ADHD Diagnosis
If you suspect you might have ADHD it is recommended that you consult a specialist. The specialist will ask about your symptoms and how they affect your life. They will also look over your medical history.
They will also examine how you feel in different situations, like at home, school and in social situations. They will also consider the length of time you've had these symptoms.
Signs and symptoms
If you suspect your child may be suffering from ADHD, talk to your doctor. They can check for symptoms by asking you and your teachers to fill out an assessment form and may ask them to perform some tests. They can also perform physical examinations, such as eye and ear tests. They can also use FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) that is a noninvasive scanner that detects beta- and theta waves that are more prominent in children suffering from ADHD.
A diagnosis of ADHD requires that the symptoms were present prior to the time the age of 12 for the child. It has to cause significant impairment in two crucial environments, such as school or at work. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. The psychiatric guidelines utilized by doctors in diagnosing adults include a detailed description of the symptoms, their duration and the degree of impairment they cause.
Kids often have trouble telling the distinction between normal and abnormal behavior, and parents may overlook some of the most typical symptoms of ADHD. Stress, mental health issues, and physical illnesses may cause similar symptoms as ADHD.
People suffering from ADHD are also prone to problems with relationships and self-esteem which can cause depression. Sleep problems can exacerbate ADHD symptoms. They are more likely than other people to drink alcohol and use drugs, which could be detrimental to their health. The disorder can cause financial problems or even bankruptcies due to the impulsiveness. It is crucial for children to be diagnosed properly as it will aid them in managing their ADHD symptoms and lead a more pleasant and more productive life.
Diagnosis
If you or a family member have been struggling to organize, have trouble paying attention in class, have trouble following directions at work, have issues with social interaction, or other issues that could be due to ADHD It is crucial to consult with a physician for an assessment. A mental health professional like psychologist or psychiatrist could help identify ADHD. Certain primary care providers are also trained to recognize ADHD.
The process of evaluation will include a lengthy interview and a discussion of symptoms. The health care professional will look over the patient's medical and mental history as well as family history to look for other conditions that may be causing the symptoms. For example, certain medical conditions, like thyroid disease, head injuries, and certain drugs can trigger similar symptoms to those of ADHD. Other mental health problems such as anxiety and mood disorders, can also occur in conjunction with ADHD.
A person with ADHD can have either primarily inattention symptoms or primarily hyperactive-impulsive symptoms, or both, but the symptoms must be present before age 12 and must continue for at least 6 months. In addition to a thorough physical exam, the doctor will ask about the person's life at home and at school, focusing on the frequency with which they miss classes or fails to complete homework. The doctor may also want to talk to other people in the patient's life, like teachers and coaches, and may request that the patient bring an account of their lives.
The person being evaluated should be able to share their feelings openly with the examiner and not hold back information in fear that they will be criticized or judged. This will increase the accuracy of the evaluation and increase the likelihood that the diagnosis will be precise.
Treatment
A diagnosis of ADHD is a great relief for you or your child. It will help you understand that it's not laziness or insanity that is preventing your success. It also gives you steps to take to control your symptoms. But the diagnosis must be followed by treatment. Adults suffering from ADHD often have other mental health problems, such as anxiety or depression. Other conditions, like a chronic headache or sleep disorder, could produce symptoms similar to ADHD.
To determine if someone has ADHD, a health care provider or mental health professional will conduct a thorough assessment of the patient and their family. They will review the person's life history back to childhood, ask about the person's education and how their family members interact with one with each. They will also employ ADHD symptom checklists and standardized rating scales. They will also conduct psychological tests to assess working memory, executive function, visual and spatial abilities (related to space), and reasoning abilities.
Diet and exercise can reduce symptoms for many people with ADHD. They should avoid smoking, alcohol, and caffeine. They should also eat a healthy diet and ensure they plan meal times and keep healthful snacks on hand so they don't miss meals.
You can locate an ADHD specialist by asking for recommendations from your doctor or therapist or from other trusted professionals like an educator. You can also contact an institution affiliated with a university or medical school to get an inventory of specialists who are qualified or call your insurance company to get the list of specialists who are licensed to assess adults. It is important to locate a specialist who is certified by the board in psychology or psychiatry and has experience diagnosing ADHD.
Medication
The use of ADHD medication can help those with the disorder manage their symptoms and improve their functioning at school, work as well as in social situations. However, stimulant drugs used to treat ADHD may also cause various side effects, including trouble sleeping, changes in appetite, and weight loss. They should not be used in conjunction with other medications for example, those used to treat depression, high blood pressure, and heart conditions. Before beginning treatment, health care professionals recommend that children and adolescents undergo a complete physical examination, including hearing and eye tests. Patients should be informed of the potential risks and benefits of taking ADHD medications by their healthcare providers. They should also ask about family history as well as lifestyle habits and previous medical problems.
To make an accurate diagnosis, the doctor must examine the person closely to determine if the symptoms persist and significantly affect the person's functioning in more than one setting. The criteria for making a diagnosis of ADD/ADHD is established by the American Psychiatric adhd diagnosis adult Association in its diagnostic manual, called the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM).
The clinician will review the symptoms to determine the severity and also to rule out any other disorders that might cause them. For instance, people who suffer from a learning disability frequently exhibit symptoms similar to those of ADHD, and someone with an anxiety disorder might be mistakenly identified as having ADHD. The clinician will also look at whether the person has any medical conditions such as thyroid issues that may mimic the symptoms of ADHD.
The physician may suggest a battery of tests, like cognitive testing or brain imaging to determine how the symptoms are affecting the individual. He may also suggest an entire medical assessment and laboratory tests, which could include an entire blood count and cholesterol test.
Counseling
Consult your doctor if you believe that you may have ADHD. They can refer you to professionals who are certified in ADHD screening. They can also talk about how the symptoms impact your or your child's everyday life and help you decide if medication is necessary. They can also explain alternatives to treatment like behavior therapy.
If your family physician is unable to conduct a detailed evaluation of your symptoms, you can find online specialists in the field of telemedicine. For instance, Amwell connects patients with licensed professionals who can assist in managing various mental health issues, including ADHD. Sessions are conducted via video or audio chat, and are confidential.
When selecting a counselor online it is essential to feel comfortable and trusting with them. Ask them about their experiences and training for adults with ADHD. Make sure they are able to answer your questions thoroughly. If they're not willing to answer your questions it could be an indicator that they're not qualified or uninterested in working with adults suffering from ADHD.
Finding an ADHD diagnosis can be difficult but it's an essential step in managing your symptoms and gaining control over your life. It can help you understand that your issues with organization and focus aren't a sign of inattention or lack of intelligence. It's also a comfort to be aware that you're not alone. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD have difficulty maintaining healthy relationships, careers and lifestyles.
It is normal for people with ADHD to suffer from other psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. A therapist can teach you how to cope with ADHD and other disorders.