ADHD Diagnosis
See a doctor if you suspect that you may have ADHD. The specialist will ask about your symptoms and how they impact your life. They will also go over your medical background.
They will check how your symptoms impact you in different settings, such as home, school and social settings. They will also assess how long you've been experiencing these symptoms.
Symptoms
If you suspect your child might have ADHD, talk to their doctor. You and your child's teachers can complete an assessment questionnaire to look for symptoms. They can also request that they take a few tests. They could also take physical examinations, such as hearing and eye tests. They can also use the FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG-Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) system which is a noninvasive scan that measures beta and theta brain waves that are higher in kids with ADHD.
A diagnosis of ADHD requires that the symptoms have been present since before the child reached the age of 12. It should cause significant impairment in two primary situations, such as school and at work. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. In order to diagnose adults, doctors use psychiatric guidelines that include an extensive description of the symptoms and their duration as well as the level of impairment.
Parents may not notice some of the more typical ADHD symptoms because children have difficulty distinguishing between normal and abnormal behavior. Additionally, stress or other mental health issues or physical illnesses may trigger similar symptoms as ADHD.
People suffering from ADHD can also have problems with relationships and self-esteem which can cause depression. They often have trouble getting sufficient sleep, and a lack of sleep can cause the symptoms of ADHD worse. They tend to drink more and use drugs, which could result in serious consequences for their health. The impulsiveness of ADHD can lead to financial issues or even bankruptcy. It is crucial for children to be diagnosed properly as it will help them manage their ADHD symptoms and lead a healthier and more productive life.
Diagnosis
If you or a loved one has struggled to stay organized, have trouble paying attention in class, are having difficulty adhering to instructions at work, experience social issues, or other concerns that could be caused by ADHD, it is important to see a doctor to get an evaluation. A mental health professional, like a psychologist or psychiatrist, can help make an assessment. Some primary care providers also are trained to diagnose ADHD.
The evaluation process will involve an extensive interview and discussion of the symptoms. The health care professional will examine the patient's medical and mental history as well as family history to identify other conditions that could be responsible for the symptoms. Certain medical conditions like thyroid disorders, head injuries and certain medications can cause symptoms similar to ADHD. Other mental health issues such as anxiety and mood disorders, can also occur with 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. The doctor will also inquire about the person’s home and school activities, including how often they are absent from school or fail to complete their homework. The clinician might also speak with other people in the patient's life, including teachers and coaches, and may request that the person bring an account of their lives.
The person being assessed should be able and willing to discuss their feelings with the examiner. They shouldn't be afraid of being criticised or judged. This will enhance the accuracy of the assessment and increase the chances that a diagnosis will be precise.
Treatment
A diagnosis of ADHD is a great relief for your child or yourself. It will help you understand that it's not laziness or insanity hindering your success and it gives you steps to take to manage your symptoms. However, the diagnosis must be followed by treatment. Adults who suffer from ADHD typically suffer from other mental health issues like depression or anxiety. Other diseases, such as sleep disorders or chronic headaches may cause symptoms like 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 and their schooling, as well as how their family interacts. They will also utilize the standard rating scales as well as ADHD symptom checklists. They will also conduct psychological tests that assess working memory, executive function, spatial and visual skills (related to spatial space) and reasoning abilities.
Many people suffering from ADHD find that exercising and diet reduce the symptoms. adhd diagnosis uk adults should stay away from alcohol, nicotine and caffeine. They should also adhere to an appropriate diet, plan their 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 are comfortable with for recommendations. A teacher is an excellent example. You can also contact your insurance company to find out who's certified to evaluate adults or contact an area medical school or hospital. It is essential to locate a specialist who is board-certified in psychology or psychiatry and has experience in diagnosing ADHD.
Medication
The use of medications for ADHD can help those suffering from the disorder control their symptoms and improve their performance at school, at home, work, and in social settings. Stimulant medications used to treat ADHD can also cause negative side effects like difficulties sleeping, changes in appetite, and weight loss. They should not be combined in conjunction with other medications, including those for depression or high blood pressure and heart issues. Health professionals recommend that children and adolescents undergo an extensive physical exam that includes hearing and eye tests, before beginning medication. Patients should be informed about the risks and advantages of taking ADHD medications by their healthcare providers. They should also ask about the history of their family, lifestyle habits, and any medical issues that have occurred previously.
The clinician must examine the patient closely to determine whether the symptoms persist, and if they affect the person's ability 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 to make a diagnosis of ADD/ADHD.
The clinician will examine the symptoms to determine their severity and also to rule out other conditions that may be causing them. For instance, people who have a learning disability often exhibit ADHD-like symptoms, and a person suffering from an anxiety disorder may be mistakenly diagnosed with ADHD. The physician will also consider whether the person has a medical condition like a thyroid disorder, that may be similar to the symptoms of ADHD.
The physician may suggest a variety of tests, such as brain imaging or cognitive testing to determine how symptoms affect the person. The doctor may also recommend an entire medical assessment and laboratory tests, including the complete blood count and cholesterol panel.
Counseling
If you suspect you have ADHD, talk to your family physician. They can provide referrals to specialists who specialize in screening for ADHD. They can also assist you in determining whether medication is needed by discussing how symptoms affect the daily lives of your child or you. They can also discuss other options for treatment for example, the use of behavioral therapy.
If your family doctor is unable conduct a detailed evaluation of your symptoms online counselors who specialize in telemedicine are available. For example, Amwell connects patients with licensed providers who can assist in managing a variety of mental health issues, such as ADHD. Sessions are conducted via audio and video chat and are private and secure.
It is essential to feel comfortable and confident with your online counselor. Find out about their education and experience working with adults with ADHD and make sure they can answer your questions in detail. If they are reluctant to share their knowledge, it may be an indicator that they are unqualified or unwilling to work with adults suffering from ADHD.
It can be a challenge to receive an ADHD diagnosis however it is a crucial step in managing your symptoms and taking control of your own life. It can help you understand that your issues in focusing and organization aren't the result of laziness or low intelligence. It's also comforting to know you're not alone. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD struggle to maintain relationships, jobs, and healthy lifestyles.
It is common for people suffering from ADHD to suffer from other mental disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. A therapist can teach you how to deal with ADHD and other conditions.