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Adult Diagnosis of ADHD A diagnosis of ADHD can change the life of adults suffering from the disorder. It can help people understand why they struggle in work, family and relationships. It can be difficult to diagnose because symptoms can overlap. A health care professional or a mental health professional will examine the person and perform tests. Symptoms One may not be aware that they have ADHD until they reach the age of adulthood, perhaps because teachers and parents were not aware of symptoms earlier, or because the demands of college or working made the disorder more apparent. Adults with ADHD who are not treated are affected in their social, academic and professional lives. Undiagnosed ADHD can cause many problems including relationship problems and financial difficulties. A mental health professional will review and interview the patient's medical, mental health and personal history, paying special attention to symptoms in various situations. The patient will be asked to describe how these symptoms affect his or her daily life and relationships. It is crucial that the patient is open about these symptoms and that he or she do not shy away due to feelings of shame or embarrassment. The mental health professional should also determine if these symptoms are related to comorbid conditions such as depression and anxiety which are often associated with ADHD. These conditions can make ADHD symptoms worse and may interfere with treatment for the disorder. If a psychologist or psychiatrist feels that the symptoms of ADHD are being impacted by comorbid conditions, additional psycho-, neuropsychological or testing for learning disabilities could be performed to determine an accurate diagnosis. These tests will also aid in determining the extent of impairment in function caused by these conditions. The mental health professional may also conduct interviews with other significant people, such as spouses or siblings to get a complete picture of how the person is functioning. Diagnosis For adults the diagnosis of ADHD is usually made by a mental health care specialist or doctor who conducts a thorough diagnostic assessment. This includes a detailed interview regarding the history of symptoms and their impact on everyday functioning and the presence of any other mental health disorders that could co-occur with ADHD like anxiety and mood disorders. The doctor may also request to speak to significant others such as your spouse or a close family member to gather more information. Getting a proper diagnosis of ADHD in adulthood can be a life-changing moment. The diagnosis gives adults an explanation for their behavior that they believed to be “normal”. It's usually a relief to learn that their problems are not simply 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 designed to ensure that people receive the assistance and treatment they require. To be eligible for an ADHD diagnosis, they must have symptoms for at least one year and be a significant handicap in a variety of settings including school, home or work, with friends or family or in other activities. For adults aged 17 and older the number of needed symptoms has been reduced to five from the six required for children who are younger than 12. Having a good relationship with your primary care provider can be helpful in identifying ADHD. Many doctors regularly diagnose and treat ADHD in children. They may refer you to a mental health professional who is able to perform an assessment on adults. Treatment When those with ADHD get a diagnosis, their lives can change drastically. They may finally have reasons for their school failures, a struggle to establish a career or relationship problems. For those who are suffering from depression, it can provide relief from guilt that has been accumulated over the years of their ailments being ignored. The first step in getting an accurate diagnosis is to talk to a doctor or mental health professional. They might inquire about the family history and perform a physical exam to rule out other conditions like learning disabilities or sleep disorders that can cause symptoms similar to ADHD. They can also ask the patient to complete an assessment scale of symptoms. During the assessment process, the doctor may request to speak with the spouse or partner. This can help the non-ADHD spouse or partner develop a clear understanding and an understanding of their loved one's ADHD symptoms which is crucial in improving relationships after the diagnosis. If this is not possible, the clinician can interview friends or colleagues who know the person well. The main treatment is medication. options for adults suffering from ADHD. Stimulants like methylphenidate (Ritalin®) and dextroamphetamine (Adderall®) are the most effective and widely prescribed drugs for treating adult ADHD. Other medications, for instance Atomoxetine (Strattera®) and guanfacine (Intuniv®, Tenex®) increase norepinephrine levels in the brain and can improve symptoms of ADHD. Psychotherapy also is an option. Cognitive-behavioral therapies can assist patients learn skills to manage their ADHD symptoms. They include time management and organizational strategies, self regulation of behavior and emotions and coping strategies for negative feelings and self criticism. Other therapies, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), help adults recognize the automatic thoughts or irrational thoughts that lead to negative behavior, and also develop positive self-talk. Medication Many people report that ADHD medication helps alleviate their symptoms. This medication is usually in the form a stimulant and increases the activity of the brain in areas that control behavior and attention. Methylphenidate is the most frequently used medicine for adults with ADHD and is available in a variety of forms. It is available as immediate-release tablets or modified-release tablet forms that release the medication over the course of the day. Clonidine is another type of medication that works by reducing brain activity. It can be taken in liquid or pill form. When treating adult patients with ADHD The psychotherapist or psychiatrist may look over the person's family and medical history to identify causes that could cause similar symptoms to ADHD. This is crucial as certain medical conditions, such as seizures and thyroid issues can trigger symptoms similar to ADHD. Certain medications and nutritional supplements can cause similar symptoms. During the evaluation the individual will likely to discuss the ADHD symptoms. They will be asked to provide standardized ADHD ratings and check lists, as well as psychological tests to measure executive function, working memory, (abilities like planning and decision making) spatial and visual ability, as well as reasoning skills. If the therapist is of the opinion that ADHD symptoms are seriously affecting the quality of life of an individual the therapist will suggest treatment. In some instances the therapist may request the patient's partner or spouse to talk with them regarding the impact of the patient's symptoms on their relationship. This will help decrease blame between individuals and can lead to healthier, more productive relationships. Counseling Getting a diagnosis is a great relief for many adults suffering from ADHD. It's a chance to comprehend the reason why they face difficulties at work or school and learn how to overcome these issues. It's an opportunity to transform negative behavior and build self-esteem. Counseling is a great method to build a strong support system. diagnosing adhd uk for ADHD may include psychotherapy (or psychological therapy) as well as a variety of behavioral interventions. Therapists may create a chart that encourages positive behaviors and imposes punishments for negative behaviors. The therapist could also guide the patient in skills to manage their symptoms, such as relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or yoga postures. Counseling can assist people to accept and understand their ADHD. It can be difficult to admit you have difficulties paying attention, planning and organizing. It can be embarrassing to admit that you have ADHD to your supervisors or coworkers. However, most bosses and teachers will be willing to provide accommodations for your situation. They might, for example permit you to write on computers instead of paper or offer more in-depth explanations of classroom material. The therapist will also teach you how to deal with ADHD through cognitive behavioral therapy. This is a structured type of talk therapy which helps you transform negative thoughts and behaviors into more positive ones. Counseling for ADHD may also include marital or family therapy. It teaches family members how to better communicate and solve problems with someone who suffers from ADHD. People suffering from ADHD typically suffer from other mental health disorders such as depression or anxiety, and they may struggle with substance misuse, which can also exacerbate their symptoms.