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Getting a Diagnosis of ADHD in Adults Many adults aren't aware of ADHD symptoms. A diagnosis as an adult could open up treatment options. To be diagnosed with ADHD, you must have at least five persistent symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity-impulsivity. These symptoms should significantly interfere with daily functioning at home, work and socially. Talk therapy can improve the ability to communicate and problem solve. Counseling for families and marriage can be beneficial. Signs and symptoms If you're suffering from symptoms of ADHD it might seem that you're not living up to your potential. As an adult, you may be overwhelmed by the demands of your job and feel that you can't take on the numerous tasks ahead of you. You could be full-time at work or caring for elderly parents or children, or taking care of household chores. Your difficulty keeping up can cause embarrassment, anger, hopelessness and the loss of confidence. It's not your problem when you suffer from ADHD. But it's important to know that there are solutions to your issues. The first step to an assessment. A thorough psychiatric assessment can be performed by a health care specialist to diagnose ADHD in adults. This includes talking to you about your symptoms, having you complete standardized scales for assessing behavior and ADHD symptom checklists, and gathering details about your medical and psychopathological history. The doctor might inquire about the background of ADHD in your family. To qualify for a diagnosis of ADHD, you must have experienced at least five persistent symptoms of inattention and/or hyperactivity/impulsivity. These symptoms must have been present prior to age 12 and continue affecting your life. adhd diagnosed should also be having difficulty with these behaviors at least in two different environments such as school, work and social interactions. You may be late for appointments, make mistakes at work or at home and not be able to meet your obligations if your inattention is a problem. You might have trouble managing your health and finances and you may also have problems with tasks that are simple such as making sure you visit the doctor or taking your medication. People who suffer from ADHD are prone to making difficult situations worse by acting before they think. You might disrupt conversations with others and spit out answers to questions before they're finished or have trouble waiting your turn in line. Your impulsiveness could lead to risky activities, such as driving too quickly or spending money in a reckless manner. According to studies that have been conducted, environment and genetics are key factors in the development of ADHD. The symptoms are more likely to be inherited from families, and some researchers believe that issues with the central nervous system at key developmental points increase your chance of developing this condition. Diagnosis A health professional with an expertise in ADHD can help adults who are experiencing symptoms of the disorder. A typical assessment consists of an interview, a review of medical documents, school or work records, family medical histories, and a mental assessment. A trained professional may also conduct a physical exam and/or laboratory tests to determine if there are other conditions that may have similar symptoms. For an adolescent or adult to receive a diagnosis of ADHD symptoms must be present for at minimum six months, and cause significant impairment in everyday activities. People with undiagnosed or under-treated ADHD can struggle for the rest of their lives with chronic difficulties that could have been prevented or treated. This can cause to depression, family issues, financial stress or work-related stress, substance abuse, and even serious accidents, such as motor vehicle crashes. Many adults with undiagnosed ADHD are at risk of being misunderstood and criticized by friends, relatives and coworkers. They may be perceived as irresponsible, lazy or a poor employee, or just plain crazy. Undiagnosed ADHD can also increase the chance of depression and anxiety. Women are generally better in securing their ADHD symptoms than men, which may make it difficult for them to receive a proper diagnosis. They might resort to distractions or daydreaming to mask their impulsivity and inattention. They may also use methods and tools to help them overcome their lack of time management and disorganization. Women with ADHD might also have trouble in recognizing their symptoms, since they are more likely than men to suffer from hyperactive or inattention symptoms. It's important to remember that ADHD isn't a sign of intelligence or capability. It's simply a different approach to thinking and acting that could cause difficulties in certain settings or situations. Adults may experience different symptoms than children. However, the signs of ADHD in adults still match the criteria in the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, Fifth Edition (DSM-5)1. Treatment People who aren't diagnosed with ADHD may have difficulty getting organized, stay on top of school or work tasks and maintain healthy relationships. The symptoms can also affect everyday functioning and lead to emotional issues like depression, anxiety, or changes in mood. Hyperactive or impulsive people may appear restless, and they might try to accomplish a lot at once. They might not complete tasks or meet deadlines. They may have difficulty paying attention to others, which can result in miscommunications or problems with relationships. ADHD is often not recognized in childhood and many adults with the symptoms are not aware of it. They might have been viewed as a goof-off, dreamer, slacker or troublemaker instead of battling to stay ahead in school and life. As responsibilities increase in adulthood however, many who have ADHD find their symptoms grow worse. They're not able to manage all the balls that are flying – pursuing a career and caring for their family, while also keeping up with errands and housework, and maintaining romantic and social relationships. A health care professional or mental health professional will evaluate whether a person is suffering from ADHD. The evaluation includes a discussion with family members or friends who know the person, a physical examination, and a review a person's medical history. The person may be asked to fill out standard ADHD rating scales or an assessment checklist of symptoms. Psychological tests can be used to test executive and working memory as well as spatial and visual abilities. Adults with ADHD are usually treated with stimulant medications. These medications increase and balance levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. They can help people suffering from ADHD focus better, manage their lives and keep track of important information. They can also manage impulse-driven behaviors. Nonstimulant medications, such as antidepressants and atomoxetine, can be used to treat ADHD. They perform more slowly than stimulants, but nevertheless, they can improve symptoms. Patients with certain health problems such as high blood pressure or diabetes should consult their doctor before taking stimulants. Some adults with ADHD might benefit from individual therapy, self help groups or vocational counseling. These interventions can teach adults how to manage their symptoms, and how to build healthy school, family and workplace relationships. Clinical trials will also be conducted with some adults who suffer from ADHD. These studies aid scientists in learning more about the latest methods to identify, treat and prevent disorders like ADHD. Follow-up A thorough evaluation of ADHD in adults by using a variety of assessment instruments will improve the accuracy of diagnosis and minimize mistakes in diagnosis. The process typically involves an extended conversation with a psychiatrist or psychologist who is skilled in treating ADHD in adults. The examiner may also inquire about the background of your child's or your own health issues, family dynamics, and lifestyle choices. They may also review your medical records and conduct a physical examination. Many people who suffer from ADHD have other psychiatric disorders or medical conditions, such as depression and anxiety that must be treated. In fact, it is believed that those who suffer from ADHD are six times more likely to have mood disorders than others. People who suffer from ADHD also are more likely to be victims of using drugs. Adults with ADHD have a hard finding and keeping a job. They also face difficulties managing finances and juggling household chores. Adults with ADHD are at risk of developing other health problems, like heart disease, obesity and smoking. In addition, they are more likely to be prone to poor eating habits and have difficulties forming and maintaining romantic relationships. In one study, people with ADHD who were treated in minor mental health facilities as children were diagnosed with ADHD into adulthood. The sample size was small. An enlargement of the sample would provide more information about the clinical course of ADHD in adulthood and its relationship to other psychiatric disorders. Research has proven that ADHD is a long-lasting permanent disorder that is seen in adults. It has a negative effect on the quality of life, and can result in a range of comorbidities, like learning disabilities, mood disorders and alcohol and drug abuse. If not treated, ADHD increases the risk of incarceration or divorce, as well as an economic disadvantage for people with ADHD. It is advised that all adults with an uncontrolled or new diagnosis of symptoms of ADHD be evaluated within 30 days and every month thereafter until their symptoms are managed. Adults suffering from ADHD might require receiving pharmacotherapy or psychotherapy throughout their lives.