Understanding Adult ADHD

What is adhd?

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a chronic syndrome (observed set of behaviors) that is characterized by inappropriate levels of:

• Distractibility (inattention)
• Impulsivity
• Restlessness (hyperactivity)

How is ADHD diagnosed?

There is no specific test that can be given to determine that you have ADHD. ADHD is diagnosed based upon the presence of specific symptoms. These symptoms must cause impairment (distress) for you in at least two or more areas of your life. For example, trouble staying focused at work, losing things at home, having difficulty remembering appointments, excessive irritability, and impulsively making decisions that you later regret. Your treatment will start with a thorough clinical history to understand your background and the degree to which these symptoms have been a problem for you.

While it is true that no specific test guarantees that you have ADHD, Dr. Huggins uses several assessment “testing” tools to help identify symptoms of ADHD. You may be asked to complete the Brown Attention Deficit Disorders Evaluation Scale for Adults (BADDES), complete a Adult Self Rating Scale, and complete an ADHD symptom tracking form. You will also be asked about the specific symptoms of ADHD as defined in the diagnostic manual for mental health disorders. Additionally, if possible, a family member, friend, or close acquaintance will be required to give collateral observation to help verify your symptoms.

How long does it take to be evaluated?

Usually one to three sessions is sufficient to determine a diagnosis of ADHD.

How is ADHD treated?

ADHD is typically treated with outpatient psychotherapy, medications, or most commonly a combination of both. If it is determined that you do meet the criteria for ADHD Dr. Huggins will discuss with you an appropriate medication referral source as needed. Outpatient therapy will focus on helping you learn to manage your symptoms. You will be educated regarding ADHD resources, assisted in making specific behavior changes that add more structure to your life, and helped to make lifestyle changes if needed in the areas of sleep, diet, exercise, etc. Therapy almost always focuses to some degree on significant relationships in your life as your symptoms often affect marriage and family relationships. For example, forgetting appointments or important dates can result in arguments, conflicts, and blaming that can be destructive to marriages and families as well as work relationships. You will also be “coached” with assistance in problem solving and offered hope and encouragement as you gain success in treatment.

How long does treatment last?

Adult’s with ADHD will need to work on managing their symptoms indefinitely much like any chronic condition such as diabetes, a bad back or weak ankle. You will learn techniques and strategies to help manage your symptoms and to avoid situations and behaviors which make your symptoms worse. Adults with ADHD often stay in therapy for three to six months and then seek continued treatment on an as needed basis.

What kind of medications are used to treat ADHD and how do they work?

Most often, the class of medications referred to as stimulants are used to help reduce the undesirable symptoms of inattention, irritability, and hyperactivity that is associated with ADHD. Stimulants are thought to work by increasing the availability of two neurotransmitters in the brain; dopamine and norepinepherine. These neurotransmitters influence attention, response to cues, alertness, and activity level. The exact medication recommended and dosage requires coordinated communication between yourself, your psychologist, and your medication provider.

Where can I find more information?

The library, internet, and your doctors may all provide information to you in the form of books, pamphlets, handouts or videos. Here are a few web sites that have information about ADHD.

www.chadd.com
www.adultadd.com
www.strattera.com
www.myadd.com

Does insurance pay for ADHD treatment?

In most cases insurances does cover treatment for ADHD as is “medically necessary.” Generally outpatient therapy and medication management is considered medically necessary. However, insurance payment for the testing tools used by the psychologist to help determine a diagnosis is sometimes not covered. Additionally, any reports or letters which need to be written to agencies (work, family members, insurance companies, disability services, etc) on your behalf is almost never a covered insurance benefit. Services not covered by insurance you will need to pay for yourself.

Compiled January 2003 by:
Stephen M. Huggins, Psy.D.

Other articles by Stephen M. Huggins, Psy.D.:

Five Coping Skills