Getting an ADHD Diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD is usually the first step to be done to control symptoms that hinder daily life. Many people are reluctant to seek a diagnosis, but doing so can be a relief.
A clinical interview is typically the first step in an ADHD evaluation. Experts also use standardized checklists and may also conduct screening tests for coexisting conditions such as mood disorders or learning disabilities.
Symptoms
The disorder was first documented in medical science in 1902, and has been referred to by several names, most recently attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder with or without hyperactivity (DSM-5). ADHD may be caused by an imbalance in chemicals in the brain. Adults with ADHD have difficulty with organizing tasks, staying focused at work or school, and remembering important dates. They are prone impulsive behavior like disrupting others, or ignoring rules. They might also have difficulty making appointments, completing tasks or paying bills.
When seeking a diagnosis it is important to find a clinician trained in ADHD. Find local chapters of mental health organizations, local support group or ask for an appointment from a trusted source. You may also check with your insurance provider to see whether they have any providers who specialize in ADHD.
A thorough psychiatric examination will include a detailed description of symptoms and a thorough review of the family history and personal history, which includes past mental health, medical and educational issues and the an examination of psychoeducational or neuropsychological tests and a physical examination. Additionally, the doctor will talk to important others like spouses or partners to assess the extent to which ADHD symptoms impact their lives. Many people with ADHD suffer from poor memories of their childhood, and it is beneficial to have parents or other close relatives fill out questionnaires describing the child's symptoms.
Adults with ADHD can have a hard time admitting their problems are due to their attention deficit disorder. They may feel angry or embarrassed by their inability to stay organized and focused at home as well as at the office. They may also think that their troubles are caused by their own faults or character flaws. A diagnosis of ADHD could bring hope and relief for the future and help them realize that their issues aren't the fault.
Diagnosis
There is no one physical or medical test to diagnose ADHD (previously called ADD). However a trained mental health professional will gather information from various sources regarding your child's or adult's symptoms. These include ADHD symptoms checklists, standardized behavior rating scales as well as a detailed record of both present and past functioning and information from those who know the person well.
A thorough examination could also include a psycho-psychological test like an inventory of personality or a neuropsychological test. Additionally the health care professional may evaluate the person's medical history, including present or past injuries, illnesses, and use of medications, such as mood-stabilizing ones like steroids.
Other conditions and disorders can cause ADHD symptoms. This includes learning disabilities, mood disorders, anxiety disorders and other medical problems such as sleep apnea head injuries and thyroid disorders. A thorough psychiatric evaluation will help identify the root of the problem and identify effective treatments.
The symptoms of a person must cause significant impairment in two or more major environments, like at home or at school, in order to be considered for ADHD diagnosis. This is particularly true for young people and children. Without treatment, these individuals can struggle to succeed at school, and find it difficult to maintain jobs and have trouble sustaining relationships and friendships.
It is crucial to get a diagnosis by a medical professional who has worked with children and teens. You can find many primary care doctors or mental health professionals who diagnose ADHD. However it is recommended to find an expert who can provide a thorough examination. In the course of the interview, the doctor will inquire about your child's and your personal family and personal history and will also examine the criteria for diagnosing ADHD defined by the American Psychiatric Association in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition.
Treatment
Many psychiatric disorders are similar to ADHD in children and adults A thorough psycho-psychiatric examination is required to rule out other conditions. These include anxiety disorders and mood disorders. They also include learning disabilities and thyroid issues, head trauma, and drug use. It's important to consider the various explanations for symptoms because they can impact the your quality of life.
A comprehensive mental health assessment includes an interview with the person being evaluated, as well as checklists and questionnaires completed by other people in their lives. This could include spouses, parents siblings, teachers and parents for children; co-workers or friends, as well as therapists for adults. Personal experience can provide insights that is not obtained from checklists or questions. It can also help the clinician understand how ADHD symptoms have affected the relationships of a person with others.
The psychiatrist or psychologist will examine the patient's medical records in addition to their symptoms. A physical examination, which includes vision and audio tests, is also performed. An electroencephalograph or EEG scan, which measures brain waves and can help identify the presence of ADHD, is available in some offices.
Some patients decide to participate in clinical trials to see if an upcoming medication can alleviate their symptoms. Participants should be aware that the main objective of a study is to gain new knowledge, not treat a particular condition.
Based on the findings of the examination, the doctor may suggest treatment options that could include psychotherapy, medication or other therapies. In some cases the combination of treatments is most efficient. Certain medications can ease the symptoms and is generally safe for children as well as adults. Other interventions can be effective with regard to behavior therapy, for example lifestyle changes.
Medication
For certain people medication can ease symptoms of ADHD and enhance their capacity to perform. It can be challenging to find the right dose and kind of medication that works best, and it could require time to adjust to any adverse effects. Certain medications can cause a person to feel sleepy or drowsy, so it is important to discuss this with a doctor.
Psychiatrists can prescribe stimulants which boost the levels of certain neurotransmitters within the brain to reduce the symptoms of ADHD. They may also prescribe non-stimulant medications, which can increase impulsivity and attention, however they are not as efficient as stimulants. They can prescribe mood stabilizers or antidepressants for people with depression, and other disorders that may be present along with ADHD.
Psychotherapy, family therapy, and training or educational programs for adults and children are additional treatments that can benefit those suffering from ADHD. These treatments can help people develop strategies and skills to cope with the symptoms and improve their performance at home and school.
In some cases a mental or medical health professional may be able to identify ADHD in a child by reviewing school records and discussing the child's behavior with the child's teachers and caregivers. They may interview the child, conduct psychological tests, and screen to determine if there are any issues with learning or other disorders that have similar symptoms.
In order for a child to be diagnosed with ADHD, they must show at least six of the nine symptoms listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV TR) and these symptoms must significantly hinder functioning at home as well as in the classroom. They should also not be explained by any other medical condition.
Counseling
If you require therapy or medication management for ADHD, it's essential to find a licensed professional who is experienced in treating the disorder. Your primary physician can provide a recommendation or refer you to specialists in your region. Certain specialists who specialize in ADHD also offer telemedicine via the internet making appointments simple and convenient. Many insurance companies allow you to make appointments using their system.
Doctors and ADHD specialists can diagnose ADHD in children by discussing symptoms with parents and teachers in depth by observing them in various settings, interviewing the family and conducting a study of learning disabilities. how to diagnose adhd review school records and questionnaires completed by teachers and caregivers. To receive a diagnosis the adult or adolescent must exhibit at least five symptoms:
A complete medical history is crucial in determining ADHD. Since adults typically have weak or blurry memories of childhood, doctors might seek information from independent sources, such as spouses or other family members. They should also be able to identify other possible causes for ADHD-like symptoms, such as neurological disorders, brain injuries or other health issues.
During the initial consultation the professional should assess how the person copes with the symptoms of ADHD and evaluate the impact of these symptoms on their daily lives. They should also discuss any prior ADHD evaluations or treatments. It's also helpful to identify other conditions that have similar symptoms to ADHD such as anxiety and mood disorders. A mental health professional should not only assess an individual, but also listen to them without judgement. This is particularly important when the person has an extensive history of substance abuse or depression.