ADHD Diagnosis
Consult a specialist if you suspect you have ADHD. The specialist will inquire about your symptoms and how they affect your life. They will also go over any medical history you may have.
They will also look at how you feel in different situations, such as at home, school and in social settings. They will also check the length of time you've experienced these symptoms for.
Symptoms
Consult your child's physician If you think he or she may have ADHD. You and your child's teachers can fill out questionnaires to determine signs. They may also request that they take a few tests. They could also take physical examinations, such as eye and hearing tests. They can also make use of the FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG-Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) system, a noninvasive scan that measures beta and theta brain waves that are more prominent in children with ADHD.
The symptoms must be present prior to the child reaching the age of 12. It should cause significant impairment in two key environments, such as school and 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 contain a detailed description of the symptoms, their duration and the level of impairment they cause.
Children often struggle to discern the difference between normal and abnormal behavior, and parents might overlook some of the most typical symptoms of ADHD. Stress, mental health issues, and physical ailments can cause similar symptoms as ADHD.
People suffering from ADHD may also have issues with self-esteem and relationships, which can lead them to depression. Sleep problems can exacerbate ADHD symptoms. They are more likely than other people to drink alcohol or use drugs, which could be harmful to their health. The impulsiveness of the disorder can lead to financial issues or even bankruptcy. It's important for kids to receive a correct diagnosis as it will aid them in managing their ADHD symptoms and lead a happier and more productive life.
Diagnosis
It is essential to speak with an expert if you or someone in your family suffers from issues with social interaction, is having trouble organizing, has trouble paying attention at school, struggles to follow instructions at work, or has other symptoms that could be related to ADHD. A mental health professional, like psychiatrists or psychologists, can assist in determining an assessment. Some primary care professionals are trained to diagnose ADHD.
The evaluation process consists of a long interview and a discussion of symptoms. The health professional will look over the patient's medical, mental and family history to identify other conditions that could be causing the symptoms. For example certain medical conditions like thyroid disease and head injuries, as well as certain medications can cause similar symptoms to those experienced by ADHD. Other mental health conditions, such as mood disorders and anxiety, can also be a result of ADHD and lead to problems.
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, such as the frequency at which the person is absent from classes or fails to complete homework. The doctor will also request to speak with other people who are involved in the person's daily life, including coaches and teachers. They might request that the patient bring journals.
The person being evaluated must be able to share their feelings freely with the examiner, and not hold back information in fear of being accused of being criticized or judged. This will improve the quality of the evaluation and increase the chances that a diagnosis will be exact.
Treatment
A diagnosis of ADHD can be a huge relief for your child or you. It can help you realize that it's not a lack of effort or insanity hindering your success. It also gives you steps to take to control your symptoms. But the diagnosis must be followed by treatment. Adults suffering from ADHD are often suffering from other mental health issues, like depression or anxiety. Other diseases, like a persistent headache or sleep disorder, could produce symptoms similar to ADHD.
A mental health specialist or health care professional will examine the patient and their family members thoroughly to determine ADHD. They will inquire about the person's childhood and their schooling, as well as how the family interacts. They will also use the standard rating scales as well as ADHD symptoms checklists. They will also conduct psychological tests that evaluate executive function, spatial and visual abilities (related to spatial space) and reasoning abilities.
Many people with ADHD find that exercise and diet can help reduce their symptoms. They should stay away from the use of caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol. They should also maintain an appropriate diet, plan their meals and have healthy snacks readily available to ensure they don't skip meals.
You can locate an ADHD specialist by seeking recommendations from your personal doctor or therapist or from other reputable professionals like an educator. You can also call your insurance provider to find out if they are certified to assess adults, or visit a local medical hospital or school. It's crucial to find a specialist with experience in diagnosing ADHD and who is board certified in psychiatry or psychology.
Medication
The use of ADHD medications can help people with the disorder better manage their symptoms, and enhance their performance at work, school as well as in social settings. However, stimulant medications used to treat ADHD can also trigger several adverse effects, including difficulty sleeping, changes in appetite, and weight loss. They should not be combined in conjunction with other medications like those used to treat depression, high blood-pressure and heart-related conditions. Health care professionals recommend that children and adolescents receive an entire physical examination including hearing and eye tests prior to starting medication. Health care professionals should discuss 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.
To establish a diagnosis, the clinician must carefully examine the patient to see whether the symptoms persist and significantly impact the person's performance in a variety of settings. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, a diagnostic manual published by the American Psychiatric Association, contains the criteria for a diagnosis of ADHD/ADD.
The physician will assess the symptoms in order to determine their severity, and to rule out any other disorders that might be responsible for them. People with a learning disorder often show symptoms that resemble those of ADHD. An individual suffering from anxiety disorder may be misdiagnosed. The doctor will also take into consideration whether the patient has an illness like a thyroid disorder, that might mimic the symptoms of ADHD.
The clinician might suggest a battery of tests, including brain imaging or cognitive testing to determine how the symptoms are impacting the patient. He 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 If you suspect that you have ADHD, consult your family doctor. They can provide referrals to specialists who specialize in screening for ADHD. They can also discuss how symptoms affect your or your child's everyday life and help you decide whether medication is required. They can also explain alternatives to treatment, such as behavior therapy.
If your family physician is unable to conduct a detailed assessment of your symptoms you can search online for counselors who specialize in the field of telemedicine. For instance, Amwell connects patients with licensed specialists who can help manage a range of mental health issues, such as ADHD. Sessions are conducted via video and audio chat, and are confidential and secure.
When choosing an online counselor it is crucial to feel secure and confident with them. Ask them about their experience and education with adults suffering from ADHD. Be sure that they are able to answer all your questions with precision. If they are hesitant to do so, it may be an indicator that they're not qualified or are not willing to work with adults with ADHD.
The process of getting an ADHD diagnosis can be difficult but it's an essential step toward managing your symptoms and taking control over your life. It will help you realize that your issues with focus and organization aren't the result of lazyness. It's also comforting to be aware that you're not alone. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD struggle to keep their jobs, relationships, and healthy lifestyles.
People with ADHD are more likely to be suffering from other psychiatric issues such as anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder. A therapist can help you learn how to manage ADHD and other disorders.