ADHD Diagnosis
If you suspect you might have ADHD, you should consult a specialist. The specialist will ask about your symptoms and how they affect your life. They will also look over any medical history you may have.
They will also examine how you feel in various situations, such as at home, school and in social settings. They will also consider how long you have had these symptoms.
Symptoms
If you think your child might have ADHD, talk to their doctor. They can look for signs by asking you and your teachers to complete an assessment form and ask them to do some tests. They can also conduct a physical examination, including tests for the ear and eyes. 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 more prominent in children with ADHD.
The symptoms must be present prior to the child reaching the age of 12. It must cause significant disability in two crucial settings, such as at school or at work. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. The psychiatric guidelines that are used by doctors in diagnosing adults provide a thorough description of the symptoms, their duration and the degree of impairment they cause.
Children often struggle to tell the distinction between normal and abnormal behavior, and parents might overlook some of the most common symptoms of ADHD. Stress and mental health issues and physical illnesses can also cause similar symptoms as ADHD.
People with ADHD can also have problems with relationships and self-esteem, which can lead to depression. Sleep problems can cause ADHD symptoms. They are more likely than others to drink alcohol or use drugs, which can be detrimental to their health. The disorder can lead to problems with finances or even bankruptcies due to the impulse-control issues. It is essential that children receive an accurate ADHD diagnosis. This will allow them to manage their symptoms and live more fulfilled, happier life.
Diagnosis
If you or a family member have struggled to stay organized, have trouble paying attention in class, have trouble following instructions at work, experience social problems, or have other concerns that could be related to ADHD it is essential to consult a doctor to get an evaluation. A mental health professional like a psychiatrist or psychologist can assist in diagnosing ADHD. Some primary care providers also have training in diagnosing ADHD.
The evaluation process consists of an extensive interview and discussion of symptoms. The health professional will review the person's medical, mental, and family history in order to determine if there are other issues that may be causing symptoms. Some medical conditions such as thyroid diseases, head injuries and certain medications can cause symptoms that are similar to ADHD. Other mental health issues like anxiety and mood disorders, may also be present 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. In addition to a thorough physical examination, the clinician will ask about the person's life at home and at school, including the frequency at which the person is absent from classes or fails to complete homework. The doctor may also want to speak with other people in the person's life, like teachers and coaches and may ask that the person bring journals.
The person being evaluated should be willing and able to openly talk about their thoughts with the assessor. They should not be scared of being judged or criticized. This will increase the quality of the assessment and increase the chance that a diagnosis will be exact.
Treatment
If you or your child is suffering from ADHD, getting a diagnosis is a relief. It can help you realize that it's not laziness or insanity that is preventing your success and it gives you steps to take to manage your symptoms. But the diagnosis needs to be followed by treatment. Adults who suffer from ADHD often have other mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression. Other conditions, like a chronic headache or sleep disorder, may cause symptoms that look like ADHD.
To determine if someone has ADHD, a health care provider or mental health professional will conduct a thorough exam of the person and their family. They will review the person's past from birth to childhood, inquire about the person's school experience and how family members interact with one other. They will also utilize ADHD symptom checklists and standardized rating scales. They will also conduct psychological tests that test executive function, spatial and visual abilities (related to spatial space) and reasoning abilities.
Many people with ADHD find that diet and exercise can help reduce their symptoms. They should stay away from smoking, alcohol, and caffeine. They should also adhere to a healthy diet, set a schedule for meals and have healthy snacks available so they don't miss meals.
You can find an ADHD specialist by asking for recommendations from your doctor or therapist, or from other reputable professionals like a teacher. You can also contact the local hospital or medical school for the names of qualified specialists or call your insurance provider to get an overview of the specialists who are certified to evaluate adults. It is essential to find a specialist who is certified by a board-certified psychologist or psychiatrist and has experience diagnosing ADHD.
Medication
Treatments for ADHD can help people with the disorder manage their symptoms and improve functioning at home, school, work, and in social settings. However, stimulant drugs used to treat ADHD may also cause various side effects, such as trouble sleeping, changes in appetite, and weight loss. They should not be combined in conjunction with other medications for example, those used to treat depression, high blood pressure and heart-related conditions. Before beginning treatment health professionals suggest that children and adolescents undergo a complete physical examination that includes hearing and eye tests. Patients should be educated about the potential risks and benefits of taking ADHD medications by their healthcare providers. They should also ask questions about family history, lifestyle, and medical history.
The doctor must examine the patient closely to determine whether the symptoms persist and if they impact the patient's ability to function in more than one environment. The criteria for a diagnosis of ADD/ADHD has been established by the American Psychiatric Association in its diagnostic manual, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM).
The physician will assess the symptoms in order to determine their severity and to rule out other disorders that may be causing them. People who suffer from learning disorders often exhibit symptoms resembling those of ADHD. An individual with anxiety disorder could be incorrectly diagnosed. The physician will also look at whether the patient suffers from any medical issues, such as thyroid disorders which could resemble the symptoms of ADHD.
The doctor may suggest a battery of tests, such as brain imaging or cognitive testing, to assess how the symptoms are affecting the individual. diagnosis of adhd may also suggest a full medical evaluation, as well as tests in the laboratory, such as a full blood test and cholesterol panel.
Counseling
If you suspect that you may have ADHD Talk to your family doctor. They can refer you to experts who are skilled in ADHD screening. They can also help you determine whether medication is needed by discussing how the symptoms affect the daily life of your child or you. They can also explain other options for treatment, such as behavioral therapy.
If your family doctor is unable to conduct an in-depth assessment of your symptoms you can seek out online counselors who specialize in telemedicine. Amwell for instance connects patients to licensed professionals who can treat a range of mental health issues like ADHD. Sessions are conducted via video or audio chat, and are private.
When choosing an online counseling specialist, it is important to feel secure and confident with them. Ask them about their experience and education with adults suffering from ADHD. Make sure they are able to answer your questions with precision. If they refuse to do so, this could be a sign that they're not competent or able to work as a professional with adults with ADHD.
The process of getting an ADHD diagnosis can be a challenge however it's an essential step towards controlling your symptoms and gaining control of your life. It can help you realize that the difficulties you have in focusing and organization are not a sign of laziness or low intelligence. It's also a comfort to know that you're not alone. Many people who aren't diagnosed with ADHD have difficulty maintaining healthy relationships, jobs and lives.
It is not uncommon for people with ADHD to have other psychiatric disorders such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. A therapist can help you learn how to manage ADHD and other conditions.