ADHD Diagnosis
If you suspect you might have ADHD it is recommended that you consult an expert. The specialist will ask about your symptoms and how they affect your life. They will also review any medical history you have.
They will check the impact of your symptoms in different situations, including at school, home, and social situations. They will also determine how long you've had these symptoms for.
Signs and symptoms
If you think your child may be suffering from ADHD discuss the possibility with your doctor. They can check for symptoms by asking you and their teachers to fill out an assessment form and ask them to do some tests. They can also do physical exams, including hearing and eye tests. They can also use the FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG-Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) system which is a non-invasive scan that measures beta and theta brain waves that are more prominent in children 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 key situations, like at school or at work. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. The psychiatric guidelines used by doctors in diagnosing adults contain a detailed description of the symptoms, their duration and the level of impairment they cause.
Children often struggle to discern the difference between normal and abnormal behavior, so parents might not be aware of the most common symptoms of ADHD. Stress, mental health issues, and physical ailments can cause similar symptoms similar to ADHD.
People with ADHD may also experience problems with self-esteem and relationships, which could cause depression. They often struggle to get good quality sleep, and a lack of sleep can cause the symptoms of ADHD worse. They tend to drink more and use drugs, which can result in serious consequences for their health. The impulsiveness of ADHD can result in financial problems or even bankruptcy. It's crucial that kids get an accurate ADHD diagnosis. This will help them manage their symptoms and live an enjoyable, productive life.
Diagnosis
It is essential to speak with a doctor if you or someone in your family suffers from difficulties with social interactions, has difficulty getting organized, has difficulty paying attention in school, has trouble following instructions at work or other signs that may be due to ADHD. A mental health professional, such as psychiatrists or psychologists can assist in determining the diagnosis. Some primary care professionals are trained to diagnose ADHD.
The process of evaluation involves an extended interview and discussion of symptoms. The health care professional will examine the patient's medical and mental history as well as family history to identify other conditions that may be responsible for the symptoms. For instance certain medical conditions such as thyroid disease or head injuries, as well as certain medications can cause similar symptoms to those of ADHD. Other mental health issues, such as anxiety and mood disorders, can also occur with ADHD and create 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. Along with a thorough physical exam, the doctor will ask about the person's life at home and at school, including 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 involved in the person's daily life, including teachers and coaches. They might also request that the person bring an account book.
The person who is being evaluated should be willing to discuss their feelings with the examiner and not hold the information from fear of being accused of being criticized or judged. This will improve the quality of the assessment and increase the probability that the diagnosis is correct.
Treatment
If you or your child has ADHD receiving a diagnosis is a great relief. It can help you understand that it's not just laziness, or a lack in intelligence, that's preventing you from achieving success. It also provides the steps to manage your symptoms. But the diagnosis needs to be followed by treatment. Adults suffering from ADHD often have other mental health issues like anxiety or depression. Other illnesses, such as a chronic headache or sleep disorder, may be the cause of symptoms that resemble ADHD.
A mental health professional or health care provider will examine the person and their family thoroughly to diagnose ADHD. They will inquire about the person’s childhood, their schooling and how the family interacts. They will also use ADHD symptom checklists and standardized rating scales. They will also conduct psychological tests to assess executive functioning, working memory, visual and spatial (related to space) and reasoning skills.
Many people suffering from ADHD find that exercising and diet reduce the symptoms. They should stay away from alcohol, nicotine and caffeine. They should also eat a healthy diet and make sure to schedule meals and keep healthy snacks on hand so they don't miss meals.
Ask your therapist, doctor or other professionals you trust for suggestions. A teacher is an excellent example. You can also reach out to the local hospital or medical school to get an inventory of specialists who are qualified or contact your insurance company to find an overview of the specialists who are licensed to evaluate adults. It's crucial to find a specialist with experience in diagnosing ADHD and who is board certified in psychology or psychiatry.
Medication
The use of medications for ADHD can help people with the disorder manage their symptoms and improve their functioning at home, school, work, and in social situations. The stimulant medications used to treat ADHD can also trigger side effects such as difficulties sleeping and eating, and weight loss. They should not be used with certain other medications, like those used to treat depression, high blood pressure and heart-related conditions. Before starting medication health professionals suggest that children and adolescents undergo a full physical examination, including eye and hearing tests. Patients should be informed about the risks and advantages of taking ADHD medications by their health care providers. They should also inquire about the history of their family, lifestyle habits, and previous medical problems.
To establish a diagnosis, the clinician must carefully examine the patient to determine if the symptoms persist and significantly affect the person's functioning in more than one setting. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, the diagnostic manual published by the American Psychiatric Association, contains the criteria for making a diagnosis of ADD/ADHD.
The doctor will look at the symptoms in order to determine their severity and also to rule out other disorders that may be the cause. People with learning disorders often exhibit symptoms that resemble those of ADHD. A person with anxiety disorder may be incorrectly diagnosed. The physician will also determine if the person has any medical conditions like thyroid disorders that may mimic the symptoms of ADHD.
how to get diagnosed with adhd might suggest a series of tests, including brain imaging or cognitive testing to determine how symptoms are impacting the patient. He may also suggest an entire medical examination, along with tests in the laboratory, such as a full blood test and cholesterol test.
Counseling
If you suspect that you may have ADHD If you suspect that you have ADHD, consult your family physician. They can refer you to professionals who specialize in screening for ADHD. They can also help you determine the need for medication by discussing how symptoms affect the daily life of your child or yourself. They can also provide other options for treatment like the use of behavioral therapy.
If your family doctor cannot conduct a thorough assessment of your symptoms, online counselors who are experts in telemedicine are available. For instance, Amwell connects patients with licensed specialists who can assist in managing a range of mental health issues, including ADHD. Sessions take place via video and audio chats and are private and secure.
It is important to feel comfortable and confident with the online counselor. Ask them about their experience and education for adults with ADHD. Make sure they can answer your questions with precision. If they're not willing to share their knowledge this could be an indicator that they are unqualified or uninterested in working with adults suffering from ADHD.
It can be challenging to get an ADHD diagnosis but it's essential to be aware of your symptoms and taking charge of your life. It can help you realize that your difficulties with organization and focus aren't the result of lazyness. It's also comforting to be aware that you're not the only one. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD struggle to maintain relationships, jobs, and healthy lifestyles.
It is normal for people suffering from ADHD to have other psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. A therapist can help you learn how to cope with ADHD and other disorders.