ADHD Diagnosis
See a doctor if you suspect you have ADHD. The doctor will inquire about your symptoms and how they impact your life. They will also go over any medical history you may have.
They will also examine how you feel in different situations, like at school, home and in social situations. They will also look at the length of time you've had these symptoms.
Symptoms
Consult your child's physician if you suspect that they may be suffering from ADHD. You and your child's teachers can fill out an assessment questionnaire to look for signs. They can also request that they take a few tests. They can also conduct a physical exam, including hearing and eye tests. They can also utilize the FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG-Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) system which is a non-invasive scan that measures theta and beta brain waves which are typically more frequent in children with ADHD.
A diagnosis of ADHD requires that the signs were present prior to the time the age of 12 for the child. It must cause significant impairment in two main environments, like work and school. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. The psychiatric guidelines used by doctors when diagnosing adults contain a detailed description of the symptoms, their duration and the level of impairment they cause.
Parents may not notice some of the more frequent ADHD symptoms because children have difficulty discerning between normal and unusual behavior. Additionally, stress or other mental health issues or physical illnesses may trigger similar symptoms as ADHD.
People suffering from ADHD can also have problems with self-esteem and relationships which can cause depression. Sleep problems can exacerbate ADHD symptoms. They are more likely than others to drink alcohol or use drugs, which can be harmful to their health. The impulsiveness that is associated with the disorder can lead to financial issues or even bankruptcy. It's crucial that kids get an accurate ADHD diagnosis. This will allow them to manage their symptoms and lead an enjoyable, productive life.
Diagnosis
If you or a loved one has struggled to stay organized, have trouble paying attention in class, have trouble adhering to instructions at work, have social problems, or have other issues that could be related to ADHD It is crucial to consult with a physician to get an evaluation. A mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, can help you make the diagnosis. Some primary care providers are also trained to diagnose ADHD.
The evaluation process will involve an extensive interview and discussion of symptoms. The health care provider will look over the patient's medical and mental health history as well as their family history to determine other conditions that may be causing the symptoms. For instance certain medical conditions such as thyroid disease, head injuries, and certain drugs can trigger similar symptoms to those of ADHD. Other mental health conditions such as anxiety and mood disorders, 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 doctor will also inquire about the person's family and school life, including how frequently they miss class or fail to complete their homework. The doctor will also request to speak with other people who are involved in the person's daily life, such as teachers and coaches. They might also ask the person to bring journals.
The person being evaluated must be willing to discuss their feelings with the examiner and not keep back information in fear of being criticized or judged. This will improve the accuracy of the evaluation and increase the chance that the diagnosis will be accurate.
Treatment
If you or your child has ADHD receiving a diagnosis is a relief. It will help you realize that it's not just laziness, or a lack in intelligence that is preventing you from achieving success. It also teaches you the steps to manage your symptoms. The diagnosis needs to be followed-up with treatment. Adults with ADHD are often suffering from other mental health issues, including anxiety or depression. Other diseases, such as sleep disorders or chronic headaches may cause symptoms similar to ADHD.
To determine if someone has ADHD, an audiologist or mental health professional will conduct a thorough assessment of the person and their family. They will review the person's life history back to childhood, and inquire about the person's school experience and how family members interact with one with each. They will also employ ADHD symptoms checklists and standardized rating scales. They will also conduct psychological tests that test executive function, spatial and visual abilities (related to spatial space), and reasoning abilities.
Many people with ADHD find that exercising and diet aid in reducing their symptoms. They should stay away from smoking, alcohol, and caffeine. They should also maintain an appropriate diet, plan their meals and have healthy snacks available to ensure they don't skip meals.
You can find an ADHD specialist by seeking recommendations from your doctor or therapist or from other trusted professionals like teachers. You can also reach out to a local university-based hospital or medical school to get the names of qualified specialists or call your insurance provider to find an overview of the specialists who are certified to evaluate adults. It's important to choose a doctor who is certified by a board-certified psychologist or psychiatrist and has expertise in diagnosing ADHD.
Medication
Medications for ADHD can help people suffering from the disorder manage their symptoms and improve functioning at home, school or at work. They can also help improve their performance in social settings. However, stimulant drugs used to treat ADHD may also cause several adverse effects, including difficulty sleeping, appetite changes, and weight loss. They should not be used in conjunction with other medications, including those for depression and high blood pressure and heart issues. Health professionals recommend that adolescents and children undergo an extensive physical exam including hearing and eye tests prior to beginning treatment. Patients should be informed about the potential risks and benefits of taking ADHD medications by their healthcare providers. They should also ask about the history of their family as well as lifestyle habits and any medical issues that have occurred previously.
The clinician must closely examine the patient to determine whether the symptoms are ongoing, and if they affect the person's ability in multiple environments. The criteria for making a diagnosis of ADD/ADHD is defined by the American Psychiatric Association in its diagnostic manual, called the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM).
The clinician will examine the symptoms to determine their severity, and also to rule out other disorders that may be responsible for them. For instance, those with a learning impairment often exhibit ADHD-like symptoms, and someone with an anxiety disorder might be mistakenly identified as having ADHD. The physician will also determine if the patient suffers from any medical conditions like thyroid disorders that may mimic the symptoms of ADHD.
The physician may suggest a series of tests, like brain imaging or cognitive testing, to assess how the symptoms are affecting the individual. He might also suggest an extensive medical examination and laboratory tests, including a complete blood count and cholesterol test.
Counseling
Consult your doctor if you think that you might have ADHD. They can recommend professionals who specialize in screening for ADHD. They can also assist you in determining the need for medication by discussing how the symptoms affect the daily life of your child or you. They can also discuss alternatives to treatment, such as behavior therapy.
If your family physician cannot conduct an in-depth analysis of your symptoms, you can search online for specialists in telemedicine. Amwell, for example connects patients to licensed providers who can manage various mental health issues like ADHD. Sessions take place via video and audio chat, and are confidential and secure.
When selecting an online counselor it is crucial to feel comfortable and trusting with them. Find out about their education and experience working with adults suffering from ADHD and ensure that they are able to answer your questions in depth. If they're not willing to share their knowledge this could be a sign that they are unqualified or are not willing to work with adults who suffer from ADHD.
Finding an ADHD diagnosis can be difficult but it's an essential step towards managing your symptoms and taking control of your life. It can help you realize that the read more issues you face in focusing and organization are not a sign of laziness or low intelligence. It's also reassuring to know that you're not the only one. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD struggle to keep their jobs, relationships, and a healthy lifestyle.
People who suffer from ADHD are more likely to suffer from other psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. A therapist can help comprehend how your ADHD and other conditions interact and assist you in learning to manage them.