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Adult Diagnosis of ADHD A diagnosis of ADHD can change the life of those suffering from the disorder. It can help people understand why they have difficulties at work, at home and in their relationships. It can be difficult to determine the cause since symptoms tend to overlap. A health care professional or mental health professional will assess the patient and run tests. Signs and symptoms It is possible that a person may not be aware of having ADHD until they reach the age of adulthood. It could be because teachers and parents failed to recognize the symptoms at an earlier time or because work or college demands brought out the disorder. Adults with ADHD who aren't diagnosed suffer in their social, academic and professional lives. Undiagnosed ADHD can lead to a wide range of problems including relationship problems and financial issues. In order to diagnose ADHD, a mental health professional will interview the patient and review his or her personal, medical and psychiatric history taking note of symptoms in different settings. The patient will discuss the symptoms and how they impact their daily functioning as well as their relationships. It is important that patients are open about their symptoms and do not cover them up to avoid embarrassment. The mental health professional must also determine if these symptoms are related to other comorbidities, such as anxiety and depression that often coexist with ADHD. These conditions can cause ADHD symptoms worse and may interfere with the treatment of the disorder. If the psychologist or psychiatrist feels that the symptoms are affected by comorbid disorders such as learning disabilities, psychosomatic disorders, or neuropsychological disorders, then additional tests can be conducted to establish an accurate diagnosis. These tests can also be used to determine the degree of impairment in function that these conditions cause. The mental health professional will also conduct interviews with other important people such as spouses and siblings to get a complete picture of how the person is performing. Diagnosis For adults, a diagnosis of ADHD is usually determined by a mental health care medical professional or physician who conducts a thorough diagnostic evaluation. This includes a detailed interview regarding the history of symptoms and their impact on everyday functioning and the presence of any other mental health issues that may be co-occurring with ADHD such as mood disorders and anxiety. The doctor might also ask to speak to significant others such as a spouse or close family member, in order for them get more details. Finding a reliable diagnosis of ADHD in adulthood can be a life-changing event. The diagnosis provides adults with an explanation for their behavior that they believed to be “normal”. Often, it provides relief knowing that they're not simply naive or oblivious or incompetent; their issues are more complicated. 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 get the support and treatment they need. In order for a person to be eligible for an ADHD diagnosis, they must have symptoms for at least one year and cause significant impairment in a variety of settings, like at home, school or work, with friends or family, or other activities. For adults age 17 and older, the number of required symptoms has been reduced to five, from the six needed for children under age 12. A strong relationship with your primary health care provider can help you determine ADHD. Many doctors regularly diagnose and treat ADHD in children, and may refer you to a mental health professional who is certified to conduct an assessment of adults. Treatment When someone with ADHD is diagnosed, their life can transform dramatically. They may finally have explanations for failures in school, a struggle to establish an occupation or a relationship. For certain people, a diagnosis may help them overcome the shame that may have built up over years of their ailments not being addressed. The first step in getting an diagnosis is speaking to a health care provider or mental health professional. They can inquire about family history and then conduct an examination to rule out any conditions such as sleep disorders or learning disabilities that can cause symptoms that are similar to ADHD. They can also ask the person to complete the checklist of symptoms. During the assessment process, a doctor may ask to speak with the spouse or partner. This will help the spouse who is not an ADHD or partner develop an accurate understanding and compassionate attitude towards their loved one's ADHD symptoms, which is important in enhancing relationships following a diagnosis. If this isn't feasible the therapist may ask friends or co-workers who know the person. The main treatment is medication. options for adults suffering from ADHD. Adult ADHD is treated with stimulants such as methylphenidate, Adderall, and dextroamphetamine. Other medications like Atomoxetine (Strattera®,) and guanfacine, (Intuniv ® Tenex ®) can increase norepinephrine in the brain. These medications can help improve ADHD symptoms. Psychotherapy also is an option. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can help patients develop skills to manage their ADHD symptoms. They include time management as well as organizational strategies, self regulation of emotions and behaviors and coping strategies for negative feelings and self criticism. Other treatments, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) can help adults recognize automatic thoughts or irrational thinking that lead to negative behavior, and also develop positive self-talk. Medication Many people discover that ADHD medication can alleviate their symptoms. This medication is usually in the form of a stimulant, and it works by increasing brain activity in areas that control behavior and attention. Methylphenidate is the most well-known medicine used for adults with ADHD is available in various forms. It is available as immediate-release tablets, or modified-release tablet forms that release the medication throughout the day. Clonidine is a different type of medication that works by decreasing brain activity. It is available in liquid or pill form. If treating adult patients suffering from ADHD the psychiatrist or therapist may review the patient's family history as well as medical history to identify factors that can cause similar symptoms to ADHD. This is necessary due to the fact that certain medical conditions like seizure disorders and thyroid problems can cause symptoms that are similar to those of ADHD. Some medications and dietary supplement can also cause similar signs. During the assessment, the person will likely to discuss the ADHD symptoms. They will be asked for standardized ADHD ratings and check lists, as well as psychological tests to assess working memory, executive function (abilities such as planning and decision making), visual and spatial ability, as well as reasoning skills. If the therapist or psychiatrist believes that the symptoms of ADHD are causing serious harm to the life of a person they will suggest treatment with medication. In some cases, the therapist will ask the person's spouse or partner to interview them about the effects of the symptoms on their relationship. This can lessen the burden of blame between the two people and help to foster healthy, productive relationships. Counseling Many people suffering from ADHD are relieved when they receive a diagnosis. It's a chance to understand the reasons behind their struggles at work or school and learn how to overcome these issues. It's an opportunity to transform negative behavior and boost self-esteem. Counseling is a great way to help you build a strong support network. Counseling for ADHD could include psychotherapy (or psychological therapy) and a variety behavioral treatments. Therapists may make a chart to reward positive behaviors and imposes punishments on bad ones. The therapist may also instruct the patient on how to manage their symptoms, for example, relaxation techniques like deep breathing or yoga postures. Counseling can also help people accept and comprehend their ADHD. Click Link 's not always easy to admit that you're having difficulties paying attention or planning and organizing. It can be embarrassing to admit that you suffer from ADHD to your supervisors or coworkers. The majority of teachers and supervisors will provide accommodations to accommodate your condition. They could, for instance let you write on computers instead of paper, or provide more in-depth explanations of class material. The therapist will also show you how to deal with ADHD through cognitive behavioral therapy. This is a method of talk therapy which assists you in changing negative thoughts and behaviors into more positive ones. Counseling for ADHD may also include family or marital therapy which teaches family members how to interact better with a person with ADHD and improve communication and problem-solving skills. People who suffer from ADHD may also suffer from other mental disorders such depression or anxiety and could also have issues with addiction to drugs.