ADHD Diagnosis
If you suspect you might have ADHD and are concerned, you should speak to a specialist. The doctor will inquire about your symptoms and the impact they have on your life. They will also go over your medical background.
They will also consider how you feel in different situations, like at school, at home and in social situations. They will also determine the length of time you've experienced these symptoms for.
Symptoms
Consult your child's physician should you suspect that they may be suffering from ADHD. They can test for symptoms by asking you and your teachers to fill out questionnaires and may ask them to do some tests. They could also take a physical exam, including 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 detects beta- and theta waves that are more prominent in children suffering from ADHD.
A diagnosis of ADHD is a sign that the symptoms have been present for a long time before the age of 12 for the child. It must cause significant disability in two important situations, like at school and at work. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. The psychiatric guidelines utilized by doctors to diagnose adults include a detailed description of the symptoms, their duration and the level of impairment they cause.
Children often struggle to discern the distinction between normal and abnormal behavior, which is why parents might not be aware of the most commonly observed symptoms of ADHD. Stress and mental health issues and physical illnesses can also cause similar symptoms similar to ADHD.
People with ADHD may also experience problems with self-esteem and relationships, which can cause depression. They often struggle to get good quality sleep, and an absence of sleep can cause the symptoms of ADHD worse. They are more likely than other people to drink alcohol or use drugs, which could be harmful to their health. The disorder can cause problems with finances or even bankruptcies due the insanity. It is crucial that children receive an accurate ADHD diagnosis. This will allow them to manage their symptoms and lead more fulfilled, happier life.
Diagnosis
If you or a loved one has been struggling to get organized or has trouble paying attention in class, have trouble following directions at work, have social issues, or other concerns that could be caused by ADHD, it is important to see a doctor to get an assessment. A mental health professional like psychologist or psychiatrist could help diagnose ADHD. Some primary care professionals are trained to diagnose ADHD.
The process of evaluation involves an extended interview and discussion of the symptoms. The health care provider will look over 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 disease and head injuries, as well as some drugs can cause similar symptoms to those of ADHD. Other mental health issues like mood disorders and anxiety 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 exam, the doctor will inquire about the patient's life at home and at school, including the frequency with which they miss classes or fails to complete homework. The doctor may also want to talk to other people in the patient's life, including coaches and teachers and may also request that the person bring a journal.
The person being evaluated must be willing and able to openly talk about their opinions with the assessor. They should not be afraid to be critiqued or criticized. This will enhance the accuracy of the assessment and increase the likelihood that a diagnosis will be accurate.
Treatment
If you or your child suffers from ADHD receiving a diagnosis is a relief. It can help you understand that it's not just inattention, or a deficit in intelligence, that's preventing you from achieving success. It also teaches you the steps to manage your symptoms. But the diagnosis needs to be followed by treatment. Adults with ADHD are often suffering from other mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression. Other diseases, such as sleep disorders or chronic headaches can trigger symptoms that appear similar to ADHD.
A mental health specialist or health care professional will examine the patient and their family members thoroughly to determine ADHD. They will review the person's history going back to childhood, inquire about the person's education and how family members interact with one diagnosed adhd other. They will also employ ADHD symptoms checklists and standardized rating scales. They will also conduct psychological tests that examine executive functioning, working memory, visual and spatial (related to space) and reasoning abilities.
Many people with ADHD discover that diet and exercise can aid in reducing their symptoms. They should stay away from the use of caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol. They should also adhere to a healthy diet, set a schedule for meals and have healthy snacks readily available so that they don't have to miss meals.
Ask your therapist, doctor or any other professional you trust for suggestions. A teacher is a good example. You can also call your insurance provider to find out who is certified to evaluate adults, or visit an area medical hospital or school. It is important to locate a specialist who is board-certified in psychology or psychiatry and has expertise in diagnosing ADHD.
Medication
The use of ADHD medications can help people with the disorder manage their symptoms and also improve their functioning at work, school at home, and in social situations. The stimulant drugs used to treat ADHD can also trigger side effects such as difficulty sleeping, changes in appetite, and weight loss. They should not be combined in conjunction with other medications such as those for depression or high blood pressure and heart issues. Health professionals suggest that children and adolescents receive an entire physical examination including hearing and eye tests, before beginning medication. Health care providers should talk with patients about the benefits and dangers of taking ADHD medication. They should also inquire about the history of their family as well as lifestyle habits and prior medical problems.
To make a diagnosis, the clinician must examine the person closely to see whether the symptoms persist or significantly impact the person's performance in multiple settings. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, a diagnostic manual published by the American Psychiatric Association, contains the criteria to make a diagnosis of ADD/ADHD.
The physician will look over the symptoms to determine the severity and also to rule out any other disorders that could trigger them. People suffering from a learning disorder often show symptoms resembling those of ADHD. An individual with anxiety disorder might be misdiagnosed. The doctor will also look at whether the patient suffers from any medical issues like thyroid disorders that may mimic the symptoms of ADHD.
The doctor may suggest a variety of tests, including cognitive testing or brain imaging to determine how the symptoms are impacting the patient. The doctor may also recommend an entire medical examination, and laboratory tests such a complete blood test and cholesterol panel.
Counseling
Talk to your doctor if you suspect that you might have ADHD. They can refer you to specialists who specialize in screening for ADHD. They can also help you determine the need for medication by discussing how the symptoms affect the daily lives of your child or yourself. They can also discuss other options for treatment, for example, behavioral therapy.
If your family physician is unable conduct a detailed evaluation of your symptoms online counselors who specialize in telemedicine can be found. For instance, Amwell connects patients with licensed professionals who can assist in managing a range of mental health issues, including ADHD. Sessions are conducted through video or audio chat and are completely confidential.
When selecting an online counselor, it is important to feel at ease and trust with them. Ask them about their experience and education with adults with ADHD. Make sure they can answer your questions thoroughly. If they are reluctant to answer your questions, it may be an indicator that they are unqualified or unwilling to work with adults who suffer from ADHD.
Getting an ADHD diagnosis can be difficult but it's an essential step toward managing your symptoms and gaining control of your life. It will help you realize that your issues with organization and focus are not a result of lazyness. It's also reassuring to know that you're not alone. Many people who aren't diagnosed with ADHD have difficulty maintaining healthy relationships, careers and lifestyles.
People with ADHD are more likely to suffer from other psychiatric issues such as depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder. A therapist can teach you how to manage ADHD and other conditions.