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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 feel frustrated in their work, homes, or social life due to symptoms such as fidgeting, forgetting things, or interrupting others. Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD will often undergo a thorough evaluation, which involves interviewing the family members and themselves and taking standardized tests. This usually involves an examination of the body. Signs and symptoms For many adults, the diagnosis of ADHD can be life-changing. It can help them understand why they've been through so much and understand their past choices. It can also give hope for the future to be brighter. Whether you are having trouble finding your keys, feeling like you'll never be able to finish your work or being accused of being lazy or irresponsible, obtaining a diagnosis is the first step to finding the right treatment for you. For most adults, the signs manifest in different areas of their lives. They are more prevalent in one place than another. They may be restless and impulsive in school, but struggle to keep up with work. They might forget to make appointments or underestimate the amount of time needed to complete tasks. They may have difficulty making friends or arguing with their spouses frequently. If these issues are serious, they could affect everyday life and cause depression or anxiousness. While it's essential to consider the possibility of a diagnosis of ADHD, it's just as important to consider the other factors that could be contributing to the symptoms. Stress, mental health issues and certain medications are frequently the cause of symptoms that are similar. A thorough examination by a qualified professional is essential to make sure that the issue is being treated. As opposed to children, adults with ADHD do not show the more obvious signs of hyperactivity. Hyperactivity is less obvious and manifests as fidgeting, or difficulty sitting still. Women with ADHD are more likely to display these symptoms since they are more likely to hide their inattention at work and in social interactions. During the assessment, the doctor will look at the patient's medical history and how their symptoms impact their daily lives. They will also ask about family history and, should they be able to interview a family member for their perspective on childhood behaviors. They may also perform the neuropsychological, psychological or learning disabilities testing. In some cases it is required to conduct an examination of the body to rule out certain illnesses that may mimic the symptoms that are associated with ADHD. Diagnosis Adults who believe they have ADHD should discuss their symptoms with their doctor. This is particularly important if the problems are related to work or school. Primary healthcare providers can refer people to mental health specialists who specialize in adult ADHD assessments and treatment. Hamdani says that professionals who deal with adults suffering from ADHD should be willing and able to share information about their training and experiences. Anyone who isn't willing to provide this information should be treated with suspicion Hamdani says. Getting a diagnosis of adult ADHD can be a life-changing experience. For some, it gives a reason for years of frustration and self-criticism. Some people feel relieved that they have an explanation for their problems in life, or that they weren't “just in their heads.” In the majority of cases, an adult diagnosed with ADHD will be diagnosed by conducting a thorough interview with a professional who is qualified. This may include a thorough review of the patient's medical, family, and personal history. Additionally, the specialist will likely ask the individual to rate their behaviors using one or more of the standard ADHD behavior scales. These ratings are basing on research that compares the behavior of those with ADHD to the behavior of those who don't have the disorder. The individual will be asked about their symptoms and how they impact their daily 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. People who receive a diagnosis of adult ADHD frequently have coexisting conditions, called comorbidities. Depression, anxiety disorders and alcohol or drug use are common comorbidities of ADHD. Some experts believe that these comorbidities are a result of maladaptive strategies for coping with the stress and frustrations that come with untreated ADHD. It's also important to note that ADHD is more prevalent in men than women, and it can be difficult for those who are affected to be diagnosed due long-held biases about the symptoms and their impact on men and women. Women can also be able to mask their symptoms better, which can cause an inaccurate diagnosis or delay in diagnosis. Treatment It is recommended for those who have been diagnosed with ADHD to speak with an expert in mental health, preferably one with experience treating adults with ADHD. This individual can teach the adult behavioral strategies to manage their symptoms and improve their functioning at home, work or at school. They can also assist adults to understand why their behavior is different and what triggers it. A mental health professional should thoroughly evaluate an adult for other disorders that are similar to ADHD. This could include a thorough description of the individual's symptoms, questionnaires and scales completed by the client and other people who know him or her well, a full medical and psychiatric history, and an exhaustive physical exam. A thorough evaluation is also important for determining whether the adult has a comorbid condition such as depression or anxiety. These conditions can worsen ADHD symptoms and make treatment more difficult. A mental health professional can also conduct neurologic or cognitive testing to examine how the brain works and to rule out any other causes, such as a physical illness or learning disability. Treatment options for adults suffering from ADHD typically involve psychological counseling (psychotherapy) and educational programs. Adults can benefit from individual talk therapy to boost their self-esteem as well as deal with the emotional burdens that come with ADHD. Behavioral therapies can also improve time management and organization, as well as impulse control. They also can tackle the effects that stressors have on an individual's abilities to perform. Some people with ADHD can benefit from group therapy. This type of therapy gives you the opportunity to connect with people who face similar issues and discuss how to overcome them. These groups are typically run by an advocacy or support group. Many adults with ADHD are treated by medications. There are several medications available that include stimulants, which increase the levels of norepinephrine as well as dopamine in the brain (for instance, methylphenidate which is sold as Ritalin). Others aid in managing mood and decrease impulsive behavior, like antidepressants or bupropion, an antipsychotic medication (Wellbutrin). Your Mercy doctor can discuss all treatment options. Support Adults with ADHD may have the disorder for years without realizing it. They might seek an evaluation due to their frustration with daily challenges like forgetting appointments or making a mistake at work, or not paying attention to family and friendship commitments. It's common for these people to feel a sense of relief once they get an answer, particularly when they understand why they've struggled all their lives. A mental health professional can conduct an ADHD assessment, but a primary physician is usually the best place to start. The doctor can also refer the person to a specialist when needed. A psychiatrist, psychiatric nurse or psychologist can also assess ADHD in adults. Many insurance plans include specialists by specialization and can assist people in finding a health care provider who is knowledgeable about ADHD in adults. During the assessment the mental health professional will inquire about the person's past issues and also how ADHD symptoms have affected them. It is essential to be honest and forthcoming during the assessment, so that the mental health professional can provide an accurate assessment. Psychotherapy, or psychological counseling can help people manage their issues and improve their relationships. Behavioral therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, can teach people specific techniques to alter their patterns of thinking and behavior. The combination of therapy and medication can help reduce the symptoms of the disorder. Social support groups are beneficial for many adult ADHD patients. The opportunity to share their experiences with others who face similar challenges can be a source of inspiration and encouragement. Some of these groups are available online and are open for all people with ADHD. how is adhd diagnosed in adults ADHD Diagnosis are geared towards specific groups, such as African Americans with ADHD, couples impacted by the disorder or those who identify as gay or lesbian. Some people might be embarrassed or ashamed of their symptoms. This could make them reluctant to seek help. A medical professional must explain to the patient that ADHD is not a sign of weakness or failure.