Getting Diagnosed With ADHD As an AdultFor adults who find themselves struggling in their work or personal life in any way, recognizing ADHD can be a significant step in taking control. A diagnosis requires a thorough assessment that may include reviews of school records and questionnaires filled out by teachers and caregivers.
It is not uncommon for adults to be diagnosed with ADHD. See NIMH for tips on talking with your health professional about the disorder.
Diagnosis
It is important to get diagnosed with ADHD as you reach adulthood. This will allow you to gain control over the symptoms that can cause a lot of trouble in your professional and personal life. The first step is to speak with your GP or consult a mental health professional with experience in treating adults suffering from ADHD. If your doctor is not familiar with ADHD and/or ADHD, they could refer you to a psychologist or psychiatrist for assessment.
Typically an expert in mental health will use a six-question ADHD screener to determine if you are susceptible to the condition, says Adler. Then, he or she will ask you questions about your symptoms and review your family history and medical background to ensure that there are no other conditions not causing your symptoms of ADHD.
Since people with ADHD have a tendency to be unable to pay attention and are easily distracted, they frequently struggle with following directions or listening during class or at work. They frequently lose essential items needed for their tasks such as wallets, keys and other tools. They may also have trouble staying focused when reading or listening to long speeches. Other symptoms of adult ADHD include fidgeting, talking or texting too much or squirming in the seat.
It is crucial to rule other conditions out when determining if someone has adult ADHD. This includes depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder. Stress and other physical ailments such as thyroid issues can be similar to the symptoms of ADHD. The DSM-5 is now requiring professionals to consider the severity of the symptoms a person's experiences are when diagnosing them with the condition. Adult ADHD is classified as mild, moderate or severe.
Many people who suffer from ADHD are not diagnosed in childhood, because it's not readily apparent. A diagnosis can alter the course of an adult's life as they understand why they struggled at school and failed to reach their full potential at work or home. They may feel guilty about being blamed for their troubles and may also be grieved over missed opportunities if they were properly treated.
Treatment
To receive treatment for ADHD in adults, the first step is to talk with an expert in healthcare. This can be done in person or via video chat. In the UK, only psychiatrists, psychologists and specialist nurses are qualified to diagnose ADHD. The doctor will require information about your medical history and your family's mental health issues. This is due to the fact that there are a variety of mental and physical conditions which can trigger symptoms that are similar to ADHD. These conditions need to be ruled out in order to determine if you have ADHD.
The doctor will also inquire about your work and lifestyle and how your issues influence your life. They will be particularly interested in whether or not you had signs of ADHD prior to the age of 12. They may also wish to interview those who knew you in childhood and ask about their experiences.
A thorough medical history will aid your doctor in determining if you need medication or any other treatment. Certain medical conditions, like thyroid disorders, sleep apnea, and lead poisoning, can cause ADHD symptoms. Adults with a history anxiety or depression require evaluation and treated more carefully because these conditions frequently are in synergy.
If a medical professional believes you need medication, he or she will prescribe the appropriate drug. The type of medication you require is determined by the severity of your symptoms and how they affect your life. Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed medication for ADHD. They aren't for everyone, and the first drug you try may not work or cause unwanted side consequences. Your doctor may inquire whether you're taking any other medications. This includes over-the-counter medications, supplements, and prescription drugs. Certain types of drugs may interfere with ADHD stimulants.
Counseling is a crucial component of treatment for adults with ADHD. Individual therapy can help you deal better with feelings of frustration, disappointment and inadequacy that are frequently associated with untreated ADHD. It can teach you how to control your anger, as well as improve your time management and organization skills.
It is essential to find the services of a doctor who is specialized in mental illnesses. A psychiatrist or neurologist is able to diagnose and treat ADHD. However it is recommended to consult a specialist psychotherapist. These professionals will likely be more familiar with adults with ADHD and their challenges and also have previous experience working with clients. You can contact your local mental health service or with ADDitude's directory to find a professional who is working with adults suffering from ADHD.
Medication
A diagnosis of ADHD is the first step towards managing your symptoms and enhancing your life. If you are struggling to reach your full potential at work, have difficulty maintaining relationships, or experience trouble completing tasks at home, an ADHD
diagnosis for adhd in adults might be the answer you've been looking for.
The first step in treating ADHD in adults is thorough medical history review, including your symptoms. The psychiatrist or psychologist will determine if the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) criteria for ADHD apply to you. To be diagnosed with ADHD, you must have at least five symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity-impulsivity that persist throughout most of your day and interfere with social, academic or professional functioning.
Adults with untreated ADHD are often afflicted with disorders such as depression and anxiety. Jaksa says that these disorders can cause or worsen symptoms of ADHD. He also says that constant stress and frustration due to poor performance can lead to feelings of low-self-esteem. "Getting an assessment can help them gain perspective on the root of their struggles, which may reduce or eliminate some of their anxieties and help them concentrate more on areas in which they excel," Jaksa says.
The most effective treatment for adults with ADHD is usually an amalgamation of medication and behavior therapy. The use of stimulants can help improve concentration, decrease impulsive behaviors and aid in organizing. In many cases, these medications can also enhance motivation and mood. People who are taking stimulants must be aware of possible adverse effects, such as insomnia and difficulty eating or drinking enough. Some people who take stimulants to treat ADHD might experience mood swings that can be difficult for them to manage.
Speak to your doctor about whether or not you are an eligible participant in clinical trials on new medications or treatments. These studies assist researchers in finding better methods to detect and treat or prevent diseases.
Counseling
If you are suffering from untreated ADHD the disorder can lead to many issues in all areas of your life. Procrastination and other symptoms can have a negative impact on your relationships as well as your career and financial health. The first step in reducing the negative effects and regaining control is to get an assessment and seek treatment.