ADHD Diagnosis
If you suspect that you may have ADHD it is recommended that you consult a specialist. The specialist will ask you about your symptoms and the impact they can have on your life. They will also go over any medical history you may have.
They will also examine how you feel in different situations, such as at school, at home and in social situations. They will also look at how long you've been experiencing these symptoms for.
Symptoms
If you think your child might have ADHD, talk to their doctor. They can test for symptoms by asking you and your teachers to complete a questionnaire and ask them to perform some tests. They can also conduct physical examinations, including eye and ear 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 which are typically higher in kids with ADHD.
The symptoms must be present before the child reached the age of 12. It has to cause significant impairment in two important settings, such as at school and at work. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. The psychiatric guidelines utilized by doctors in diagnosing adults include a detailed description of the symptoms, their duration and the degree of impairment they cause.
Children often struggle to discern the difference between normal and abnormal behavior, which is why parents may overlook some of the most common symptoms of ADHD. Stress mental health issues and physical ailments can cause similar symptoms as ADHD.
People suffering from ADHD may also have issues with self-esteem and relationships, which could lead them to depression. Sleep issues can worsen ADHD symptoms. They are more likely than others to drink alcohol or use drugs, which could be detrimental to their health. The impulsiveness of the disorder can lead to financial issues or even bankruptcy. It is essential that children receive an accurate ADHD diagnosis. This will help them manage their symptoms and lead an enjoyable, productive life.
Diagnosis
It is essential to speak with an expert if you or someone in your family is suffering from social problems, has trouble organizing their life, has trouble paying attention at school, has trouble following instructions at work, or has other signs that may be due to ADHD. A mental health professional, like psychiatrists or psychologists can help make an assessment. Some primary care professionals have training in diagnosing ADHD.
The evaluation process involves an extensive interview and discussion of the symptoms. The health professional will examine the patient's medical, mental and family history to determine other conditions that could be responsible for the symptoms. For instance, certain medical conditions, such as thyroid diseases or head injuries, as well as some drugs can cause similar symptoms as those associated with ADHD. Other mental health issues such as anxiety and mood disorders, can also be a result of ADHD and cause 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. In addition to a thorough physical exam, the clinician will inquire about the patient's life at home and at school, focusing on the frequency at which the person is absent from class or fails to finish homework. The clinician will also ask to speak with other people involved in the person's daily life, including teachers and coaches. They might also ask the person to bring journals.
The person being evaluated must be willing to discuss their feelings openly with the examiner and not keep the information from fear that they will be criticised or criticized. This will improve the quality of the assessment and increase the chances that the diagnosis is accurate.
Treatment
If you or your child suffers from ADHD, getting a diagnosis is a great relief. It will help you realize that it's not just laziness, or a lack in intelligence, that is hindering your progress. It also provides the steps to manage your symptoms. But the diagnosis needs to be followed by treatment. Adults who suffer from ADHD are often suffering from other mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety. Other conditions, like chronic headaches or sleep disorder, could produce symptoms similar to ADHD.
To diagnose ADHD, a health care provider or mental health professional will conduct a thorough assessment of the patient and their family. They will inquire about the person's childhood and their schooling, as well as how their family interacts. They will also utilize ADHD symptom checklists and standardized rating scales. They will also perform psychological tests to assess executive functioning, working memory, visual and spatial (related to space) and reasoning abilities.
Many people with ADHD discover that exercise and diet can help reduce their symptoms. They should avoid caffeine, nicotine and alcohol. They should also follow an appropriate diet, plan their meals and have healthy snacks readily available to ensure they don't skip meals.
Ask your doctor, therapist or other professionals you are comfortable with for recommendations. A teacher is an excellent example. You can also call your insurance company to find out who is certified to evaluate adults, or visit the nearest medical hospital or school. It is essential to find a doctor with experience in diagnosing ADHD and who is board certified in psychiatry or psychology.
Medication
The use of ADHD medications can help people with the disorder manage their symptoms, as well as improve their performance at how to get diagnosed with adhd school, work as well as in social situations. However, stimulant drugs used to treat ADHD may also cause various side effects, including trouble sleeping, changes in appetite and weight loss. They should not be taken in conjunction with other medications like those used to treat depression, high blood-pressure, and heart conditions. Before starting a medication doctors recommend that children and adolescents undergo a thorough physical examination, which includes eye and hearing tests. Patients should be educated about the risks and advantages of taking ADHD medications by their healthcare providers. They should also inquire about family history as well as lifestyle habits and prior medical problems.
The clinician must closely examine the patient to determine whether the symptoms persist, and if they affect the patient's ability to function in more than one setting. 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 ADHD/ADD.
The doctor will look at the symptoms to determine their severity and to rule out any other disorders that might be causing them. For instance, people with a learning impairment frequently exhibit symptoms similar to those of ADHD, and someone with an anxiety disorder could be mistakenly identified as having ADHD. The physician will also look at whether the patient has any medical conditions like thyroid disorders that may mimic the symptoms of ADHD.
The doctor may suggest a variety of tests, like cognitive testing or brain imaging, to assess how the symptoms affect the person. He could also suggest a full medical evaluation, along with laboratory tests such a complete blood test and cholesterol test.
Counseling
Speak to your doctor if you suspect that you may have ADHD. They can refer you to professionals who specialize in screening for ADHD. They can also assist you in determining whether medication is required by discussing how the symptoms impact the daily lives of your child or yourself. They can also provide alternative treatment options, such as behavior therapy.
If your family doctor is unable conduct a detailed assessment of your symptoms, online counselors who specialize in telemedicine are readily available. For example, Amwell connects patients with licensed professionals who can assist in managing various mental health issues, including ADHD. Sessions take place via video and audio chat and are private and secure.
It is crucial that you feel comfortable and confident with your online counselor. Ask them about their experience and training with adults with ADHD. Make sure they can answer your questions in detail. If they are reluctant to answer your questions this could be an indicator that they are not qualified or unwilling to work with adults who suffer from ADHD.
Getting an ADHD diagnosis can be difficult but it's an essential step towards managing your symptoms and taking control over your life. It can help you understand that the difficulties you have with focus and organization aren't the result of inattention or lack of intelligence. It's also comforting to know you're not alone. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD struggle to keep their jobs, relationships, and healthy lifestyles.
People with ADHD are more likely to suffer from other psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder. A therapist can help comprehend how your ADHD and other disorders interact and can help you learn to manage them.