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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 to understand why they have difficulties at work, in their family and in their relationships. However, it can be difficult to establish a diagnosis because symptoms are often overlapping with other conditions. A health care professional or a mental health professional will examine the patient and conduct tests. Symptoms One may not be aware that they have ADHD until they reach adulthood, perhaps because teachers and parents were not aware of the symptoms until a younger age, or because the demands of college or work life brought out the disorder. Adults with ADHD who are not treated are affected in their social, academic and professional lives. Undiagnosed ADHD can cause many problems including relationship problems and financial issues. A mental health professional will conduct an interview and review the patient's medical, psychiatric and personal history, paying particular attention to the symptoms in different situations. The patient will describe how these symptoms affect his or her daily functioning and relationships. It is important that patients are honest about their symptoms and do not conceal them to avoid embarrassment. The mental health professional must be able to determine if the symptoms are related to other comorbidities, such as anxiety and depression that 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 psychiatrist or psychology believes that the symptoms are affected by comorbid conditions such as learning disabilities, neuropsychological disorders, or psychological disorders, then additional tests can be used to establish an accurate diagnosis. These tests can also aid in determining the extent of functional impairment caused by these conditions. Additionally the mental health professional could require an interview with one or more significant people like spouses, siblings, and coworkers, in order to gather an entire picture of the person's functioning and challenges. Diagnosis For adults, a diagnosis of ADHD is usually determined by a mental health care specialist or doctor who conducts a thorough diagnostic evaluation. This includes a detailed analysis of the symptoms and how they impact the daily activities. Additionally, it is important to consider the presence of any other mental disorders that can occur alongside ADHD, such anxiety and mood disorders. The practitioner may also ask to speak to significant others, such as a spouse or close family friend to gather more information. A proper diagnosis of ADHD could alter your life. The diagnosis gives adults an explanation for behaviors that they believed were “normal”. It is often a relief knowing that they're not simply naive or oblivious; their problems 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 individuals get the support and treatment they require. To qualify for an ADHD diagnosis, a person must have had the symptoms for at least 12 consecutive months and they must be causing significant impairment in multiple environments, such as school, at home, or at work with family or friends or in other settings. The number of symptoms that are required for adults over the age of 17 has been reduced from six to five. A good relationship with your primary healthcare provider can help you identify ADHD. Many providers routinely diagnose and treat ADHD in children, and can refer you to an expert in mental health who is certified to conduct an assessment on adults. Treatment When those with ADHD get a diagnosis their lives can alter dramatically. They can finally find some solutions to their problems at school, with establishing a career, or even in relationships. A diagnosis can relieve shame that has built up for some people over time. Talking to a mental health professional or health care provider is the first step to receiving an diagnosis. They can inquire about family history and then conduct a physical exam to rule out conditions like learning disabilities or sleep disorders that can cause symptoms similar to ADHD. They can also ask the patient to complete a checklist of symptoms. During the process of assessment, a doctor may ask to speak with a spouse or partner. adhd diagnosing helps the non ADHD spouse or partner to develop an understanding of their loved one's ADHD, and an empathetic approach towards those symptoms. This is essential for improving relationships after the diagnosis. If this isn't possible the doctor may conduct an interview with colleagues or friends who are familiar with the person. Medicines are the primary treatment options for adults with ADHD. Adult ADHD is treated with stimulants such as methylphenidate, Adderall, and dextroamphetamine. Other medications, such as atomoxetine (Strattera®) and Guanfacine (Intuniv®, Tenex®) increase norepinephrine levels in the brain, and can improve symptoms of ADHD. Psychotherapy is also an option. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a way to teach patients strategies to manage their ADHD symptoms, such as time management and strategies for organizing, self-regulation of emotions and behavior, and coping with negative self-criticism and negative emotions. Other therapies, like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) can help adults identify subconscious thoughts or irrational thought patterns that cause negative behavior, and also develop positive self-talk. Medication Many people have found that ADHD medication can alleviate their symptoms. The medication is usually in the form of a stimulant. It helps to increase activity in brain areas that regulate attention and behavior. Methylphenidate is the most popular medication used by adults suffering from ADHD is available in many forms. It can be taken as immediate-release tablets, or as modified-release tablets that release the medication throughout the day. Clonidine is another kind of medicine, works by decreasing brain activity. It can be taken as a pill or liquid. When treating adult patients with ADHD, the psychotherapist or psychiatrist may look over the person's family and medical history to identify factors that may cause similar symptoms to ADHD. This is crucial, since certain medical conditions such as seizures and thyroid problems can trigger symptoms similar to ADHD. Some medications and dietary supplement can cause similar symptoms. During the examination it is likely that the person will explain their ADHD symptoms to their therapist or psychiatrist. They will be asked to provide standard ADHD ratings and check lists as and psychological tests to assess working memory, executive function (abilities such as making decisions and planning) spatial and visual ability, and reasoning abilities. If the therapist believes that ADHD symptoms are seriously affecting the quality of life of a person, he or she will recommend medication. In some cases the therapist might ask the spouse or partner of the patient to talk with them about the impact of their ADHD symptoms on the relationship. This can help reduce blame between people and can lead to better, more productive relationships. Counseling Many people with ADHD find relief in receiving an diagnosis. It allows them to to understand the reasons for their issues at school or at work and to discover ways to overcome these problems. It's also an opportunity to overcome negative habits and increase self-confidence. Having a good support system is crucial to success and counseling can assist. Counseling for ADHD can include psychotherapy (or psychological therapy) and a variety behavioral interventions. Therapists may create a chart that encourages positive behavior and imposes penalties for negative behaviors. The therapist could also guide the patient in skills to manage their symptoms, like relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or yoga poses. Counseling can help people accept and understand their ADHD. It's not always easy to admit that you're having difficulties paying attention and planning. It can be embarrassing to admit that you have ADHD to supervisors or colleagues. Most teachers and bosses will provide accommodations to accommodate your condition. For example, they might allow you to write on a computer for assignments instead of paper and provide more detailed explanations of classroom material. In addition the therapist can also teach you ways to cope with your ADHD through cognitive behavioral therapy, which is a form of talk therapy that helps you transform negative thoughts and behavior to positive ones. Counseling for ADHD could also involve family or marital therapy. This teaches loved-ones how to communicate more effectively and solve problems with someone who has ADHD. People who suffer from ADHD may also suffer from other mental disorders such depression or anxiety and may have issues with substance abuse.