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Adult Diagnosis of ADHD For adults who struggle with ADHD A diagnosis of ADHD can have a profound impact on their lives. It can help people to recognize the reasons they face difficulties at work, with their families and in their relationships. However it can be a challenge to get a diagnosis as symptoms often overlap with other ailments. A health care professional or a mental health professional will assess the person and perform tests. Symptoms It is possible that someone does not realize they have ADHD until they reach adulthood. This may be because parents and teachers did not recognize the symptoms at an earlier time or because work or college demands caused the disorder to be revealed. Adults who are not treated for ADHD are at a disadvantage in their academic, professional and social lives. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD suffer from a variety of issues, including problems with relationships and financial problems. A mental health professional will interview and review the patient's medical, mental health and personal history, paying particular attention to the symptoms in different situations. The patient will be asked to describe the symptoms and how they impact their daily life and relationships. It is crucial that patients are open about their symptoms and not conceal them to avoid embarrassment. It is also essential for the mental health professional to assess whether the symptoms are linked to comorbid disorders such as anxiety or depression, which frequently coexist with ADHD. These conditions often make the symptoms of ADHD worse and can hinder effective treatment for the disorder. If the psychologist or psychiatrist thinks that the symptoms are being affected by comorbid conditions such as psychosomatic disorders, or neuropsychological disorders, further testing could be performed to determine an accurate diagnosis. These tests can also be used to determine the level of impairment to function caused by these conditions. In addition, the mental health professional may request an interview with one or more significant people such as spouses, siblings, and coworkers in order to collect an entire picture of the person's behavior and challenges. Diagnosis For adults, a diagnosis of ADHD is usually determined by a mental health professional or physician who conducts a thorough diagnosis. This includes a detailed analysis of the symptoms and how they impact the way you live your life. It also considers the presence of other mental disorders that may co-exist alongside ADHD, such mood disorders and anxiety. In addition, the practitioner may request to speak with significant others—usually an intimate partner or a close friend to provide more details regarding the person's behavior. Getting a proper diagnosis of ADHD in adulthood can be a life-changing experience. The diagnosis gives adults an explanation for the behaviors they thought were “normal”. It's often a relief learn that their problems aren't just due to laziness or forgetfulness. The American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth edition (DSM-5) requires that adults meet specific criteria for symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity. This standard is created to ensure that people get the support and treatment they require. In order for a person to be eligible for an ADHD diagnoses the person must be suffering from symptoms for at minimum a year and cause significant impairment in a variety of settings, including school, home or at work with family or friends or other activities. The number of symptoms needed for adults over the age of 17 has been reduced from six to five. Having a good relationship with your primary care physician can be helpful in identifying ADHD. Many physicians regularly diagnose and treat ADHD in children. They can provide a referral to a mental health professional who is qualified to perform an assessment of adults. Treatment When someone with ADHD is diagnosed, their life may change dramatically. They will finally have solutions to their problems at school, with the start of a career, or in relationships. For some, a diagnosis can help them overcome the guilt that has been built up over the years from their issues not being addressed. The first step to get a diagnosis is to talk to a health care provider or mental health professional. They may ask about family history and perform a physical exam to rule out other conditions such as sleep disorders or learning disabilities that can cause symptoms similar to ADHD. They can also request the person to complete a list of symptoms. During the assessment process, doctors may decide to speak with a spouse or partner. This helps the non ADHD spouse or partner develop an accurate understanding of their loved one's ADHD and a sympathetic attitude towards the symptoms. This is important for improving relationships after the diagnosis. If this isn't possible the doctor can conduct an interview with friends or colleagues who are familiar with the individual. made a post are the primary treatment options for adults with ADHD. stimulants like methylphenidate (Ritalin®) and dextroamphetamine (Adderall®) are the most effective and commonly prescribed drugs for treating adult ADHD. Other medications, such as Atomoxetine (Strattera®) and guanfacine (Intuniv®, Tenex®) increase norepinephrine levels in the brain and can help improve symptoms of ADHD. Psychotherapy is a different option. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can help patients learn skills to manage their ADHD symptoms. These include time management as well as organizational strategies, self regulation of behavior and emotions and coping strategies for self-doubt and negative criticism. Other therapies, like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps adults recognize automatic thoughts or irrational thinking that lead to negative behavior, and also develop positive self-talk. Medication Many people have found that ADHD medications can help alleviate their symptoms. This medication is usually in the form of a stimulant, and it increases brain activity in areas that control behaviour and attention. Methylphenidate, the most common medicine used for adults with ADHD is available in various forms. It can be taken in immediate-release tablets or as modified-release tablets that release the medication throughout the day. Clonidine is a different kind of medication that works by reducing brain activity. It can be taken in pill or liquid form. The psychiatrist or therapist will review the medical and family background of the adult patient to determine factors that may cause similar symptoms. This is crucial as certain medical conditions such as seizures and thyroid problems can cause symptoms that are similar to ADHD. In addition, certain supplements and medications can also cause similar symptoms. During the evaluation during the evaluation, the patient will describe their ADHD symptoms to the psychiatrist or therapist. They will be asked to complete the standardized ADHD rating scales and check lists and full psychological tests that assess executive functioning, working memory (abilities such as decision-making and planning), visual and spatial capabilities, and reasoning abilities. If the therapist believes that ADHD symptoms affect a person's quality of life they will suggest medication. In some instances the therapist may ask the individual's partner or spouse to talk with them regarding the effects of the symptoms of the patient on their relationship. This can help reduce the blame between people and encourage healthy, productive relationships. Counseling Receiving a diagnosis is a huge relief for many adults with ADHD. It's a chance to comprehend why they have problems at school or at work and learn how to overcome them. It's an opportunity to transform negative behavior and build self-esteem. Having a good support system is essential for success and counseling can be a great help. Counseling for ADHD can include psychotherapy (or psychological therapy) and a range of behavioral treatments. Therapists may create a chart that encourages positive behaviors and imposes consequences for negative behaviors. Therapists can also teach the patient how to manage symptoms, like relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditative postures in yoga. Another benefit of counseling is helping people comprehend and accept their ADHD. It's not easy to admit you have problems in organizing, planning and paying attention. It can be embarrassing to admit that you suffer from ADHD to co-workers or supervisors. Most teachers and bosses will make accommodations to accommodate your needs. They might, for example permit you to write on the computer instead of paper or give a more detailed explanation of class material. The therapist will also show you how to cope with ADHD using cognitive behavioral therapy. It is a structured form of talk therapy which helps you transform negative behavior and thoughts into positive ones. Counseling for ADHD can also include family or marital therapy which teaches loved ones how to interact better with a person suffering from ADHD and to improve communication and problem-solving skills. People with ADHD may also suffer from other mental disorders, such depression or anxiety and may have substance abuse problems.