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Adult ADHD Diagnoses – The First Step to Managing Symptoms The first step to manage adult ADHD symptoms can be to get a diagnosis. These symptoms can be detrimental to relationships and at work. A doctor can evaluate the person's mood and medical background, and also whether there are any co-morbid conditions, such anxiety or depression, that can cause similar symptoms. An evaluation consists of a planned interview with the person being assessed. Family members, friends and coworkers could be questioned to gain insight into the history of the person being evaluated. Signs and symptoms Adults who suffer from ADHD may experience many of the same symptoms as children, however these behaviors can impact more areas of their lives. They may struggle to keep their jobs, manage their relationships, or perform well at school, for example. The signs include attention issues to their surroundings, fumbling or mumbling answers in a hurry, failing to complete tasks, and a tendency to miss appointments frequently. This condition can also lead to financial difficulties as people are more likely to commit errors or overspend. A professional can test adults for ADHD using a variety methods. They may interview parents of a person and inquire about their childhood. They can also review their reports and make note of teacher remarks. Interviewing family, friends, and co-workers can also be used to evaluate the performance of an individual. They can also take advantage of online ratings or self-tests. Adults are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD when they've experienced 5 out of 9 symptoms in the last 6 months. Symptoms must be present in multiple contexts and cannot be explained by a mental health issue, such as a mood or anxiety disorder or other physical conditions, such as a hearing loss or a vision issue. It's normal to experience a range of emotions when you get an ADHD diagnosis as an adult. It can be a relief to finally get an explanation for the issues that you've struggled with for a long time. It can also be a bit upsetting to realize that you have mental health issues, especially when you've had success in other areas of your life. A person diagnosed with ADHD is usually treated with medication, psychotherapy, or other treatments. In some cases doctors may suggest adjustments for work or daily activities. Accommodations are the tools or modifications to an individual's environment that allow them to succeed and minimize the negative impact of their disability. A step stool could be utilized by someone who is taller than average, or a computer program to aid those with visual impairments concentrate on their screen. how is adhd diagnosed in adults is often treated with behavioral therapy. Diagnosis If you suspect that you have ADHD, the first step is to make an accurate diagnosis. You can begin by asking your primary care physician or mental health professional to refer you to a specialist who performs ADHD assessments. Your doctor will conduct an interview with you and go over all of your medical and family information. Your doctor will also inquire about your symptoms and how they impact your work, school and at home. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, or DSM-5, is used by your doctor to determine whether you meet the ADHD criteria. The following are some of the DSM-5 criteria for inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive types of ADHD: Inattention: Has difficulty staying focused on tasks or activities for long periods of time. Sometimes, they forget things, or has difficulty finishing chores, schoolwork or other tasks. It is prone to making mistakes at school, work or in leisure activities. is easily distracted by others or everyday activities. Often, they daydream, appear to be on autopilot, or loses the track of what they are doing. Hyperactivity/Impulsivity: Often restless, fidgets or can't sit still in class or at work. Talks frequently to others or interrupts them out-of-turn. Sometimes, they get bored and seeks excitement or novelty. Frequently engages in fights or arguments without weighing the consequences. Often, people with inattentive or hyperactive/impulsive type ADHD have coexisting conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, learning disabilities and other mental illnesses. These other conditions can have their own effects on an individual and make diagnosis more difficult. A physical exam is generally done to rule out any medical problems that might cause similar symptoms. Some medical conditions, like seizures and thyroid disorders could mimic ADHD symptoms. If your symptoms are severe, you may need to undergo additional tests for learning disabilities, neuropsychological disorders or psychological disorders. These tests can provide important information about how ADHD affects your relationships and performance. These tests can also reveal any other underlying issues that need to be addressed. Treatment Adults may benefit from the same treatment as children who have ADHD, including medications as well as behavioral strategies, life skills training and therapy. Adults may need to try different medications since the ones they took as children may not be appropriate for them now. A specialist in ADHD should be consulted by the person with ADHD. This can be a primary doctor who treats ADHD regularly or a mental health specialist such as a psychiatrist or psychologist. Many insurance companies have online directories of specialists. A local support group for ADHD sufferers or a doctor specializing in mood disorders may recommend the services of a specialist. After the exam, the doctor will determine an assessment and prescribe a treatment. He or she may want to talk about the past of the patient as well as how the issues affected them in the early years of their life. If the person is experiencing difficulties in their work or relationships, a therapist could suggest couples' or family therapy to help them understand how to manage their issues better. Most adults with ADHD can be effectively treated with medication. They are typically small, fast-acting medications that reduce the chemical imbalance in the brain that triggers ADHD. In many instances, a doctor may prescribe additional treatments for related disorders such as depression or anxiety. Behavioral therapy can help solve problems with time management and organization, impulse control, and emotional self-regulation. Therapists with specialized expertise in working with those suffering from ADHD can offer cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other individualized interventions. When adults with ADHD are finally diagnosed, they feel an immense relief. The right treatment plan can alter their lives drastically. They can become more productive at work, succeed at school or develop healthier and more fulfilling relationships. Some people are relieved to finally receive an appointment after years of regrets over mistakes made due to their symptoms being not properly diagnosed or treated. It is also possible that the individual's behavior has been affected by his or her gender identity, race, and socioeconomic status. Support It's not too late to get an assessment and treatment even if you were not diagnosed with ADHD as a child. Many professionals are certified in ADHD and can tell you whether your symptoms are mild, moderate or severe. They can also rule out other mental health issues, physical conditions, and stress as a cause of your symptoms. A diagnosis of ADHD can trigger a variety of complex emotions, such as grief over missed opportunities or feelings of relief that you finally have a concrete reason for your problems. Adults who suffer from ADHD may feel judged for actions they aren't responsible for, such as the inability to organize their work. They may also struggle with financial issues, like not paying on time or accumulating debt from the impulsive spending. It's not unusual for adults with ADHD to engage in self-destructive behavior like drug and alcohol abuse, poor nutrition, constant stress and tension and low self-esteem. They may also experience issues with their relationships with family and friends. Also, they may be struggling with their physical well-being. They may neglect vital medical checkups or medication or struggle to follow medical instructions. They may have trouble managing their finances and keeping their jobs due to the fact that they aren't organized, fail to meet corporate expectations and cannot adhere to a routine or schedule. Adults who suffer from ADHD may benefit from therapy or support groups which offer strategies and techniques for living with the disorder. Specialized ADHD therapists can assist adults manage their symptoms, compensate for their weaknesses and improve their functioning in life. They can also work closely with family members to discuss how the disorder impacts their relationship and coming up with strategies for supporting their loved one. Online communities and peer support can be useful. Sites such as Sheila Henson and Neuroqueer offer individual and group coaching, workshops and webinars on organizational skills, emotional regulation, and social interaction. Other online resources include ADHD accommodating establishments, workplace accommodations, and classes to improve communication. Many people suffering from ADHD find it beneficial to join support groups. These groups can be a great source of ideas and inspiration, and they provide a forum to discuss issues and find a solutions. There are coaches and teachers that can help you develop an action plan to improve your functioning and lessen the impact of your symptoms.