5 Common Myths About Adult ADHD Diagnosis You Should Avoid
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Adult ADHD Diagnosis
For some people, a diagnosis of adult ADHD is the first step toward getting treatment. They may feel frustrated in their work, homes, or social life due to symptoms like fidgeting, forgetting things, or interrupting others.
Adults diagnosed with ADHD typically undergo a thorough evaluation, which includes interviewing them and their families and using standardized tests. It often includes an examination of the body.
Symptoms
For many adults, the diagnosis of ADHD can have a profound impact on their lives. It can help them understand why they have been through so much and make sense of their past choices. It can also give hope for an improved future. Whether you are experiencing difficulty in locating your keys, feeling that you can never complete your task or are called unreliable or lazy, obtaining an diagnosis is the first step toward finding the best treatment for you.
For most adults, the signs are present in a variety of areas of their lives. They are more prevalent in one area in comparison to another. They might be unruly and impulsive at school, but struggle to keep up with work. They might miss appointments or have trouble estimating the amount of time they require to complete their tasks. They may struggle to make friends or have frequent arguments with their spouses. If the problems are serious, they may affect their everyday life and cause anxiety or depression.
While it's important to consider a diagnosis of ADHD but it's equally important to look at the other factors contributing to the symptoms. Stress, mental health issues and certain medications are often responsible for symptoms that are similar. A thorough assessment by a trained professional is essential to make sure that the root cause is being treated.
Adults who suffer from ADHD do not show the same signs of hyperactivity as children. Hyperactivity is less obvious and manifests as fidgeting, or having trouble sitting. Women who suffer from ADHD tend to exhibit these symptoms more often because they are able to hide their inattentional behavior at work and in social lives.
During the examination the doctor will examine the patient's medical background and how their symptoms impact their daily lives. They will also inquire about family history, and should they be able to ask a family member their perspectives on childhood behavior. They can also conduct psychological, neuropsychological or tests for learning disabilities. In some instances it might be necessary to perform an examination physical to rule out specific illnesses that can cause symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosis
Adults who suspect they have ADHD should discuss their symptoms with their doctor. This is particularly crucial if the issues are connected to school or work. Primary care providers can refer patients to mental health professionals with expertise in adult ADHD assessments. These professionals must be able to disclose information regarding their training level and experiences working with adults suffering from ADHD, Hamdani says. Anyone who is hesitant to share this information will be regarded with suspicion, Hamdani adds.
A diagnosis of adult ADHD can be a life-changing event. For some, it gives a reason for years of frustration and self-criticism. Some people are relieved that there is an explanation for their problems in life, or that they weren't "just in their minds."
Adults who suffer from ADHD are diagnosed with ADHD through an in-depth interview with a specialist. This may include a thorough review of the individual's personal medical, family, and background. The professional will also ask the patient to rate their behavior using one or more of the standard ADHD ratings for behavior. These ratings are based upon research that compares the behavior of people with ADHD and those who don't have the disorder.
The person will be asked about the symptoms and how they affect their life. 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.
The people who are diagnosed of adult ADHD often have coexisting conditions known as co-morbidities. Common comorbidities with ADHD include anxiety disorders, depression and alcohol or drug dependence. Some experts believe that these comorbidities are maladaptive strategies for coping with the stress and frustrations that come with untreated ADHD.
It's important to note that ADHD affects more males than females. Many people with the disorder may struggle to diagnose because of the long-standing prejudices regarding the symptoms of the disorder and how they affect men and women. Women may be able to mask their symptoms better and can lead to a delayed diagnosis or an incorrect diagnosis.
Treatment
It is recommended for those who have been diagnosed with ADHD to consult an expert in mental health who has experience treating adults with ADHD. This person can teach adults behavior strategies to help them manage their symptoms and improve their performance in the workplace, at school or at home. They can also assist the adult understand why their behavior is different and what triggers it.
A mental health professional should take a thorough look at an adult's health for other disorders that are similar to ADHD. This may include a detailed description of the individual's symptoms along with questionnaires and scales that are completed by the client and other people who know him well, a complete medical history of the family and a psychiatric history, and an exhaustive physical exam.
It is important to conduct a thorough assessment to determine if the adult suffers from a co-occurring disorder like depression or anxiety. These conditions can contribute to the symptoms of ADHD and make treatment more challenging. A mental health professional can also conduct neurological or cognitive tests to determine the way that the brain functions and to rule out other causes, such as an illness that affects the body or a learning disability.
Adults suffering from ADHD are typically treated with psychotherapy (psychotherapy) and educational programs. Individual therapy can help an adult develop better self-esteem and learn to cope with the emotional baggage that typically comes with the diagnosis of ADHD. Behavioral therapies can help improve organization, time management and impulse control, and could tackle the impact of stressors on the individual's ability to perform.
Certain people with ADHD can benefit from group therapy. This type of therapy gives you the opportunity to connect with others who have similar challenges and discuss strategies to overcome these challenges. These groups are often organized by a support group or an advocacy group.
Many adults suffering from ADHD are treated by medications. There are a variety of medications available including stimulants (such as methylphenidate sold under the name Ritalin) which increase the levels of norepinephrine in the brain. Antidepressants and the antipsychotic drug Wellbutrin (Bupropion) aid in regulating moods and reduce impulsive behavior. Your Mercy doctor will be able to discuss the various treatment options available to you.
Support
Many people diagnosed with ADHD live with the condition for a long time, without realizing it. Discontent with everyday issues like missing appointments, making irresponsible mistakes at work, or blowing off family or friendship commitments can lead them to seek an assessment. These people often feel relieved when they are given the diagnosis.
A mental health professional can conduct an assessment for ADHD, but an primary care physician is typically a good place to start. If necessary, the doctor could refer the patient a specialist. A psychiatric nurse, psychiatrist or psychologist might also be able to evaluate ADHD in adults. A lot of insurance plans have professionals by specialty and can help individuals locate the right health professional who is familiar with ADHD in adults.
During the assessment the mental health professional will ask questions about the person's behavior, including the past issues they have had and how they've been affected by their ADHD symptoms. It's important to talk openly and truthfully during the evaluation so that the mental health professional is able to complete a thorough assessment.
Psychological counseling, or therapy can assist people in learning to manage their problems and improve their relationships. Behavioral therapy, also known as cognitive behavioral therapy teaches people how to alter get more info their thinking and behavior. The combination of therapy and medication can help reduce the symptoms of the disorder.
Social support groups are beneficial to a lot of adults ADHD patients. Having the chance to discuss their experiences with others who are facing similar challenges can be a great source of encouragement and inspiration. A few of these groups can be found online and are available to anyone with ADHD. Others are geared towards specific populations, such as African Americans with ADHD, couples affected by the disorder or those who identify as gay or lesbian.
Certain people may feel a sense of shame or embarrassment about their condition, which could make it difficult for them to seek help. A medical professional must explain to the patient that ADHD is not a sign of weakness or failure.