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Adult ADHD Diagnosis For some people who are diagnosed with adult ADHD is the first step toward getting treatment. They may feel frustrated in their work, homes, or social life because of symptoms like fidgeting, forgetting things or interrupting others. Adults diagnosed with ADHD typically undergo an exhaustive evaluation, which involves interviewing them and their families, and taking standardized tests. The evaluation usually includes physical examination. Symptoms For many adults, the diagnosis of ADHD can have a profound impact on their lives. It can help people understand why they've struggled so long and understand their past decisions. It may also provide them with hope for an improved future. If you're struggling to locate your keys, feel as if you can't finish your work or you're being labelled lazy or irresponsible, or have been accused of being lazy or irresponsible, Then a diagnosis will help you find the right treatment for you. The majority of adults experience symptoms in various areas of their lives but some are more prominent than others. They might be unruly and impulsive at school but have trouble keeping up at work. They may not remember to keep appointments or underestimate the amount of time required to complete their work. They may have trouble making friends or engage in frequent arguments with their spouses. If the issues are severe, they may interfere with the daily routine and lead to anxiety or depression. It's important to diagnose ADHD However, it's crucial to determine what other factors might be contributing to the symptoms. Stress, mental health issues and medications can trigger symptoms that are similar to those of ADHD. To ensure that the underlying issue is addressed an in-depth evaluation by a specialist is required. As opposed to children, adults with ADHD do not show the more prominent signs of hyperactivity. Instead, the symptoms of hyperactivity present themselves more subduedly as fidgeting or difficulty sitting still in chairs. Women with ADHD tend to display these signs more frequently, as they can hide their inattention within their social and professional lives. During an assessment, the doctor will review the patient's medical history and consider the ways in which their ailments affect their daily life. They will also ask about family history and should they be able to ask a family member their perspective on childhood behaviors. They might also conduct psycho-, neuropsychological or learning disabilities testing. In some cases it might be required to conduct a physical examination in order to rule out certain illnesses which can mimic the symptoms of ADHD. Diagnosis Adults who think they may have ADHD should discuss their symptoms with their doctor. This is especially important if the problems are related to work or school. Primary care providers can refer individuals to mental health specialists who specialize in adult ADHD assessment and treatment. Those professionals should be willing to disclose details about their training level and experience working with adults with ADHD, Hamdani says. Hamdani suggests that anyone who is reluctant to provide this information should be treated as suspicious. A diagnosis of adult ADHD can be a life-changing event. For some, it finally provides an explanation for years of frustrations and self-criticism. Others feel a sense of satisfaction that there's a rationale for the struggles they've faced in their lives or that their issues weren't simply “in their head.” Adults suffering from ADHD are diagnosed by an extensive interview with a specialist. This will include a review the person's medical background, family and personal history. Additionally, the specialist will likely ask the individual to rate his or her behaviors on one or more of the standard ADHD behavior rating scales. These ratings are based on research that compares the behaviors of people suffering from ADHD to those of people who don't have the disorder. The individual will also be asked how the symptoms affect 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. The people who are diagnosed of adult ADHD often have coexisting conditions which are referred to as comorbidities. Anxiety disorders, depression and alcohol or drug use are typical comorbidities of ADHD. Some experts suggest that these comorbidities develop as maladaptive coping mechanisms to deal with the stressors that are typically caused by untreated ADHD. It's also important to note that ADHD is more prevalent in men than women, and it can be difficult for many people who are affected to be diagnosed due long-held prejudices about the symptoms and the impact they have on males and females. Women can also be better at hiding their symptoms better, which could lead to an incorrect diagnosis or delay in getting it. Treatment Adults who have been diagnosed of ADHD may find it helpful to consult an expert in mental health who has experience treating adults with ADHD. The person who treats adults can teach them behavioral strategies to help them manage their symptoms, and improve their performance in school, at work or at home. They can also help adults to understand why their behavior is different and what triggers it. A mental health professional should thoroughly evaluate an adult as they could have other disorders that are similar to ADHD. This could include a thorough description of the scale and the forms filled out by the client or other people who know him/her as well as a psychiatric and family history as well as a thorough physical exam. It is important to conduct a thorough examination to determine if the adult suffers from a comorbid disorder such as depression or anxiety. These conditions can contribute to the symptoms of ADHD and make treatment more difficult. A mental health professional may also perform cognitive or neuropsychological tests to examine how the brain functions, and to identify other causes for the problem, like a learning disability or physical illness. Adults with ADHD are usually treated through psychological counseling (psychotherapy) as well as educational programs. Adults are able to benefit from individual therapy to improve their self-esteem as well as deal with the emotional burdens that come with ADHD. Behavioral therapies can help improve efficiency, time management and impulse control and may tackle the impact of stressors on the individual's ability to perform. Some people who suffer from ADHD benefit from group therapy. This type of therapy offers you the opportunity to connect with other people who are facing similar challenges and discuss how to overcome these challenges. These groups are usually organized by an advocacy or support group. Many adults with ADHD can be treated by medication. There are a variety of medications available that include stimulants, which increase the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain (for instance, methylphenidate which is also known as Ritalin). Others aid in managing mood and decrease impulsive behavior, like antidepressants and bupropion, an antipsychotic medication (Wellbutrin). Your Mercy doctor will be able to talk with you about the various treatment options available to you. Support Many adults who are diagnosed with ADHD suffer from the condition for a long time, without even realizing it. The frustration of everyday problems like not remembering appointments, making rash mistakes at work, or blowing off family or friendship commitments can lead them to seek an assessment. They often feel a sense of relief when they receive the diagnosis. A mental health professional may perform an ADHD assessment, but the primary physician is typically a good starting point. The doctor can also refer the person to a specialist when needed. A psychiatrist, psychiatric nurse or psychologist may also be able to assess ADHD in adults. Many insurance plans list professionals according to their specialties. This can help people locate the right health professional who is experienced in treating ADHD among adults. During the assessment, the mental health specialist will ask questions about the person's behavior, including previous issues and how they have been affected by their ADHD symptoms. It is essential to be honest and open during the evaluation, so that the mental health professional can make an accurate assessment. Psychotherapy, also known as psychological counseling, can help people manage their issues and improve their relationships. diagnosing adhd , or cognitive behavioral therapy, can teach people how to change their behavior and thinking patterns. The combination of therapy and medication can to reduce the symptoms of the disorder. Social support groups can be beneficial for many adult ADHD patients. Being able to share their experiences with other people who are facing similar challenges can be a great source of encouragement and inspiration. Some of these groups are online and are open to everyone who has ADHD. Some groups are specifically for groups, such as African Americans with ADHD, couples affected by the disorder or those who identify as gay or lesbian. Some people may experience feelings of shame or embarrassment over their condition, which could make it difficult for them to seek assistance. But a health professional should explain that ADHD is not an indication of failing or weakness.