adult adhd diagnosis uk
For some people, a diagnosis of adult ADHD is the first step toward getting treatment. They may be unhappy at work, in their homes, or in their social lives due to symptoms such as fidgeting or forgetting things.
Getting diagnosed with ADHD as an adult often involves undergoing an extensive evaluation that includes conducting interviews with the person and family members using standardized tests and rating scales. It typically includes a physical exam, as well.
Signs and symptoms
A diagnosis of ADHD may change the course of many adult lives. It can help them understand why they have been through so much and make sense of their past choices. It may also give them hope for the future. Whether you are experiencing difficulty in locating your keys, feeling that you'll never be able to complete your task or are labeled as unreliable or lazy, getting a diagnosis is the first step toward finding the treatment that works for you.
For most adults, symptoms appear in several areas of their lives and are more prevalent in one place in comparison to another. They may be restless and impulsive at school, but struggle to keep up with work. They may not remember to keep appointments or underestimate the amount of time required to complete their work. They might have difficulty making friends or engage in frequent fights with their spouses. If these issues are serious, they can interfere with daily life and lead to anxiety or depression.
While it's essential to consider a diagnosis of ADHD but it's equally important to determine the other factors that could be contributing to the symptoms. Stress, mental health problems and certain medications are often the cause of symptoms that are similar. To ensure that the underlying problem is treated an in-depth evaluation by a qualified professional is necessary.
Unlike children, adults with ADHD rarely exhibit the more prominent signs of hyperactivity. Hyperactivity is less obvious and is manifested as fidgeting or a difficulty in sitting. Women who suffer from ADHD tend to display these symptoms more often because they are able to hide their inattentive behaviors in their work and social lives.
During the exam, the doctor will look at the patient's medical history and how the symptoms affect their daily lives. They will also inquire about the family history of the patient and, if they are able, interview a relative to get their opinion on childhood behavior. They might also conduct psycho-, neuropsychological or learning disabilities testing. In certain cases physical examinations might be required to rule out certain diseases that may mimic the symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosis
It's important for adults who believe they may have ADHD to discuss their symptoms with a health care professional, especially if their problems stem from school or work. Primary care providers may refer patients to mental health professionals who have experience in adult ADHD evaluations. Hamdani states that professionals who deal with adults suffering from ADHD should be willing and able to share information about their training and experiences. Hamdani says that anyone who is hesitant to disclose the information needed to be viewed with suspicion.
A diagnosis of adult ADHD can be a life-changing event. It provides an explanation to years of frustration and self-criticism for some. Some people are relieved that they have an explanation for their struggles in life, or that they weren't "just in their heads."
In most cases, an adult with ADHD is diagnosed by a thorough interview with a qualified professional. This includes a review of the patient's medical background, family and personal background. The doctor will also ask the patient to rate their behavior on one or a variety of different ADHD scales for behavioral assessment. These ratings are from research that compares behaviors of people with ADHD to those of people who do not have the disorder.
The person will be asked about the symptoms and how they impact their lives. In order to meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD, an adult must have at least five persistent symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity-impulsivity that cause significant impairment in at least two settings (such as home, school and work) and that are not better explained by other factors.
Comorbidities are common in those who have been diagnosed as having adult ADHD. Common comorbidities that are associated with ADHD include depression, anxiety disorders and alcohol or drug abuse. Some experts suggest these comorbidities develop as maladaptive coping mechanisms to deal with the frustrations that are commonly caused by untreated ADHD.
It's also important to note that ADHD is more prevalent in men than women, and it can be difficult for many people who suffer from the disorder to be diagnosed due to long-held prejudices about the symptoms and the impact they have on men versus women. Some women can mask their symptoms more effectively, which can lead them to being diagnosed later or to an incorrect diagnosis.
Treatment
Adults who are diagnosed of ADHD may find it helpful to speak with an expert in mental health particularly one who has expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD. This individual can teach the adult strategies for managing their symptoms and improve their performance at home, work or school. They can also help adults learn to understand why their behavior is different and what triggers them.
A mental health professional should examine an adult thoroughly because they may have other disorders that are similar to ADHD. This can include a detailed description and scales filled out by the person who is the client or by other people who are familiar with him/her as well as a psychiatric and family history, as well as an exhaustive physical exam.
It is crucial to conduct a thorough examination to determine if an adult suffers from a comorbid condition like depression or anxiety. These conditions can trigger the symptoms of ADHD and make treatment more challenging. A mental health professional may also conduct neurologic or cognitive tests to determine how the brain works and to rule out any other causes, like an illness that affects the body or a learning disabilities.
Adults with ADHD are usually treated through psychotherapy (psychotherapy), and educational programs. Individual talk therapy can help an adult develop confidence in themselves and deal with the emotional baggage that typically comes with the diagnosis of ADHD. Behavioral therapies can also improve organization, time management and impulse control and may tackle the impact of stressors on a person's ability to perform.
Some individuals who suffer from ADHD benefit from group therapy. This type of therapy gives you the opportunity to meet people who face similar issues and discuss how to overcome these challenges. These groups are usually organized by an advocacy or support group.
There is also a treatment option for many adults suffering from ADHD. There are a variety of medications available, including stimulants (such as methylphenidate, which is sold under the name Ritalin) that boost levels of norepinephrine inside the brain. Others help to regulate moods and decrease impulsive behavior, like antidepressants or the anti-psychotic drug bupropion (Wellbutrin). Your Mercy doctor will be able to discuss all your treatment options.
Support
Many people diagnosed with ADHD suffer from the condition for a long time, without realizing it. They may seek an assessment because they are annoyed by daily challenges like forgetting appointments or making a mistake at work, or ignoring the demands of friends and family. They often feel a sense of relief when they are given a diagnosis.
A mental health professional can perform an ADHD evaluation, but the primary doctor is usually an excellent starting point. If necessary, the doctor may refer the patient to an expert. A psychiatrist, psychiatric nurse or psychologist may also be able to evaluate ADHD in adults. A lot of insurance plans include professionals according to their specialties, which can help people locate a health care provider that is experienced in treating ADHD among adults.
During the evaluation the mental health specialist will ask questions about the person's behavior, including past problems and how they have been affected by their ADHD symptoms. It is crucial to be honest and open during the assessment, so that the mental health professional can provide an accurate assessment.
Psychotherapy, or psychological counseling can help people manage their issues and improve their relationships. Behavioral therapy, for instance cognitive behavioral therapy, can teach people specific skills to change their thinking patterns and behaviors. The combination of therapy and medication can help to reduce the symptoms of the disorder.
Social support groups are beneficial to many adult ADHD patients. The opportunity to share their experiences with others who are facing similar challenges can be a great source of inspiration and encouragement. Some of these groups are online and are open to everyone who suffers from ADHD. Some groups are specifically for populations, such as African Americans with ADHD, couples afflicted by the disorder or those who identify as gay or lesbian.
Some people may feel embarrassed or ashamed about their symptoms. This may cause them to be reluctant to seek assistance. However, a doctor must explain that ADHD is not an indication of insufficiency or failure.