ADHD Diagnosis
See a doctor if you suspect you have ADHD. The specialist will ask about your symptoms and how they affect your life. They will also review any medical history you may have.
They will check how your symptoms impact you in different settings, such as school, home and social settings. They will also look at how long you've been experiencing these symptoms.
Symptoms
If you suspect your child might have ADHD discuss the possibility with their doctor. They can check for symptoms by asking you and their teachers to fill out a questionnaire and may ask them to perform certain tests. They can also conduct a physical examination, including eye and ear tests. They can also utilize FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) that is a noninvasive scanner that detects beta- and theta waves that are more prominent in children with ADHD.
A diagnosis of ADHD requires that the signs have been present for a long time before the age of 12 for the child. It has to cause significant impairment in two main environments, like work and school. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. The psychiatric guidelines utilized by doctors in diagnosing adults provide a thorough description of the symptoms, their duration and the level of impairment they cause.
Children often struggle to tell the difference between normal and abnormal behavior, and parents might not be aware of the most commonly observed symptoms of ADHD. Stress or other mental health issues or physical illnesses can trigger similar symptoms to ADHD.
People suffering from ADHD might also have issues with self-esteem and relationships, which could cause depression. They are often unable to get sufficient sleep, and an absence of sleep can make the symptoms of ADHD worse. They are more likely to drink and use drugs, which could have serious consequences for their health. The impulsiveness of the disorder can lead to financial issues or even bankruptcy. It's important for kids to get a proper diagnosis as it will help them manage their ADHD symptoms and lead a more pleasant and more productive life.
Diagnosis
If you or a family member has been struggling to get organized or has trouble paying attention in class, are having difficulty following instructions at work, suffer from social issues, or other concerns that could be due to ADHD It is crucial to consult with a physician to get an assessment. A mental health professional such as a psychiatrist or psychologist can assist in diagnosing ADHD. find out here are also trained to recognize ADHD.
The process of evaluation will include a lengthy interview and discussion of the symptoms. The health professional will examine the person's mental, medical and family history to determine if there are other factors that could be contributing to symptoms. For instance certain medical conditions like thyroid disease and head injuries, as well as certain drugs can trigger similar symptoms as those associated with ADHD. Other mental health problems such as 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. The clinician will also ask about the person’s home and school life, such as how often they are absent from school or fail to complete their homework. The clinician may want to discuss other people in the person's life, including teachers and coaches and may ask that the patient bring journals.
The person being evaluated must be willing to discuss their feelings with the examiner and not keep the information from fear of being accused of being criticized or judged. This will increase the accuracy of the assessment and increase the likelihood that a diagnosis will be accurate.
Treatment
If you or your child has ADHD, getting a diagnosis is a great relief. It will help you understand that it's not a lack of effort or insanity hindering your success. It also gives you steps to take to manage your symptoms. The diagnosis should be followed-up with treatment. Adults suffering from ADHD often suffer from other mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression. Other conditions like chronic headaches or sleep disorders can cause symptoms that look like ADHD.
To diagnose ADHD, a health care provider or mental health professional will conduct a thorough examination of the patient and their family. They will go over the person's life history back to childhood, inquire about the person's school experience and how their family members interact with one with each. They will also employ the standard rating scales as well as ADHD symptoms checklists. They will also conduct psychological tests to assess executive functioning, working memory spatial and visual (related to space) and reasoning skills.
Many people with ADHD discover that diet and exercise can reduce the symptoms. They should avoid caffeine, nicotine and alcohol. They should also eat healthy food and plan their meal times and keep healthful snacks on hand to ensure they don't have to skip meals.
You can find an ADHD specialist by seeking recommendations from your physician or therapist or other reputable professionals like an educator. You can also ask a local university-based hospital or medical school to get an inventory of specialists who are qualified or contact your insurance company to obtain an overview of the specialists who are licensed to assess adults. It is essential to find a specialist who is certified by a board-certified psychologist or psychiatrist and has experience diagnosing ADHD.
Medication
The use of ADHD medication can help those with the disorder better manage their symptoms as well as improve their functioning at work, school at home, and in social settings. However, stimulant medications used to treat ADHD can also trigger a number of side effects, such as trouble sleeping, changes in appetite and weight loss. They should not be used with certain other drugs for depression, such as those used to treat, high blood pressure, and heart conditions. Health care professionals recommend that adolescents and children undergo an entire physical examination, including eye and hearing tests, before beginning medication. Health professionals should speak with patients about the advantages and dangers of taking ADHD medication. They should also ask about the history of their family, lifestyle habits, and prior medical problems.
The doctor must carefully examine the patient to determine whether the symptoms persist and if they hinder the person's ability in more than one environment. The criteria for a diagnosis of ADD/ADHD is defined by the American Psychiatric Association in its diagnostic manual, known as the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM).
The clinician will review the symptoms to determine their severity and to rule out other disorders that could trigger them. People who suffer from learning disorders often exhibit symptoms resembling those of ADHD. An individual suffering from anxiety disorder may be misdiagnosed. The doctor will also take into consideration whether the person has an illness, such as thyroid disease, which could be akin to symptoms of ADHD.
The clinician might suggest a series of tests, including brain imaging or cognitive testing to determine how symptoms affect the person. He may also suggest a full medical evaluation, along with lab tests like a comprehensive blood test and cholesterol panel.
Counseling
If you suspect ADHD Talk to your family physician. They can refer you to experts who are skilled in ADHD screening. They can also assist you in determining the need for medication by discussing how the symptoms affect the daily life of your child or yourself. They can also explain other options for treatment, such as behavioral therapy.
If your family physician cannot conduct a detailed assessment of your symptoms you can find online counselors who specialize in telemedicine. For instance, Amwell connects patients with licensed specialists who can assist in managing a variety of mental health issues, including ADHD. Session take place via audio or video chat and are completely confidential.
When choosing an online counseling specialist, it is important to feel at ease and trust with them. Find out about their education and experience working with adults suffering from ADHD and make sure they are able to answer your questions in depth. If they're not willing to share their knowledge this could be a sign that they are not qualified or uninterested in working with adults suffering from ADHD.
Finding an ADHD diagnosis can be a challenge but it's an essential step in managing your symptoms and taking control over your life. It can help you understand that the issues you face in focusing and organization are not a sign of laziness or low intelligence. It's also a relief to know that you're not alone. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD struggle to maintain healthy relationships, jobs and lives.
People with ADHD are more likely to be suffering from other psychiatric issues such as anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder. A therapist can guide you on how to manage ADHD and other disorders.