Adults Diagnosed With ADHD
People with ADHD struggle to control their emotions, stay organized or follow instructions. Their behavior can cause problems at work, as well as in their home life.
There is a higher incidence of academic failure, and turnover in the workplace. They also have more trouble in their relationships with other people. Treatment options include medication, behavior strategies, and counseling.
Diagnosis
A lot of people with ADHD are diagnosed as children, but the disorder can also be diagnosed in adults. If the symptoms are severe enough to cause impairment in several aspects of life, a psychiatric provider can be able to diagnose ADHD. The American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition Text Revision provides guidelines that doctors follow to determine the diagnosis.
It's important for a person who is being assessed for ADHD to speak honestly and openly with their evaluator. People who feel ashamed or afraid of criticism could not be able to provide accurate information about their problems which could result in inaccurate evaluations and incorrect treatment recommendations. In addition to speaking openly individuals should ensure the person they choose to evaluate is certified by a recognized professional association and has experience treating ADHD in adults.
During an assessment, the evaluator could inquire about symptoms the patient is experiencing. The evaluation will also inquire about the person's background and their present lifestyle. They will also use different tests to determine the degree of impairment and the degree of functioning in the life of a person. A physical examination is not required in most cases however some evaluators may ask about any health issues and any medication or supplements used.
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 then suggests the best treatment plan based upon their opinion.
In most instances, medication is the first step in treatment. Doctors may prescribe methylphenidates and amphetamines to treat ADHD. The kind of medication prescribed will be based on the needs of the individual, and a doctor will decide which options are best for their patients.
Cognitive behavioral therapy can assist those who have difficulty managing their ADHD symptoms. It helps them learn to cope better with their symptoms and improve their performance. They can also try lifestyle changes like exercising more or eating more nutritious food. They may also think about finding a therapist who is specialized in working adults with ADHD.
Medicines
People who are diagnosed with ADHD are often able to manage their symptoms using medications and other treatments. They could also benefit from counseling and other lifestyle adjustments. Many adults with ADHD can achieve fulfilling careers, relationships and families. Certain of their primary ADHD symptoms, such as impulsivity and inattention, can even be turned into benefits. It is crucial for people with this disorder to seek treatment because untreated ADHD can cause issues with employment, academic difficulties and other mental health problems.
The medications used to treat adults with ADHD can include stimulants and non-stimulants. The stimulants increase levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters, which regulate attention and behavior. Methylphenidate is the most frequently prescribed stimulant for adults suffering from ADHD. It comes in various forms, including immediate-release tablets and modified-release (longer-lasting) tablets. Atomoxetine and certain antidepressants are non-stimulant drugs that can be effective for adults suffering from ADHD, particularly in cases where stimulants are not a good fit or do not help symptoms.
A complete psychiatric evaluation for ADHD includes descriptions of the symptoms by the person, family members and friends, as well as information about the person's childhood behavior and school experiences as well as a review of the patient's medical background, a physical exam, psychological tests, laboratory tests and a discussion with the individual and their caregivers. A special type of counseling called cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help people with ADHD manage their symptoms and modify negative mental patterns that contribute to their problems. CBT is often combined psychotherapy, in which a therapist talks to you about your emotions and relationship problems.
Patients with ADHD are able to participate in clinical trials and research studies that examine new ways of preventing, detecting, or treating conditions and diseases. These studies are conducted with the assistance of healthy patients and volunteers who are willing to take part. Participating in clinical studies is not a guarantee of better health. However, it will help researchers find new methods to treat or prevent illnesses such as ADHD. Speak to your doctor about whether a trial is a good fit for you. NIMH's Clinical Trials webpage provides information about current studies.
Counseling
Getting diagnosed with ADHD as an adult can be a stressful experience. Adults diagnosed with ADHD might have regrets over the years because of the lack of opportunities at the workplace and school, strained relationships, and failed attempts at establishing the foundation of a family.
Psychosocial therapy is typically used in conjunction with medication to treat adult ADHD. Psychosocial therapies aid people in understanding how their ADHD affects their lives, and they can help them change behaviors that aren't effective for them. Changing these habits can be hard however, it's vital as it can bring about improvements in many aspects of the person's life.
These types of therapy can be carried out in an environment that is a group, such as a support group for ADHD. The kind of therapy that is appropriate for an individual will depend on their needs, such as whether they need skills training or counseling.
When searching for an expert in mental health it is important to inquire about his or her level of expertise and training in dealing with ADHD. Many professionals will be willing to share information regarding their education and experience. Anyone who is unwilling to answer any questions is suspect.
In an evaluation for ADHD an expert will usually interview the person and inquire about their past with the disorder. The evaluator may also ask to speak to parents, teachers or other close relatives to explain the behavior of the individual in greater detail. It's important to collect as much information as is possible from those suffering from ADHD since they usually have a vague memory of their childhood.
The therapist may recommend psychological or neuropsychological testing, depending on the situation. These tests will help the psychologist determine whether there are any coexisting conditions that could be contributing to symptoms. how to diagnose adhd can also give an accurate picture of how the disorder is affecting the person's performance. The therapist might also suggest some lifestyle changes like adding more physical exercise. Those whose symptoms interfere with their school or work may be eligible to receive accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Support
Adults suffering from ADHD might notice that it impacts their personal and professional lives. The symptoms can affect their relationships, and they may have trouble finding and keeping jobs due to the lack of organizational skills and an inability to stay on top of task to task. The disorder is not an ongoing condition and can be treated by medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle adjustments.
In adults, hyperactivity is less common, but inattention, disorganization, and other signs of ADHD become more prominent. The disorder is affecting people of all ages, and is typically diagnosed in childhood, however it can be observed in adults too. It is important to keep in mind that the disorder has to cause significant distress in several areas of life before it can be diagnosed.
Mild ADHD is not as disruptive or noticeable as severe or moderate ADHD symptoms. People who suffer from the more severe versions of the condition have trouble working at work and in their relationships. They might have difficulty maintaining employment, or even getting one. They might also have housing and financial issues.
Treatment for adults with ADHD may include psychotherapy or cognitive therapy which aids patients in learning to better manage their behavior and symptoms. These therapies also aid in identifying and modifying the distorted thinking patterns that contribute to impulsivity and disorganization. The aim is to help the patient to develop self-regulation and self-control.
Many people with ADHD are able to benefit from lifestyle changes as well as cognitive and behavior therapy. Being a good sleeper, eating a healthy diet, and scheduling regular meals can aid in concentration and mood. Exercise can also help as it reduces the impulsivity. Consume foods that are high in complex carbohydrates and protein to boost the mood and focus. People suffering from ADHD are notoriously poor at estimating the time it takes to complete the task. They should set alarms and allow themselves more time than normal.
Adults with ADHD are also able to participate in clinical trials that test out new methods to treat, diagnose or prevent the disorder. These studies involve healthy volunteers and those with the disorder. Speak to your doctor about these studies.