Getting a Diagnosis of ADHD in Adults
Some adults might not be aware of their ADHD symptoms. Getting a diagnosis as an adult may give options for treatment.
To be diagnosed with ADHD, you must have at least five persistent symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity-impulsivity. These symptoms should affect daily functioning, at home, work and socially. Talk therapy can help improve the communication and problem-solving abilities. Counseling for families and marriage can be beneficial.
Symptoms
If you're struggling with the symptoms of ADHD it might seem as if you're not living up to your potential. You may feel overwhelmed as an adult with your responsibilities. You might be full-time at work, caring for aging parents or children, or managing household chores.
Your inability to keep up with the pace can lead to embarrassment and anger. You may also feel hopeless and lose confidence. You may even feel embarrassed. If you suffer from ADHD, it's not your fault. It's important to understand that there are solutions to overcome your difficulties. The first step is to make a diagnosis.
A thorough psychiatric assessment can be used by a medical professional to determine ADHD in adults. This involves speaking with you about your symptoms, having you fill out standardized behavioral ratings scales and ADHD list of symptoms, and gathering information on your mental health and medical history. The doctor might also ask you to provide information about your family history of ADHD.
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 before the age of 12 and continue to cause problems with your life. You must also have difficulty with these behaviors in two or more environments, including at work, school and in your social relationships.
If your inattention is a major issue, you could miss appointments, make careless mistakes at work or at home, and fail to fulfill your obligations. You may be struggling with managing your finances and health and may have a difficult time with simple tasks like taking medication, or going to the doctor for a checkup.
For people with ADHD, the tendency to act before thinking can make stressful situations worse. You could interrupt other people's conversations or utter answers to questions before they're finished or have trouble waiting your turn in a line. Your impulsivity might result in reckless actions, like driving too fast or spending money recklessly.
Research suggests that genetics as well as environmental factors play a role in the development of ADHD. The symptoms tend to be inherited from families and some scientists believe that issues with the central nervous system at key developmental points increase the chance of developing this condition.
Diagnosis
A health care professional who specializes in ADHD can help evaluate adults who exhibit symptoms of the disorder. A typical evaluation consists of an interview, a review of medical history, school or work records along with family medical history and a mental health screening. A specialist may also conduct a physical exam and/or tests in the laboratory to rule out other conditions that may have similar symptoms. A diagnosis of ADHD is only given to an adult or adolescent when symptoms have been present for a period of six months or more and cause significant impairments in the daily routine.
Undiagnosed or untreated ADHD can lead to chronic issues that could have been avoided or treated. This can lead depression, family problems, financial stress or work-related stress, substance abuse, and even serious accidents like motor vehicle crashes.
Undiagnosed ADHD can cause misinterpretation by family members, friends, and coworkers. They could be seen as lazy, irresponsible or a poor employee, or simply crazy. Additionally, those with undiagnosed ADHD are at greater risk for anxiety and depression.
Women tend to be better in securing their ADHD symptoms than men, which could make it difficult for them to get a proper diagnosis. They might resort to distractions or daydreaming in order to hide their impulsivity and inattention. Or they might rely on methods and tools to make up for their poor time management and disorganization. Women suffering from ADHD might also have difficulty identifying their own symptoms as they are more likely to experience symptoms of inattention rather than hyperactivity or impulsivity.
It is important to keep in mind that ADHD is not an indicator of intelligence. It's just a different approach to thinking and acting that may cause problems in certain situations or environments.
Adults may experience different symptoms in comparison to children. However, the symptoms of ADHD in adults still meet the criteria listed in the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, Fifth Edition (DSM-5)1.
Treatment
People with undiagnosed ADHD might struggle to stay organized, stay on top of school or work obligations, and maintain healthy relationships. Symptoms also can interfere with the daily routine and trigger emotional problems such as anxiety, depression or shifts in mood. People suffering from hyperactivity or impulsive subtypes the condition can appear agitated and may try to accomplish several things at once, and fail to complete tasks or meet deadlines. They can have trouble paying attention to other people that can cause confusion and relationship problems.
ADHD is often not recognized in the early years and a lot of adults with the symptoms aren't aware that they have it. They might have been viewed as a dreamer, goof-off, slacker or troublemaker instead of battling to stay ahead in school and life. Many people who suffer from ADHD have increasing symptoms as their responsibilities increase. They are unable to manage all the balls they have to keep on top of - pursuing a career, caring for family members, juggling housework and errands, and working on social and romantic relationships.
A health care professional or mental health professional will assess whether a person suffers from ADHD. The evaluation usually includes discussions with family or friends who are familiar with the person as well as a physical exam and a review of a person's medical and mental health history. The person may also be asked to complete the standardized ADHD rating scales or a symptom checklist. Psychological tests can be conducted to measure working memory, executive function as well as spatial and visual abilities.
Adults with ADHD are usually treated by stimulant medications. These medications increase and balance levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters. They can help people with ADHD to focus better, organize their lives, keep track of important information and tasks, and control the impulsive behavior. Other treatments for ADHD include nonstimulant medications like atomoxetine or antidepressants, which work slowly than stimulants but still aid in the treatment of ADHD. Before taking stimulants, those with certain health conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure, should consult their physician.
Some adults suffering from ADHD might benefit from behavior therapy, coaching self-help groups, or vocational counseling. These programs can help adults learn how to manage their symptoms and to develop healthy school, family and workplace relationships. Certain adults suffering from ADHD are also enrolled in clinical trials. These studies help scientists learn more about new methods to identify, treat and prevent disorders like ADHD.
Follow-up
A thorough evaluation of adult ADHD using various assessment inventories can help improve the accuracy of diagnosis and reduce the chance of a misdiagnosis. The process often includes an extended conversation with a psychiatrist or psychologist who is experienced in treating ADHD in adults. The examiner may also inquire about the history of your child's or your own health problems, family dynamics and lifestyle choices. The evaluator will also review your past medical records and conduct an examination of your body.
Many people with ADHD have other psychiatric disorders or medical conditions, like depression and anxiety that need to be treated. It is estimated that those who suffer from ADHD are six times more likely to experience mood disorders. People with ADHD also have a higher risk of using drugs.
Adults who suffer from ADHD have a hard time finding and keeping a job. They also have a difficult managing finances and keeping track of household tasks. Adults with ADHD are at risk of developing other health problems, like obesity, heart disease, and smoking. Additionally, they are more likely to suffer from poor eating habits and are more likely to have trouble forming and keeping romantic relationships.
In one study, people were diagnosed with ADHD after being treated in minor mental health services as children. However, the sample size was small. private adhd diagnosis of the sample might have provided more details about the clinical course of ADHD in adulthood and its connection with other psychiatric disorders.
Research has proven ADHD to be a persistent and persistent problem for adults. It can have a negative impact on the quality of life and can lead to other issues like mood disorders learning disabilities, addiction to alcohol and other drugs. If not treated, ADHD increases the risk of being incarcerated and divorce as well as a lower socioeconomic status for those with ADHD.
It is advised that all adults with an uncontrolled or new diagnosis of symptoms of ADHD be examined within 30 days and monthly thereafter until their symptoms are under control. Adults with ADHD might need receiving psychotherapy or medication for the rest of their lives.