How to Get Treated For ADHD in Adults
It's important to find a healthcare professional with experience in treating adults with ADHD. Many adults suffer from an history of false starts and alternate diagnoses prior to locating a health care professional who can offer relief from symptoms and help them make positive life changes.
Psychiatrists and psychologists often deal with people suffering from ADHD. They may recommend medication or psychotherapy depending on the results of their assessment.
Diagnosis
ADHD can be a problem for anyone of any age, and it's not common for it to be misdiagnosed in adulthood. This could be due to a lack of awareness of the condition among adults, or because medical professionals believe a person's challenges are caused other causes, like depression, stress or addiction to drugs. Finding a doctor and treating the problem is the first step towards getting control of symptoms that can cause serious issues in the workplace, at home and in relationships.
Although adults might have different symptoms than adolescents and children, ADHD is still possible. It's important to consult a doctor who is an expert in treating ADHD to determine if you have the diagnosis.
When evaluating adults for ADHD doctors will look at their work and personal history to determine if the symptoms have affected them. They will also determine the extent and duration of the disorder. They'll conduct an extensive interview that includes information from the family as well as other sources. They may also conduct psychometric tests as well as the standard ADHD rating scales as determined by the clinician.
During the interview the doctor will also take into account whether there are other conditions that may be contributing to the individual's issues. This is because comorbidities are common in ADHD and, if left untreated, can make symptoms worse.
A person who has struggled with their symptoms for a long time can be relieved to finally receive a diagnosis. They may also be frustrated because their issues were dismissed as 'laziness', 'unwillingness' or'messiness in the past, but this will be replaced with happiness that they are able to be treated and live a more manageable life. Access to Work is a program offered by the NHS that offers practical and financial assistance to those who have been diagnosed with ADHD. To learn more, speak to your GP or visit the government's website. Individuals who are self-employed or looking for employment can also avail the scheme through their private healthcare provider. Clinical trials are a way to test treatment for many diseases, including ADHD. Talk with your GP about the benefits and potential risks of participating in one.
Treatment
Adults with ADHD struggle to function at work, school or at home. They are more likely to experience academic failures and transfers, lower incomes and more frequent job loss or transfers, greater rates of car accidents, and worse health outcomes than people without the disorder (Spencer and colleagues, 2007). They might also suffer from addiction or depression.
There are many options for adults suffering from ADHD. These include psychotherapy, medication and lifestyle adjustments. Drugs, such as stimulants and antidepressants, can help reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity. They are usually prescribed by a prescription from psychiatrists or mental health professional. It could take a number of tests to determine the best dosage and the type of medication that is most effective for a particular person. Many adults suffering from ADHD use digital therapy to improve their focus and cognitive abilities. Digital games that improve concentration are available, including EndeavorRx and EndeavorOTC.
Psychotherapy helps people develop the coping and problem-solving abilities they require to manage their ADHD symptoms. This can include cognitive behavioral therapy, which is focused on changing negative thought patterns into more positive ones, and interpersonal therapy which assists people in learning to better communicate with other people. It can also help those suffering from comorbid conditions like anxiety or depression, manage their symptoms.
A healthcare professional can diagnose ADHD by looking at the person, their family history and medical records from the past. They may also ask questions about how the individual functions in their daily life and the challenges they face. They will also rule out other factors that can cause similar symptoms, like seizures and thyroid disorders. They may recommend blood tests to determine specific types of nutritional deficiencies and metal toxicities that can occasionally be associated with ADHD.
Medication
The goal of medication as part of an ADHD treatment plan is to enhance concentration, focus and organizational abilities. The drugs for ADHD work by increasing or balancing levels of neurotransmitters that are present in the brain. Drugs that stimulate the brain such as amphetamine and methylphenidate are the most common but non-stimulants such as atomoxetine and antidepressants may also be effective.
To ensure that your symptoms are accurately evaluated, it is important to consult a healthcare professional who is trained in diagnosing adult ADHD. In addition to asking about your family history and medical history, your healthcare professional may use behavior rating scales or ask your spouse or coworkers to fill out a questionnaire rating the behavior that is common in people suffering from ADHD.
A thorough evaluation will help determine whether your ADHD is mild or severe. Adults with ADHD are more troublesome in their social and work lives than children, however not everyone suffering from ADHD has serious issues. Mild symptoms are present in a few areas and do not affect your daily life. Moderate symptoms can cause significant disruptions in several areas of your life, and severe symptoms interfere with work, home and social activities (Spencer et al 2007).
Many people who seek treatment for ADHD are aware that their problems are the result of the disorder, not due to a lack of or failure to try. Classes that teach time management and improve communication will assist you in reducing the stress of others who are. Family and marital therapists who specialize in ADHD can help patients and spouses understand each other better, so they can stop blame-shifting between each other over the problems that stem from the patient's lack of attention, hyperactivity and the tendency to be impulsive (Eakin et al. 2004).
Certain stimulant medications can cause mood swings. In these cases doctors may recommend a lower dosage or switch to a different drug. Patients with particular medical conditions, like Tourette's syndrome, bipolar disorder and certain types of heart disease, should not consume stimulants.
Psychotherapy
ADHD symptoms can be more difficult to manage in later life especially when they impact work performance and relationships. People who suffer from ADHD are more likely to suffer from academic failure, lower incomes as well as more frequent workplace changes and have more difficulty driving (CDC 2017).
Adults with ADHD may be unable to determine what behaviors are normal and which are symptomatic. They might not keep track of their work assignments or have trouble with excessive behavior. These problems can cause stress for the most patient parent, spouse or friend. Counseling that addresses these issues, as well as classes in communication and interpersonal skills, can help those with ADHD improve their lives and relationships.
Adult ADHD is typically treated with a combination medication psychotherapy, psychotherapy, and training. The purpose of medication is to increase and balance levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters which aid in concentration and memory. Typically, stimulants such as amphetamines or methylphenidate are used. However, non-stimulant drugs like atomoxetine and antidepressants could also be beneficial. It takes time for medications to build up and they may cause side effects. Talk to treatment for add adhd in adults to discuss the risks and benefits of taking any medication.
Psychotherapy is the process of talking to an experienced counselor to discuss emotional issues and develop healthier patterns of thinking. For people with ADHD the therapies may be extremely beneficial since they can help them develop the ability to manage stress and cope. They also offer tools and modifications to the environment that make it easier for you to stick to routines and complete tasks. These accommodations, sometimes referred to "adaptations" can aid those with ADHD to achieve greater success both at work and at home.
It is important to choose a therapist with experience in treating adults with ADHD. A specialist in the condition is likely to be conversant with the latest research and treatment techniques. They should be able conduct an ADHD assessment and prescribe medications. It is important to be aware that certain medications that treat common ailments such as diabetes or high blood sugar can interact with stimulants.