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Adult Diagnosis of ADHD A diagnosis of ADHD can change the life of adults who suffer from the condition. It can help people recognize the reasons they face difficulties at work, in their family and in their relationships. However it can be challenging to determine a diagnosis since symptoms often overlap with other ailments. A mental health specialist or health care professional will examine the individual and conduct tests. Signs and symptoms The person might not even be aware they suffer from ADHD until they reach the age of adulthood or perhaps because teachers and parents were not aware of symptoms earlier or because the demands of college or work life caused the disorder to be exposed. Adults with ADHD who are not diagnosed suffer in their social, academic and professional lives. Undiagnosed ADHD can cause many issues including relationship problems as well as financial issues. A mental health professional will interview and review the patient's medical, mental health and personal history, paying special attention to the symptoms in various situations. The patient will be asked to describe the symptoms and how they impact their daily functioning and their relationships. It is essential that the patient is open about these symptoms and not hold back due to feelings of shame or embarrassment. The mental health professional should be able to determine if the symptoms are linked to comorbid conditions such as anxiety and depression which are often associated with ADHD. These conditions can make ADHD symptoms worse and cause problems with treatment for the disorder. If the psychiatrist or psychology believes that the symptoms are affected by comorbid conditions, such as learning disabilities, neuropsychological disorders, or psychological disorders, then additional tests could be performed to determine an accurate diagnosis. These tests can also be used to determine the level of impairment to function that these conditions cause. The mental health professional will also request interviews with others who are significant such as spouses and siblings, to get a full picture of how a person is performing. Diagnosis For adults the 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 everyday 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 practitioner may request to speak with significant others—usually an intimate partner or a close friend to help gather more information about the person's behavior. Getting a proper diagnosis of ADHD in adulthood can be a life-changing moment. For many adults, this diagnosis finally gives them an explanation for what has always seemed to be “normal” behavior. Sometimes, it is a relief to know they're not just lazy or forgetful; their problems 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 get the support and treatment they need. In order for a person to be eligible for an ADHD diagnoses they must exhibit symptoms for at minimum a year and have caused significant impairment in a variety of settings, such as home, school or at work with family or friends or in other activities. The number of symptoms required for adults older than 17 has been reduced from six to five. Having a good relationship with your primary healthcare provider can be helpful in identifying ADHD. Many providers routinely diagnose and treat ADHD in children, and can provide a referral to a mental health professional who is able to perform an evaluation in adults. Treatment When people with ADHD get a diagnosis, their lives can change dramatically. They will finally have solutions to their problems at school, with starting a new career, or even in relationships. how do you get diagnosed with adhd in adults can ease the guilt that has been accumulating for some people over time. The first step to get an diagnosis is speaking to a health care provider or mental health professional. They might inquire about the family history and perform an examination to rule out any conditions such as sleep disorders or learning disabilities which can cause symptoms that are similar to ADHD. They can also ask the person to complete the checklist of symptoms. During the process of assessment, the doctor may request to interview an individual partner or spouse. This assists the non ADHD spouse or partner develop an accurate understanding of their loved one's ADHD and a sympathetic approach towards those symptoms. This is essential to strengthen relationships following diagnosis. If this isn't an option, the clinician may interview colleagues or friends who know the individual. The main treatment is medication. options for adults suffering from ADHD. Stimulants such as methylphenidate (Ritalin®) and dextroamphetamine (Adderall®) are the most effective and widely used medications to treat adult ADHD. Other medications, for instance 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 develop the skills needed to manage their ADHD symptoms. They include time management as well as self-regulation strategies, organizing strategies of behaviors and emotions and coping strategies for self-doubt and negative criticism. Other therapies, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy can help adults recognize subconscious or unfounded thoughts that can lead to negative behavior and learn ways to overcome them using positive self-talk. Medication Many people have found that ADHD medication can help alleviate their symptoms. The medication is typically in the form of a stimulant and is effective by increasing the activity of the brain in areas that regulate the behavior and attention. Methylphenidate is the most commonly used medication for adults with ADHD and is available in different forms. It can be taken as immediate-release tablets or modified-release tablets that release the medication throughout the day. Clonidine is another type of medication that works by reducing brain activity. It is available in pill or liquid form. If treating adult patients suffering from ADHD The psychiatrist or therapist may review the person's family and medical history to identify factors that may cause similar symptoms to ADHD. This is crucial, since some medical conditions like seizures and thyroid issues can trigger symptoms similar to ADHD. Certain medications and dietary supplements can also cause similar signs. During the test, the person is likely to describe their ADHD symptoms. They will be asked to fill in standardized ADHD rating scales and check lists, as well as comprehensive psychological tests that test executive functioning, working memory, (abilities such as decision-making and planning) spatial and visual capabilities, and reasoning abilities. If the psychiatrist or therapist believes that the symptoms of ADHD are causing serious harm to the quality of life of a person they will suggest treatment with medication. In some cases, the therapist will ask the person's partner or spouse to speak with them regarding the effects of the symptoms on their relationship. This can help reduce the blame between the two people and help to foster healthier, more productive relations. Counseling Many people with ADHD get relief from receiving the diagnosis. It's an opportunity to discover why they have problems at work or school and discover ways to overcome them. It's also a chance for them to overcome negative habits and boost confidence in themselves. Counseling is a great way to help you create a strong support system. Counseling for ADHD can include psychotherapy (or psychological therapy) and a variety behavioral treatments. For instance the therapist could create a reward chart that rewards positive behavior, and is able to impose consequences for negative behavior. Therapists can teach the patient techniques 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 can be difficult to admit you have trouble with paying attention or planning and organizing. It can even be embarrassing to tell co-workers and supervisors about your ADHD. However, the majority of bosses and teachers will be willing to accommodate for your condition. They may, for instance, allow you to write on computers instead of paper or offer a more detailed explanation of the material in class. Additionally, the therapist can teach you ways to cope with your ADHD through cognitive behavioral therapy which is a type of therapy that assists you change negative thoughts and behaviors to positive ones. Counseling for ADHD can also include family or marital therapy which teaches loved ones how to interact better with a person with ADHD and enhance the ability to communicate and solve problems. People who suffer from ADHD might also be suffering from other mental disorders such as anxiety or depression, and could also have issues with substance abuse.