Getting an ADHD Diagnosis
Finding a diagnosis for ADHD is usually the first step in managing symptoms that affect daily activities. Many people are uncomfortable finding out if they have an assessment. However, it can be an important relief.
A clinical interview is typically the first step in an ADHD evaluation. Experts may also use checklists with standardized criteria, and may administer screening tests for coexisting disorders like 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 is often caused by an imbalance of chemicals in the brain. Adults with ADHD have difficulty with organizing tasks, staying focused at work or school and remembering important dates. They are susceptible to impulsive behavior, such as cutting lines and interrupting others, or not following rules. They may also have trouble completing projects, keeping their schedules or paying their bills.
When seeking a diagnosis, it is important to find an expert in ADHD. Find local chapters of mental health organizations, a local support group, or ask for an appointment from a trusted source. It is also a good idea to contact your insurance company to see whether there are any providers in their network who specialize in ADHD.
adhd diagnosis in adults will include a detailed description of symptoms by the patient, an examination of personal and family histories including past medical, psychiatric, and educational issues, the taking neuropsychological or psychoeducational tests, and a physical examination. Additionally, the doctor will also interview significant others, such as spouses or partners to assess how ADHD symptoms affect their lives. Many adults with ADHD suffer from poor memories of their childhood. Hence, it is helpful to ask parents or other relatives fill out questionnaires describing the child's symptoms.
Adults suffering from ADHD can have a hard to admit their problems are caused by their attention deficit disorder. They may feel shamed, angry and frustrated for being unable to stay well-organized and focused at home and at work. They may also believe that their problems are their own shortcomings or imperfections in their character. Finding a diagnosis of ADHD can give relief and hope for the future, and help them understand that their difficulties are not their fault.
Diagnosis
There isn't a single physical or medical test for ADHD (previously referred to as ADD) however a qualified mental health care professional will gather information on your child or adult's symptoms from a variety of sources. These include ADHD symptom checklists and standardized scales for assessing behavior, a detailed history of the person's past and present behavior and information from people who know the person well.
A thorough assessment could include a psychological examination, such as a personality inventory or neuropsychological tests. Additionally, a health care provider can examine a person's medical history, which includes present or past injuries, illnesses and the use of medications, including those that stabilize moods, such as steroids.
Other conditions and disorders may mimic ADHD symptoms. This includes anxiety disorders, learning disabilities and mood disorders, as in addition to other medical conditions, such as thyroid disorder or sleep apnea. A thorough evaluation of psychiatric disorders will help identify the cause and determine the most effective treatment.
The most important aspect to consider when determining ADHD is whether the individual's symptoms result in significant impairments in at least two primary settings - such as school and at home. This is especially true for children and young people. They may have a difficult time to succeed at school, have difficulty maintaining jobs, and have trouble maintaining friendships and relationships without being treated with respect.
It's important to seek an evaluation from a health care professional who specializes in working with adolescents and children. A majority of primary care physicians and mental health professionals routinely diagnose ADHD however, you must look for an expert who is able to perform a thorough examination. During the interview the doctor will ask you questions about your child's condition and your family history. He or she will also go over the criteria set forth by the American Psychiatric Association for diagnosing ADHD in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition.
Treatment
There are a variety of psychiatric disorders that may mimic ADHD for adults as well as children. A thorough psychiatric examination is required to determine if there are any other conditions. These include mood disorders, anxiety disorders as well as learning disabilities, head injuries thyroid disorders, and drug use. These alternate explanations could have a significant impact on quality of life.
A complete mental health evaluation includes an interview with the person who is being assessed, as well as checklists and questionnaires that are completed by others in their life. This can include parents, spouses and siblings, as well as teachers for children, co-workers or friends, as well as therapists for adults. Personal insights can provide information that cannot be gleaned from questions or checklists. It can also help the clinician understand the ways in which ADHD symptoms affect the relationships of a person with others.
The psychiatrist or psychologist will examine the medical records of the patient as well as their symptoms. A physical exam, including audio and vision 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 a clinical trial to determine if the new medication can help alleviate their symptoms. Participants must be aware that the main goal of a clinical study is to gain new knowledge and not to treat a specific disease.
Based on the results, the doctor may recommend medication, psychotherapy, or other treatments. In certain instances, an integrated treatment may be the most efficient. Medication can alleviate some of the symptoms and is generally safe for children as well as adults. Other methods that can be successful include behavioral therapy, lifestyle changes and parenting strategies.
Medication
For some people medication can ease symptoms of ADHD and enhance their ability to function. It can be challenging to find the right dose and type of medication that works best, and it could require time to adjust to any side effects. Some medications can cause someone to feel tired or sleepy and it is essential to talk to a doctor about this.
Psychiatrists may prescribe stimulants to lessen the symptoms of ADHD. These drugs increase the levels in the brain of certain neurotransmitters. They can also prescribe non-stimulant drugs that can boost focus, attention, and impulsivity but aren't as efficient as stimulants. They can also prescribe antidepressants and mood stabilizers to people suffering from depression, as well as other disorders that may be present in conjunction with ADHD.
Psychotherapy, family therapy, and training or educational programs for adults and children are additional treatments that can aid those suffering from ADHD. These interventions can help people develop strategies and techniques to deal with their symptoms and improve their functioning at school and at home.
In some cases a mental or medical health professional may be able to identify ADHD in children by reviewing their school records and discussing the child's behavior with caretakers and teachers. They'll likely interview the child, conduct psychological tests and look for signs of learning disabilities as well as other conditions with similar symptoms.
To qualify for an ADHD diagnosis, they must exhibit at least six out of nine symptoms as described in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders(DSM-IV TR) and the symptoms must be significant enough to impair adaptive functioning in the classroom as well as at home. In addition, they must not be more easily explained by another condition.
Counseling
When you need treatment or medication management for ADHD it is essential to find a certified professional who is experienced in treating the disorder. Your primary care physician will make a recommendation or direct you to specialists in your area. Some professionals who specialize in ADHD offer telemedicine online to make appointments simpler and more convenient. Many insurance companies allow you to schedule appointments using their system.
Doctors and ADHD specialists can identify ADHD in children by discussing their symptoms with parents and teachers in depth, observing them in different settings, interviewing the family members and conducting a learning disability evaluation. They also examine school reports and questionnaires that are completed by teachers and caregivers. Adults or adolescents need to demonstrate at least five of the following symptoms to qualify for diagnosis:
A thorough medical history is important in order to diagnose ADHD. Clinicians can inquire about childhood memories from other sources, like spouses or family members, because adults have a tendency to have weak or blurred memories of their childhood. They should also look for other possible causes for symptoms similar to ADHD, such as brain injuries, developmental disorders or other health issues.
During the initial consultation, the professional will evaluate how the patient manages ADHD symptoms and the impact these symptoms affect their daily lives. They should also discuss any prior ADHD assessments or treatments. It is also beneficial to determine other conditions that have similar symptoms, like anxiety and mood disorders. A mental health professional shouldn't just assess an individual, but also listen to them without judgement. This is especially important if there is an underlying depression issue, or addiction to drugs.