Getting a Diagnosis of ADHD in Adults
Some adults might not be aware of their ADHD symptoms. Getting a diagnosis as an adult could open up possibilities for treatment.
To be diagnosed with ADHD, you must have at least five persistent symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity-impulsivity. These symptoms should significantly interfere with your daily life at work, at home, and socially. Talk therapy can aid in improving communication and problem-solving skills. Marital and family counseling can be beneficial as well.
Symptoms
It could be that you feel that you're not living up to your full potential if you have ADHD symptoms. You might feel overwhelmed as an adult due to your obligations. You could be working full-time, caring for children or an aging parent and trying to handle household chores and finances.
Your inability to keep up with the pace can lead to embarrassment and anger. You may also feel hopeless, lose confidence, or 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 a diagnosis.
A thorough psychiatric assessment can be performed by a medical professional to determine ADHD in adults. This involves speaking with you about symptoms, having you fill out standardized behavioral ratings scales and ADHD list of symptoms, and gathering information on your mental and medical background. The provider may ask 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 before the age of 12 and continue to interfere with your daily activities. You must also be having issues with these behaviors at the very least in two different environments, including school, work and social interactions.
If your inattention is a significant issue, you could miss appointments, make careless mistakes at work or at home and fail to follow through on your responsibilities. You may be struggling with managing your health and finances and may have a difficult to complete simple tasks, like remembering to take medication or going to the doctor for checkups.
People with ADHD are prone to making difficult situations worse by acting before they think. You might interrupt conversations with other people, blurt out answers to questions before you're finished or have trouble waiting your turn in a line. Your impulsiveness could result in risky behavior like driving too quickly or spending money in a reckless manner.
Studies suggest that genetics and environmental factors play an important role in the development of ADHD. The symptoms of ADHD tend to be passed down through the family, and some scientists believe that problems with the central nervous system during crucial developmental stages increase your risk.
Diagnosis
A health care specialist who specializes in ADHD can help evaluate adults who exhibit symptoms of the disorder. An evaluation typically includes an interview, a review of medical history, school or work records as well as family medical history. a mental health screening. A specialized professional may also conduct a physical examination and/or lab tests to rule other conditions with similar symptoms. For an adult or adolescent to receive a diagnosis of ADHD symptoms must be present for at minimum six months and result in significant impairment of everyday life activities.
Undiagnosed or not treated ADHD can lead to long-term problems which could have been prevented or treated. This can lead to depression, family issues and financial stress as well as work-related stress, drug 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 by family members, friends and colleagues. They could be perceived by others as lazy, irresponsible or as a bad employee. Additionally, those with undiagnosed ADHD are more at risk of developing depression and anxiety.
Women are generally better at hiding their ADHD symptoms than men, which can make it difficult for them to get an accurate diagnosis. They may employ strategies to hide their inattentiveness or impulsivity, such as constant distractions and daydreaming or use tools to compensate for their disorganization and ineffective time management. Women with ADHD may also have difficulty identifying their own symptoms as they are more likely to suffer from inattentive symptoms rather than an impulsive or hyperactivity.
It's important to keep in mind that ADHD is not an indicator of intelligence. It's merely an altered way of thinking and behave that can create challenges in certain situations.
Adults may have different symptoms in comparison to children. Adults with ADHD still meet 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 and complete their work or school assignments, and maintain healthy relationships with others. Symptoms can also interfere with daily functioning, and cause emotional issues like depression or anxiety. People who suffer from hyperactivity or impulsive subtypes the condition may appear restless and try to do several things at once, and fail to complete tasks or meet deadlines. They may be unable to pay attention to others, which could cause confusion or problems with relationships.
ADHD is not often recognized in childhood and many adults with symptoms aren't aware that they have it. Instead of struggling to keep pace in school and life they might have been labeled a dreamer or a slacker. Many people with ADHD have worsening symptoms as their responsibilities increase. They're not able to handle all the balls they're trying to keep in the air--pursuing the dream of a career, taking care of family members, juggling chores and household chores, and working on social and romantic relationships.
A health care provider or mental health professional will assess whether a person is suffering from ADHD. The evaluation includes a discussion with family members or friends who are familiar with the person as well as a physical exam and a review of a person's medical history. The person could be asked to fill out standardized ADHD rating scales or an assessment checklist for symptoms. Psychological tests can be used to assess working memory and executive function as well as spatial and visual abilities.
Adults suffering from ADHD are most commonly treated with stimulant drugs. These drugs boost and balance levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. They can help people with ADHD focus better, organize their lives and keep track of important information. They can also manage impulsive behaviors. Other treatments for ADHD include non-stimulant drugs such as atomoxetine and antidepressants. They work more slowly than stimulants but still help improve the symptoms of ADHD. Before taking stimulants, those who suffer from certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure should consult their doctor.
Certain adults suffering from ADHD might benefit from behavior therapy, coaching group, self-help groups or vocational counseling. These programs can help adults learn how to cope with their symptoms and to build healthy family, school and workplace relationships. Some adults with ADHD also will participate in clinical studies. These studies help scientists learn more about new ways to identify, treat and prevent disorders such as ADHD.
Follow-up
A thorough evaluation of adult ADHD utilizing several assessment inventories can improve the accuracy of diagnosis and reduce the likelihood of a misdiagnosis. A psychiatrist or psychologist with expertise in treating ADHD in adults will often conduct an lengthy interview. how to get an adult adhd diagnosis may also inquire about the background of your child's or your own health problems, family dynamics, and lifestyle choices. They will also review your past medical records and conduct physical examination.
Many people suffering from ADHD have other psychiatric disorders or medical conditions, such as depression and anxiety, which must be treated. In fact, it is believed that those with ADHD are six times more likely have mood disorders than others. People who suffer from ADHD are also at a greater risk of consuming alcohol.
Adults with ADHD often find it difficult to get and keep jobs. They also have a tougher managing their finances and juggling household tasks. Adults with ADHD are more at risk of developing other health issues, such as heart disease, obesity and smoking. In addition they are more likely to have poor eating habits and experience difficulties forming and maintaining romantic relationships.
In one study, adults who were diagnosed with ADHD after being treated in a minor mental health clinic when they were children. The sample size was small. An enlargement of the sample could have provided more information about the pathology of ADHD in adulthood and its connection to other psychiatric disorders.
Research has proven ADHD to be a chronic and persistent disorder among adults. It can have a negative impact on the quality of life and can lead to a range of comorbidities, including learning disabilities, mood disorders as well as alcohol and drug abuse. People who do not treat ADHD are at a greater chance of being in prison, divorce, being less socioeconomically stable and more serious psychiatric problems.
All adults with uncontrolled ADHD symptoms or the first ADHD diagnosis should be evaluated within 30 to 60 days, and then every month until symptoms are under control. Adults with ADHD may need to continue receiving pharmacotherapy or psychotherapy for the rest their lives.