Do I Need to be Diagnosed With ADHD?

Introduction

ADHD is a condition that affects millions of people. It's characterised by an inability to pay attention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. Adults with ADHD often struggle with learning disabilities and may have trouble getting along with others at work or in their personal lives. While ADHD can vary greatly from person to person, there are certain criteria that all adults must meet in order to be diagnosed with ADHD. These include:

• diminished attention span 

• continually starting new tasks before finishing old ones

• poor organisational skills difficulty with organisational skills 

• inability to focus or prioritise

• losing or misplacing things

• forgetfulness

• restlessness and edginess

• difficulty keeping quiet, and speaking out of turn

The DSM-5  is a manual for assessment and diagnosis of mental disorders. It includes diagnostic criteria for ADHD, which means that people who don't meet these criteria should be evaluated by a mental health professional before being diagnosed with ADHD. Other conditions can sometimes resemble ADHD, so it is important to work with a professional who is able to rule out these other conditions and make the appropriate diagnosis. 

If you are experiencing symptoms of ADHD, your primary care physician or another medical professional may refer you to a psychiatrist. Your psychiatrist will be able to determine whether or not it is appropriate for them to perform an evaluation and diagnosis on this condition. They can then make a recommendation about treatment options that are best suited for your needs and level of severity.

If you have been diagnosed with ADHD, it's important to talk with your doctor about possible treatment options so you can manage your symptoms effectively.

Many people are diagnosed by a primary care provider, such as a family doctor. However, only a psychiatrist can give you a formal diagnosis. If your doctor suspects you have ADHD, they may refer you to a psychiatrist who can help with your diagnosis. To do so, they may ask you about: 

• your symptoms 

• when these symptoms started

• where the symptoms occur – for example, at home or at work

• whether the symptoms affect your day-to-day life 

• if there have been any recent significant events in your life, such as a death 

• if there's a family history of ADHD

• any other problems or symptoms of different health conditions you may have

If you have an adult diagnosis of ADHD, your psychiatrist will be able to provide treatment for it. They can also help with other mental health concerns that are common in patients with ADHD, such as anxiety or depression. Psychiatrists can also perform psychological assessments to diagnose any other medical conditions that occur alongside ADHD. 

How is ADHD treated? 

If you're looking for a way to treat your ADHD, there are several options available. 

Medication 

A psychiatrist can prescribe medication and monitor its effects. They're trained to do this, so they know how to balance the risks and benefits of each drug. These medicines are not a permanent cure for ADHD but may help you concentrate better, be less impulsive and feel calmer. You will probably be given smaller doses at first, which may then be gradually increased, as per your tolerance. You will need to see your psychiatrist for regular check-ups to ensure the treatment is working effectively and check for signs of any side effects. It's important to let your doctor know about any side effects and talk to them if you feel you need to stop or change treatment. Your psychiatrist will also discuss how long you should continue taking medicines, depending on your progress. 

Talk Therapy 

One of the most effective treatments for ADHD is psychotherapy. Therapy can help you understand how ADHD affects your life and relationships. If you’re feeling stuck, frustrated or unhappy because of the challenges that come with living with ADHD, therapy may be able to provide new perspectives. The most successful therapies often include a combination of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Interpersonal Skills Training (IST). CBT focuses on changing negative thought patterns by talking about them rather than avoiding them outright. IST teaches strategies for responding more effectively when faced with challenging relationship-based situations, such as difficult conversations or conflict resolution.

A therapist can also provide support, insight and guidance as you work toward better managing your symptoms. In addition, therapists have access to a wealth of resources that may be helpful in understanding how ADHD affects various aspects of daily functioning. 

Another form of treatment involves meditation or yoga; both have been shown to improve symptoms related to ADHD by increasing focus and concentration while reducing impulsivity. Exercising regularly can also help reduce stress levels, which may lead you down a path towards better coping mechanisms when faced with a stressful situation at work or home.

Holistic Care

Psychologists who practise therapy, or specialise in the diagnosis and treatment of adult ADHD, may work closely with your psychiatrist and other doctors to provide comprehensive care for adults with ADHD.

It is important to note that medication and therapy both work well together when combined synergistically as part of a complete solution plan tailored specifically to you. 

Conclusion

So, if you’re struggling with ADHD and don’t know where to start, reach out to us. We can help you get a proper diagnosis and take the first steps toward getting treatment.

Our therapists at Amaha work closely with our psychiatrists when needed, to build an integrated care management plan to deliver the best outcomes. Amaha psychiatrists come with decades of experience and rigorous training in diverse clinical settings for the entire spectrum of mental illnesses. Psychiatry at Amaha goes beyond just medication - we combine the biological, psychological and social aspects of care to create a comprehensive treatment plan for each client. Book a session now.