How to Diagnose ADHD
Diagnosing ADHD involves gathering a variety of details. Your doctor will examine your symptoms and medical history, and then use the standard ADHD ratings scales. They'll also check to ensure that there isn't something else causing your child's or adult's problems, such as sleep apnea, thyroid problems depression, or drug abuse.
To be considered as diagnosed, ADHD symptoms must significantly affect family and school life and persist for at least six months.
Signs and symptoms
Before determining ADHD, a health care provider must examine the patient with care. They will ask about the symptoms, review medical, social and family history, look over the past and present mental health and medical problems and conduct a physical exam. The doctor may also recommend tests to rule out depression, anxiety or other conditions that may cause similar symptoms to ADHD.
A person with ADHD is more likely than other people to have trouble concentrating for extended periods of time. This can hinder the academics and other essential tasks. They are more likely to get distracted by the people, things or activities that surround them. They have difficulty following instructions, remembering specifics and keeping deadlines. They can be easily annoyed by criticism or have unrealistic expectations which can lead to disappointment and failure.
The symptoms of ADHD are different from person to person and may be mild, moderate, or severe. The symptoms that are mild do not interfere with a person's day-to-day activities or relationships, whereas severe symptoms can cause serious difficulties at work and at home. ADHD is a condition that affects people throughout their lives. adhd adults diagnosis is more prevalent in children, however some adults aren't diagnosed because they are able to cope with the symptoms.
For children who suffer from ADHD, the doctor will conduct thorough examinations, including vision and hearing tests. The doctor will discuss with the child, their parents and teachers about their habits and behavior and may request an imaging scan of the brain to rule out possible causes of symptoms like an MRI or CT scan.
A psychiatric evaluation is typically carried out by a psychologist clinical social worker, or nurse practitioner. The evaluator will ask about the person's symptoms and how they affect their life and work, and take into account the family's background and education. He or she will also review the person's mental and medical background, and talk to others in the family and with friends to get a complete picture.
The evaluator will decide if the person has the predominantly inattentive presentation of ADHD, the predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type or both. The inattentive presentation is more common among girls and affects all ages, while the hyperactive-impulsive type is more common in boys and younger children.
Triggers
If you have children who are always snoozing, unable to focus on schoolwork or other tasks at home, and is easily distracted by their friends, it may be time to seek assistance. ADHD is a brain disorder that affects children who have trouble paying attention, controlling their behavior or being organized. It can affect a child in a variety of ways, and cause problems at home, school, and with their relationships with family members and classmates.
Note down and observe your child's behavior prior to you visit the doctor. A good psychiatrist or psychologist will analyze a combination indicators and signs to determine if your child has ADHD or ADD. They will also consider the child's age as well as their developmental level. A diagnosis of ADD is given if an infant under the age of 16 has 6 or more symptoms of inattention (or 5 for older teens) for at least 6 months, and these symptoms interfere with daily functioning. The signs of ADHD include fidgeting, talking, tapping or any other continuous movement and a failure to follow instructions chores, classroom or work-related tasks.
A professional will also ask how these behaviors have affected your child's life in general. They will want to know if they have trouble with their academics or other activities are having difficulty maintaining friendships or romantic relationships, and are frequently late for appointments. They will also take a look at your child's past medical history and any medications they are currently taking, as some medications can trigger symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosing ADHD in adults is a bit more difficult because the criteria used in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) is designed to diagnose children. The most reliable method of diagnosing ADHD in adulthood is a clinical interview with a specialist in the disorder. They will take their time during the evaluation and not rush the process. They will often use computer programs and scans of the brain to examine your child's structure.
Finding your triggers is among the most important actions you can take to manage your ADHD. Once you identify what triggers your symptoms you can take actions that will help you avoid these triggers. For instance you can limit screen time, eat a balanced diet, and schedule regular sleep time.
Diagnosis
The first thing you should do if you suspect you might have ADHD is to seek a professional diagnosis. Many medical professionals have special training to assess ADHD in adults. Find out about the professional's training and experience in adult ADHD.
Your doctor will refer you to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fifth edition (DSM-5) to help you make a diagnosis. He or she wants to know if you have several symptoms that are present for at least six months and interfere with your everyday life, whether it is at work, home or socially. These include: inattention, hyperactivity/impulsivity, difficulty sitting still or waiting your turn, trouble organizing activities, making careless mistakes, problems with schoolwork or work, and difficulties forming close relationships.
The evaluation will also look for other conditions that can be similar to the symptoms of ADHD. These include learning disorders, mood disorders like anxiety or depression, thyroid conditions, head injuries and other medical conditions. Your doctor might also evaluate your family history to see whether you were diagnosed with ADHD as a child.
It is essential to include family members' information in your evaluation because people with ADHD have difficulty forming close relationships. Other people who spend much time with you, like teachers or scout and religious coaches, leaders and coworkers, could also give important information. These people can provide valuable information to your doctor, for example, how you interact with them, or when you encounter any issues in these relationships.
A test for ADHD typically involves an interview with your doctor and questionnaires that you complete. Sometimes computer programs, like continuous performance tests or SPECT brain scans are used to assess the level of attention and the impulsivity.
Because ADHD can be caused by stress, you and your doctor will discuss your personal life to see if there are any significant problems with your relationships or work. If you have a spouse or partner you could consider pursuing couples therapy as well. Together with your physician, you will determine the best treatment strategy for you. This may include lifestyle changes and counseling as well as medication.
Treatment
The good news is that treating ADHD can aid you or your child manage symptoms and live an active and fulfilling life. There are several treatments, including medication and therapy.
It's important to consult with a mental health professional who is specialized in ADHD. They will provide you with an accurate diagnosis, develop a treatment plan and teach you coping skills to manage your symptoms. They can also work with your child's teachers to help support their academic and behavioral needs at school.
Most kids and teens with ADHD are treated with a combination of medication and behavioral therapy. The type of medication and dosage can vary from one person to another. It can take some time to find the right dosage and medication that is appropriate for you or your child. Ask your doctor for samples and talk about various options for medication. You can then test the different medications to determine which are most effective and have the least side negative effects.
Adults who suffer from untreated ADHD might have problems at work or with relationships. They may have trouble keeping jobs, interacting with colleagues, or meeting financial obligations. They are often afflicted with depression and anxiety, as well. A health care provider will evaluate the person's mental and emotional health as well as moods. The doctor might suggest a mood disorder evaluation or other medical conditions that may cause similar symptoms to ADHD.
During the consultation for diagnosis the healthcare professional will pay attention to your child's or your own story. They may ask about your family or social life. They might ask how the symptoms impact your child's or your own daily functioning. They can ask their relatives and teachers for more information to get a complete picture. The doctor may recommend a thorough physical exam that includes urine and blood tests. The doctor may also recommend brain imaging.
If you suspect that you or your child might be suffering from ADHD begin by talking to your primary care physician. They may refer you to a psychologist or psychiatrist who is an expert in treating ADHD. It is also advisable to make sure to check with your health insurance company to ensure that the professionals you're thinking of hiring are covered. If not, you may want to consider a mental health insurance plan like BetterHelp.