ADHD Diagnosis
Consult a specialist if you think you might have ADHD. The specialist will ask you about your symptoms and the impact they have on your life. They will also look over your medical background.
They will assess how your symptoms affect you in different environments, such as at home, school and social situations. They will also determine how long you have had these symptoms for.
Symptoms
If you think your child may have ADHD discuss the possibility with their doctor. They can test for symptoms by asking you and your teachers to complete an assessment form and may request them to take certain tests. They can also perform a physical examination, including tests for the ear and eyes. They can also utilize the FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG-Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) system, a noninvasive scan that measures beta and theta brain waves which are typically more frequent in children with ADHD.
A diagnosis of ADHD requires that the symptoms were present prior to the time the child reached the age of 12. It has to cause significant impairment in two major environments, like school and work. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. The psychiatric guidelines that are used by doctors when diagnosing adults provide a thorough description of the symptoms, their duration and the degree of impairment they cause.
Children often struggle to tell the difference between normal and abnormal behavior, which is why parents might overlook some of the most commonly observed symptoms of ADHD. In addition, stress or other mental health issues or physical illnesses can trigger similar symptoms to ADHD.
People with ADHD may also experience problems with self-esteem and relationships, which could cause depression. Sleep issues can worsen ADHD symptoms. They tend to drink more and take drugs, which could have serious consequences for their health. The impulsiveness of the disorder can cause financial problems or even bankruptcy. It's important for kids to receive a correct diagnosis, because it can assist them in managing their ADHD symptoms and lead a healthier and more productive life.
Diagnosis
If you or a family member has been struggling to organize or has trouble paying attention in class, are having difficulty following directions at work, experience social problems, or have other issues that could be related to ADHD It is crucial to consult with a physician to get an assessment. A mental health professional, such as psychiatrists or psychologists, can assist in determining an assessment. Some primary care providers are also trained to diagnose ADHD.
The evaluation process will involve a lengthy interview and a discussion of symptoms. The health professional will look into the patient's medical, mental and family history in order to determine if there are any other conditions that could be causing symptoms. For instance certain medical conditions like thyroid disease, head injuries, and certain medications can cause similar symptoms as those associated with ADHD. Other mental health conditions like mood disorders and anxiety, are also a possibility with ADHD and cause problems.
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. The clinician will also inquire about the person's family and school activities, including how often they are absent from school or fail to finish their homework. The clinician may want to discuss other people in the person's life, including teachers and coaches and may also request that the patient bring a journal.
The person being assessed should be able and willing to freely discuss their feelings with the assessor. They should not be scared of being critiqued or criticized. This will enhance the quality of the assessment and increase the likelihood that the diagnosis is accurate.
Treatment
A diagnosis of ADHD is a relief for your child or yourself. It can help you understand that it's not lazyness, or a deficiency in intelligence that is preventing you from achieving success. It also gives you the steps to manage your symptoms. However, the diagnosis must be followed by treatment. Adults suffering from ADHD are often suffering from other mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression. Other diseases, such as sleep disorders or chronic headaches may cause symptoms similar to ADHD.
To diagnose ADHD, an audiologist or mental health professional will conduct a thorough assessment of the individual and their family. They will go over the person's life history back to childhood, inquire about the person's education and how family members interact with each with each. They will also employ ADHD symptoms checklists and standard rating scales. They will also take psychological tests that test executive functioning, working memory, visual and spatial (related to space) and reasoning abilities.
Diet and exercise can lessen symptoms for many people with ADHD. They should stay away from caffeine, nicotine and alcohol. They should also follow a healthy diet, schedule meals and keep healthy snacks on hand to ensure they don't skip meals.
You can find an ADHD specialist by seeking recommendations from your physician or therapist or from other reputable professionals like a teacher. You can also contact your insurance company to find out who's licensed to evaluate adults, or visit an area medical hospital or school. It's crucial to find a doctor with experience in diagnosing ADHD and who is board certified in psychology or psychiatry.
Medication
Medications for ADHD can help those suffering from the disorder manage their symptoms and improve their performance at school, at home or at work, as well as in social situations. However, stimulant medicines used to treat ADHD can also trigger several adverse effects, including difficulty sleeping, changes in appetite, and weight loss. They should not be combined alongside other medications for depression, such as those used to treat, high blood pressure, and heart issues. Health care professionals recommend that children and adolescents receive an entire physical examination that includes hearing and eye tests, before beginning medication. Patients should be informed of the risks and benefits of taking ADHD medications by their health care professionals. They should also inquire about family history, lifestyle and previous medical issues.
The doctor must examine the patient closely to determine whether the symptoms are ongoing, and if they affect the person's ability to function in more than one environment. The criteria for a diagnosis of ADD/ADHD is established by the American Psychiatric Association in its diagnostic manual, called the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM).
The physician will look over the symptoms to determine their severity and rule out other disorders that might cause them. For instance, people who have a learning disability often exhibit ADHD-like symptoms, and a person suffering from an anxiety disorder might be mistakenly identified as having ADHD. The clinician will also consider whether the patient has an illness, such as thyroid disease, which might mimic the symptoms of ADHD.
The clinician might suggest a series of tests, such as brain imaging or cognitive testing to determine how symptoms are impacting the patient. The doctor may also recommend a complete medical evaluation and laboratory tests, which could include a complete blood count and cholesterol test.
Counseling
If you suspect ADHD Talk to your family doctor. They can refer you to experts who are skilled in ADHD screening. They can also help you determine whether medication is needed by discussing how the symptoms affect the daily lives of your child or yourself. They can also discuss alternative treatment options, such as behavior therapy.
If your family doctor is unable to conduct an exhaustive assessment of your symptoms you can find online counselors who specialize in the field of telemedicine. For example, Amwell connects patients with licensed professionals who can help manage various mental health issues, such as ADHD. Sessions take place via video and audio chat and are private and secure.
When selecting an online counselor it is essential to feel comfortable and trusting with them. Ask them about their experiences and training with adults suffering from ADHD. Make sure they are able to answer your questions with precision. If they are reluctant to do so it could be a sign that they are not qualified or are not willing to work with adults with ADHD.
It can be difficult to obtain an ADHD diagnosis, but it is essential to be aware of your symptoms and taking control of your own life. It can help you understand that the difficulties you have in focusing and organization aren't a sign of a lack of motivation or insanity. It's also a comfort to know that you're adhd diagnosis in adults not alone. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD struggle to maintain healthy relationships, jobs and lives.
People who suffer from ADHD are more likely to be suffering from other psychiatric issues like anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder. A therapist can teach you how to cope with ADHD and other disorders.