ADHD in Adults - Characterisation, Diagnosis and Treatment
The first step in getting treatment for ADHD is finding an expert in health care who can evaluate you. They will ask about your symptoms along with your family history, as well as other factors like stress and school or work-related issues.
They will use standardized behavior rating scales and checklists for assessing your symptoms. They can also conduct psychological, neuropsychological, or testing for learning disabilities.
Diagnosis
The symptoms of ADHD in adults are characterized by difficulty in concentrating in a focused manner, focusing on the task at hand and organising responsibilities. People suffering from ADHD typically avoid tasks that require a lot of attention and tend to put off tasks for a long time. This can make it difficult to stay on top of everyday tasks like finishing chores, paying bills or planning for future events. Adults with ADHD are also susceptible to frustration and emotional instability. This can cause mood swings and relationships problems.
The first step to get an assessment of ADHD is to talk to your primary care provider. You may be referred to psychiatrists for an evaluation. During the examination they will inquire about your symptoms and how they affect you at home, school or work. They will also inquire if you have other mental health issues and take into account your family history.
Your doctor will evaluate your symptoms and determine if you have any other conditions that may cause similar problems. The doctor will then suggest the best treatment plan which could include medication. The use of medication can lessen the severity of ADHD symptoms and you'll have to talk with your psychiatrist before you start taking medication. Your psychiatrist will also be able to pass the prescription to your GP, so they can track your progress and prescribe any modifications to the medication.
If you have been prescribed medication for ADHD it is important to see your psychiatrist on a regular basis to ensure that you are adhering to the correct treatment plan. You should see your psychiatrist within 30days of starting your medication, and then every month until you feel better.
People with ADHD are more likely to experience transfer and job loss drop in academic performance or drop outs in financial stability as well as strained relationships and addictions. With the right treatment those with ADHD can lead happy lives, with satisfying jobs and relationships. The key to success is identifying the right treatment program for you. It is essential to discuss your issues and symptoms, both with your doctor as well as with your colleagues and teachers.
The effects of medication
A person with ADHD is most likely to be treated with a combination of psychotherapy and medication. The right medication can lessen or eliminate symptoms that interfere with the quality of an adult's life and hinder them from achieving their potential. Talk therapy helps people learn how to better manage their symptoms.
The first step in evaluating ADHD is for the individual to talk with their primary care physician or mental health specialist. They can refer you to specialists in your area. Contacting a local ADHD group for a professional recommendation is also a great idea. Many insurance plans provide the names of professionals that are categorized by specialties. These can be used to locate one who can conduct an assessment.
A thorough assessment will include a description of the patient's symptoms, a review of the medical and psychiatric history, and a thorough discussion with the patient. The examiner may employ behavioral rating scales or ADHD symptoms checklists, and will request feedback from friends or family members. Sometimes, additional tests are used to determine if the person has ADHD. For example tests for cognitive and neuropsychological testing.
It is important to rule out other medical conditions that could mimic ADHD symptoms prior to making a final diagnosis. These include learning disorders, mood disorders anxiety disorders, head injuries thyroid problems, and the taking certain medications like steroids. Before determining a diagnosis, the examiner will carefully consider these possible explanations.
Stimulants and nonstimulant medications are used to treat ADHD among adults. The stimulants are the most frequently prescribed medications. They can assist people to focus and pay attention. They can enhance academic and work performance. They also help reduce depression and anxiety. The effects of stimulants may vary from person to individual and it may take some time to achieve the desired level.
Nonstimulant medications can be beneficial in treating ADHD in adults. They tend to be more affordable and have less side effects than stimulants. They are not as powerful as stimulants, and can have the potential for a "crash effect" in certain people. They also interact with other medications and can cause negative effects on certain medical conditions.
Treatments
Psychotherapy and medication are the primary treatments for ADHD among adults. The use of medication helps people focus better and less impulsive, which can enhance their lives. Psychotherapy helps people develop coping skills and manage their issues. It could also include family therapy and techniques for managing behavior, such as reward systems. Some researchers are exploring new ways to treat ADHD by using brain imaging and measures of how the brain solves problems.
As we age, we typically suffer from different symptoms. For example, inattentive symptoms become more pronounced in adulthood, while hyperactive-impulsive symptoms may decrease or disappear entirely. However, many who have ADHD continue to suffer from the same problems throughout their lives.
To diagnose ADHD in adults, a doctor must collect information about the person's childhood behavior and school experiences. They will usually ask the person to rate their own and other people's behavior on scales that are standardized or ADHD symptom checklists. They will also conduct a physical examination to rule out medical conditions, like thyroid disorders and seizures, that can cause similar symptoms.
The doctor will then suggest treatment options based on outcomes of the assessment. If the symptoms are mild they will likely prescribe stimulants. These drugs are designed to help people concentrate better and be less irritable which improves their performance in the workplace as well as at home, and in their relationships. People suffering from moderate to severe symptoms are likely to be prescribed a mixture of psychotherapy and medications.
If they have a parent with ADHD, or if there are other birth defects such as the birth weight being low or head trauma and head injuries, they are more likely to get diagnosed. They are more likely to be diagnosed when they're male. Researchers don't know the reason why certain people have a higher risk of developing ADHD. The condition could be caused by genetic or environmental factors. People who smoke, drink excessively or have food allergies are at greater risk of being diagnosed as having ADHD.
Support
Undiagnosed ADHD can make it difficult for adults to complete everyday tasks like getting up in the morning, getting ready for work, and arranging appointments on time. A few people with undiagnosed ADHD may also struggle with managing their personal relationships or keeping up with obligations at home and at work. Some people can benefit from long-term treatment using stimulant medication as well as psychotherapy.
Being diagnosed with untreated adhd in adults is an emotional experience. People who suffer from the disorder often feel relief at knowing that they're not "lazy," "unwilling", or'messy and that their problems are caused by an underlying issue. They may also feel annoyed or frustrated for not being diagnosed and treated earlier.
There are many organizations and services that can aid people suffering from the condition. They include psychotherapy, coaching and self-help resources. People with symptoms that cause difficulties at work might be eligible for support under the disability provisions of the employment law or Access to Work, depending on their situation.
The NIMH website has a list of useful organisations and resources for adults with ADHD. Some of these organizations provide low or no cost psychotherapy to those suffering from ADHD. Some offer education and help with strategies to manage the condition.
Talking therapies, for instance cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), can be helpful for people with ADHD. It involves identifying and challenging unhelpful thinking patterns, and also developing strategies for improving focus and impulse control. It is recommended to consult a mental health professional who has been trained in this area. It is recommended to find a doctor who has worked with people with ADHD or is willing to learn.
In the UK in the UK, the NHS provides information about treatments for ADHD on its website. The website also includes the list of local mental health services and helplines including those specially designed to help disabled people. Support groups can help individuals and families find assistance and a network. You can find these on the internet or through local support groups and other charities. Many organizations also run support groups specifically for adults suffering from ADHD.