• 목록
• 답변
• 게시판 리스트 옵션
  • 수정
  • 삭제

Adult Diagnosis of ADHD

A diagnosis of ADHD can alter the lives of adults who suffer from the condition. It can help people to understand the reasons they struggle with family, work and in relationships.

It can be difficult to identify since symptoms tend to overlap. A mental health specialist or health care professional will assess the patient and perform tests.

Symptoms

It is possible that a person doesn't realize they have ADHD until adulthood. This could be due to teachers and parents failed to recognize the signs at an earlier age, or because college or work demands made the disorder more apparent. Adults with ADHD who aren't treated are affected in their academic, social and work lives. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD experience a variety of issues, including relationship issues and financial difficulties.

In order to diagnose ADHD A mental health professional will speak with the patient and review his or her personal, medical and mental health history, taking note of symptoms in different situations. The patient will describe the symptoms and how to get an adhd diagnosis as an adult they affect their daily life and relationships. It is crucial that patients are open about their symptoms and do not conceal them to avoid embarrassment.

The mental health professional should also assess whether these symptoms are linked to comorbid conditions such as depression and anxiety that often coexist with ADHD. These conditions can make the symptoms of ADHD worse and may interfere with effective treatment of the disorder.

If the psychologist or psychiatrist feels that the symptoms are affected by comorbid conditions such as neuropsychological disorders, or psychological disorders, then additional testing can be conducted to establish an accurate diagnosis. These tests can also be used to determine the extent of functional impairment caused by these conditions. In addition, the mental health professional might require an interview with one or more significant others such as spouses, siblings, and coworkers in order to collect a complete picture of the individual's performance and challenges.

Diagnosis

For adults the diagnosis of adhd adult diagnosis is usually made by a mental health care medical professional or physician who conducts a thorough diagnostic assessment. This includes a detailed analysis of the symptoms and how they affect the daily activities. It also considers the presence of any other mental disorders that can co-occur with ADHD like mood disorders and anxiety. The doctor may also request to speak with significant others like the spouse or a close family member, in order for them collect more information.

Getting a proper diagnosis of ADHD in adulthood can be a life-changing experience. For many adults, the diagnosis finally provides an explanation for what always seemed like "normal" behaviors. It's usually a relief to find out that their 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 established to ensure that individuals receive the treatment and support they require. To qualify for an ADHD diagnosis, one must have had 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. The number of symptoms that are required for adults over the age of 17 has been reduced from six to five.

A good relationship with your primary care provider can help you identify ADHD. Many doctors diagnose and treat ADHD in kids and can refer you to a mental health professional qualified to evaluate adults.

Treatment

When those with ADHD receive a diagnosis, their lives can change dramatically. They will finally have solutions to their issues in school, with establishing a career, or in relationships. A diagnosis can relieve shame that has built up for some people over time.

Talking to a mental health healthcare professional or health care professional is the first step in finding out if you have an diagnosis. They can inquire about family history and then conduct a physical exam to rule out other conditions like learning disabilities or sleep disorders that can cause symptoms that are similar to ADHD. They may also request that the person complete an assessment scale of symptoms.

During the assessment process a doctor may ask to interview a spouse or partner. This will help the spouse who is not an ADHD or partner gain a better understanding and compassionate attitude towards their loved one's ADHD symptoms which is crucial in enhancing relationships following an assessment. If this isn't possible the doctor may conduct an interview with friends or co-workers who know the person.

Medicines are the primary treatment options for adults suffering from ADHD. Stimulants like methylphenidate (Ritalin(r)) and dextroamphetamine (Adderall(r)) are the most effective and widely prescribed drugs for treating adult ADHD. Other medications, such as Atomoxetine (Strattera(r),) and Guanfacine (Intuniv (r) Tenex (r)), increase the amount of norepinephrine that is produced in the brain. These medications can improve ADHD symptoms.

Psychotherapy is also an option. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can help patients develop the skills needed to manage their ADHD symptoms. These include time management and self-regulation strategies, organizing strategies of behaviors and emotions, and coping techniques for negative feelings and self criticism. Other therapies, like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), help adults recognize subconscious thoughts or irrational thought patterns that lead to negative behavior, and also develop positive self-talk.

Medication

Many people report that ADHD medication helps alleviate their symptoms. This medication typically comes in the form of a stimulant and is effective by boosting activity in brain areas that regulate attention and behavior. Methylphenidate, the most common medicine used for adults with ADHD is available in many forms. It can be taken as immediate-release tablets or as modified-release tablets that release the medication throughout the day. Clonidine is another kind of medicine works by reducing the brain activity and can be taken in pill form or liquid.

The therapist or psychiatrist will examine the medical and family background of the adult patient to identify the factors that can cause similar symptoms. This is necessary because some medical conditions, such as thyroid problems and seizure disorders can cause symptoms that are similar to the symptoms of ADHD. In addition, certain drugs and nutritional supplements may cause similar symptoms.

During the examination during the evaluation, the patient will be asked to describe their ADHD symptoms to their therapist or psychiatrist. They will be asked for standardized ADHD ratings and check lists as along with psychological tests to assess executive function, working memory, (abilities like planning and decision making) spatial and visual ability, as well as reasoning skills.

If a psychiatrist or therapist believes that the symptoms of ADHD are seriously affecting a person's life they will suggest treatment with medication. In certain instances the therapist may ask the person's partner or spouse to talk with them regarding the effects of the symptoms on their relationship. This can help reduce the blame between individuals and promote healthy, productive relationships.

Counseling

Many adults with ADHD are relieved when they receive an diagnosis. It allows them to understand why they are having issues at school or at work and to learn how to overcome these issues. It's a chance to alter negative behaviors and increase self-esteem.

Counseling can be a wonderful method of helping you create a strong support system. Counseling for ADHD may include psychotherapy (or psychological therapy) and a variety behavioral interventions. For example, a therapist may create a reward chart which rewards positive behavior, and enforces consequences for bad behavior. The therapist can also teach the patient skills to manage symptoms, for example relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditative poses in yoga.

Another benefit of counseling is helping people understand and accept their ADHD. It's not always easy to admit you have problems with attention and planning. It is embarrassing to admit that you have ADHD to supervisors or colleagues. Most teachers and bosses will make accommodations to accommodate your needs. For example, they might permit you to use a computer for writing assignments instead of writing on paper and give more in-depth explanations of class material.

The therapist will also show you how to cope with ADHD using cognitive behavioral therapy. It is a method of talk therapy which helps you transform negative behavior and thoughts into positive ones. Counseling for ADHD can also involve family or marital therapy which teaches family members how to interact better with a person with ADHD and improve communication and problem-solving skills. People who suffer from ADHD might also be suffering from other mental disorders, such depression or anxiety and could also have issues with substance abuse.