ADHD in Adults Diagnosis and Treatment
If you're suffering from untreated ADHD it could lead to problems throughout your life. It may be difficult to maintain relationships and employment. This could lead to frequent changes in jobs or low ratings for performance.
It is recommended to first consult your primary care physician for a referral to a health care professional who performs evaluations for adults with ADHD. Then, you can get a diagnosis and treatment plan.
Diagnosis
ADHD is an neurodevelopmental disorder that causes problems with staying focused, paying close to one's surroundings and responding to impulses. Adults with ADHD often have trouble at school, at work and in their relationships. It's a common disorder but it can be difficult for adults to diagnose since they may not recall the symptoms they experienced as children or have been misdiagnosed.
A person who wants to receive a diagnosis should visit a medical professional who has experience performing ADHD assessments for adults. The patient could ask their physician for a referral to someone who is an expert in ADHD. You can also ask for a referral by calling local medical schools, universities, or graduate schools.
When evaluating adults, the physician will assess how long the symptoms have been present and how they impact the life of the patient. They will also consider whether the ADHD symptoms were present in childhood. The clinician will also determine if the person meets diagnostic guidelines for either the predominantly inattentive, the predominantly hyperactive-impulsive or combined subtypes of the disorder.
To be diagnosed with ADHD the patient must exhibit significant impairment in at least two different areas of their lives like at work or home or with family and friends; or when engaging in particular activities, such as driving or playing sports. Impairment means that the symptoms cause significant difficulties and have been present for at minimum six months.
The doctor will also look into other conditions that could cause the same symptoms as ADHD, like anxiety, depression, or substance abuse disorders. They may also do additional neuropsychological, psychosocial or testing for learning disabilities to determine if the patient suffers from co-existing disorders.
People who haven't been diagnosed with ADHD may be frustrated that they aren't getting the help and support that they need. Some adults have experienced a sense relief and renewed energy after they are finally able to be diagnosed. Many adults regret missed opportunities or failed to realize their ADHD symptoms were not diagnosed and untreated. Certain people with ADHD are hesitant about admitting that they suffer from the disorder, especially women who are assigned female at birth (AFAB). Some are afraid because of the stigma associated with it.
Signs and symptoms
Adults suffering from ADHD aren't able to overcome the disorder. It can persist into adulthood, and can have similar effects on work, relationships family life, and mental health. Inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity symptoms are present in both adults and children suffering from ADHD. However the symptoms of adults are more severe. For instance, they can impact a person's job performance and lead to troubled relationships. A professional can provide treatment and support.
The first step is finding an expert evaluator who is qualified, like psychologist or psychiatrist. Ask for recommendations from friends and family, or search online for professionals in your area. Many people suffering from ADHD also suffer from other disorders like anxiety and depression, which must be considered when determining their diagnosis and treatment.
Your evaluator wants to learn as much as they can about your life. A detailed history, especially one that stretches across your entire childhood, could provide clues as to whether your ADHD symptoms are connected to any other disorder. The evaluator will inquire about your physical health and emotional well-being, your development in the early years of your life, academic and work experiences and driving history, as well as drinking and drug use, and how you deal with stress on a regular basis.
If your evaluator suspects that you may have ADHD they will evaluate your current symptoms to determine how they impact your daily routine. To be considered a diagnosed patient, your symptoms must be severe enough to cause impairment in at least two major settings. Examples of impairment could include losing your job due to inadequate time management, falling into financial trouble because of reckless spending or inability to make payments on time, and relationships that are strained due to communication issues.
You can enhance your ability to manage your ADHD symptoms by learning to cope with the challenges they bring. For instance, you can reduce the stress level by implementing a regular routine and keeping your calendar clear. Additionally, you can get more sleep, avoid eating sugary or caffeinated food before bed, and exercise regularly. Some people with ADHD discover that psychotherapy or cognitive behavior therapy can help them manage their symptoms, whereas others use medication to reduce the impact of their symptoms.
Treatment
The first step for adults who suspect that they may have ADHD is to consult with their health medical professional. They can refer you to an expert in mental health that is skilled in adult ADHD evaluations or provide suggestions for professionals who perform such evaluations. Some insurance companies list professionals according to their specialties, and can help those who are covered by their plans to find a specialist.
The past of the adult is crucial in determining ADHD. A doctor could, for example, ask to look over the child's report card or talk to family members about the child's behavior in the beginning. The health care professional may analyze patterns of behavior that suggest the diagnosis of ADHD.
During the assessment process the health professional may utilize one or more standardized rating scales. These questionnaires compare the behavior of a patient to those of people who do not have ADHD and can aid a doctor in determining whether symptoms meet the diagnostic criteria.
In addition, a medical examination is generally required to rule out medical conditions that could cause symptoms that resemble ADHD. For instance, thyroid issues, seizures, hearing and vision issues sleep disorders, as well as food-related issues like food allergies or lead poisoning can all have similar effects to ADHD.
Adults suffering from ADHD can benefit from psychological and behavioral therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy, in particular, can help patients change negative thoughts and behaviors. This can reduce stress, which may cause ADHD symptoms worse. Counseling can also teach people how to manage their time better, increase their ability to organize their lives, and develop more effective coping strategies for dealing with stressful situations.
Adults with ADHD are frequently treated with stimulants. They appear to regulate and increase the levels of certain brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. However, these drugs can cause serious adverse reactions for some individuals, especially adolescents and children. They are usually prescribed for short-term use and are not suitable for everyone.
Other treatments include lifestyle changes as well as psychotherapy. Many adults suffering from ADHD find that exercising more can help them focus more effectively and become more productive. Certain people who suffer from ADHD can benefit from improving their planning and organization abilities. Additionally, those who struggle to keep jobs or maintain relationships can seek help from a disability support service such as Access to Work.
Support
Getting diagnosed and receiving effective treatment can help you manage symptoms that interfere with your daily routine. It can also improve your self-image, and your relationships with family members, friends, and coworkers. It's never too late to seek a diagnosis and treatment for ADHD.
Your GP can recommend a mental health facility that specializes in treating adults with ADHD. This could be a Community Mental Health Service or a specialised Neurodevelopmental Service.
There are support groups for adults with ADHD which can offer advice and a sense of community. You can also join online discussion forums and discuss your experiences with other people. There are coaches or mentors who specialize in helping people with ADHD. However, you should be aware that coaching and mentorship are self-regulated and there are differences in the quality and knowledge.
ADHD symptoms usually begin in childhood, but they can continue well into adulthood. The disorder is more prevalent in boys and men than girls and women. The inattentive subtype of the disorder (formerly referred to as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) are more likely to be diagnosed than those who suffer from the combined type. Symptoms of the hyperactive/impulsive subtype are less common in adults than those of the inattentive type, but they can still occur.
Adult ADHD can be difficult to diagnose because the symptoms differ from one person to another. A history of difficulties in school, at work or in relationships can help a physician find the pattern. A thorough medical history is also useful. The history can be used to determine if or identify possible causes. These include developmental disorders and seizure disorders. They also include anxiety, depression and addiction to drugs as well as certain medications.
adhd undiagnosed in adults can result in people developing low self-esteem as well as a negative self-image due to frustration and failure. They might also experience mental health disorders such as depression or anxiety which can cause ADHD worse.
A few adults suffering from ADHD participate in clinical trials to help researchers learn more about the disorder. This can result in better treatments in the near future. You can find tips for talking with your doctor about participating in an investigational trial on the NIMH website.