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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 understand why they have difficulties at work, at home and in their relationships. However, it can be difficult to determine a diagnosis since symptoms often overlap with other conditions. A health care provider or a mental health professional will evaluate the patient and run tests. Symptoms The person might not be aware that they suffer from ADHD until they reach the age of adulthood Perhaps because teachers or parents did not recognize symptoms until a younger age, or because the demands of college or work life brought out the disorder. Adults with ADHD who aren't treated are affected in their social, academic and work lives. Undiagnosed ADHD can lead to numerous issues including relationship problems as well as financial difficulties. In order to diagnose ADHD to diagnose it, a mental health professional will talk to the patient and review the patient's personal medical and mental health history, with particular attention paid to symptoms in different situations. The patient will describe how these symptoms impact his or her daily functioning and relationships. It is crucial that the patient is open about these symptoms, and that he or she not hold back due to feelings of shame or embarrassment. The mental health professional should also determine if these symptoms are related to other comorbidities, such as anxiety and depression that often coexist with ADHD. ADHD Diagnosis can cause ADHD symptoms worse and may interfere with treatment for the disorder. If a psychologist or psychiatrist feels that the symptoms of ADHD are influenced by other conditions, additional psychological, neuropsychological or learning disabilities tests could be used to help establish an accurate diagnosis. These tests can also be used to determine the degree of impairment in function that these conditions cause. The mental health professional will also ask to interview other important people such as spouses and siblings, to get a full picture of how the person is functioning. Diagnosis For adults the diagnosis of ADHD is usually made by a mental health care professional or physician who conducts a thorough diagnostic evaluation. This includes a detailed interview about the causes of the symptoms and their impact on daily functioning and the presence of any other mental health disorders that may co-occur with ADHD like mood disorders and anxiety. The practitioner may also ask to speak with significant others like the spouse or a close family friend, in order for them get more details. Being diagnosed with ADHD in adulthood can be a life-changing moment. The diagnosis provides adults with an explanation for the behaviors they believed were “normal”. It is often a relief knowing that they're not just lazy or forgetful; their problems are more complex. 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 assistance and treatment they require. To be eligible for an ADHD diagnosis, the person must have experienced the symptoms for at least 12 months, and they must cause significant impairment in a variety of environments, such as home, school, or work as well as with family members or friends; or with other activities. For adults aged 17 and older the number of necessary symptoms has been reduced to five, from the six required for children younger than 12 years old. A good relationship with your primary healthcare provider can be helpful in identifying ADHD. Many physicians regularly diagnose and treat ADHD in children. They can refer you to a mental health professional who is able to perform an assessment on adults. Treatment If someone suffering from ADHD is diagnosed, their life may change dramatically. They may finally discover solutions to their problems at the classroom, as well as in starting a new career, or even in relationships. A diagnosis can help relieve the shame that has accumulated for certain people throughout their lives. The first step in obtaining an diagnosis is speaking to a health care provider or mental health professional. They may ask about family history and conduct an examination to rule out conditions such as learning disabilities or sleep disorders which can cause symptoms that are similar to ADHD. They can also ask the patient to fill out a checklist of symptoms. In many instances the doctor will ask that the spouse or partner be interviewed during the assessment process. This allows the non ADHD spouse or partner to develop an understanding of their loved one's ADHD, and an empathetic attitude towards the symptoms. This is essential to improve relationships following diagnosis. If this isn't possible, the clinician can interview colleagues or friends who are familiar with the person. Medications are the main treatment options for adults with ADHD. Adult ADHD is treated with stimulants such as methylphenidate and Adderall and dextroamphetamine. Other medications, for instance Atomoxetine (Strattera®) and Guanfacine (Intuniv®, Tenex®) increase norepinephrine levels in the brain and may aid in the treatment of ADHD. Psychotherapy is a different alternative. Cognitive-behavioral therapies can assist patients learn skills to manage their ADHD symptoms. These include time management and self-regulation strategies, organizing strategies of emotions and behaviors, and coping techniques for self-doubt and negative criticism. Other therapies, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), help adults recognize automatic thoughts or irrational thinking that can lead to negative behavior and develop positive self-talk. Medication Many people have found that ADHD medication helps to alleviate their symptoms. This medicine is typically in the form of a stimulant and helps to increase activity in brain areas that regulate behavior and attention. Methylphenidate is the most popular medicine used for adults with ADHD is available in a variety of forms. It is available in immediate-release tablets or modified-release tablet forms that release the medication over the course of the day. Clonidine, another type of medicine works by reducing the brain activity. It can be taken as a pill or liquid. If treating adult patients suffering from ADHD, the psychotherapist or psychiatrist may look over the person's family and medical history to identify factors that can cause similar symptoms similar to ADHD. This review is important because some medical conditions, such as thyroid problems and seizure disorders can trigger symptoms similar to those of ADHD. In addition, certain drugs and nutritional supplements can also cause similar symptoms. During the examination it is likely that the person will be asked to describe their ADHD symptoms to a psychiatrist or therapist. They will be asked to fill in standardized ADHD rating scales and check lists and full psychological tests that assess working memory, executive functioning (abilities such as making decisions and planning), visual and spatial capabilities, and reasoning abilities. If the therapist believes that ADHD symptoms are affecting the quality of life of a person, he or she will recommend medication. In certain instances the therapist may ask the person's partner or spouse to speak with them about the effects of the symptoms of the patient on their relationship. This will help reduce blaming between individuals and result in better, more productive relationships. Counseling Receiving a diagnosis is a great relief for many adults suffering from ADHD. It's a chance to understand the reasons behind their struggles at school or at work, and learn how to overcome these issues. It's also a chance to change negative behaviors and build self-confidence. Counseling can be a great way to help you build a strong support system. Counseling for ADHD could include psychotherapy (or psychological therapy) and a variety behavior-based interventions. A therapist might make a chart to reward positive behavior and imposes penalties on bad ones. The therapist may also instruct the patient in skills to manage their symptoms, like relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditative yoga poses. Another benefit of counseling is helping people comprehend and accept their ADHD. It's difficult to admit you have problems with planning, organizing and paying attention. It can be embarrassing to tell co-workers and supervisors about your ADHD. Most teachers and bosses will provide accommodations to accommodate your needs. For example, they might allow you to use a computer for writing assignments instead of paper or provide more detailed explanations of the material in class. The therapist will also instruct you how to manage ADHD by using cognitive behavioral therapy. It is a structured type of talk therapy which assists you in changing negative behavior and thoughts into positive ones. Counseling for ADHD may also include family or marital therapy. It teaches family members how to better communicate and solve problems with someone who suffers from ADHD. People who suffer from ADHD often have other mental health disorders like anxiety or depression and may also suffer from substance abuse that can exacerbate their symptoms.