ADHD Diagnosis
If you suspect you might have ADHD it is recommended that you consult a specialist. The specialist will inquire about your symptoms and how they impact your life. They will also review any medical history you may have.
They will also examine how you feel in various situations, including at school, at home and in social situations. They will also look at how long you've been experiencing these symptoms.
Symptoms
Speak to your child's doctor should you suspect that he or she may have ADHD. They can test for symptoms by asking you and their teachers to fill out an assessment form and may ask them to do certain tests. They can also perform physical examinations, such as tests for the ear and eyes. They can also use 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 higher in kids with ADHD.
A diagnosis of ADHD is a sign that the symptoms were present prior to the time the child reached the age of 12. It has to cause significant impairment in two important situations, like at school or at work. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. In order to diagnose adults, doctors use the psychiatric guidelines, which include an extensive description of the symptoms and their duration as well as the degree of impairment.
Parents may miss some of the more typical ADHD symptoms because children have difficulty discerning between normal and unusual behaviors. Stress, mental health issues, and physical illnesses may cause similar symptoms as ADHD.
People suffering from ADHD may also have issues with self-esteem and relationships, which may lead them to depression. They often have trouble getting sufficient sleep, and sleeping insufficiently can cause the symptoms of ADHD worse. They are more likely than others to drink alcohol or use drugs, which can be harmful to their health. The disorder can lead to financial issues or even bankruptcies because of the impulse-control issues. It is crucial that children receive an accurate ADHD diagnosis. This will allow them to manage their symptoms and live a happier, more productive life.
Diagnosis
If you or a family member have been struggling to organize or has trouble paying attention in class, have difficulty following instructions at work, suffer from issues with social interaction, or other issues that could be due to ADHD it is essential to see a doctor for an evaluation. A mental health professional, such as psychiatrists or psychologists, can help make a diagnosis. Some primary care professionals have training in diagnosing ADHD.
adhd diagnosis in adults uk involves a long interview and a discussion of the symptoms. The health care provider will examine the patient's medical and mental history as well as family history to identify other conditions that could be responsible for the symptoms. For example certain medical conditions such as thyroid diseases and head injuries, as well as 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. Along with a thorough physical examination, the clinician will inquire about the patient's life at home and at school, such as the frequency at which the person is absent from classes or fails to complete homework. The doctor may also want to speak with other people in the person's life, including teachers and coaches, and may request that the patient bring journals.
The person who is being evaluated should be willing to discuss their feelings freely with the examiner and not hold the information from fear that they will be accused of being criticized or judged. This will improve the quality of the evaluation and increase the probability that the diagnosis is accurate.
Treatment
If you or your child suffers from ADHD being diagnosed is a relief. It will help you understand that it's not just laziness or lack of intelligence standing in the way of success. It also gives you ways to deal with your symptoms. The diagnosis should be followed by treatment. Adults who suffer from ADHD typically suffer from other mental health issues like depression or anxiety. Other diseases, like chronic headaches or sleep disorder, can cause symptoms that look like ADHD.
A mental health specialist or health care professional will evaluate the patient and their family thoroughly to diagnose ADHD. They will go over the person's history going back to childhood, inquire about the person's education and how their family members interact with each and with each. They will also employ ADHD symptoms checklists and standardized rating scales. They will also conduct psychological tests that evaluate executive function, spatial and visual abilities (related to spatial space) and reasoning abilities.
Many people with ADHD find that exercise and diet can reduce the symptoms. They should stay clear of smoking, alcohol, and caffeine. They should also follow a healthy diet and ensure they plan meals at the right times and have healthy snacks in their fridge so that they don't miss meals.
You can locate an ADHD specialist by asking for recommendations from your personal doctor or therapist or from other trusted professionals, such as teachers. You can also contact a local university-based hospital or medical school to get a list of qualified specialists or call your insurance provider to find a list of those who are licensed to evaluate adults. It is important to find a specialist who is certified by a board-certified psychologist or psychiatrist and has experience in diagnosing ADHD.
Medication
Medications for ADHD can help people with the disorder manage their symptoms and improve their performance at school, at home, work, and in social situations. However, stimulant drugs used to treat ADHD may also cause a number of side effects, including difficulty sleeping, changes in appetite and weight loss. They should not be combined in conjunction with other medications for example, those used to treat depression, high blood-pressure and heart problems. Health professionals suggest that children and adolescents receive an extensive physical exam, including eye and hearing tests prior to beginning treatment. Health care professionals should discuss with patients about the advantages and risks of taking ADHD medication. They should also inquire about the history of their family, lifestyle habits, and prior medical problems.
To make a diagnosis, the clinician must closely examine the patient to determine if the symptoms are persistent and substantially affect the person's ability to function in multiple settings. The criteria for making a diagnosis of ADD/ADHD are defined 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 the severity and rule out other disorders that might cause them. People with learning disorders often exhibit symptoms that resemble those of ADHD. An individual with anxiety disorder may be misdiagnosed. The doctor will also take into consideration whether the patient has an illness such as thyroid disease, which could be akin to symptoms of ADHD.
The doctor may suggest a series of tests, like brain imaging or cognitive testing to determine how the symptoms are affecting the individual. He may also suggest an extensive medical evaluation along with laboratory tests such a complete blood test and cholesterol panel.
Counseling
If you suspect that you may have ADHD Talk to your family doctor. They may refer you to specialists who are trained in ADHD screening. They can also discuss how the symptoms impact your or your child's daily routine and help you determine if medication is necessary. They can also provide alternative treatment options like behavior therapy.
If your family doctor cannot conduct a thorough assessment of your symptoms, online counselors who specialize in telemedicine are readily available. Amwell, for example, connects patients to licensed specialists who can address various mental health issues like ADHD. Sessions are conducted through video or audio chat and are private.
When selecting an online counseling specialist, it is important to feel at ease and trust with them. Ask about their training and experience working with adults with ADHD and make sure they can answer your questions in detail. If they're not willing to do so it could be a sign that they are not qualified or unwilling to work with adults who suffer from ADHD.
It can be a challenge to obtain an ADHD diagnosis however it is a crucial step in managing your symptoms and taking control of your own life. It can help you understand that the issues you face with organization and focus aren't a sign of a lack of motivation or insanity. It's also comforting to know you're not alone. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD have difficulty maintaining healthy relationships, jobs and lives.
People with ADHD are more likely to suffer from other psychiatric issues such as depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder. A therapist can help comprehend how your ADHD and other disorders interact, and help you learn to cope with them.