ADHD Diagnosis
If you suspect you might have ADHD, you should consult an expert. The specialist will ask you about your symptoms and the impact they have on your life. They will also look over any medical history you may have.
They will also examine how you feel in various situations, like at home, school and in social settings. They will also determine how long you have had these symptoms.
Symptoms
Consult your child's physician if you suspect that they may be suffering from ADHD. They can test for symptoms by asking you and your teachers to complete a questionnaire and may request them to take certain tests. They can also conduct a physical exam, including eye and hearing tests. They can also make use of FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA), a noninvasive scanner that measures theta- and beta-waves that are more prominent in children with ADHD.
The symptoms must be present before the child reached the age of 12. It must cause significant impairment in two major settings, such as school and at work. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. To diagnose adults, doctors use psychiatric guidelines that include a detailed description about the symptoms and their duration, as well as the level of impairment.
Parents may not notice some of the more frequent ADHD symptoms because children have difficulty distinguishing between normal and abnormal behavior. Stress, mental health issues, and physical illnesses may cause similar symptoms as ADHD.
People suffering from ADHD are also prone to problems with relationships and self-esteem which can cause depression. They often struggle to get sufficient sleep, and a lack of sleep can make the symptoms of ADHD worse. They are more likely than others to drink alcohol or use drugs, which can be detrimental to their health. adhd diagnosis uk adult can lead to financial problems or even bankruptcies due the impulse-control issues. It's important for kids to get a proper diagnosis to assist them in managing their ADHD symptoms and lead a happier and more productive life.
Diagnosis
If you or a family member have been struggling to get organized, have trouble paying attention in class, have trouble following directions at work, have issues with social interaction, or other issues that could be caused by ADHD, it is important to consult a doctor for an evaluation. A mental health professional, such as psychiatrists or psychologists, can help you make a diagnosis. Some primary care providers are also trained to recognize ADHD.
The evaluation process involves an extensive interview and a discussion of symptoms. The health professional will examine the patient's medical and mental health history as well as their family history to identify other conditions that could be causing the symptoms. Some medical conditions such as thyroid disorders and head injuries as well as some drugs can cause symptoms that are similar to ADHD. Other mental health issues such as anxiety and mood disorders, 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. In addition to a thorough physical exam, the doctor will inquire about the patient's life at home and at school, focusing on the frequency at which the person is absent from classes or fails to complete homework. The clinician will also ask to speak to other people involved in the person's daily life, such as teachers and coaches. They may request that the patient bring an account book.
The person who is being evaluated should be able to share their feelings openly with the examiner, and not hold 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 a diagnosis is accurate.
Treatment
If you or your child has ADHD being diagnosed can be a source of relief. It can help you understand that it's not laziness, or a lack in intelligence that is preventing you from achieving success. It also provides the steps to manage your symptoms. However, the diagnosis must be followed by treatment. Adults suffering from ADHD often suffer from other mental health issues like depression or anxiety. Other diseases, like a chronic headache or sleep disorder, could produce symptoms similar to ADHD.
To determine if someone has ADHD, a health care provider or mental health professional will conduct a thorough assessment of the patient 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 one other. They will also utilize ADHD symptoms checklists and standardized rating scales. They will also conduct psychological tests to test executive function, visual and spatial skills (related to space), and reasoning abilities.
Many people suffering from ADHD discover that diet and exercise can reduce the symptoms. They should stay clear of smoking, alcohol, and caffeine. They should also adhere to a healthy diet and plan their meals and keep healthy snacks on hand to ensure they don't miss meals.
Ask your doctor, therapist or any other professional you trust for recommendations. Teachers are an excellent example. You can also call your insurance company to find out if they are licensed to evaluate adults, or visit the nearest medical institution or hospital. It is important to find a specialist who is certified by the board in psychology or psychiatry and has experience in diagnosing ADHD.
Medication
The use of ADHD medication can help those with the disorder manage their symptoms, and also enhance their performance at school, work at home, and in social situations. However, stimulant drugs used to treat ADHD can also trigger various side effects, such as trouble sleeping, appetite changes, and weight loss. They should not be used together with other medications, like those used to treat depression, high blood pressure and heart problems. Before beginning treatment health professionals suggest that children and adolescents undergo a complete physical examination that includes eye and hearing tests. Health care professionals should discuss with patients about the benefits and risks of taking ADHD medication. They should also ask questions about family history, lifestyle and previous medical issues.
The clinician must examine the patient closely to determine whether the symptoms are ongoing and if they impact the patient's ability to function in more than one environment. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, the diagnostic manual published by the American Psychiatric Association, contains the criteria to make a diagnosis of ADD/ADHD.
The physician will assess the symptoms in order to determine their severity, and also to rule out other disorders that could be responsible for them. People with learning disorders often exhibit ADHD-like symptoms. An individual with anxiety disorder might be misdiagnosed. The clinician will also examine whether the person has any medical conditions like thyroid disorders which could resemble the symptoms of ADHD.
The doctor may suggest battery tests, such an assessment of cognitive function or brain imaging to evaluate the severity of the symptoms. He could also suggest a full medical evaluation, and laboratory tests such a complete blood test and cholesterol test.
Counseling
If you suspect that you may have ADHD Talk to your family doctor. They can refer you to professionals who specialize in screening for ADHD. They can also discuss how the symptoms impact your or your child's everyday life and help you decide if medication is necessary. They can also explain alternative options for treatment, such as the use of behavioral therapy.
If your family doctor is unable to conduct an in-depth analysis of your symptoms, you can search online for counselors who specialize in telemedicine. For example, Amwell connects patients with licensed professionals who can help manage various mental health issues, such as ADHD. Sessions are conducted through video or audio chat, and are completely confidential.
When choosing an online counselor, it is important to feel secure and confident with them. Find out about their education and experience working with adults suffering from ADHD and ensure that they can answer your questions in detail. If they refuse to do so, this could be a sign they're not competent or able to be a professional in dealing with adults with ADHD.
It can be challenging to obtain an ADHD diagnosis, but it is an essential step to manage your symptoms and taking charge of your life. It can help you understand that your difficulties with focus and organization aren't due to laziness. It's also comforting to know you're not the only one. Many people who aren't diagnosed with ADHD struggle to maintain relationships, jobs and healthy lifestyles.
People with ADHD are more likely to be suffering from other psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. A therapist can teach you how to manage ADHD and other disorders.