Adults Diagnosed With ADHD
People with ADHD struggle to control their emotions, remain organized or follow directions. diagnosing adhd in adults can cause problems in their work and family life.
There is a higher incidence of academic failure and turnover in the workplace. They also have more difficulty in their relationships. Treatment includes medication, behavior strategies and counseling.
Diagnosis
Many people with ADHD are diagnosed as children, however the disorder can be diagnosed in adults. If the symptoms are severe enough to cause impairment in several aspects of life, a psychiatric provider is able to diagnose ADHD. The American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition Text Revision provides guidelines providers use to establish a diagnosis.
It is important that the person who is undergoing an evaluation for ADHD communicates honestly and candidly with their evaluator. People who are embarrassed or afraid of criticism may not give complete information about their concerns, which can result in inaccurate assessments and untrue treatment recommendations. People should not only speak openly but also ensure that their evaluator has been licensed by a recognized professional body and has a track record of treating ADHD in adults.
During an evaluation, the evaluator might inquire about the symptoms the patient is experiencing. The evaluation will also inquire about the person's history and current life. They may also conduct various tests to determine the level of impairment as well as the level of functioning in a person's life. A physical examination is not mandatory however some evaluators might ask about any health issues and any supplements or medications that are taken.
The evaluator will then use the gathered information to determine if the symptoms are due to inattentive ADHD, hyperactive/impulsive ADHD or combined ADHD. The evaluator will then recommend a treatment plan based on their assessment.
In most instances, medications are the first step to treat. Doctors may prescribe methylphenidates and amphetamines to treat ADHD. The kind of medication prescribed will depend on the individual and can be discussed by a doctor.
People who have difficulty coping with their ADHD can benefit from cognitive therapy for behavioral disorders that helps people develop skills to improve their functioning and manage their symptoms. They may also implement lifestyle changes like eating a healthier diet or incorporating more exercise. They might also consider seeking out a therapist who specializes in working with people with ADHD.
Medicines
People who have been diagnosed with ADHD are usually in a position to manage their symptoms with medication and other therapies. Counseling and other changes to lifestyle can also prove beneficial. Many adults with ADHD are able to have fulfilling jobs, relationships and families. Certain of their primary ADHD symptoms, like impulsivity and inattention, can even be turned into benefits. Adults with ADHD should seek treatment because if they don't get treatment, ADHD can lead to academic issues as well as employment issues and other mental health issues.
Medications used to treat adult ADHD may include stimulants and non-stimulants. Stimulants boost and balance levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters, which regulate attention and behavior. Methylphenidate is the most commonly prescribed stimulant for adults with ADHD. It comes in various forms, including tablets that release immediately and modified-release (longer-lasting) tablets. Atomoxetine and certain antidepressants are nonstimulant medications that can be effective for adults with ADHD particularly if stimulants are not tolerated or do not improve symptoms.
A thorough psychiatric assessment for ADHD includes descriptions of the symptoms by the person, their family members and friends, details about the person's childhood behavior and school experiences and a thorough examination of the person's medical background, a physical exam and laboratory tests, psychological testing and an interview with the individual and their caregivers. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a specialized form of counseling, is able to aid people suffering from ADHD manage their symptoms and alter negative thinking patterns that contribute to their difficulties. CBT is often paired with psychotherapy, which involves talking to a therapist about relationships and emotional issues.
Patients with ADHD can take part in clinical trials and research studies that examine new methods of preventing, detecting, or treating conditions and diseases. These studies are conducted with the assistance of healthy patients and volunteers who consent to participate. Participating in a clinical study does not guarantee better health. However, it will help researchers discover new ways to treat or prevent illnesses such as ADHD. Consult your physician about whether a trial is a good fit for you. NIMH's Clinical Trials webpage provides information on current studies.
Counseling
Being diagnosed with ADHD as an adult can be a challenging experience. Adults diagnosed with ADHD might have regrets over the years because of missing out on opportunities in school and work, difficult relationships, and unsuccessful attempts at starting a family.
Psychosocial therapy is usually employed in conjunction with medication to treat adult ADHD. Psychosocial therapies aid people in understanding how their ADHD affects their lives, and they may teach them to change their behavior that isn't effective for them. It isn't easy to change these habits, but it's crucial because it can enhance many aspects of someone's life.
These types of therapies can be done on a one-to-one basis or in group sessions, such as an ADHD support group. The kind of therapy that a person requires will depend on what they require in terms of whether they require skills training or counseling.
When looking for an expert in mental health, it's important to ask about their level of expertise and training with ADHD. Many professionals are willing to share information about their training and experience. Anyone who is reluctant to answer questions is likely to be suspect.
In an ADHD assessment, a professional typically interviews the person to understand their background of the disorder. The evaluator might also ask to speak to parents, teachers or other close relatives to discuss the personality of the person in more specific terms. People suffering from ADHD tend to have blurry memories of their childhoods, so it is crucial to collect as much data as possible about their past.
Based on the circumstances the therapist could suggest neuropsychological or psychological tests. These tests can help the therapist determine whether there are any co-existing issues which could be the cause of the symptoms, and they can also provide an accurate assessment of the extent to which the disorder is affecting the person's functioning. The therapist may also suggest lifestyle changes, such as a rise in physical activity. Those whose symptoms interfere with their school or work may be eligible for accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Support
Adults with ADHD might notice that it has an impact on their work and personal life. They may experience difficulties in their relationships, and may experience difficulty obtaining and keeping an employment due to a lack of organizational skills and a tendency of being able to jump from task to task. The condition isn't permanent and can be treated with medication, psychotherapy and lifestyle adjustments.
In adults, hyperactivity is less common however, inattention, disorganization, and other symptoms of ADHD become more prominent. The disorder affects all age groups, and is typically diagnosed in childhood, however it can be seen in adults as well. It is crucial to remember that the disorder needs to cause significant distress across multiple areas of life in order to be recognized as a disorder.
People who have mild ADHD can perform well in school and at home, but their symptoms are not as evident or disruptive like those of adults who have severe or moderate symptoms. The more severe forms of ADHD can lead to difficulties at work and in relationships. They might have difficulty sustaining work or even obtaining work and may have problems with their finances and managing their housing.
Psychotherapy or cognitive therapy may be utilized to assist people with ADHD improve their control over their symptoms and behavior. These therapies also assist them in recognizing and changing distorted thinking patterns that contribute to impulsivity and disorganization. The goal is to teach the patient to develop more self-regulation and independence.
Many adults with ADHD may benefit from lifestyle changes in addition to cognitive and behavior therapy. Good sleeping habits, a healthy diet, and regular meals can help improve mood and concentration. Exercise can reduce the impulsivity of people and improve their mood. Add snacks high in complex carbohydrates and protein to boost concentration and mood. People with ADHD are notorious for being bad at estimating the time it takes to complete tasks, so they should set alarms or give themselves more time than they normally do.
Some adults with ADHD also participate in clinical trials to try new ways to prevent, diagnose or treat the disorder. These trials include healthy people as well as those suffering from the disorder. Talk to your health professional about these studies.