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Adult ADHD Diagnosis For some being diagnosed with adult ADHD is the first step towards treatment. They may be unhappy in their work, homes, or social life because of symptoms like fidgeting, forgetting things, or interrupting others. Being diagnosed with ADHD as an adult often involves undergoing an extensive assessment that involves interviewing the individual and their family members, using standard tests and rating scales. This usually involves an examination of the body. Signs and symptoms For many adults, a diagnosis of ADHD can have a profound impact on their lives. It can help them understand why they have been through so much and discover the meaning behind their previous decisions. It can also inspire them to look forward to a better future. If you're struggling to find your keys, feel as if you're unable to finish your task, or are being labeled as irresponsible or lazy, or have been accused of being irresponsible or lazy, and need a diagnosis, then a diagnosis can help you find the right treatment for you. For the majority of adults, signs are present in a variety of areas of their lives. They are more prevalent in one place than the other. They might be unruly and impulsive at school but are unable to keep up at work. They might forget appointments or have trouble estimating the amount of time they require to complete their tasks. They may struggle to make friends or fighting with their spouses often. If these problems are severe they could affect everyday life and cause depression or anxiety. While it's crucial to think about a diagnosis of ADHD, it's just as important to determine the other factors contributing to the symptoms. Stress, other mental health conditions and certain medications can cause symptoms similar to those of ADHD. A thorough assessment by a trained professional is required to be sure that the root cause is being addressed. Like children, adults who suffer from ADHD seldom show the more obvious symptoms of hyperactivity. Instead, the signs of hyperactivity manifest more subtly as fidgeting or difficulty sitting still in a chair. Women who suffer from ADHD are more likely to show these signs, since they are more able to hide their inattention in their jobs and social lives. During the examination the doctor will review the patient's medical history and how the symptoms affect their daily lives. They will also ask for family history and, if possible talk to a loved one to gain their opinion on childhood behavior. They might also conduct psycho-, neuropsychological or learning disabilities tests. In some cases it might be necessary to perform an examination of the body to rule out specific illnesses that may mimic the symptoms that are associated with ADHD. Diagnosis Adults who believe they have ADHD should discuss their symptoms with their health care provider. This is particularly crucial if the issues are connected to school or work. Primary health care providers can refer patients to mental health specialists who specialize in adult ADHD assessment and treatment. Hamdani says that professionals who deal with adults with ADHD should be willing and able to give information about their education and experience. Hamdani suggests that anyone who is unwilling to share such information should be viewed as suspicious. The diagnosis of adult ADHD can be a life-changing experience. It can provide a reason for years of frustration and self-criticism for certain. Others feel a sense satisfaction that there's a rationale for the difficulties they've experienced in their lives, or that their struggles were not just “in their head.” In most instances, an adult suffering from ADHD will receive a diagnosis through a comprehensive interview with a qualified professional. This may include a thorough review of the individual's personal medical, family, and background. Additionally, the doctor will likely ask the person to rate his or her behavior on one or more standardized ADHD behavior rating scales. These ratings are basing on research that compares the behavior of people with ADHD to those of people who do not suffer from the disorder. The individual will be asked about the symptoms and how they impact 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. People who receive a diagnosis of adult ADHD often have coexisting conditions which are referred to as co-morbidities. Common comorbidities that are associated with ADHD include anxiety disorders, depression and alcohol or drug abuse. Some experts believe that these comorbidities are maladaptive coping strategies to deal with the stress and frustrations that come with untreated ADHD. It's important to remember that ADHD is more prevalent in males than females. Many people suffering from the disorder may struggle to be diagnosed due to long-held prejudices about the symptoms of the disorder and how they affect men and women. Women are also able to mask their symptoms better, which could cause an inaccurate diagnosis or delay in obtaining a diagnosis. Treatment It is recommended for adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD to consult an expert in mental health care that has expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD. The person who treats adults can teach them behavior strategies to help them manage their symptoms, and improve their performance at the workplace, at school or at home. They can also assist adults to understand why their behavior is different and what triggers it. A mental health professional should examine an adult thoroughly 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 person who is being evaluated and by other people who know him well, a full psychiatric history and family medical history, as well as a thorough physical examination. It is crucial to conduct a thorough assessment in order to determine if the adult suffers from a comorbid condition such as anxiety or depression. These conditions can increase ADHD symptoms and make treatment more difficult. A mental health professional can also perform cognitive or neurological tests to determine how the brain works and to rule out other causes, including an illness of the body or a learning disability. Treatment options for adults with ADHD typically include psychological counseling (psychotherapy) and educational programs. Individual therapy can help a person develop better self-esteem and learn to deal with the emotional baggage that typically accompanies a diagnosis of ADHD. Behavioral therapies may also improve time management and control of impulses. They also can deal with the effect that stressors can affect an individual's ability to perform. Some people with ADHD can benefit from group therapy. This type of therapy may give them the chance to meet other people who have the same difficulties and discuss ways to overcome these challenges. These groups are usually run by a support group or an advocacy group. There is also a treatment option for a lot of adults suffering from ADHD. There are many medications available which include stimulants that boost the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain (for instance, methylphenidate that is marketed as Ritalin). Antidepressants and the antipsychotic drug Wellbutrin (Bupropion) aid in regulating moods and reduce impulse-driven behavior. Your Mercy doctor will be able to discuss all treatment options with you. Support Many adults who are diagnosed with ADHD live with the disorder for decades without knowing it. Discontent with everyday issues like not remembering appointments, making rash mistakes at work, or abandoning family or friend commitments can lead them to seek an evaluation. People often feel relieved when they receive a diagnosis. A mental health professional can conduct an ADHD evaluation, however the primary doctor is usually the best place to start. If needed, the doctor can refer the patient to a specialist. A psychiatrist, psychiatric nurse or psychologist may also be able to assess ADHD in adults. A lot of insurance plans have specialists according to their specialization and assist people in finding the right health professional who is knowledgeable about ADHD in adults. During the examination, a mental health professional will ask about the person's previous issues and also how ADHD symptoms have affected them. It's crucial to be honest and forthcoming during the assessment, so that the mental healthcare professional can make an accurate assessment. Psychotherapy, or psychological counseling, can aid people in managing their symptoms and improve their relationships. Behavioral therapy, or cognitive behavioral therapy, can teach people how to change their behavior and thinking patterns. My Web Page of therapy and medication can help to reduce the symptoms of the disorder. Social support groups can be beneficial for many adults ADHD patients. The opportunity to share their challenges 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. Some groups are for specific populations such as African Americans who have ADHD or couples who are affected by the disorder, or people who identify themselves as gay or lesbian. Some people may be embarrassed or ashamed of their symptoms. This could make them reluctant to seek assistance. However, a healthcare professional should explain that ADHD is not an indication of insufficiency or failure.