Getting Diagnosed With ADHD
Many people don't know they have ADHD until later in life. The process of diagnosing ADHD can be difficult. It could mean asking about childhood behavior as well as going through a psychological evaluation.
A psychiatrist will examine the symptoms of a patient and their his or her past history, including illnesses and relationships. The clinician will also interview teachers and parents and ask the patient to rate their symptoms using a scale.
adult diagnosis of adhd
To receive an assessment of ADHD, you will need to see a health care specialist who is specialized in the disorder. You can find one through your health insurance, by asking for a referral from a doctor or counselor, or by calling an organization such as Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD).
The first step is to have an extensive conversation with your healthcare provider. You might also be asked to complete a behavior rating scale or symptom checklist. Additionally psychological tests can help determine if your symptoms are connected to ADHD. Some doctors also use brain imaging to measure activity in your brain.
Your health care professional will need to know if you've suffered from ADHD symptoms for at minimum six months. You should also have symptoms in more than one setting like at home and at work. You or your child must have symptomatic behavior in childhood, usually before age 12, to be diagnosed with the hyperactive/impulsive type of ADHD.
A diagnosis of ADHD can cause complicated emotions. Some people feel relieved that they now have a reason behind their life's challenges. Some people may regret missed opportunities or relationships that they feel could have been avoided had they received treatment earlier for their ADHD symptoms.
A therapist can help you in resolving these feelings. They can help you learn to manage your symptoms and teach strategies that will assist you in staying organized and stick to your commitments. A mental health therapist will recommend the use of a variety of treatments such as therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes.
Stress and medical conditions can trigger problems with attention. ADHD is often associated with other disorders like bipolar disorder, depression, or anxiety. People with depression or anxiety have difficulty concentrating and forget simple tasks such as paying bills or making an appointment. Your doctor can look for other ailments and may order blood or urine tests to confirm any medical issues.
Medication
Medicines can help adolescents and children suffering from ADHD to manage their symptoms. Multiple types of medications are available and work differently for different people. It can be a challenge to find the right dosage and medication for your child or yourself.
Consult your family physician if you think you or your child might be suffering from ADHD. Health professionals who specialize in mental illness, such as psychiatrists and psychologists are also trained to diagnose ADHD. You can learn more about finding these specialists on the National Institute of Mental Health website.
When looking to determine if someone has ADHD, the health care provider will use clinical interviews and behavior rating scales as well as checklists of symptoms to determine whether the individual meets diagnostic criteria. The health care provider will also ask about the patient's mood, current and past medical conditions, and their medical background. The health professional might also ask to talk with the person's parents or partners or close friends, as well as coworkers and colleagues. The goal is to learn more about the person's problems at work, school or in relationships. The health care provider may be able to look over any previous psychological, medical or imaging studies.
Stimulants are the most commonly used drugs used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. They can improve concentration and impulse control. They can decrease depression, anxiety and other signs of ADHD. Some of the side effects include stomach upset and rapid pulse rate. Sleep issues, weight loss and changes in appetite can be caused by these drugs.
These include atomoxetine (ATOMOXETINE) as well as bupropion (BRUPPROPION) and dextroamphetamine (DEXAMPHETAMIN). These include atomoxetine (or bupropion), and dextroamphetamine. Health care providers may try different dosages or kinds of medications to determine the most appropriate one for a person suffering from ADHD.
The most effective approach to treating ADHD is to work in a team. Your child or you should collaborate with teachers and school staff to encourage positive reinforcement, keep in close communication and be patient and flexible. A support group for adults suffering from ADHD can be beneficial too. Counseling, like cognitive behavioral therapy, can teach new techniques and strategies to treat symptoms of ADHD.
Counseling
Psychotherapy can be as effective as medication in treating ADHD symptoms in adults. People with ADHD frequently struggle with managing life's responsibilities as they grow older, and their existing coping mechanisms could be inadequate to handle the new demands. This is particularly true during major transitions such as college or career changes, when those with ADHD may be required to handle more complex tasks that require self-regulation and executive function.
During the course of psychotherapy, people learn to recognize the ways in which their thoughts and emotions influence their behavior. They also practice self-management techniques like mindfulness meditation and relaxation exercises, to help control anxiety and improve attention control. They also develop coping skills that include time management and organizational strategies to manage their responsibilities, schoolwork and relationships.
It is crucial that people suffering from ADHD find a therapist they feel comfortable with, who understands them and spends time getting to know them. The therapist will review the patient's medical and mental history, and may ask permission to speak to family members, friends and colleagues to gain a better understanding of how the individual's ADHD impacts their daily activities and their relationship with others.
A therapist might also suggest the use of a treatment plan that consists of an amalgamation of medication and counseling. The goals of a treatment plan are contingent on the specific needs of the person being treated, but could include improving work and school performance, improving communication in the workplace and in the family and enhancing the degree of independence. Counseling can help those who struggle to manage their issues emotionally. This may include dealing with loss and trauma.
Many children and teens have been successfully treated using medication alone, but it's important that parents participate in therapy sessions too. In therapy, professionals in mental health can help parents learn new techniques, attitudes and ways of communicating with their child or teenager to better manage the primary ADHD symptoms. In addition, they can offer strategies for managing stress for parents and offer support groups for families of children with ADHD to connect with others who face similar issues.
Support
There are a variety of sources of support for individuals and families who suffer from ADHD. It is crucial to seek medical help and advice from a qualified professional. There are many treatment options, including cognitive behavioral therapy including individual and family counseling as well as life coaching, nutritional supplements and physical therapies like yoga or massage. There are numerous books and websites with advice on how to cope with ADHD.
Parents may require special assistance to handle the angers, frustrations and blames that children suffering from ADHD are prone to. Mental health professionals can educate parents on the condition and assist them to develop new attitudes, skills, and ways of communicating with their children. This can include teaching school-age kids how to deal with symptoms in the classroom, and creating clear expectations and rules. Siblings can benefit from specialized assistance as well. They are often left feeling unimportant when their sisters or brothers are the focus of their parents' attention. This can result in resentment and jealousy. These negative feelings can be quelled by educating siblings about ADHD and showing them how to handle their own behavior.
People who are who are diagnosed with ADHD can also receive assistance and support from family members parents, teachers, and school staff. The disorder can cause problems in the classroom or at work, and can affect relationships with others. Individuals with ADHD may have difficulty keeping a healthy sleeping schedule. This can result in memory and concentration problems. People who suffer from ADHD are also more likely to suffer from other health conditions, such as depression or anxiety, and these should be treated as well.
There are many national and local organizations that offer in-person support groups for adults suffering from ADHD. These groups, such as CHADD and ADDitude offer advocacy, education and networking opportunities for people suffering from ADHD and their families. Some of these organizations also have a directory of health specialists who specialize in treating the disorder. There are also a number of support groups online, such as those run by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and the National Alliance on Mental Illness.