ADHD in Adults - Characterisation, Diagnosis and Treatment
Finding a professional who is able to assess you is the initial step towards getting treatment for ADHD. They will ask about your symptoms, your family history, as well as other factors such as stress and school or work problems.
They will employ standardized behavior rating scales and checklists for assessing your symptoms. They may also perform neuropsychological, psychological, or learning disability tests.
Diagnosis
Adults with ADHD have difficulty concentrating and staying focused, as well as organizing their tasks. People with ADHD tend to avoid tasks that demand much attention, and they tend to put off tasks that require. This can make it difficult to keep on top of everyday tasks like doing chores, paying off bills or planning for future events. It is also typical for adults suffering from ADHD to be easily annoyed and struggle to regulate their emotions. This can cause mood swings and issues with relationships.
To get a diagnosis of ADHD, you should first speak to your primary care physician. They could refer you to a psychiatrist or other mental health professional for an evaluation. During the evaluation they will ask you questions about your symptoms, and how they affect you at work, school, or home. They will also inquire whether you have any other mental health issues. They will also consider your family history.
Your psychiatrist will review your symptoms and determine if there are other medical conditions that may cause similar problems. The psychiatrist will then recommend the best treatment plan which could include medication. The use of medication can lessen the severity of ADHD symptoms, and you will have to discuss this with your psychiatrist before you start taking the medication. Your psychiatrist will also be able to send your prescription to your GP to help them monitor your progress and prescribe any adjustments to your medication.
If you've been prescribed medication for ADHD it is important to consult your psychiatrist regularly in order to make sure that you are following the right treatment plan. It is recommended to be seen within 30 days of beginning medication and then monthly until your symptoms and functioning improve.
People who suffer from ADHD are more likely to experience job losses and transfers drop in academic performance or drop outs, poor financial stability, strained relationships and addictions. With the right treatment those suffering from ADHD can live fulfilling lives, with fulfilling relationships and careers. The key to success is finding the appropriate treatment program for you. This is why it's crucial to speak with your doctor about any concerns you may have, as well as discussing your symptoms and problems with your teachers and coworkers.
Medications
Someone who suffers from ADHD will likely be treated with a mix of psychotherapy and medication. The right medication can help reduce or completely eliminate symptoms that affect the quality of an adult's life and hinder them from achieving their potential. Talk therapy helps people find better ways to cope with their symptoms.
To determine if they have ADHD, the individual should consult their primary care physician or a mental health professional. They can recommend specialists in the area. It's also a good idea to ask members of a local ADHD support group for recommendations on an expert. Many insurance plans offer an inventory of professionals according to specialization and can help people locate a professional who can perform an assessment.
A thorough evaluation will include an explanation of the symptoms of the patient, a thorough review of the medical and psychiatric history, and a thorough discussion with the patient. The examiner will use behavioral rating scales or ADHD symptom checklists and may solicit feedback from family and friends. Sometimes, additional testing is used to determine if an individual suffers from ADHD. For example, neuropsychological and cognitive tests.
It is important to rule out any other medical conditions that can mimic ADHD symptoms before making a final diagnosis. These include mood disorders, learning disorders, anxiety disorders, head injuries thyroid problems, and the use of certain medications such as steroids. Before determining a diagnosis, the evaluator will take into consideration these possible explanations.
Medications used to treat ADHD in adults include stimulants as well as non-stimulant drugs. The most commonly prescribed medication is stimulants. They can improve concentration and focus. They can help improve academic and work performance. They can also reduce anxiety and depression. However the effectiveness of stimulants can vary among individuals and it can take some time to reach the desired level of improvement.
Nonstimulant medications can be beneficial in the treatment of ADHD in adults. They are usually more affordable and have less side effects than stimulants. They are not as powerful as stimulants, and may have a "crash effect" in some people. They can also interact with other medications and can cause negative effects on some medical conditions.
Treatments
Psychotherapy and medication are the most effective treatments for ADHD in adults. The use of medication helps people focus better and be less impulsive which can enhance their lives. Psychotherapy helps people learn strategies for coping and managing their issues. It can also include family therapy and methods for managing behaviour that include reward systems. Researchers are currently exploring new methods to treat ADHD including brain imaging and measuring how the brain solves issues.
People with ADHD often experience different symptoms as they grow older. For example, inattentive symptoms become more pronounced in adulthood, while hyperactive-impulsive symptoms may decrease or disappear entirely. Many people suffering from ADHD will experience the same issues throughout their entire lives.
To determine the presence of ADHD in adults, a doctor must gather information about the person's childhood behavior and school experiences. They will ask the person to rate both their own behavior as well as that of others using standard rating systems or ADHD symptoms checklists. They will also conduct an examination to determine if there are medical conditions, like seizures and thyroid disorders that may cause similar symptoms.
The health care provider will then recommend treatment options based on the outcomes of the assessment. If the symptoms are not severe, then the doctor might prescribe stimulants. These drugs are designed to help people concentrate better and be less irritable and improve their ability to function in the workplace, at home and with their relationships. Patients with moderate to severe symptoms will be prescribed a combination of medication and psychotherapy.
People suffering from ADHD are more likely to be diagnosed when they have relatives with the disorder, or when they were born prematurely or suffered from other birth defects, such as low birth weight or head trauma. They are also more likely to be diagnosed if they're male. Researchers don't know the reason why certain people have a higher risk of developing ADHD. The condition could be triggered by environmental factors or genetic factors. People who drink a lot, smoke or have food allergies are at a greater chance of being diagnosed with ADHD.
Support
Undiagnosed ADHD can make it difficult for adults to complete daily tasks such as getting out of bed in the morning, preparing for work, and arranging appointments on time. They may also find it difficult to manage their relationships with friends or keep up with family or job responsibilities. Certain people may benefit from long-term treatment utilizing stimulant medication as well as psychotherapy.
Being diagnosed with ADHD can be a very emotional experience. People who suffer from ADHD are often at peace knowing that they're not 'lazy,' 'unwilling,' or 'unorganized' and that the cause of their issues is a root condition. adhd in adults symptoms and treatment may also feel angered or disappointed that they weren't diagnosed or treated earlier.
There are a variety of organizations and services that are able to assist individuals with the condition, such as psychotherapy, coaching self-help resources as well as peer support groups and online learning. People whose symptoms cause problems at work might be eligible to receive assistance under the disability components of the employment law or Access to Work, depending on their specific situation.
The NIMH website has an extensive list of helpful organizations and resources for adults suffering from ADHD. Some of these organisations offer low or no cost psychotherapy to people with ADHD. Others provide education and teach strategies for managing the condition.
Talking therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can be helpful for people who suffer from ADHD. It involves identifying and resolving unhelpful thinking patterns and devising strategies to improve concentration and impulse control. It is best done by a trained mental health professional. Patients should seek out a professional who has worked with those suffering from ADHD or is willing to learn.
The NHS website in the UK provides information about ADHD treatments. The site also has the list of local mental health services and helplines, including those that are specialized in supporting people with disabilities. Support groups can also help individuals and families find assistance and a network. They can be found on the internet or through local support groups and charities. A number of organisations also run support groups specifically for adults suffering from ADHD.