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Adult Diagnosis of ADHD A diagnosis of ADHD can alter the lives of adults suffering from the disorder. It can help people to discover the reason for their struggles at work, in their family and in their relationships. However, it can be difficult to get a diagnosis as symptoms can be overlapping with other ailments. A health care professional or mental health professional will examine the patient and conduct tests. adhd uk diagnosis I Am Psychiatry UK might not even be aware they have ADHD until they reach the age of adulthood, perhaps because teachers and parents did not recognize symptoms until a younger age, or because the demands of college or work made the disorder more apparent. Adults with untreated ADHD are at a disadvantage in their school, work and social lives. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD experience a variety 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 particular attention to the symptoms in different situations. The patient will discuss the symptoms and how they affect their daily functioning as well as their relationships. It is important that patients are open about their symptoms and not hide them out of embarrassment. The mental health professional must 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 the symptoms of ADHD worse and can hinder the effective treatment of the disorder. If the psychiatrist or psychology thinks that the symptoms are affected by comorbid disorders such as learning disabilities, psychosomatic disorders, or neuropsychological disorders, then additional testing can be conducted to establish an accurate diagnosis. These tests can also be used to determine the level of impairment to function caused by these conditions. The mental health professional may also conduct interviews with others who are significant like spouses or siblings, to get a full picture of how the individual is functioning. Diagnosis Adults are diagnosed with ADHD by a mental healthcare doctor or a medical professional following a thorough examination. This involves a thorough interview about the history of symptoms and their impact on daily functioning and the presence of any other mental health disorders that may be co-occurring with ADHD such as mood disorders and anxiety. The doctor might also ask to speak to your significant others such as a spouse or close family member to collect more information. A diagnosis of ADHD could alter your life. For many adults, the diagnosis finally provides an explanation for what has always appeared to be “normal” behaviors. It's often a relief find out that their issues aren't simply due to 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 is a standard that has been established to ensure that people receive the help and treatment they require. To be eligible for an ADHD diagnosis, the person must have had the symptoms for at least 12 months and they must be causing significant impairment in a variety of settings, including school, home, or work; with friends or family; or with other activities. The number of symptoms needed for adults over the age of 17 has been reduced from six to five. A positive relationship with your primary healthcare provider can help you identify ADHD. Many doctors routinely diagnose and treat ADHD in children. They may refer you to a mental health professional who is certified to conduct an assessment of adults. Treatment If someone suffering from ADHD is diagnosed, their life may change dramatically. They will finally have solutions to their issues in school, and also in starting a new career, or even in relationships. For certain people, a diagnosis may relieve the anxiety that could have been built up over the years from their issues not being addressed. Talking to a mental health specialist or health care professional is the first step in receiving an assessment. They can inquire about the family history and conduct a physical exam to rule out other conditions such as sleep disorders or learning disabilities that can cause symptoms similar to ADHD. They may also request that the person complete an assessment scale of symptoms. In many instances the doctor will ask that a spouse or partner be interviewed during the process of assessing. This helps the non-ADHD spouse or partner gain a better understanding and an understanding of their loved one's ADHD symptoms, which is important in enhancing relationships following an assessment. If this is not possible the doctor can conduct an interview with friends or colleagues who are familiar with the individual. Adults suffering from ADHD are treated mostly with medication. Adult ADHD is treated using stimulants like methylphenidate, 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 is another option. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can teach patients strategies for managing their ADHD symptoms, including time management and strategies for organizing, self-regulation of behavior and emotions, and coping with negative self-criticism and negative emotions. Other therapies, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) can help adults recognize subconscious thoughts or irrational thought patterns that lead to negative behavior and to develop positive self-talk. Medication Many people find that ADHD medication helps alleviate their symptoms. The medication is typically in the form a stimulant, and it is effective by increasing brain activity in areas that control the behavior and attention. Methylphenidate is the most frequently used medicine for adults with ADHD, and it is available in different forms. It is available as immediate-release tablets, or modified-release tablet forms that release the medication throughout the day. Clonidine is another kind of medicine, works by decreasing brain activity. It can be taken in pill form 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 causes that could cause similar symptoms similar to ADHD. This is crucial due to the fact that certain medical conditions like seizure disorders and thyroid problems can trigger symptoms similar to the symptoms of ADHD. Additionally, certain supplements and medications can also cause similar symptoms. During the assessment, the individual will likely be asked to describe their ADHD symptoms to a psychiatrist or therapist. They will be asked to provide standard ADHD ratings and check lists, as well as psychological tests to assess executive function, working memory (abilities such as planning and decision making), visual and spatial ability, and reasoning abilities. If the therapist believes that ADHD symptoms are seriously affecting the quality of life of an individual, he or she will suggest treatment. In certain instances the therapist might ask the spouse or partner of the patient to interview them about the impact of their ADHD symptoms on the relationship. This can lessen the burden of blame between individuals and promote healthier, more productive relationships. Counseling Receiving a diagnosis is a huge relief to many adults suffering from ADHD. It allows them to recognize the reason for their problems at school or work and to understand how to overcome these challenges. It's an opportunity to transform negative behavior and build self-esteem. Counseling can be a wonderful method of helping you build a strong support network. Counseling for ADHD can include psychotherapy (or psychological therapy) and a variety behavioral treatments. A therapist might create a chart that rewards positive behaviors and imposes consequences on bad ones. Therapists can also teach the patient skills to manage symptoms, like relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditative postures in yoga. Another benefit of counseling is helping people comprehend and accept their ADHD. It can be difficult to admit you have trouble with paying attention or planning and organizing. It can be embarrassing to confess that you suffer from ADHD to supervisors or colleagues. Most teachers and bosses will offer accommodations to accommodate your needs. For instance, they may allow you to write on a computer for assignments instead of writing on paper and provide more in-depth explanations of the material in class. The therapist will also instruct you how to manage ADHD through cognitive behavior therapy. This is a structured type of therapy that helps you transform negative behavior and thoughts into positive ones. Counseling for ADHD may also include family or marital therapy. This teaches loved-ones how to better communicate and solve problems with someone who has ADHD. People suffering from ADHD might also be suffering from other mental disorders such depression or anxiety and could also have issues with addiction to drugs.