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Adult Diagnosis of ADHD A diagnosis of ADHD can alter the lives of adults who suffer from the condition. It can help people recognize the reasons why they struggle in relationships, work, and family. However, it can be difficult to get a diagnosis as symptoms can be overlapping with other ailments. A health care professional or a mental health professional will examine the patient and run tests. Symptoms It is possible that someone does not realize they have ADHD until they reach adulthood. This may be because parents and teachers failed to detect the signs at an earlier age, or due to the demands of college or work caused the disorder to be revealed. Adults with ADHD who aren't diagnosed suffer in their academic, social and professional lives. Many people who have not been diagnosed with ADHD have a range of problems, including problems with relationships and financial problems. A mental health professional will conduct an interview and review the patient's medical, psychiatric and personal history, paying special attention to the symptoms in various settings. The patient will describe how these symptoms affect his or her daily functioning and relationships. It is crucial that patients are open about their symptoms and not hide them out of embarrassment. The mental health professional should be able to determine if the symptoms are connected to other comorbidities, such as anxiety and depression that often coexist with ADHD. These conditions can make ADHD symptoms worse and may interfere with treatment for the disorder. If the psychiatrist or psychology believes that the symptoms are being affected by comorbid disorders such as psychosomatic disorders, or neuropsychological disorders, further testing can be used to establish an accurate diagnosis. These tests can also be used to determine the level of functional impairment caused by these conditions. Additionally, the mental health professional could ask to interview one or more significant people such as spouses, siblings and colleagues in order to collect an accurate picture of the person's functioning and issues. Diagnosis Adults are diagnosed with ADHD by a mental health doctor or a medical professional following an exhaustive evaluation. This includes a detailed discussion of the symptoms and how they impact the way you live your life. Additionally, it is important to consider the presence of other mental disorders that may co-exist alongside ADHD like depression and anxiety. The doctor may also request to speak to your significant others such as the spouse or a close family member to collect more information. A correct diagnosis of ADHD can alter your life. For many adults, this diagnosis finally provides an explanation for what always seemed like “normal” behavior. It's often a relief to find out that their issues are not simply laziness 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 standard is created to ensure that people receive the assistance and treatment they need. In order for a person to be eligible for an ADHD diagnoses the person must be suffering from symptoms for at least a year and have caused significant impairment in a variety of settings including school, home or work with family or friends or other activities. For adults aged 17 and older the number of necessary symptoms has been reduced to five, from the six that are needed for children under age 12 years old. Having a good relationship with your primary care physician can be beneficial in identifying ADHD. Many doctors diagnose and treat ADHD in children and refer you to a mental health professional qualified to assess adults. Treatment If people suffering from ADHD get a diagnosis their lives may change drastically. They may finally have reasons for their failures in school or a struggle to find relationships or pursue a career. A diagnosis can relieve shame that has been accumulating for some people over time. Talking to a mental health healthcare professional or health care professional is the first step to finding out if you have a diagnosis. They might inquire about family history and perform a physical exam to rule out other conditions such as sleep disorders or learning disabilities which can cause symptoms similar to ADHD. They can also ask the person to complete a checklist of symptoms. During the assessment process, the doctor may request to speak with the spouse or partner. This helps the non-ADHD spouse or partner develop an accurate understanding and an understanding of their loved one's ADHD symptoms that is essential in enhancing relationships following the diagnosis. If this is not possible, the clinician can interview friends or colleagues who know the person well. Adults suffering from ADHD are treated primarily with medications. Stimulants such as methylphenidate (Ritalin®) and dextroamphetamine (Adderall®) are the most effective and widely prescribed drugs for treating adult ADHD. Other medications like atomoxetine (Strattera®,) and guanfacine, (Intuniv ®, Tenex ®), increase the amount of norepinephrine that is produced in the brain. These medications can improve ADHD symptoms. Psychotherapy is a different alternative. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can help patients develop the skills needed to manage their ADHD symptoms. These include time management and self-regulation strategies, organizational strategies, of behavior and emotions, and coping techniques for self-doubt and negative criticism. Other therapies, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy helps adults recognize automatic or irrational thoughts that can lead to negative behaviors and develop ways to replace them with positive self-talk. Medication Many people find that ADHD medication helps improve their symptoms. The medication is typically in the form of a stimulant, and it increases brain activity in areas that control behavior and attention. Methylphenidate is the most frequently prescribed medication for adults suffering from ADHD, and it is available in a variety of forms. It is available in immediate-release tablets, or modified-release tablet forms that release the medication over the course of the day. Clonidine, another type of medication, works by decreasing brain activity. It can be taken as a pill or liquid. If treating adult patients suffering from ADHD the doctor or therapist will review the person's family history and medical history to identify any factors that may cause similar symptoms similar to ADHD. This review is important because some medical conditions such as thyroid problems and seizure disorders can trigger symptoms similar to those of ADHD. Certain medications and nutritional supplements can also cause similar signs. During the examination during the evaluation, the patient will explain their ADHD symptoms to a therapist or psychiatrist. They will be asked for standardized ADHD ratings and check lists as along with psychological tests that measure executive function, working memory, (abilities such as planning and decision making), visual and spatial ability, and reasoning skills. If a psychiatrist or therapist believes that the symptoms of ADHD are seriously affecting the quality of life of a person they may recommend treatment with medication. In certain instances a therapist may request the patient's partner or spouse to interview them about the impact of their ADHD symptoms on their relationship. how to get diagnosed with adhd as an adult can help reduce the blame between people and encourage healthier, more productive relationships. Counseling Many people with ADHD are relieved when they receive a diagnosis. It's an opportunity to discover the reason why they face difficulties at school or at work and learn how to overcome them. It's an opportunity to transform negative behaviors and increase self-esteem. Having a good support system is crucial to success, and counseling can help. Counseling for ADHD may include psychological (or psychotherapy) therapy and a range of behavioral treatments. For example a therapist might create a reward chart which rewards positive behavior, and imposes consequences for negative behavior. The therapist can also instruct the patient in skills 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 can be difficult to admit that you're having difficulties paying attention and planning. It can be embarrassing to admit that you suffer from ADHD to co-workers or supervisors. However, the majority of teachers and bosses will be willing to make accommodations for your condition. They might, for example permit you to write on computers instead of paper or give more in-depth explanations of class material. In addition the therapist will teach you ways to cope with your ADHD through cognitive behavioral therapy which is a structured type of talk therapy that helps you change negative thoughts and behaviors into positive ones. Counseling for ADHD can also include marital or family therapy. This teaches loved-ones how to better communicate and solve problems with someone who suffers from ADHD. People who suffer from ADHD often have other mental health issues like anxiety or depression and may be afflicted by substance abuse and addiction, which can exacerbate their symptoms.