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Adult ADHD Diagnosis A diagnosis of adult ADHD could be the first step to finding treatment for certain people. They may be unhappy in their work, social or home lives due to symptoms such as fidgeting, ignoring things or interrupting others. Being diagnosed with ADHD as an adult usually requires an extensive evaluation that includes conducting interviews with the person and family members, using standard tests and rating scales. This usually involves physical examination. Symptoms A diagnosis of ADHD could alter the course of many adults' lives. It can help adults to understand why they've had to struggle for so long and make sense out of their past choices. It can also provide hope for the future to be brighter. If you're struggling to locate your keys, feel as if you're unable to finish your task or you're being labelled lazy or irresponsible or you have been accused of being lazy or irresponsible and need a diagnosis, then a diagnosis can aid you in finding the best treatment for you. For most adults, symptoms are present in a variety of areas of their lives and are more common in one area in comparison to another. They might be impulsive and restless at school, but have difficulty in keeping up with their work. They might forget appointments or struggle to estimate how long they will need to complete their work. They may struggle to make friends or have frequent fights with their spouses. If these issues are serious they could affect daily living and lead to depression or anxiety. It's important to diagnose ADHD however, it's important to identify other factors could be causing the symptoms. Stress, other mental health conditions, and certain medications can cause symptoms similar to those of ADHD. A thorough examination by a qualified professional is required to be sure that the underlying issue is being addressed. As opposed to children, adults with ADHD seldom show the more prominent symptoms of hyperactivity. Hyperactivity is more subtle and can be seen as fidgeting or having trouble sitting. Women with ADHD are more likely to show these symptoms, as they are more likely to hide their inattentive behavior within their work and social interactions. During an evaluation during an assessment, the doctor will review the patient's medical history and consider how their symptoms interfere with their daily lives. They will also inquire about family history and, if they are able, ask a family member for their view on the behavior of children. They might also conduct neuropsychological, psycho-psychological or testing for learning disabilities. In some cases physical examinations could be required to rule out illnesses which may resemble the symptoms of ADHD. Diagnosis Adults who think they may have ADHD should discuss their symptoms with their health care provider. This is particularly important if the symptoms are connected to school or work. Primary healthcare providers can refer people to mental health specialists who specialize in adult ADHD evaluations and treatment. Those professionals should be willing to share details about their level of training and experience working with adults with ADHD, Hamdani says. Hamdani suggests that anyone who is hesitant to disclose this information should be treated as suspicious. A diagnosis of adult ADHD is a life-changing diagnosis. For some, it gives a reason for years of frustration and self-criticism. Some people feel relieved that they have an explanation for their struggles in life or that they aren't “just in their minds.” Adults who suffer from ADHD are diagnosed with ADHD through a thorough interview with a specialist. This will include a review the person's medical background, family and personal background. The professional will also ask the patient to rate their behavior using one or more of the different ADHD scales for behavioral assessment. These ratings are based on research that compared the behavior of those with ADHD and people who do not suffer from the disorder. The person will also be asked if the symptoms interfere with their lives. 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 common in those who have been diagnosed with adult ADHD. Anxiety disorders, depression and alcohol or drug use are common comorbidities of ADHD. Keep Reading believe that these comorbidities result from maladaptive strategies for coping with the frustrations of untreated ADHD. It's important to note that ADHD is more prevalent in men than women. Many people suffering from the disorder might struggle to be diagnosed because of the long-standing prejudices regarding the symptoms of the disorder and how they affect men and women. Women can also be capable of masking their symptoms better, which can result in an incorrect diagnosis or delay in obtaining a diagnosis. Treatment It can be beneficial for those who have been diagnosed with ADHD to speak with a mental healthcare professional who has experience treating adults with ADHD. The person who treats adults can teach them ways to manage their symptoms, and improve their functioning in school, at work or at home. They can also assist adults to recognize the reasons why their behavior is different and what triggers it. A mental health professional should examine an adult thoroughly as they could have other disorders similar to ADHD. This can include a detailed description and scales filled out by the client or other people who know him/her along with a family and psychiatric history as well as an exhaustive physical exam. It is crucial to conduct a thorough evaluation in order to determine if a person suffers from a comorbid disorder such as anxiety or depression. These conditions can worsen ADHD symptoms and make treatment more difficult. A mental health professional can also conduct neurological or cognitive tests to assess how the brain functions and to rule out any other causes, like an illness that affects the body or a learning disability. Treatment options for adults with ADHD typically involve psychological counseling (psychotherapy) and educational programs. Individual talk therapy can help an adult develop confidence in their self and deal with the emotional burden that usually accompanies a diagnosis of ADHD. Behavioral therapies can help improve efficiency, time management and impulse control and may help to reduce the effects of stressors on a person's ability to perform. Certain people with ADHD can benefit from group therapy. This kind of therapy can provide an opportunity to meet others who face similar issues and discuss strategies to overcome these challenges. These groups are typically organized by an advocacy or support group. There is also a treatment option for many adults suffering from ADHD. There are several medications available, including stimulants that increase the levels of norepinephrine as well as dopamine in the brain (for instance, methylphenidate which is sold as Ritalin). Antidepressants and the antipsychotic drug Wellbutrin (Bupropion) help regulate moods and reduce impulse-driven behavior. Your Mercy doctor will discuss all of your treatment options with you. Support Adults suffering from ADHD may suffer from the disorder for a long time without even realizing it. Discontent with everyday issues like forgetting appointments, making careless mistakes at work, or abandoning family or friend commitments can cause them to seek an assessment. It is common for people to feel a sense relief when they receive an diagnosis, particularly when they understand the reason they've been struggling throughout their lives. A mental health professional can conduct an evaluation for ADHD however the primary care physician is typically the best place to begin. If necessary, the doctor could refer the patient a specialist. A psychiatrist, psychiatric nurse or psychologist may also be able to assess ADHD in adults. Many insurance plans list specialists according to their specialization and assist people in finding the right health professional who is experienced in ADHD in adults. During the assessment, a mental health professional will inquire about the person's past problems and also how ADHD symptoms have affected them. It's crucial to be honest and transparent during the evaluation, so that the mental health professional can make an accurate assessment. Therapy, also known as psychotherapy can assist people in learning to manage their problems and improve their relationships. Behavioral therapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy, can teach people how to modify their behavior and thinking patterns. Therapy is often combined with medications, which can help lessen the effects of the disorder. Social support groups are beneficial to a lot of adult ADHD patients. The opportunity to share their experiences with others who have similar challenges can be a source of inspiration and motivation. A few of these groups can be found on the internet and are open to anyone with ADHD. Other groups are for specific populations, such as African Americans with ADHD, couples affected by the disorder, or those who identify as gay or lesbian. Some people may feel embarrassed or ashamed about their symptoms. This can make them reluctant to seek help. A medical professional must explain to the patient that ADHD is not a weakness or failure.