13 Things You Should Know About Adult ADHD Diagnoses That You Might Not Have Known

Adult ADHD Diagnoses - The First Step to Managing Symptoms

The process of obtaining an adult ADHD diagnosis is the first step towards managing symptoms that could be a hindrance in relationships and work. A doctor can examine the person's mood, medical history, and the presence of any comorbidities that trigger similar symptoms such as depression or anxiety.

An evaluation includes a structured interview with the person being assessed. Interviews with family members, coworkers and even friends can be conducted to get a better understanding of the person's past.

Symptoms

Adults who suffer from ADHD can experience many of these symptoms, but they may be affected by more aspects of life. They may have trouble keeping their jobs, managing relationships and perform well at schools, for instance. The signs include a lack of focus and snorting or blurting out answers at random, not being able to complete tasks, and frequently missing appointments. This condition can also lead to financial problems because people are more likely to commit mistakes or overspend.

Professionals can assess adults for ADHD using a variety of methods. They may speak with a person's parents and ask them to talk about their childhood experiences. They may look at report cards and note teacher comments. They may also gauge the performance of an individual by interviewing co-workers, friends and family. They can even utilize self-tests or online ratings.

The diagnosis of ADHD as an adult typically requires a higher level of suspicion than for children--5 out of 9 symptoms over the last 6 months. The symptoms should be present in a variety of settings and are not better explained by another mental health disorder, such as a mood or anxiety disorder or by any other physical conditions, such as a hearing loss or vision problem.

If you're diagnosed with ADHD as an adult, it's normal to experience a range emotions. It can be a relief when you finally discover a concrete reason for the challenges you've faced for so many years. It can be difficult to learn that you have mental health issues, especially if you've been successful in other areas of your life.

A person who is diagnosed with ADHD is typically treated with medication, psychotherapy, or other treatments. In some instances the doctor may recommend accommodations at work or in everyday activities. Accommodations are modifications or tools that can be made to the environment around a person to assist them succeed. A step stool can be utilized by people who are taller than average or a computer program that can help someone who is visually impaired concentrate on their screen. The use of behavioral therapy is also a popular treatment for adults with ADHD.

Diagnosis

If you suspect that you may have ADHD, the first step is to obtain an accurate diagnosis. Consult your primary care physician or a mental health professional to refer you to a specialist that performs ADHD assessments. Your doctor will conduct an interview and review your personal, family and medical background.  more info  will also ask about your symptoms and how they affect your school, at work and at home.

Your doctor will apply the American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic guidelines published in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), to determine whether you meet the criteria for ADHD. The following are some of the DSM-5 criteria for inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive types of ADHD:

Inattention: Having trouble staying focused on tasks and activities for a long period of time. Trouble finishing tasks, chores, or schoolwork. It is prone to making errors at work, school or during leisure activities. Gets easily distracted by others or by everyday activities. Often, they daydream, appear to be in autopilot, or loses track of what they are doing.

Hyperactivity/Impulsivity: Often restless, fidgets or can't sit still in class or at work. Talks frequently to others or interrupts them out-of-turn. Most often, he is bored and seeks excitement or novelty. In most cases, they engage in fights or disputes without weighing the consequences.

Often, people with inattentive or hyperactive/impulsive type ADHD have coexisting conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, learning disabilities and other mental illnesses. These conditions can have their impacts on a person, and complicate the diagnosis.

A physical exam is typically done to rule out any medical conditions that could trigger similar symptoms. Certain medical conditions, such as thyroid disorders and seizure disorders, can cause ADHD symptoms.

If your symptoms are severe, you may require additional tests for learning disabilities, neuropsychological disorders or psychological disorders. These tests can provide important information regarding how ADHD affects your functioning and relationships. These tests can also help identify any other underlying issues that require attention.

Treatment

The same treatments that children with ADHD receive -- medications, behavior strategies, life skills training and therapy -- typically work for adults, too. Adults may require different drugs, however, because those that were used as children might not be the best fit for them at the moment.

A specialist in ADHD should be an individual who suffers from ADHD. This could be a primary care physician who regularly treats ADHD or a mental health professional like a psychologist or psychiatrist. Many insurance plans have online directories of specialists. Additionally local support groups for people suffering from ADHD or a doctor who specializes in mood disorders might be in a position to recommend an expert.

After the exam, the doctor will come up with an assessment and prescribe a treatment. They may also want to discuss the history of the patient, including how problems affected them in the early years of their life. If someone is having difficulties in their work or relationships, a therapist may suggest couples' or family therapy to help them develop the skills to cope better.

Most adults with ADHD are treated effectively by medication. They are typically small, fast-acting drugs that reduce the chemical imbalance that creates ADHD. Many doctors will prescribe other medication for the same condition such as depression or anxiousness.

Behavioral therapy can help improve problems with time management, control of impulses, organization and emotional self-regulation. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as well as other specific interventions, can be provided by therapists who have specific expertise in working specifically with those suffering from ADHD.

Many adults suffering from ADHD are relieved when they finally get diagnosed. The right treatment plan can dramatically change their lives for the better. They will be more productive at work, be successful in school, or build healthier and more fulfilling relationships. For some, the diagnosis can bring closure to the years of regrets over mistakes they made in their past because their symptoms went undiagnosed or not treated. It is possible that a person's behavior was influenced by their gender identity, race and socioeconomic status.

Support

It's not too early to get an assessment and treatment if you were not diagnosed with ADHD as an infant. Many professionals are trained in ADHD and can tell if your symptoms are mild, moderate or severe. They can also rule out other mental health issues or physical ailments, as well as stress as a cause of your symptoms.

A diagnosis of ADHD can trigger a variety of complex emotions, such as grief over missed opportunities or feelings of relief knowing that you now have a clear reason for your problems. Adults who suffer from ADHD often feel like they're being criticized by others for their actions that aren't really their fault, like forgetfulness or difficulty keeping their work schedules. They may also struggle with financial issues, like late payment deadlines or the accumulation of debt as a result of impulsive spending.

It's not uncommon for people with ADHD to engage in self-destructive behavior such as drug or alcohol abuse, inadequate nutrition, constant tension and stress and low self-esteem. They may also experience problems in their relationships with family and friends. They also may have trouble with their physical health by ignoring vital checkups and medications or unable to follow the medical guidelines and procedures. They may have trouble managing their finances and sustaining jobs because they aren't organized, don't meet the corporate standards and are unable to adhere to a routine or schedule.

Adults who suffer from ADHD may benefit from therapy and support groups that teach coping skills and strategies for living with their condition. Therapists who specialize in ADHD can help them manage their symptoms, figure out ways to improve their weaknesses, and improve their lives. They can also collaborate with family members to discuss how the disorder affects their relationship and devise strategies for helping their loved ones.

Online communities and peer support can be useful. Sites like Sheila Henson or Neuroqueer offer workshops, webinars, as well as individual and group coaching on emotional regulation as well as social interaction and organizational skills. Other online sources include ADHD accommodating restaurants, workplace accommodations and classes to improve communication.

Many people suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from join support groups. These groups can be a great source of ideas and inspiration, and they provide a forum to discuss issues and find a solutions. In addition to support groups there are coaches as well as teachers who can assist you to create a plan to improve your functioning and reducing the impact of your symptoms.