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Adult Diagnosis of ADHD For those who suffer from ADHD the diagnosis can have a profound impact on their lives. It can help people understand why they struggle in family, work and in relationships. It can be difficult to diagnose because symptoms can overlap. A mental health specialist or health care professional will evaluate the individual and perform tests. Signs and symptoms One may not realize they suffer from ADHD until they reach adulthood or perhaps because teachers and parents did not recognize symptoms at a younger age or because the demands of college or working brought out the disorder. Adults with ADHD who are not diagnosed suffer in their social, academic and work lives. Undiagnosed ADHD can lead to numerous problems including relationship problems and financial problems. In order to diagnose ADHD A mental health professional will interview the patient and go over his or her personal, medical and psychiatric history, taking note of symptoms in different situations. The patient will discuss the symptoms and how they affect their daily functioning and their relationships. It is essential that the patient is honest about the symptoms, and that he or she not hold back due to feelings of shame or embarrassment. It is also important for the mental health professional to determine whether the symptoms are linked to comorbid disorders such as anxiety or depression, which are often associated with ADHD. These conditions can cause ADHD symptoms worse and interfere with the treatment of the disorder. If the psychiatrist or psychology feels that the symptoms are being affected by comorbid conditions such as learning disabilities, neuropsychological disorders, or psychological disorders, then additional tests can be used to establish an accurate diagnosis. These tests can help determine the level of impairment in function caused by these conditions. The mental health professional may also request interviews with other important people such as spouses and siblings to get a complete picture of how a person is performing. Diagnosis Adults are diagnosed with ADHD by a mental healthcare doctor or a medical professional following a thorough evaluation. This involves a thorough discussion about the history of symptoms and their impact on daily functioning, as well as the presence of any other mental health conditions that could co-occur with ADHD, such as mood disorders and anxiety. Additionally, the doctor may ask to speak with significant others — typically the spouse or a close friend — to provide more details about the individual's behavior. A correct diagnosis of ADHD can alter your life. For many adults, this diagnosis finally provides an explanation for what has always appeared to be “normal” behavior. It's usually a relief to learn that their problems aren't simply due to laziness or forgetfulness. The American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth edition (DSM-5) requires that adults meet specific criteria for symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity. This is a standard that has been established to ensure that individuals receive the help and treatment they need. To be eligible for an ADHD diagnosis, one must have experienced the symptoms for at least 12 months, and they must cause significant impairment in multiple situations, such as at school, at home, or at work as well as with family members or friends; or with other activities. For adults age 17 and older the number of necessary symptoms has been reduced to five, from the six required for children who are younger than 12 years old. Having a good relationship with your primary care provider can be beneficial in identifying ADHD. Many physicians regularly diagnose and treat ADHD in children, and can refer you to an expert in mental health who is able to perform an assessment of adults. Treatment If someone suffering from ADHD is diagnosed, their life can drastically change. They might finally have reasons for their school failures, a struggle to establish an occupation or a relationship. A diagnosis can relieve shame that has been accumulating for some people throughout their lives. Talking to a mental health specialist or health care professional is the first step in getting a diagnosis. They may ask about the family history and conduct an examination to rule out other conditions such as sleep disorders or learning disabilities that can cause symptoms similar to ADHD. They may also ask the person to complete the checklist of symptoms. In many cases, the doctor will request that a spouse or partner is interviewed during the process of assessment. This will help the spouse who is not an ADHD or partner gain a better understanding and compassionate attitude towards their loved one's ADHD symptoms that is essential in improving relationships after the diagnosis. If this is not possible the clinician may interview acquaintances or colleagues who know the person well. adhd diagnosis adult www.adhddiagnosis.top are the primary treatment options for adults suffering from ADHD. Stimulants like methylphenidate (Ritalin®) and dextroamphetamine (Adderall®) are the most effective and commonly prescribed drugs for treating adult ADHD. Other medications, like Atomoxetine (Strattera®) and Guanfacine (Intuniv®, Tenex®) increase the levels of norepinephrine in the brain, and can help improve symptoms of ADHD. Psychotherapy is another option. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can help patients learn techniques for managing their ADHD symptoms, such as time management and strategies for organizing, self-regulation of behavior and emotions and managing negative feelings and self-criticism. Other therapies, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), help adults recognize the automatic thoughts or irrational thoughts that cause negative behavior and to develop positive self-talk. Medication Many people find that ADHD medication can alleviate their symptoms. The medication is typically in the form of a stimulant and increases the activity of the brain in areas that regulate behavior and attention. Methylphenidate is the most well-known medicine prescribed to adults with ADHD is available in a variety of forms. It can be taken as immediate-release tablets, or as modified-release tablets that release the medication throughout the day. Clonidine is a different kind of medication that works by decreasing brain activity. It can be taken in liquid or pill form. The psychiatrist or therapist will examine the medical and family background of the adult patient to identify factors that may cause similar symptoms. This is necessary because some medical conditions like seizures and thyroid issues can cause symptoms similar to those of ADHD. Certain medications and nutritional supplements can cause similar symptoms. During the evaluation the individual is likely to describe their ADHD symptoms. They will be asked to complete standard ADHD rating scales and check lists as well as complete psychological tests that measure working memory, executive functioning (abilities like making decisions and planning), visual and spatial capabilities, as well as reasoning skills. If the therapist or psychiatrist believes that the symptoms of ADHD are causing serious harm to the life of a person they may recommend treatment with medication. In certain instances the therapist might ask the individual's partner or spouse to speak with them regarding the effects of the symptoms of the patient on their relationship. This can reduce blame between the two people and help to foster healthier, more productive relations. Counseling Many people with ADHD find relief in receiving an diagnosis. It's a chance to comprehend why they have problems at school or at work and discover ways to overcome them. It's a chance to alter negative behavior and boost self-esteem. Counseling can be a wonderful method to build a strong support system. Counseling for ADHD can involve psychological (or psychotherapy) therapy as well as a variety of behavioral strategies. For example a therapist might create a reward chart which rewards positive behavior and enforces consequences for bad behavior. The therapist may also instruct the patient on how to manage their symptoms, like relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditative yoga postures. Another benefit of counseling is helping people understand and accept their ADHD. It's not always easy to admit that you have trouble with paying attention or planning and organizing. It can even be embarrassing to inform coworkers and supervisors about your ADHD. The majority of teachers and supervisors will provide accommodations to accommodate your needs. For example, they might allow you to write on a computer for assignments instead of writing on paper and provide more detailed explanations of classroom material. Additionally the therapist will teach you ways to cope with your ADHD through cognitive behavioral therapy which is a type of therapy that helps to change negative thoughts and behavior to positive ones. Counseling for ADHD can also include family or marital therapy which helps loved ones learn to better interact with a person with ADHD and improve communication and problem-solving abilities. People with ADHD typically suffer from other mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety and may also struggle with substance misuse that can cause more symptoms.