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Adult Diagnosis of ADHD A diagnosis of ADHD can alter the lives of adults suffering from the disorder. It can help people discover the reason for their struggles at work, with their families and in their relationships. However it can be challenging to get a diagnosis as symptoms often overlap with other ailments. A health care professional or mental health professional will examine the person and perform tests. Signs and symptoms The person might not realize they suffer from ADHD until they reach adulthood Perhaps because teachers or 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 treated suffer in their social, academic and work lives. Many people who have not been diagnosed with ADHD suffer from a variety of problems, including relationship issues and financial difficulties. To diagnose ADHD, a mental health professional will interview the patient and review the patient's personal, medical and mental health history, taking note of symptoms in various environments. The patient will describe the symptoms and how they impact their daily functioning as well as their relationships. It is crucial that patients are honest about their symptoms and do not cover them up to avoid embarrassment. The mental health professional should also determine if these symptoms are linked to other comorbidities, such as anxiety and depression that often coexist with ADHD. These conditions can cause ADHD symptoms worse and interfere with treatment for the disorder. If the psychologist or psychiatrist believes that the symptoms are affected by comorbid conditions, such as psycho-psychological disorders, or neuropsychological disorders, further testing can be conducted to establish an accurate diagnosis. These tests can also be used to determine the extent of functional impairment caused by these conditions. In addition, the mental health professional could ask to interview one or more significant people, such as spouses, siblings, and coworkers in order to collect an entire picture of the person's functioning and challenges. Diagnosis Adults are diagnosed with ADHD by a mental healthcare professional or physician after an extensive examination. This includes a detailed discussion of the symptoms and how they impact the daily activities. It also considers the presence of other mental disorders that can occur with ADHD like depression and anxiety. In addition, the physician might ask for the assistance of significant others—usually an intimate partner or a close friend to help gather more information about the person's behavior. A diagnosis of ADHD can change your life. For many adults, the diagnosis finally provides an explanation for what always seemed to be “normal” behavior. It's usually a relief to learn that their problems aren't simply due to inattention 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 is a standard established to ensure that people receive the help and treatment they need. To qualify for an ADHD diagnosis, a person must have experienced the symptoms for at least 12 months and they must be causing significant impairment in a variety of settings, including school, home, or work; with friends or family; or with other activities. For adults who are 17 or older the number of necessary symptoms has been reduced to five from the six required for children who are younger than 12. Maintaining a positive relationship with your primary care physician can be beneficial in identifying ADHD. Many providers diagnose and treat ADHD in kids and can refer you to a mental health professional qualified to evaluate adults. Treatment When those with ADHD are diagnosed, their lives can change dramatically. They will finally have solutions to their problems at the classroom, as well as in establishing a career, or in relationships. A diagnosis can relieve shame that has been accumulating for some people over the years. The first step in getting a diagnosis is to talk to a health care provider or mental health professional. They can inquire about the family history and then conduct a physical exam to rule out other conditions like learning disabilities or sleep disorders which can cause symptoms similar to ADHD. They can also request the person to complete a list of symptoms. During the process of assessment, a doctor may ask to interview a spouse or partner. This allows the non ADHD spouse or partner develop an accurate understanding of their loved one's ADHD, and an empathetic attitude towards the symptoms. This is important for improving relationships after diagnosis. If this isn't possible the doctor can conduct an interview with colleagues or friends who know the person well. Medications are the main treatment options for adults with ADHD. Adult ADHD is treated with stimulants like methylphenidate, Adderall, and dextroamphetamine. Other medications like atomoxetine, (Strattera®,) and guanfacine, (Intuniv ® Tenex ®) are able to increase the amount of norepinephrine found in the brain. These medications can help improve ADHD symptoms. Psychotherapy also is an alternative. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a way to teach patients techniques to manage their ADHD symptoms, including time management and organizational strategies, self-regulation of behavior and emotions and managing self-criticism and negative feelings. Other therapies, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps adults recognize subconscious thoughts or irrational thought patterns that cause negative behavior and to develop positive self-talk. Medication Many people have found that ADHD medications can help alleviate their symptoms. This medicine is typically in the form of a stimulant. It helps to increase activity in brain areas that control attention and behavior. Methylphenidate is the most commonly prescribed medication for adults suffering from ADHD and is available in different forms. It can be taken in immediate-release tablets, or as modified-release tablets that release the medication throughout the day. Clonidine is a different kind of medication that works by decreasing brain activity. It is available in liquid or pill form. When treating adult patients with ADHD The doctor or therapist will review the person's family history and medical history to identify factors that may cause similar symptoms similar to ADHD. This is crucial as certain medical conditions such as thyroid problems and seizures can trigger symptoms similar to ADHD. In undiagnosed adhd adults , certain drugs and nutritional supplements can also cause similar symptoms. During the examination, the individual will likely explain their ADHD symptoms to a psychiatrist or therapist. They will be asked for standard ADHD ratings and check lists, as well as psychological tests that measure executive function, working memory (abilities like making decisions and planning) spatial and visual ability, and reasoning abilities. If the therapist or psychiatrist believes that the symptoms of ADHD are seriously impairing the quality of life of a person, they will recommend treatment with medication. In some cases the therapist might request the patient's spouse or partner to interview them regarding the effects of the symptoms on their relationship. This will help reduce blaming between individuals and can lead to more positive, healthier relationships. Counseling Being diagnosed is a great relief for many adults suffering from ADHD. It's an opportunity to discover the reason why they face difficulties at school or at work and discover ways to overcome these issues. It's also a chance for them to overcome negative habits and increase self-confidence. Having a good support system is vital to success, and counseling can help. Counseling for ADHD may include psychotherapy (or psychological therapy) and a variety behavioral treatments. A therapist could create a chart that rewards positive behaviors and imposes consequences on negative ones. Therapists can also teach the patient skills to manage their symptoms, such as relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditative postures in yoga. Another benefit of counseling is helping people comprehend and accept their ADHD. It's not always easy to admit that you have difficulties paying attention and planning. It is embarrassing to admit that you have ADHD to supervisors or colleagues. However, the majority of teachers and bosses will be willing to accommodate for your condition. For example, they might permit you to make use of a computer to write assignments instead of writing on paper and provide more detailed explanations of the material in class. The therapist will also instruct you how to deal with ADHD by using cognitive behavioral therapy. It is a structured form of talk therapy which helps you transform negative behavior and thoughts into positive ones. Counseling for ADHD can also include marital or family therapy. It teaches family members how to communicate more effectively and solve problems with someone who has ADHD. People who suffer from ADHD might also be suffering from other mental disorders such depression or anxiety, and could also have issues with substance abuse.