ADHD Diagnosis
If you suspect you might have ADHD it is recommended that you consult an expert. The specialist will inquire about your symptoms and how they impact your life. They will also look over your medical history.
They will determine how your symptoms affect you in different environments, such as at school, home and social situations. They will also check how long you've been experiencing these symptoms.
Symptoms
If you suspect your child may be suffering from ADHD Talk to their doctor. You and your child's teachers can complete a questionnaire to check for symptoms. They could also request that they take a few tests. They can also conduct physical examinations, such as eye and hearing tests. They can also make use of the FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG-Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) system which is a non-invasive scan that measures theta and beta brain waves, which tend to be more frequent in children with ADHD.
A diagnosis of ADHD is a sign that the symptoms were present prior to the time the age of 12 for the child. It should cause significant impairment in two important settings, such as at school and at work. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. The psychiatric guidelines used by doctors to diagnose adults contain a detailed description of the symptoms, their duration and the level of impairment they cause.
Parents might not be aware of the more common ADHD symptoms since children have difficulty distinguishing between normal and abnormal behaviors. Stress or other mental health issues or physical ailments can trigger similar symptoms to ADHD.
People with ADHD may also have issues with relationships and self-esteem which can lead to depression. adult adhd diagnosis uk struggle to get good quality sleep, and an absence of sleep can cause the symptoms of ADHD worse. They are more likely to drink and take drugs, which could cause serious harm to their health. The disorder could cause financial problems or even bankruptcies due to the impulse-control issues. It's crucial that kids get an accurate ADHD diagnosis. This will help them manage their symptoms and live a happier, more productive life.
Diagnosis
If you or a loved one has struggled to stay organized or has trouble paying attention in class, are having difficulty adhering to instructions at work, experience issues with social interaction, or other concerns that could be due to ADHD, it is important to consult with a physician to get an assessment. A mental health professional like psychologist or psychiatrist could help diagnose ADHD. Some primary care providers also are trained to diagnose ADHD.
The evaluation process will involve a lengthy interview and discussion of the symptoms. The health care provider will examine the person's medical, mental and family history in order to determine if there are any other factors that could be contributing to symptoms. For instance certain medical conditions such as thyroid diseases, head injuries, and some drugs can cause similar symptoms to those experienced by ADHD. Other mental health issues such as mood disorders and anxiety can also be associated 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. Along with a thorough physical exam, the doctor will ask about the person's life at home and at school, such as the frequency at which the person is absent from classes or fails to complete homework. The clinician may want to speak with other people in the patient's life, including teachers and coaches and may also request that the patient bring a journal.
The person who is being evaluated should be able to share their feelings with the examiner and not keep back information out of fear of being accused of being criticized or judged. This will enhance the quality of the assessment and increase the chances that the diagnosis will be precise.
Treatment
A diagnosis of ADHD is a relief for you or your child. It will help you realize that it is not lazyness, or a deficiency in intelligence, that's preventing you from achieving success. It also gives you the steps to manage your symptoms. But the diagnosis needs to be followed by treatment. Adults with ADHD are often suffering from other mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression. Other illnesses, such as chronic headaches or sleep disorder, may produce symptoms similar to ADHD.
To diagnose ADHD, an audiologist or mental health professional will conduct a thorough assessment of the person and their family. They will look over the person's past from birth to childhood, ask about the person's education and how family members interact with each with each. They will also use the standard rating scales as well as ADHD symptom checklists. They will also conduct psychological tests to test executive function, spatial and visual abilities (related to spatial space) and reasoning abilities.
Many people suffering from ADHD find that exercising and diet help reduce their symptoms. They should avoid alcohol, nicotine, and caffeine. They should also adhere to a healthy diet, schedule meals and have healthy snacks readily available so that they don't have to miss meals.
Ask your doctor, therapist or other professionals you are comfortable with for recommendations. A teacher is a good example. You can also ask the local hospital or medical school for a list of qualified specialists or call your insurance provider to get the list of specialists who are licensed to evaluate adults. It's crucial to find a doctor who has expertise in diagnosing ADHD and who is board certified in psychology or psychiatry.
Medication
The use of medications for ADHD can help people with the disorder control their symptoms and improve their performance at school, at home or at work, as well as in social situations. The stimulant medications used to treat ADHD can also have side effects such as difficulty 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 children and adolescents undergo a complete physical exam, including eye and hearing tests prior to starting medication. Health care providers should talk with patients about the benefits and risks of taking ADHD medication. They should also inquire about family history, lifestyle and previous medical issues.
To establish an accurate diagnosis, the doctor must carefully examine the patient to determine if the symptoms are persistent and significantly impact the person's performance in a variety of settings. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, an official diagnostic manual released by the American Psychiatric Association, contains the criteria for a diagnosis of ADHD/ADD.
The clinician will examine the symptoms to determine the severity of the symptoms, and to rule out other conditions that could be the cause. People with a learning disorder often show symptoms resembling those of ADHD. An individual with anxiety disorder might be incorrectly diagnosed. The doctor will also take into consideration whether the person has an illness such as a thyroid disorder, that could be akin to symptoms of ADHD.
The doctor may suggest battery test, such as a cognitive test or brain imaging to assess the severity of the symptoms. He could also suggest an entire medical examination, and laboratory tests such a complete blood test and cholesterol test.
Counseling
If you suspect you have ADHD, talk to your family physician. They can refer you to professionals who are trained in ADHD screening. They can also help you determine whether medication is needed by discussing how symptoms impact the daily lives of your child or yourself. They can also explain other options for treatment, such as behavioral therapy.
If your family physician isn't able to provide a detailed assessment of your symptoms you can seek out online specialists in Telemedicine. Amwell for instance, connects patients to licensed specialists who can address a range of mental health issues like ADHD. Sessions take place via audio and video chat and are private and secure.
It is crucial to feel comfortable and confident with the online counselor. Ask them about their experience and education for adults with ADHD. Make sure they are able to answer all your questions with precision. If they don't do so, this could be a sign they're not competent or able to be a professional working with adults with ADHD.
Getting an ADHD diagnosis can be a challenge but it's an essential step towards managing your symptoms and taking control over your life. It can help you realize that your struggles with organization and focus are not a result of laziness. It's also reassuring to know that you're not alone. Many people who aren't diagnosed with ADHD struggle to maintain healthy relationships, jobs and lifestyles.
People who suffer from ADHD are more likely to suffer from other psychiatric issues like anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder. A therapist can help you comprehend how your ADHD and other conditions interact and assist you in learning how to deal with them.