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Getting a Diagnosis of ADHD in Adults Many adults aren't aware of their ADHD symptoms. A diagnosis as an adult can open up treatment options. To be diagnosed with ADHD, you must have at least five persistent symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity-impulsivity. These symptoms must affect daily functioning, at home, at work, and socially. Talk therapy can help improve the communication skills and problem solving abilities. Marital and family counseling can be beneficial as well. Signs and symptoms If you're suffering from symptoms of ADHD it might seem as if you're not living up to your potential. As an adult, you may be overwhelmed by the responsibilities you have and feel you're unable manage the numerous tasks ahead of you. You could be working full time and caring for your children or an aging parent and trying to handle household chores and finances. Your inability to keep up with the pace can lead to frustration and embarrassment. You might also feel depressed and lose confidence. You may even be embarrassed. It's not a problem if you have ADHD. It's important to realize that there are solutions to your problems. The first step is a diagnosis. A health professional can identify ADHD in adults by performing an exhaustive psychiatric assessment. adhd diagnosis uk adults involves speaking with you about symptoms, requiring you complete standardized behavior rating scales and ADHD symptoms lists and obtaining information about your medical and mental health history. The provider may also ask you about your family history of ADHD. 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 the age of 12 and continue affecting your life. You must also have difficulty with these behavior in multiple situations, like at school, work as well as in your social interactions. If your inattention is a serious problem, you might skip appointments, make careless mistakes at work or at home and not be able to meet your responsibilities. You might have difficulty managing your health and finances and may have a hard time with simple tasks, such as taking medication, or going to the doctor for checkups. People with ADHD are prone to making difficult situations worse by acting before they think. You could interrupt conversations with other people, blurt out answers to questions before you're completed, or struggle to wait your turn in line. adhd diagnosis uk adults might result in risky activities, such as driving too quickly or spending money in a reckless manner. According to research that have been conducted, environment and genetics are key factors in the development ADHD. The symptoms are more likely to run in families and some scientists believe that problems with the central nervous system at key developmental points increase your chances of developing this disorder. Diagnosis A health care professional who specializes in ADHD can assist in evaluating adults who exhibit symptoms of the disorder. An evaluation typically includes an interview and review of medical history, school or work records along with family medical history and a mental health screening. A specialist may also conduct a physical exam and/or laboratory tests to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms. A diagnosis of ADHD is only given to an adult or adolescent if symptoms have been present for six months or more and are causing significant impairments in the daily routine. Undiagnosed or neglected ADHD can lead to long-term problems which could have been prevented or treated. This can lead to depression, family problems, work-related or financial stress, substance abuse and even serious accidents, such as motor vehicle accidents. Undiagnosed ADHD can cause misinterpretations by family members, friends, and coworkers. They could be perceived by others as lazy, irresponsible or even a bad employee. In addition, people who have undiagnosed ADHD are more at risk of developing depression and anxiety. Women tend to be better in hiding their ADHD symptoms than men, which may make it difficult for them to get an accurate diagnosis. They may employ strategies to hide their inattention or impulsivity, like the frequent distractions and daydreaming or use tools to help them cope with their lack of organization and poor time management skills. Women who suffer from ADHD might also have difficulty diagnosing their own symptoms, as they are more likely to experience symptoms of inattention, not the impulsivity or hyperactivity. It's important to understand that ADHD isn't a sign of intelligence or capacity. It's merely an alternative way of thinking and behave that may cause challenges in certain situations. For adults, it can be difficult to identify ADHD because the symptoms could have changed as they became older. However, symptoms of ADHD in adults still meet the criteria set forth in the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, Fifth Edition (DSM-5)1. Treatment Undiagnosed ADHD can make it difficult for people to stay organized and complete their work or school assignments and maintain healthy relationships with others. Symptoms also can interfere with daily functioning and cause emotional issues like depression, anxiety or changes in mood. People who suffer from hyperactivity or impulsive subtypes of the disorder may seem agitated and attempt to complete multiple things at once, failing to finish tasks or meet deadlines. They may not pay attention to others, which can result in miscommunications or relationship problems. Symptoms of the disorder often remain unnoticed in childhood, and many adults with the disorder do not know they have ADHD. They may have been labeled as a goof-off, dreamer or a slacker instead of struggling to keep up in school and daily life. Many people who suffer from ADHD experience increasing symptoms as their responsibilities increase. They're unable to handle all the balls they're trying to keep in the air—pursuing an occupation, caring for family members, keeping up with housework and errands, and working on social and romantic relationships. A health care professional or mental health professional will determine whether a person has ADHD. The evaluation usually includes conversations with family members or friends who know the person well and a physical examination, and a review of a person's medical and mental health history. The person could also be asked to fill out the standardized ADHD rating scales or a symptom checklist. Psychological testing can be used to measure executive function, working memory and spatial and visual abilities. Adults with ADHD are usually treated with stimulant medications. They balance and increase levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters. They can help people suffering from ADHD improve their focus, organize their lives, recall important information and tasks, and control the impulsive behavior. Other treatments for ADHD include non-stimulant drugs like atomoxetine or antidepressants. They work more slowly than stimulants but still improve the symptoms of ADHD. People who have certain health issues, such as diabetes or high blood pressure must consult with their doctor before taking stimulants. Some adults with ADHD might benefit from behavior therapy, coaching group, self-help groups or vocational counseling. These programs can teach adults how to manage their symptoms and to establish healthy family, school and workplace relationships. Clinical trials will also be conducted with some adults who suffer from ADHD. These studies allow scientists to learn more about new ways to diagnose, treat and prevent disorders like ADHD. Follow-up A thorough assessment of adult ADHD using a variety of assessment tools can improve the accuracy of diagnosis and reduce the likelihood of a misdiagnosis. A psychologist or psychiatrist who has experience in treating ADHD in adult patients will often conduct an lengthy interview. The examiner may also inquire about the background of your child's or your own health issues, family dynamics, and lifestyle choices. They will also look over your previous medical records and perform physical examination. Many people suffering from ADHD also have other medical or psychiatric conditions like anxiety and depression, which need to be treated. In fact, it's thought that people with 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 substance abuse. Adults with ADHD have a tough time finding and keeping jobs. They also have a harder time managing finances and keeping track of household chores. Adults with ADHD are more at risk for developing other health problems, including heart disease, obesity, and smoking. They are also more likely to be prone to bad eating habits and have trouble forming and maintaining relationships with their partners. In one study, people were diagnosed with ADHD after being treated in minor mental health facilities as children. However, the sample size was very small. A larger sample size would have provided more information about the clinical course and relationship of ADHD in adults with other psychiatric conditions. Research has proven ADHD to be a long-lasting and persistent problem for adults. It can have a negative effect on quality of living and can lead to other issues like mood disorders learning disabilities, addiction to alcohol and other drugs. Untreated ADHD increases the risk of incarceration and divorce as well as an economic disadvantage for those suffering from ADHD. All adults who have uncontrolled ADHD symptoms or the first ADHD diagnosis should be examined within 30 to 60 days, and after that every month until symptoms are under control. Adults suffering from ADHD may need to continue receiving pharmacotherapy or psychotherapy for the rest of their lives.