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Adult Diagnosis of ADHD A diagnosis of ADHD can alter the lives of adults who suffer from the disorder. It can help people recognize the reasons why they struggle in family, work and in relationships. It is often difficult to determine the cause because symptoms can overlap. A mental health professional or health care provider will evaluate the individual and perform tests. Symptoms It is possible that a person may not be aware of having ADHD until they reach adulthood. It could be because parents and teachers failed to detect the signs at an earlier time or because work or college demands caused the disorder to be revealed. Adults with untreated ADHD are being disadvantaged in their academic, professional and social lives. Many people who have not been diagnosed with ADHD have a range of issues, including relationship issues and financial difficulties. In order to diagnose ADHD, a mental health professional will talk to the patient and go over the patient's personal medical and psychiatric history paying particular attention to symptoms in different settings. The patient will be asked to describe how these symptoms impact his or her daily life and relationships. It is important that the patient be honest about the symptoms, and that he or she does not hide behind feelings of embarrassment or shame. The mental health professional must also assess whether these symptoms are related to other comorbidities, such as depression and anxiety which are often associated with ADHD. These conditions can make ADHD symptoms worse and interfere with treatment for the disorder. If the psychologist or psychiatrist thinks that the symptoms are affected by comorbid disorders such as psycho-psychological disorders, or neuropsychological disorders, then additional tests could be performed to determine an accurate diagnosis. These tests can aid in determining the extent of impairment to function that is caused by these conditions. The mental health professional may also conduct interviews with other important people such as spouses and siblings, to get a full picture of how the individual is functioning. Diagnosis For adults the diagnosis of ADHD is usually determined by a mental health medical professional or physician who conducts a thorough diagnosis. This includes a detailed interview about the causes of the symptoms and their impact on daily functioning, as well as the presence of any other mental health disorders that could co-occur with ADHD such as depression and anxiety. In addition, the practitioner may ask to speak with significant others, usually the spouse or a close friend — to help gather more information about the individual's behavior. A proper diagnosis of ADHD can alter your life. For many adults, this diagnosis finally provides an explanation for what always appeared to be “normal” behavior. It's usually a relief to learn that their problems aren't just 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 standard is designed to ensure that people receive the help and treatment they need. To be eligible for an ADHD diagnosis, a person must have had the symptoms for at least 12 months, and they must cause significant impairment in several situations, such as at home, school, or work; with friends or family; or with other activities. For adults age 17 and older the number of needed symptoms has been reduced to five, from the six needed for children under age 12 years old. Having a good relationship with your primary healthcare provider 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 can change dramatically. They may finally discover solutions to their issues in school, with the start of a career, or even in relationships. For certain people, a diagnosis may help them overcome the guilt that has built up over years of their symptoms not being addressed. The first step in getting an diagnosis is speaking to a health care professional or mental health professional. They might inquire about the family history and conduct a physical exam to rule out conditions such as sleep disorders or learning disabilities that can cause symptoms that are similar to ADHD. They also can ask the person to complete an assessment scale of symptoms. During the assessment process a doctor may ask to interview an individual partner or spouse. This will help the spouse who is not an ADHD or partner develop a clear understanding and empathetic attitude toward their loved one's ADHD symptoms which is crucial in improving relationships after the diagnosis. If this is not feasible the doctor can conduct an interview with acquaintances or colleagues who know the person well. Adults suffering from ADHD are treated primarily by medications. Adult ADHD is treated with stimulants such as methylphenidate and Adderall, and dextroamphetamine. Other medications, like atomoxetine (Strattera®) and Guanfacine (Intuniv®, Tenex®) increase norepinephrine levels in the brain and may help improve symptoms of ADHD. Psychotherapy also is an alternative. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a way to teach patients strategies for managing their ADHD symptoms, including time management and organizational strategies, self-regulation of behavior and emotions and managing self-criticism and negative feelings. Other treatments, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, help adults identify subconscious or unfounded thoughts that cause negative behavior and learn ways to overcome them using positive self-talk. Medication Many people discover that ADHD medications help to alleviate their symptoms. The medication is usually in the form of a stimulant. It is effective by boosting activity in brain areas that regulate attention and behavior. Methylphenidate, the most common medication used by adults suffering from ADHD is available in many forms. It is available as 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 reducing brain activity. It can be taken in liquid or pill form. If treating adult patients suffering from ADHD the psychotherapist or psychiatrist may look over the person's family and medical history to determine if there are any factors that can cause similar symptoms as ADHD. This is necessary because some medical conditions such as seizures and thyroid issues can cause symptoms that are similar to those of ADHD. In addition, certain medications and dietary supplements may cause similar symptoms. During the assessment, the person is likely to describe their ADHD symptoms. They will be asked to provide the standardized ADHD ratings and check lists as well as psychological tests to assess working memory, executive function (abilities such as making decisions and planning) spatial and visual ability, as well as reasoning skills. If a psychiatrist or therapist believes that the symptoms of ADHD are seriously impairing a person's life they will suggest treatment with medication. In Iam Psychiatry might ask the spouse or partner of the patient to interview them about the impact of their symptoms on the relationship. This can help reduce the blame between people and encourage healthier, more productive relationships. Counseling Many people with ADHD find relief in receiving the diagnosis. It's a chance to comprehend the reason why they face difficulties at school or at work, and discover ways to overcome these issues. It's an opportunity to change negative behavior and boost self-esteem. Counseling is a great method of helping you build a strong support system. Counseling for ADHD can include psychotherapy (or psychological therapy) and a variety behavioral treatments. A therapist could make a chart to reward positive behaviors and imposes consequences on bad ones. The therapist can also instruct the patient on techniques to manage their symptoms, for example, relaxation techniques like deep breathing or yoga poses. Counseling can also help people accept and comprehend their ADHD. It can be difficult to admit that you have problems with organizing, planning and paying attention. It is embarrassing to admit that you suffer from ADHD to your supervisors or coworkers. The majority of teachers and supervisors will offer accommodations to accommodate your condition. They may, for instance permit you to write on computers instead of paper or give more in-depth explanations of class material. In addition, the therapist can teach you how to deal with your ADHD through cognitive behavioral therapy, which is a structured type of therapy that assists to change negative thoughts and behaviors into positive ones. Counseling for ADHD can also include marital or family therapy, which teaches family members how to interact better with someone with ADHD and enhance communication and problem-solving abilities. People who suffer from ADHD typically suffer from other mental health disorders, such as anxiety or depression and may also be afflicted by substance abuse and addiction, which can cause more symptoms.