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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 discover the reason for their struggles at work, at home and in their relationships. However, it can be difficult to get a diagnosis as symptoms can be overlapping with other ailments. how to get an adhd diagnosis uk care professional or mental health professional will assess the person and perform tests. Signs and symptoms It is possible that someone may not be aware of having ADHD until adulthood. It could be because parents and teachers did not recognize the signs at an earlier age or because work or college demands made the disorder more apparent. Adults with ADHD who are not diagnosed suffer in their social, academic and professional lives. Many people who have not been diagnosed with ADHD have a range of problems, such as relationship issues and financial difficulties. 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 different settings. The patient will discuss the symptoms and how they impact their daily life and relationships. It is crucial that the patient is open about the symptoms, and does not hide behind feelings of embarrassment or shame. It is also crucial for the mental health professional to assess whether these symptoms are related to comorbid disorders like anxiety and depression, which often coexist with ADHD. These conditions can make the symptoms of ADHD worse, and they can also hinder the effective treatment of the disorder. If the psychologist or psychiatrist believes that the symptoms of ADHD are influenced by comorbid conditions, additional psycho-, neuropsychological or learning disabilities tests could be performed to determine an accurate diagnosis. These tests can also be used to determine the extent of functional impairment caused by these conditions. The mental health professional may also conduct interviews with others who are significant, such as spouses or siblings to get a complete picture of how the person is doing. Diagnosis For adults, a diagnosis of ADHD is usually determined by a mental health professional or physician who conducts a thorough diagnostic assessment. This includes a detailed discussion of the symptoms and how they impact daily functioning. It also includes the presence of other mental disorders that can occur with ADHD, such anxiety and mood disorders. The doctor may also request to speak to your significant others such as a spouse or close family member, in order for them gather more information. Being diagnosed with ADHD in adulthood can be a life-changing experience. The diagnosis provides adults with an explanation for their behavior that they believed to be “normal”. It's usually a relief to find out that their issues 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 is a standard established to ensure that people receive the help and treatment they need. For a person to qualify for an ADHD diagnoses they must exhibit symptoms for at minimum a year and be a significant handicap in a variety of settings, including school, home or work with family members or friends, or 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 years old. A positive relationship with your primary healthcare provider can help identify ADHD. Many providers 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 a person with ADHD is diagnosed, their life can drastically change. They will finally have solutions to their issues in the classroom, as well as in establishing a career, or even in relationships. For those who are suffering from depression, it can relieve the shame that may have been built up over the years from their issues being ignored. The first step to get an diagnosis is speaking to a health care provider or mental health professional. They may inquire about family history and perform a physical examination to rule out conditions that could cause symptoms that resemble ADHD or other disorders, such as learning disabilities, sleep disorders or alcohol/drug abuse. They can also ask the person to fill out a checklist of symptoms. During the process of assessment, a doctor may ask to speak with the spouse or partner. This allows the non ADHD spouse or partner to gain an accurate understanding of their loved one's ADHD, and an empathetic attitude towards the symptoms. This is essential to improve relationships following a diagnoses. If this isn't feasible the doctor may conduct an interview with acquaintances or colleagues who know the individual. Medications are the main treatment options for adults with ADHD. Adult ADHD is treated using stimulants like methylphenidate, Adderall, and dextroamphetamine. Other medications, like atomoxetine (Strattera®) and guanfacine (Intuniv®, Tenex®) increase the amount of norepinephrine found in the brain, and can improve symptoms of ADHD. Psychotherapy is also an option. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can help patients learn techniques to manage their ADHD symptoms, such as time management and strategies for organizing, self-regulation of emotions and behavior and dealing with negative feelings and self-criticism. Other therapies, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), help adults recognize the automatic thoughts or irrational thoughts that can lead to negative behavior and develop positive self-talk. Medication Many people have found that ADHD medication helps to improve their symptoms. The medication is usually in the form of a stimulant and works by increasing the activity of the brain in areas that regulate behavior and attention. Methylphenidate, the most common medicine prescribed to adults with ADHD is available in a variety of 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 type of medication that works by decreasing brain activity. It can be taken in pill or liquid form. The therapist or psychiatrist will review the medical and family background of the adult patient in order to determine the factors that can cause similar symptoms. This is crucial due to the fact that certain medical conditions such as seizures and thyroid issues can trigger symptoms similar to the symptoms of ADHD. Some medications and dietary supplement can also cause similar signs. During the examination during the evaluation, the patient will explain their ADHD symptoms to a psychiatrist or therapist. They will be asked to fill out standard ADHD rating scales and check lists, and comprehensive psychological tests that test working memory, executive functioning (abilities like making decisions and planning), visual and spatial abilities, and reasoning skills. If the psychiatrist or therapist believes that the symptoms of ADHD are seriously impairing a person's life, they will recommend treatment with medication. In some cases, the therapist will ask the person's spouse or partner to interview them regarding the impact of the patient's symptoms on their relationship. This can lessen the burden of blame between people and encourage healthier, more productive relationships. Counseling Many people suffering from ADHD are relieved when they receive a diagnosis. It gives them a chance recognize the reason for their difficulties at work or school and to learn how to overcome these problems. It's a chance to alter negative behavior and boost self-esteem. A solid support system is vital to success and counseling can be a great help. Counseling for ADHD may include psychological (or psychotherapy) therapy and a variety of behavioral interventions. For instance the therapist could create a reward chart which rewards positive behavior, and imposes consequences for negative behavior. The therapist may also instruct the patient on techniques to manage their symptoms, such as relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditative yoga poses. Another benefit of counseling is helping people understand and accept their ADHD. It can be difficult to admit that you struggle in organizing, planning and paying attention. It can even be embarrassing to reveal to coworkers and supervisors about your ADHD. However, the majority of bosses and teachers will be willing to provide accommodations to accommodate your needs. They could, for instance permit you to write on computers instead of paper or offer an explanation of classroom 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 transform negative thoughts and behavior into positive ones. Counseling for ADHD can also include family or marital therapy. This teaches loved-ones how to better communicate and solve issues with someone suffering from ADHD. People with ADHD might also be suffering from other mental disorders such depression or anxiety and may have substance abuse problems.