Adult ADHD: How helpful is it to get a diagnosis later in life?

Written in association with: Dr Mostafa Shalaby
Published:
Edited by: Karolyn Judge

Adult ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, is a neurodevelopmental condition that can persist into adulthood. Many individuals are diagnosed later in life, often after years of struggling with symptoms like inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity.

 

A late diagnosis can be incredibly helpful for many reasons, offering clarity and effective management strategies. Leading consultant psychiatrist Dr Mostafa Shalaby tells us all about it, in this informative article.

Woman with adult ADHD

What are the benefits of a late ADHD diagnosis?

  • Understanding long-standing struggles: Many adults with ADHD have dealt with symptoms for years without knowing the cause. A diagnosis can help explain difficulties in work, relationships, or daily functioning, providing relief and validation.
  • Improved self-management: With a diagnosis, adults can access treatment options, such as behavioural therapy or medication, that can significantly reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.
  • Workplace support: A diagnosis allows individuals to seek reasonable adjustments at work, such as extended deadlines, more structured environments, or additional organisational tools.
  • Mental health improvement: Often, untreated ADHD is accompanied by conditions like anxiety or depression. A proper diagnosis can lead to more targeted mental health treatments.

 

 

What are treatment options for adults with ADHD?

Adults diagnosed with ADHD have access to a range of treatments, including:

  • Medication: Stimulants like methylphenidate, or non-stimulant options, can help improve focus and reduce impulsivity.
  • Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT): CBT can assist individuals in developing strategies to manage ADHD symptoms, such as improving organisation or reducing distractions.
  • Lifestyle changes: Regular exercise, proper sleep, and dietary modifications can help regulate symptoms and improve overall well-being.

 

Getting a late ADHD diagnosis can provide substantial benefits by giving individuals access to effective treatments and strategies for managing their symptoms, often leading to a much-improved quality of life.

 

 

 

Are you thinking about getting a diagnosis for adult ADHD? Arrange a consultation with Dr Shalaby via his Top Doctors profile.

By Dr Mostafa Shalaby
Psychiatry

Dr Mostafa Shalaby, a renowned consultant psychiatrist based in London, brings extensive expertise in addressing a spectrum of mental health concerns. His areas of expertise include work stress and burnout, post partum depression, adult ADHD and anxiety.

Dr Shalaby's academic journey is marked by notable achievements. With over a decade of experience, Dr Shalaby currently serves as a consultant psychiatrist at his private clinic while also contributing his expertise as a consultant liaison psychiatrist at Ealing Hospital. Dr Shalaby actively engages in additional professional responsibilities. He is the director of undergraduate education (DUE) for Brunel Medical School and the consultant psychiatrist lead for high intensity user services, and he is part of the Leadership and Management Alumni Group. Dr Shalaby is also the project lead for the acute behavioural disturbance project in West London to improve patient and staff safety in general hospitals.

Dr Shalaby has been a member of the Royal College of Psychiatrists since 2019 and has been on the GMC's specialist register in General Adult Psychiatry since 2023. He has been approved under Section 12 of the Mental Health Act since 2020.

He undertook his psychiatric training at St Mary’s Psychiatric Training Scheme in London.

Dr Shalaby plays a big role in raising mental health awareness to the public. This is by talking in public events, in medical conferences where he has spoken about the importance of raising mental health awareness, in social media videos, and in podcasts.

His dedication to patient care, coupled with his academic qualifications and professional experience, positions him as a trusted expert in the field of psychiatry, committed to providing high-quality care and support to his patients.

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