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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 to understand why they have difficulties at work, at home and in their relationships. It can be difficult to diagnose because symptoms can overlap. A health care professional or mental health professional will examine the patient and conduct tests. Symptoms A person may not be aware that they suffer from ADHD until they reach the age of adulthood or perhaps because teachers and parents were not aware of symptoms until a younger age or because the demands of college or working made the disorder more apparent. Adults with ADHD who are not treated are affected in their academic, social and professional lives. Undiagnosed ADHD can lead to numerous problems including relationship problems and financial issues. A mental health professional will review and interview the patient's medical, psychiatric and personal history, paying special attention to symptoms in various settings. The patient will discuss the symptoms and how they impact their daily life and relationships. It is crucial that patients are honest about their symptoms and do not cover them up to avoid embarrassment. The mental health professional should also determine if these symptoms are connected to comorbid conditions such as anxiety and depression which are often associated with ADHD. These conditions often make the symptoms of ADHD worse and may hinder effective treatment for the disorder. If the psychiatrist or psychology thinks that the symptoms are being affected by comorbid disorders such as psychosomatic disorders, or neuropsychological disorders, further testing can be used to establish an accurate diagnosis. These tests can also help determine the level of functional impairment caused by these conditions. The mental health professional may also conduct interviews with others who are significant like spouses or siblings to get a complete picture of how a person is functioning. Diagnosis For adults the diagnosis of ADHD is usually made by a mental health medical professional or physician who conducts a thorough diagnosis. This includes a detailed discussion of the symptoms and their impact on the daily activities. It also considers the presence of any other mental disorders that can occur alongside ADHD, such depression and anxiety. The doctor may also request to speak to significant others like the spouse or a close family friend, in order for them get more details. A diagnosis of ADHD can alter your life. The diagnosis gives adults an explanation for the behaviors they believed to be “normal”. It's usually a relief to discover that the 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 standard is designed to ensure that people receive the help and treatment they require. To be eligible for an ADHD diagnosis the person must be suffering from symptoms for at least a year and be a significant handicap in multiple settings, including school, home or work with family or friends or in other activities. For adults age 17 and older, the number of required 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 you to recognize ADHD. Many physicians regularly diagnose and treat ADHD in children. They can provide a referral to an expert in mental health who is certified to conduct an assessment of adults. Treatment When someone with ADHD is diagnosed, their life may transform dramatically. They will finally have solutions to their issues in school, and also in starting a new career, or even in relationships. A diagnosis can ease the guilt that has accumulated for certain people throughout their lives. Talking to a mental health specialist or health care professional is the first step in getting an assessment. They can inquire about family history and do a physical examination to rule out any condition that can cause symptoms that resemble ADHD like sleep disorders, learning disabilities or alcohol/drug use. They may also ask the person to fill out a checklist of symptoms. In many cases, the doctor will request that the spouse or partner be interviewed during the assessment process. This allows the non ADHD spouse or partner to gain an accurate understanding of their loved one's ADHD and a sympathetic attitude towards the symptoms. This is crucial to improve relationships following a diagnoses. If this is not possible, the clinician can interview friends or colleagues who are familiar with the individual. The main treatment is medication. options for adults suffering from ADHD. Adult ADHD is treated using stimulants such as methylphenidate, Adderall and dextroamphetamine. Other medications, for instance atomoxetine (Strattera®) and Guanfacine (Intuniv®, Tenex®) increase the amount of norepinephrine found in the brain, and can improve symptoms of ADHD. Psychotherapy is a different option. Cognitive-behavioral therapies can assist patients learn skills to manage their ADHD symptoms. These include time management as well as self-regulation strategies, organizational strategies, of behaviors and emotions and coping strategies for negative feelings and self criticism. Other treatments, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy helps adults recognize the automatic or irrational thoughts that lead to negative behavior and devise strategies to replace them with positive self-talk. adhd diagnosis uk report that ADHD medication helps to alleviate their symptoms. The medication is typically in the form of a stimulant, and it is effective by increasing the activity of the brain in areas that regulate the behavior and attention. Methylphenidate is the most commonly prescribed medication for adults suffering from ADHD, and it is available in various forms. It is available in immediate-release tablets, or modified-release tablet forms that release the medication over the course of the day. Clonidine is a different type of medication that works by reducing brain activity. It can be taken in pill or liquid form. The psychiatrist or therapist will examine the medical and family history of the adult patient in order to determine the factors that can cause similar symptoms. This is crucial as some medical conditions like seizures and thyroid issues can cause symptoms similar to ADHD. In addition, certain supplements and medications may cause similar symptoms. During the assessment, the individual will likely explain their ADHD symptoms to the psychiatrist or therapist. They will be asked to provide standardized ADHD ratings and checklists of symptoms as well as psychological tests to measure executive function, working memory, (abilities like planning and decision making), visual and spatial ability, and reasoning skills. If the therapist is of the opinion that ADHD symptoms affect a person's quality of life they will suggest medication. In some instances the therapist may ask the person's partner or spouse to speak with them regarding the impact of the patient's symptoms on their relationship. This will help reduce blame between people and result in healthier, more productive relationships. Counseling Many people with ADHD get relief from receiving an diagnosis. It allows them to recognize the reason for their issues at school or at work and to learn how to overcome these challenges. It's a chance to alter negative behaviors and increase self-esteem. Having a good support system is vital to success and counseling can be a great help. Counseling for ADHD can include psychological (or psychotherapy) therapy as well as a variety of behavioral strategies. Therapists may make a chart to reward positive behaviors and imposes punishments on negative ones. Therapists can also teach the patient skills to manage their symptoms, such as relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditative postures in yoga. Another benefit of counseling is helping people understand and accept their ADHD. It can be difficult to admit that you're having problems with attention and planning. It can be embarrassing to confess that you suffer from ADHD to your supervisors or coworkers. However, most bosses and teachers will be willing to accommodate for your condition. They could, for instance permit you to write on a computer instead of paper or give an explanation of class material. The therapist will also show you how to cope with ADHD by using cognitive therapy for behavioral disorders. This is a structured type of therapy that assists you in changing negative behavior and thoughts into positive ones. Counseling for ADHD can also include marital or family therapy. This helps loved ones learn to communicate better and resolve problems with someone who has ADHD. People who suffer from ADHD may also suffer from other mental disorders, such as anxiety or depression, and may have issues with substance abuse.