Adults Diagnosed With ADHD
ADHD can make it difficult for people with ADHD to control their emotions, remain organized, or follow directions. Their behavior could cause issues in their work and family life.
They have higher rates of academic failure and job loss. They also have a greater difficulty in their relationships with others. Treatment options include medication, behavior strategies, and counseling.
Diagnosis
Many people suffering from ADHD are diagnosed as children, however ADHD can also be diagnosed in adults. If the symptoms are severe enough to cause significant impairment in multiple aspects of life, a psychiatrist is able to diagnose ADHD. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition Text Revision of the American Psychiatric Association provides guidelines for doctors to determine a diagnosis.
It is essential that the person who is undergoing an evaluation for ADHD communicates openly and honestly with their evaluator. People who are ashamed or fearful of criticism could not be able to provide complete information regarding their problems, which could lead them to inaccurate evaluations and incorrect treatment recommendations. People should not only speak openly but also ensure that their evaluator has been certified by a reputable professional association and has a track record of treating ADHD for adults.
During an assessment, the examiner might inquire about the symptoms the person is experiencing. The evaluator will also ask questions about the person's background and current life. They may also conduct various tests to determine the level of impairment and the degree of functioning in the life of a person. A physical exam is usually not required, however some examiners may request an account of any health concerns and the use of any medications or supplements.
The evaluator will then use the gathered information to determine if the symptoms are due to inattentive ADHD, hyperactive/impulsive ADHD or combined ADHD. Based on the evaluation's findings they will suggest an appropriate treatment program.
In the majority of cases, medication is the first step in treatment. Doctors may prescribe methylphenidates or amphetamines to treat ADHD. The kind of medication prescribed will depend on the individual and can be discussed by a doctor.
Cognitive behavioral therapy can aid people who are having difficulty managing their ADHD symptoms. It helps them learn to better manage their symptoms and improve their functioning. They can also make lifestyle changes such as eating healthier and getting more exercise. They might also consider finding a therapist that is specifically trained in working adults suffering from ADHD.
Medicines
People who have been diagnosed with ADHD are often in a position to manage their symptoms with medication and other treatments. Counseling and other lifestyle modifications could also prove beneficial. Many people with ADHD are able to have fulfilling careers, relationships, and families. Certain of their primary ADHD symptoms, such as inattention and impulsivity, could even be turned into advantages. It is essential for those suffering from this disorder to seek treatment as untreated ADHD can result in problems with schooling, job issues and other mental health problems.
Medications used to treat adults with ADHD can include stimulants and non-stimulants. Stimulants increase and balance levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters, which regulate behavior and attention. Methylphenidate is the most frequently prescribed stimulant for people suffering from ADHD. It comes in many forms, such as immediate-release tablets or modified-release (longer lasting) tablets. Atomoxetine and other antidepressants are non-stimulant medications that may be effective for adults with ADHD especially when stimulants aren't tolerated or do not alleviate symptoms.
A thorough psychiatric evaluation for ADHD includes descriptions of the symptoms by the person, family members and friends, information about the person's childhood behaviors and school experiences, a review of the patient's medical history, a physical exam and laboratory tests, psychological testing and an interview with the person and their caregivers. A specific kind of counseling known as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help people with ADHD manage their symptoms and change their negative thinking patterns that contribute to their problems. CBT is often combined with psychotherapy, which is talking to a therapist about relationship and emotional issues.
People suffering from ADHD are eligible to participate in clinical trials as well as research studies that investigate new ways of preventing, detecting or treating illnesses and conditions. These studies are conducted by healthy participants and patients who are willing to take part. Participating in a clinical trial does not guarantee better health. However, adhd diagnoses will aid researchers in finding new methods to treat or prevent ailments such as ADHD. Talk to your doctor about clinical trials and if one might be appropriate for you. NIMH's Clinical Trials page provides information on current studies.
Counseling
It isn't easy to receive an ADHD diagnosis as an adult. Adults who receive a diagnosis have regrets over the years for missed opportunities at work and school, troubled relationships and failed attempts to start a family life or deal with financial issues due to the disorder being untreated for so long.
Treatment for adults with ADHD often includes psychosocial therapy in addition to medication. Psychosocial therapies help people understand how their ADHD affects their lives, and they might help them modify behaviors that aren't working for them. It can be challenging to change these habits, but it is crucial because it can enhance many aspects of a person's life.
These kinds of therapies can be performed in a one-to-one setting or in group sessions such as an ADHD support group. The kind of therapy appropriate for an individual will depend on their specific needs, such as whether they need skills training or counseling.
When looking for a mental health professional it is important to inquire about their degree of expertise and training for those suffering from ADHD. Many professionals are pleased to discuss their education and experience. Anyone who refuses to answer questions is suspect.
When evaluating for ADHD, the professional will usually interview the person and ask about their history with the disorder. The evaluator might also request to speak to parents, teachers or other close friends who can describe the individual's behavior in more detail. People who suffer from ADHD typically have sporadic memories of their childhoods. Therefore, it's important to gather as much information as you can about their past.
Depending on the situation, the therapist might suggest neuropsychological or psychological tests. These tests will 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 degree to which the disorder is affecting the person's functioning. The therapist may also suggest lifestyle changes, such as a rise in physical activity. The Americans with Disabilities Act may offer accommodations for people who suffer from disabilities that affect their work or school.
Support
Adults who suffer from ADHD typically find that it impacts their personal and professional lives. The symptoms can affect their relationships, and they might struggle to get and keep jobs due to an inability to organize and a tendency to jump from task to task. The disorder isn't permanent and can be dealt with 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 people of all ages, and it is usually diagnosed during childhood, although it can be found in adults as well. It is important to remember that the disorder has to cause significant distress across a variety of areas of life to be diagnosed.
People who have mild ADHD are able to perform well at school and at home, but their symptoms aren't as evident or disruptive like those of adults who have severe or moderate symptoms. The more severe forms of ADHD can lead to issues at work and in relationships. They may have difficulty sustaining work, or even obtaining one. They may also be suffering from housing or financial problems.
Cognitive therapy or psychotherapy can be utilized to help adults with ADHD better manage their symptoms and behaviors. These therapies assist patients in recognizing and alter distorted thinking patterns that cause in impulsivity and disorganization. The goal is for the patient to develop self-regulation and independence.
Many adults suffering from ADHD can benefit from lifestyle changes as well as cognitive and behavior therapy. Having diagnosed with adhd and eating a balanced diet and arranging regular meals can improve concentration and mood. Exercise can also reduce the impulsivity of people and improve their mood. Adding snacks that are high in complex carbohydrates and protein can improve mood and focus. People suffering from ADHD are notoriously inept at estimating the amount of time it takes to finish a task. They should set alarms and allow themselves more time than they normally do.
Adults who suffer from ADHD are also able to participate in clinical trials that test out new ways to diagnose, treat or treat the disorder. These trials involve healthy volunteers and people who have the disorder. Talk to your doctor about these studies.