ADHD Diagnosis
If you suspect that you may 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 go over any medical history you may have.
They will also look at the way you feel in various situations, like at school, at home and in social situations. They will also determine how long you've been experiencing these symptoms for.
Symptoms
If you think your child might have ADHD discuss the possibility with their doctor. They can check for symptoms by asking you and their teachers to fill out questionnaires and ask them to perform some tests. They can also conduct physical examinations, such as eye and hearing tests. They can also make use of FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) which is a non-invasive scanner that measures theta- and beta-waves that are more prominent in children who suffer from ADHD.
A diagnosis of ADHD requires that the signs were present prior to the time the child reached age 12. It should cause significant impairment in two important environments, such as school or at work. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. The psychiatric guidelines that are used by doctors to diagnose adults provide a thorough description of the symptoms, their duration and the level of impairment they cause.
Parents might not be aware of the more typical ADHD symptoms since children have difficulty discerning between normal and unusual behaviors. Stress mental health issues and physical illnesses may cause similar symptoms to ADHD.
People who suffer from ADHD may also experience problems with self-esteem and relationships, which may cause depression. They often have trouble getting sufficient sleep, and sleeping insufficiently can cause the symptoms of ADHD worse. They are more likely to drink and take drugs, which could cause serious harm to their health. The impulsiveness that is associated with the disorder can lead to financial issues or even bankruptcy. It is essential for children to get a proper diagnosis, because it can help them manage their ADHD symptoms and lead a happier and more productive life.
Diagnosis
It is crucial to talk with an expert if you or someone in your family has issues with social interaction, is having trouble organizing, has trouble paying attention at school, struggles to follow instructions at work or other symptoms that could be related to ADHD. A mental health professional like a psychiatrist or psychologist can help identify ADHD. Certain primary care providers have training in diagnosing ADHD.
The evaluation process involves a long interview and a discussion of symptoms. The health care provider will look into the patient's medical, mental, and family history to determine if there are other factors that could be contributing to symptoms. For example, certain medical conditions, like thyroid disease, head injuries, and some drugs can cause similar symptoms to those experienced by ADHD. Other mental health problems like mood disorders and anxiety can also be associated 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 exam, 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 class or fails to finish homework. The clinician may also ask to talk to any other individuals who are part of the person's everyday life, including teachers and coaches. They might also ask the person to bring a journal.
The person being assessed should be willing and able to talk about their opinions with the assessor. They shouldn't be scared of being critiqued or criticized. This will improve the quality of the evaluation and increase the likelihood that a diagnosis is accurate.
Treatment
A diagnosis of ADHD can be a huge relief for your child or yourself. It will help you realize that it's not lazyness, or a deficiency in intelligence that is making it difficult for you to achieve success. It also gives you the steps to manage your symptoms. However, the diagnosis must be followed by treatment. Adults suffering from ADHD frequently suffer from other mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression. Other illnesses, such as a chronic headache or sleep disorder, could be the cause of symptoms that resemble ADHD.
To diagnose ADHD, the health care provider or mental health professional will conduct a thorough exam of the patient and their family. They will inquire read more about the person's childhood, their schooling and how their family interacts. They will also utilize the standard rating scales as well as ADHD symptom checklists. They will also conduct psychological tests to evaluate executive function, spatial and visual skills (related to spatial space) and reasoning abilities.
Diet and exercise can reduce symptoms for many people suffering from ADHD. They should avoid caffeine, nicotine and alcohol. They should also eat healthy food and make sure to schedule meals at the right times and have healthy snacks on hand so they don't have to skip meals.
Ask your doctor, therapist or any other professional you trust for suggestions. A teacher is a good example. You can also contact your insurance provider to find out who is licensed to evaluate adults, or visit an area medical institution or hospital. It is essential to find a specialist who is board-certified in psychology or psychiatry and has expertise in diagnosing ADHD.
Medication
The use of ADHD medications can help those who suffer from the disorder to manage their symptoms and also improve their performance at work, school at home, and in social settings. However, stimulant medications used to treat ADHD can also trigger various side effects, including difficulty sleeping, appetite changes, and weight loss. They should not be used alongside other medications for depression, such as those used to treat and high blood pressure and heart conditions. Health care professionals recommend that adolescents and children undergo an extensive physical exam that includes hearing and eye tests, before beginning medication. Health care providers should talk with patients about the advantages and dangers of taking ADHD medication. They should also inquire about family history as well as lifestyle habits and any medical issues that have occurred previously.
To make an accurate diagnosis, the doctor must examine the person closely to see whether the symptoms persist or substantially affect the person's ability to function in more than one setting. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, an official diagnostic manual released by the American Psychiatric Association, contains the criteria to make a diagnosis of ADHD/ADD.
The physician will assess the symptoms to determine their severity and to rule out any other conditions that might be causing them. For instance, those with a learning impairment often have symptoms reminiscent of ADHD and a person suffering from an anxiety disorder could be mistakenly diagnosed with ADHD. The clinician will also determine if the person has any medical issues such as thyroid issues that may mimic the symptoms of ADHD.
The doctor may suggest a battery of tests, such as brain imaging or cognitive testing to determine how symptoms affect the person. The doctor may also recommend a complete medical evaluation and lab tests, such as the complete blood count and cholesterol panel.
Counseling
If you suspect that you may have ADHD, talk to your family physician. They may refer you to specialists who are trained in ADHD screening. They can also help you determine whether medication is needed by discussing how the symptoms affect the daily life of your child or yourself. They can also discuss alternative treatment options, such as behavior therapy.
If your family physician cannot conduct an in-depth analysis of your symptoms, you can search online for counselors who specialize in the field of telemedicine. Amwell for instance, connects patients to licensed specialists who can address various mental health issues like ADHD. Sessions are conducted via audio or video chat and are confidential.
When selecting a counselor online, it is important to feel comfortable and trusting with them. Ask them about their experience and training for adults with ADHD. Make sure they can answer your questions with precision. If they are unable to answer, it could be a sign they're not qualified or unwilling to be a professional working with adults suffering from ADHD.
It can be difficult to receive an ADHD diagnosis but it's an essential step to manage your symptoms and taking charge of your life. It will help you realize that your issues with organization and focus aren't due to laziness. It's also reassuring to know that you're not alone. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD have difficulty maintaining healthy relationships, careers and lifestyles.
People with ADHD are more likely to be suffering from other psychiatric issues like anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder. A therapist can help understand how your ADHD and other conditions interact and assist you in learning how to deal with them.