines. They may be unable to pay attention to others, which can result in miscommunications or problems with relationships.
ADHD is not often recognized in the early years and a lot of adults with symptoms are unaware that they have it. They might have been viewed as a dreamer, a snob or a slacker instead of battling to stay ahead in school and life. Many people suffering from ADHD experience worsening symptoms as their obligations increase. They are unable to manage all the balls they have to keep up-to-date with: pursuing the dream of a career, taking care of family members, juggling household chores and errands, as well as working on social and romantic relationships.
A health care provider or mental health professional will determine whether a person is suffering from ADHD. The evaluation includes a discussion with family members, friends, and others who are familiar with the individual as well as a physical exam and a review of the person's medical history. The patient may be asked to complete standard ADHD ratings scales or a list of symptoms. Psychological tests can be conducted to determine executive function, working memory, and visual and spatial abilities.
Adults suffering from ADHD are most commonly treated by stimulant medications. They balance and increase levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters. They can help people suffering from ADHD to focus better, organize their lives, remember important information and tasks, and control the impulsive behavior. Other treatments for ADHD include nonstimulant medications such as atomoxetine and antidepressants, which work slow than stimulants, yet help improve the symptoms of ADHD. Patients with particular health issues, such as diabetes or high blood pressure must consult with their doctor prior to taking stimulants.
Some adults with ADHD may benefit from individual therapy, self-help groups or vocational counseling. These interventions can help adults to manage their ADHD symptoms as well as build healthy relationships at home, at school and at work. Certain adults suffering from ADHD will also be part of clinical studies. These studies help scientists gain knowledge about how to treat, diagnose and prevent disorders such as ADHD.
Follow-up
A thorough assessment of ADHD in adults using several assessment tools will increase the accuracy of diagnosis and decrease misdiagnosis. A psychiatrist or psychologist with experience in treating ADHD in adult patients will usually conduct an extended interview. The evaluation specialist may also inquire about the history of your or your child's health issues, family dynamics, and lifestyle choices. He or she will also look over your previous medical records and conduct a physical exam.
Many people suffering from ADHD are also suffering from other psychiatric issues or medical conditions, like depression and anxiety, which require treatment. It is estimated that those with ADHD are six times more likely to be suffering from mood disorders. People with ADHD are also at a higher-than-average risk of using drugs.
Adults with ADHD often find it difficult to secure and maintain jobs. They also have a tougher managing their finances and staying on top of household chores. Adults with ADHD are at a higher risk of developing other health problems, including heart disease, obesity and smoking. They are also more likely to have poor eating habits and struggle to maintain and form romantic relationships.
In one study, adults were diagnosed with ADHD after being treated in minor mental health services when they were children. However, the size of the sample was small. A larger sample size would have provided more information on the clinical course and relationships of ADHD in adults with other psychiatric conditions.
Research has shown that ADHD is a chronic and persistent disorder that affects adults. It can have a negative impact on the quality of life, and can cause number of comorbid conditions including learning disabilities, mood disorders as well as alcohol and drug abuse. If left untreated, ADHD increases the chance of incarceration, divorce and a lower social economic status for those suffering from ADHD.
Adults with uncontrolled ADHD symptoms or the first ADHD diagnosis should be evaluated within 30 to 60 days, then every month until the symptoms are under control. Adults who suffer from ADHD may need to continue receiving psychotherapy or pharmacotherapy throughout their lives.