Getting a Diagnosis of ADHD in Adults
Some adults may not be aware of their ADHD symptoms. Recognizing the symptoms as an adult could open up treatment options.
To be diagnosed with ADHD, you must have at least five persistent symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity-impulsivity. These symptoms must be a major hindrance with daily functioning at work, at home, and socially. Talk therapy can help improve the ability to communicate and problem-solve. Marital and family counseling can also be beneficial.
Signs and symptoms
You might feel that you're not performing to your full potential when you suffer from ADHD symptoms. As an adult, you might be overwhelmed by the demands of your job and feel you're unable manage the many responsibilities in front of you. You might be working full-time and caring for your children or an elderly parent and trying to manage household chores and finances.
Your difficulty keeping up can result in embarrassment, frustration despair, and the loss of confidence. If you suffer from ADHD it's not your fault. However, it's important to understand that there are solutions to your struggles. The first step is a diagnosis.
A medical professional can diagnose ADHD in adults through an exhaustive psychiatric assessment. This involves talking to you about symptoms, requiring you fill out standardized behavioral ratings scales and ADHD symptom lists, and gathering information on your medical and mental health history. The doctor may also inquire 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 occurred before the age of 12 and continue to cause problems with your daily life. You must also be having issues with these behaviors at least in two different situations such as school, work and social relationships.
You may miss appointments, make mistakes at work or at home and fail to meet your obligations if your inattention is a problem. You may be struggling with managing your health and finances and may have a hard to complete simple tasks, like remembering to take medication or visiting the doctor for a checkup.
For those with ADHD the tendency to think before acting can make stressful situations worse. You may interrupt conversations, answer questions before others are done or have difficulty waiting in lines. Your impulsivity could cause risky actions like driving too quickly or spending money in reckless ways.
Research suggests that genetics as well as environmental factors play a part in the development of ADHD. The symptoms of ADHD tend to run in the family, and some scientists believe that problems with the central nervous system during critical developmental stages increase your risk.
Diagnosis
A health specialist who specializes in ADHD can help evaluate those who have symptoms of the disorder. A typical assessment consists of an interview and an examination of medical documents, school or work records as well as family medical histories and a mental health screening. A specialized professional may also conduct a physical examination or lab tests to rule out other conditions that exhibit similar symptoms. A diagnosis of ADHD is only given to an adult or teenager if symptoms have been present for six months or more and are causing significant impairments in the daily routine.
diagnose adhd uk or neglected ADHD can lead to chronic issues that could have been avoided or treated. This can lead to depression, family issues financial or work-related stress, substance abuse and even serious accidents, such as motor vehicle crashes.
Many adults with undiagnosed ADHD are at risk of being misunderstood by family members, friends and coworkers. They might be viewed as a lazy, irresponsible person or a poor employee, or just plain crazy. Additionally, those with undiagnosed ADHD are at greater risk of developing depression and anxiety.
Women are more adept in securing their ADHD symptoms than men, which may make it difficult for them to receive an accurate diagnosis. They might use distractions or daydreaming to mask their impulsivity and inattention. Sometimes, they depend on methods and tools to help them overcome their lack of time management and disorganization. Women with ADHD may also have difficulty identifying their own symptoms as they tend to have symptoms of inattention rather than an impulsive or hyperactivity.
It's important to keep in mind that ADHD is not an indicator of intelligence. It's just an alternative way of thinking and behave that may cause problems in certain situations.
Adults may exhibit different symptoms in comparison to children. Adults with ADHD still fit the criteria of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5) of the American Psychiatric Association.
Treatment
Undiagnosed ADHD can cause individuals to have difficulty to stay organized, complete their work and school assignments, and maintain healthy interpersonal relationships. The symptoms can also affect everyday functioning and can trigger emotional issues like depression or anxiety. People who are impulsive or hyperactive can appear agitated, and they might try to do a variety of things at once. They may not be able 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 as a child, and a lot of adults with the symptoms are not aware of it. They may have been labeled as a dreamer, a snob or a slacker, instead of struggling to keep up in school and daily life. Many people suffering from ADHD have increasing symptoms as their responsibilities grow. They're not able to manage all the balls that are flying working on a job and caring for family, while also keeping up with housework and errands, and maintaining social and romantic relationships.
A health care provider or mental health professional will evaluate whether a person has ADHD. The evaluation includes a discussion with family members as well as friends and family members who know the person as well as a physical exam and a review of the person's medical history. The patient may be asked to fill out standard ADHD rating scales or a symptom checklist. Psychological testing may be done to determine executive function, working memory as well as spatial and visual skills.
Stimulant drugs are the most frequently used treatment for adults with ADHD. These medications increase and balance levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. They can help people suffering from ADHD focus better, organize their lives and remember important information. They can also manage impulse-driven behaviors. Other treatments for ADHD include non-stimulant drugs such as atomoxetine and antidepressants. They work more slow than stimulants, yet help improve the symptoms of ADHD. People who have certain health issues such as diabetes or high blood pressure should consult their doctor before taking stimulants.
Some adults with ADHD may benefit from behavioral therapy, coaching, self-help groups or vocational counseling. These programs can teach adults how to manage their symptoms and to build healthy family, school and work relationships. Clinical trials will also be conducted with some adults with ADHD. These studies allow scientists to learn more about the latest methods to identify, treat and prevent disorders like ADHD.
Follow-up
A thorough assessment of ADHD for adults using various assessment inventories will improve diagnostic accuracy and reduce the chance of misdiagnosis. A psychologist or psychiatrist who has expertise in treating ADHD in adult patients typically conducts an extended interview. The evaluator may also ask about the background of your your child's health issues as well as family dynamics and lifestyle choices. He or she may also review your medical records and conduct an examination of your body.
Many people with ADHD are also suffering from other psychiatric issues or medical conditions, such as depression and anxiety that require treatment. In fact, it's thought that people with ADHD are six times more likely to have mood disorders than others. People with ADHD are also at a higher-than-average risk of using drugs.
Adults who suffer from ADHD have a difficult time finding and keeping jobs. They also face difficulties managing their finances and juggling household chores. Adults with ADHD have an increased chance of developing health issues, such as heart disease, obesity, and smoking. In addition they are more likely to suffer from poor eating habits and experience difficulties forming and maintaining romantic relationships.
In one study, adults who were diagnosed with ADHD after receiving treatment in minor mental health facilities when they were children. However the size of the sample was small. An expansion of the sample would have provided more information about the clinical course of ADHD in adulthood and its connection with other psychiatric disorders.
Research has shown that ADHD is a persistent, persistent disorder in adults. It can have a negative effect on the quality of life and lead to other conditions like mood disorders learning disabilities, and addiction to alcohol and other drugs. People who are not treated for ADHD are at a greater risk for incarceration and divorce, having a lower socioeconomic status, and more serious psychiatric issues.
All adults with uncontrolled ADHD symptoms or the first ADHD diagnosis should be seen within 30 to 60 days, and then every month until the symptoms are under control. Adults who suffer from ADHD might require receiving pharmacotherapy or psychotherapy for the rest their lives.