How to Diagnose ADHD
Finding out if you have ADHD involves gathering a lot of information. Your doctor will review your symptoms and medical history, and then use standard ADHD ratings scales. They will also check for other problems that may be responsible for the symptoms of your adult or child for example, thyroid issues, sleep disorders and depression, as well as substance abuse.
To be considered as diagnosed, ADHD symptoms must significantly impact school and family life and last for at minimum six months.
Signs and symptoms
Before determining ADHD, medical professionals must examine the patient with care. They will ask about symptoms, check medical, social and family history, review the past and present medical and mental health problems and conduct a physical examination. The doctor may also recommend tests to determine if there is a problem with anxiety, depression or other disorders that can cause similar symptoms to ADHD.
A person with ADHD is more likely to experience difficulties staying focused for long periods of time, which can affect school work and other important tasks. They are more susceptible to be distracted by other people, activities or objects surrounding them. They have trouble following instructions, remembering specifics and meeting deadlines. They may be easily annoyed by criticism or have unrealistic expectations for themselves, which could lead to failure and disappointments.
The symptoms of ADHD can differ from individual to individual and can be mild, moderate, or severe. The mild symptoms don't affect a person's daily activities or relationships, whereas severe symptoms can cause serious problems at work and at home. ADHD is a condition that can affect people throughout their lives. It is more common during childhood, but some adults do not get diagnosed due to their ability to cope with their symptoms.
The doctor will perform a thorough examination on children suffering from ADHD. This includes hearing and vision tests. He or she will speak with the child, the parents and the teachers about their behavior and habits and may also request a brain imaging study to rule out other possible causes for the symptoms for example, an MRI or CT scan.
A psychiatric assessment is usually conducted by a psychiatrist nurse practitioner or clinical social worker, or psychologist. The evaluator will ask about the individual's symptoms, how they affect their life and work, and will take into account the family's background and education. He or she will also examine the person's mental health and medical history and talk with other family members and friends to obtain a more 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 a child who is always in a state of mind, struggling to concentrate on schoolwork or other tasks at home, and seems frequently distracted by their friends then it's time to ask for help. ADHD is a brain disorder that affects children who have difficulty staying focused, controlling their behavior, or staying organized. It affects children's lives in a variety of ways, and can cause issues at home, in school as well as in relationships with classmates and family members.
Before taking your child to see a doctor, start by taking notes and observing how they behave. A good psychiatrist or a psychologist will look at a combination symptoms and signs to determine if your child suffers from ADHD or ADD. They will also take into consideration the child's age as well as their developmental level. A child diagnosed with ADD must show at least 6 symptoms (or 5 in older teens) of inattention for at least six months and these symptoms must affect their daily functioning. The symptoms of ADHD include fumbling and talking, tapping, or other constant movement, and a failure to follow instructions chores, classroom or work-related tasks.
A professional will inquire about the effects of these behaviors on your child's life in general. They will be interested in knowing whether they struggle with schoolwork or other pursuits are having difficulty maintaining relationships with friends or romantic partners, and are frequently late for appointments. They will also look at your child's past medical history and any medications they are currently taking, as some medications can trigger symptoms of ADHD.
The criteria that are used in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, DSM-5, are intended to help diagnose children. The most reliable method of diagnosing ADHD in adulthood is to have a consultation with a specialist in the disorder, who will take their time during the evaluation and not rush the process. In most cases, they'll utilize brain scans and computer programs to determine the structure of your child's brain.
Finding your triggers is among the most important steps you can take to manage your ADHD. Once you have identified what triggers your symptoms, you can take steps to avoid them. For instance you can limit screen time, eat a balanced diet and plan regular sleep time.
Diagnosis
If you suspect that you may have ADHD the first step is to obtain a professional diagnosis. Many medical professionals are specially trained to look for ADHD in adults. When selecting a doctor, ask about his or her education and experience with adult ADHD.
Your doctor will employ the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), fifth edition, in order to make a diagnosis. He or she will want to know whether you exhibit a variety of symptoms that manifest over a period of time and affect your daily life at home, at work 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 examine other conditions that could be similar to the symptoms of ADHD. how is adhd diagnosed in adults include mood disorders, learning disorders such as anxiety or depression thyroid issues as well as head injuries and other medical issues. Your doctor might also evaluate your family history to determine if you had ADHD as a child.
It is important to include information from family members in your assessment because people with ADHD aren't able to establish close relationships. Teachers or leaders from religious and Scout groups as well as coaches, colleagues and other people who spend time with you can provide valuable insight. They can provide important information to your doctor, for example, how you interact with them or if you face any challenges in these relationships.
A doctor will usually ask you to fill out questionnaires and conduct an interview. Sometimes computer programs, like continuous performance tests or SPECT brain scans are used to measure the level of attention and the impulsivity.
Because ADHD can be caused by stress, you and your doctor will talk about your life to determine whether there are any major issues in your relationships or at work. If you have a partner or spouse you might want to consider beginning therapy for couples as well. You and your physician must collaborate to determine an approach that is most suitable for you. This can include changes to your lifestyle, counseling and medications.
Treatment
The good news is that treatment for ADHD can aid you or your child manage the symptoms and lead a more fulfilling life. There are several treatments, including medication and therapy.
It is essential to work with an expert in mental health who is specialized in ADHD. They can give you an accurate diagnosis, design an appropriate treatment plan, and help you develop coping skills to manage your symptoms. They can also work with your child's teachers to help support their learning and behavioral needs in the school.
The majority of children and teens suffering from ADHD can be treated using a an ad-hoc combination of behavioral therapy and medication. The type and dose of medication can vary from one person to another. It may take some time to find the right dose and drug that works best for you or your child. Discuss with your doctor different medication options and request samples. This allows you to test out the different medications to see which ones work best and have the fewest side negative effects.
Adults with untreated ADHD might have problems at work or with relationships. They may have difficulty keeping an occupation, getting along with co-workers, or meeting financial obligations. They may also be suffering from anxiety and depressive disorders. A health care provider will evaluate the person's emotional and mental health history and moods. The doctor might suggest an assessment for a mood disorder or other disorders that may cause similar symptoms as ADHD.
During the consultation, the provider will listen closely to the narrative of your child or you. They may inquire about your family and social life. They might ask how the symptoms affect you or your child's daily functioning. They may ask for information from relatives and teachers to gain a full picture. The doctor is likely to suggest a full physical examination which includes blood and urine tests. The doctor could also recommend brain imaging.
If you suspect you or your child might have ADHD Begin by speaking to your primary care doctor. They may refer you to a psychologist, psychiatrist or other mental health professional that specializes in treating ADHD. Check with your health insurer to see if the professionals you are considering employing are covered by your insurance. If not, consider a mental health insurance plan such as BetterHelp.