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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 have difficulties at work, at home and in their relationships. It can be difficult to diagnose since symptoms tend to overlap. A mental health healthcare professional or health professional will examine the individual and conduct tests. Symptoms One may not realize they have ADHD until they reach the age of adulthood or perhaps because teachers and parents were not aware of the symptoms at a younger age or because the demands of college or working caused the disorder to be exposed. Adults with ADHD who are not treated suffer in their social, academic and work lives. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD experience a variety of problems, including problems with relationships and financial problems. To determine the presence of ADHD, a mental health professional will talk to the patient and go over his or her personal, medical and mental health history, paying particular attention to symptoms in different situations. diagnosing adhd will discuss the symptoms and how they impact their daily life and relationships. It is crucial that the patient be honest about these symptoms, and that he or she does not hide behind feelings of embarrassment or shame. The mental health professional must also determine if these symptoms are connected to comorbid conditions like anxiety and depression which are often associated with ADHD. These conditions can cause ADHD symptoms worse and interfere with treatment for the disorder. If the psychiatrist or psychologist thinks that the symptoms of ADHD are influenced by comorbid conditions, further cognitive, neuropsychological, or learning disabilities tests could be used to help establish an accurate diagnosis. These tests can also be used to determine the degree of impairment in function that these conditions cause. The mental health professional will also conduct interviews with other significant people such as spouses and siblings, to get a full picture of how a person is performing. Diagnosis For adults, a diagnosis of ADHD is usually made by a mental health care specialist or doctor who conducts a thorough diagnostic evaluation. This involves a thorough interview about the causes of the symptoms and their impact on daily functioning, as well as the presence of any other mental health issues that may be co-occurring with ADHD, such as mood disorders and anxiety. In addition, the physician might ask for the assistance of significant others—usually an intimate partner or a close friend to assist in gaining more information about the person's behavior. Being diagnosed with ADHD in adulthood can be a life-changing event. The diagnosis provides adults with an explanation for behaviors that they believed to be “normal”. It is often a relief to know they're not just lazy or forgetful or incompetent; their issues are more complex. 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 individuals receive the help and treatment they require. To qualify for an ADHD diagnosis, a person must have had the symptoms for at least 12 months and they must have caused significant impairment in several settings, including home, school, or work as well as with family members or friends or in other settings. For adults age 17 and older the number of needed symptoms has been reduced to five, from the six that are needed for children under age 12. Maintaining a positive relationship with your primary care physician can be beneficial in identifying ADHD. Many physicians diagnose and treat ADHD in children and refer you to an expert in mental health to evaluate adults. Treatment When people with ADHD receive a diagnosis their lives may change dramatically. They may finally discover solutions to their problems at the classroom, as well as in starting a new career, or even in relationships. A diagnosis can help relieve the shame that has accumulated for certain people throughout their lives. Talking to a mental health professional or health care provider is the first step in finding out if you have a diagnosis. They might ask questions about family history and conduct physical examinations to rule out conditions that can cause symptoms that resemble ADHD, such as sleeping disorders, learning disabilities or alcohol/drug abuse. They can also ask the person to complete the checklist of symptoms. In many instances the doctor will suggest that a spouse or partner be interviewed during the process of assessing. This helps the non ADHD spouse or partner develop an accurate understanding of their loved one's ADHD and a compassionate approach to the symptoms. This is important to strengthen relationships following a diagnoses. If this isn't feasible, the clinician may interview friends or co-workers who are familiar with the person. The main treatment is medication. options for adults suffering from ADHD. Stimulants such as methylphenidate (Ritalin®) and dextroamphetamine (Adderall®) are the most effective and commonly prescribed drugs for treating adult ADHD. Other medications, for instance Atomoxetine (Strattera®) and Guanfacine (Intuniv®, Tenex®) increase norepinephrine levels in the brain, and can aid in the treatment of ADHD. Psychotherapy is another option. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can teach patients strategies to manage their ADHD symptoms, such as time management and strategies for organizing, self-regulation of behavior and emotions and managing self-criticism and negative feelings. Other treatments, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy can help adults recognize automatic or irrational thoughts that can lead to negative behavior and learn ways to overcome them using positive self-talk. Medication Many people report that ADHD medication helps to alleviate their symptoms. This medication is usually in the form a stimulant, and it works by increasing the activity of the brain in areas that regulate behaviour and attention. Methylphenidate is the most popular medication used by adults suffering from ADHD is available in various forms. It can be taken as immediate-release tablets or modified-release tablets that release the medication throughout the day. Clonidine is a different type of medication is a drug that works by reducing activity in the brain and can be taken as a pill or liquid. The therapist or psychiatrist will review the medical and family background of the adult patient to determine the factors that can cause similar symptoms. This is crucial, since certain medical conditions, such as seizures and thyroid issues can cause symptoms similar to ADHD. In addition, certain supplements and medications can also cause similar symptoms. During the evaluation the individual is likely to describe their ADHD symptoms. They will be asked for the standardized ADHD ratings and checklists of symptoms as along with psychological tests that measure working memory, executive function (abilities like planning and decision-making), visual and spatial ability, and reasoning skills. If the psychiatrist or therapist believes that the symptoms of ADHD are seriously impairing the quality of life of a person they may recommend treatment with medication. In certain instances the therapist may ask the person's partner or spouse to talk with them regarding the impact of the patient's symptoms on their relationship. This can reduce blame between individuals and promote healthier, more productive relationships. Counseling Many people with ADHD find relief in receiving the diagnosis. It's a chance to understand the reasons behind their struggles at school or at work, and learn ways to overcome them. It's a chance to alter negative behavior and boost self-esteem. A strong support system is crucial to success and counseling can assist. Counseling for ADHD may include psychotherapy (or psychological therapy) and a variety behavioral treatments. Therapists may make a chart to reward positive behavior and imposes penalties on negative ones. The therapist can also instruct the patient on techniques to manage their symptoms, like relaxation techniques like deep breathing or yoga postures. Another benefit of counseling is helping people comprehend and accept their ADHD. It's not always easy to admit that you're having problems with attention or planning and organizing. It can be embarrassing to inform coworkers and supervisors about your ADHD. However, the majority of teachers and bosses will be willing to make accommodations for your condition. They might, for example let you write on computers instead of paper, or provide a more detailed explanation of the material in class. The therapist will also show you how to deal with ADHD through cognitive behavior therapy. This is a structured type of talk therapy which assists you in changing negative behaviours and thoughts into positive ones. Counseling for ADHD may also include marital or family therapy, which teaches loved ones how to interact better with someone with ADHD and improve communication and problem-solving abilities. People who suffer from ADHD may also suffer from other mental disorders, such depression or anxiety, and may have substance abuse problems.