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Adult Diagnosis of ADHD A diagnosis of ADHD can change the life of adults who suffer from the condition. It can help people to discover the reason for their struggles at work, at home and in their relationships. However, it can be difficult to establish a diagnosis because symptoms often overlap with other ailments. A health care professional or mental health professional will examine the patient and run tests. Signs and symptoms A person may not be aware that they have ADHD until they reach adulthood or perhaps because teachers and parents were not aware of the symptoms at a younger age, or because the demands of college or work caused the disorder to be exposed. Adults who are not treated for ADHD are more vulnerable in their school, work and social lives. Undiagnosed ADHD can cause a wide range of problems including relationship problems and financial problems. To determine the presence of ADHD to diagnose it, a mental health professional will speak with the patient and go over the patient's personal, medical and mental health history, paying particular attention to symptoms in various situations. The patient will be asked to describe how these symptoms impact the way they function in their daily lives and relationships. It is crucial that the patient is open about these symptoms, and that he or she does not hide behind feelings of shame or embarrassment. It is also crucial for the mental health professional to determine whether the symptoms are linked to comorbid conditions, such as anxiety and depression, which frequently coexist with ADHD. These conditions often make the symptoms of ADHD worse and can interfere with effective treatment of the disorder. If a psychologist or psychiatrist thinks that the symptoms of ADHD are being impacted by comorbid conditions, further psycho-, neuropsychological or learning disabilities testing may be used to help establish an accurate diagnosis. These tests can aid in determining the degree of impairment in function caused by these conditions. In how to diagnose adhd in adults , the mental health professional could request an interview with one or more significant others, such as spouses, siblings, and coworkers in order to collect a complete picture of the person's behavior and challenges. Diagnosis Adults are diagnosed with ADHD by a mental health professional or physician after a thorough examination. This includes a detailed analysis of the symptoms and how they impact the way you live your life. It also includes the presence of any other mental disorders that may co-exist alongside ADHD, such depression and anxiety. Additionally, the doctor may ask to speak with significant others — typically an intimate partner or a close friend to assist in gaining more information about the individual's behavior. Being diagnosed with ADHD in adulthood can be a life-changing event. The diagnosis provides adults with an explanation for the behaviors they thought were “normal”. It's usually a relief to discover that the 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 that has been established to ensure that people receive the treatment and support they need. To be eligible for an ADHD diagnosis, a person must have experienced the symptoms for at least 12 months and they must have caused significant impairment in a variety of situations, such as at school, home, or work with family or friends or in other activities. For adults aged 17 and older, the number of required symptoms has been reduced to five from the six needed for children under age 12. A good relationship with your primary healthcare provider can help determine ADHD. Many providers diagnose and treat ADHD in children and refer you to an expert in mental health to assess adults. Treatment When people with ADHD get a diagnosis their lives can alter dramatically. They can finally find some answers to their problems in school, and also in starting a new career, or in relationships. For those who are suffering from depression, it can provide relief from shame that may have been accumulated over the years of their issues not being addressed. The first step in getting an accurate diagnosis is to talk to a health care professional or mental health professional. They might inquire about the family history and then conduct an examination to rule out any conditions such as sleep disorders or learning disabilities which can cause symptoms similar to ADHD. They may also request that the person complete an assessment scale of symptoms. In many cases, the doctor will request that a spouse or partner is interviewed during the process of assessment. This helps the non ADHD spouse or partner develop an understanding of their loved one's ADHD and a compassionate approach towards those symptoms. This is important for improving relationships after diagnosis. If this is not feasible the clinician may interview acquaintances or colleagues who are familiar with the individual. The main treatment is medication. options for adults with ADHD. Adult ADHD is treated with stimulants like methylphenidate, Adderall, and dextroamphetamine. Other medications such as atomoxetine (Strattera®,) and Guanfacine (Intuniv ®, Tenex ®), increase norepinephrine in the brain. These medications can help improve ADHD symptoms. Psychotherapy is also an alternative. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can help patients learn skills to manage their ADHD symptoms. These include time management and organizational strategies, self regulation of emotions and behaviors and coping strategies for negative feelings and self criticism. Other therapies, like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy helps adults recognize subconscious or unfounded thoughts that can lead to negative behaviors and develop ways to overcome them using positive self-talk. Medication Many people have found that ADHD medication can improve their symptoms. This medication is usually in the form a stimulant and is effective by increasing the activity of the brain in areas that control behavior and attention. Methylphenidate is the most well-known medication used by adults suffering from ADHD is available in various forms. It is available in immediate-release tablets as well as modified-release tablet forms that release the medication throughout the day. Clonidine, another type of medicine works by reducing the brain activity and can be taken as a pill or liquid. The therapist or psychiatrist will look over the medical and family background of the adult patient in order to determine factors that may cause similar symptoms. This is necessary because certain medical conditions such as seizure disorders and thyroid problems can trigger symptoms similar to those of ADHD. Certain medications and dietary supplements can also cause similar signs. During the assessment, the person is likely to describe the ADHD symptoms. They will be asked to complete standard ADHD rating scales and check lists, along with complete psychological tests that measure executive functioning, working memory (abilities like planning and decision-making) spatial and visual abilities, and reasoning skills. If the therapist or psychiatrist believes that the symptoms of ADHD are seriously impairing a person's life they may recommend treatment with medication. In certain instances the therapist might ask the spouse or partner of the patient to talk with them about the impact of their ADHD symptoms on their relationship. This will help decrease blame between individuals and result in better, more productive relationships. Counseling Getting a diagnosis is a great relief for many adults with ADHD. It's a chance to understand the reason why they face difficulties at school or at work and discover ways to overcome them. It's a chance to alter negative behavior and boost self-esteem. Counseling is a great method of helping you build a strong support system. Counseling for ADHD may include psychotherapy (or psychological therapy) as well as a variety of behavior-based interventions. For example a therapist might create a reward chart which rewards positive behavior, and enforces consequences for bad behavior. The therapist could also guide the patient on techniques to manage their symptoms, such as relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or yoga postures. 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 admit that you have ADHD to supervisors or colleagues. However, the majority of bosses and teachers will be willing to make accommodations for your condition. They may, for instance permit you to write on a computer instead of paper or offer an explanation of the material in class. The therapist will also instruct you how to deal with ADHD by using cognitive behavior therapy. This is a structured form of talk therapy which helps you transform negative behavior and thoughts into positive ones. Counseling for ADHD may also include marital or family therapy. It teaches family members how to better communicate and solve problems with someone who suffers from ADHD. People suffering from ADHD might also be suffering from other mental disorders such as anxiety or depression, and may have issues with addiction to drugs.