Getting an ADHD Diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD is often the first thing that can be taken to manage symptoms that hinder everyday life. Many people are reluctant to seek a diagnosis, but it could be a great relief.
An ADHD assessment typically begins with a consultation. Experts can also conduct screening tests to determine if there are co-existing conditions like mood disorders or learning disabilities.
Symptoms
The disorder was first documented in medical science in 1902, and has been referred to by several names, most recently attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder with or without hyperactivity (DSM-5). ADHD may be caused by an imbalance of chemicals in the brain. Adults with ADHD struggle with organizing tasks, paying attention at work or school, and remembering important dates. They are more prone to impulsive behaviors such as cutting lines, interrupting others or ignoring rules. They may also have difficulty working on projects, sticking to their schedules or paying their bills.
It is crucial to seek out a professional who is trained in ADHD when looking for a diagnosis. Request a referral from an established source, such as an organization for mental health in your area or support group. It's also a good idea to contact your insurance company to determine if there are providers in network who specialize in ADHD.
A comprehensive psychiatric evaluation will include a detailed description of symptoms of the patient, an examination of personal and family history including medical, psychiatric and academic problems, completion of psychoeducational or neuropsychological tests, and a physical examination. Additionally, the doctor will also interview significant others, such as spouses or partners to assess the extent to which ADHD symptoms impact their lives. Many adults with ADHD have poor memories of their childhood. Therefore, it is helpful to have parents or other close relatives complete questionnaires detailing the child's symptoms.
Adults suffering from ADHD can have a hard to admit that their issues are due to their attention deficit disorder. They may feel shamed, angry and frustrated for not being organized and focused at home and at work. They might also believe their problems are their own shortcomings or character flaws. A diagnosis of ADHD could bring some hope and comfort for the future, and help them realize that their problems aren't their responsibility.
Diagnosis
There is no single medical test or physical test to diagnose ADHD (previously known as ADD). However, a qualified mental healthcare professional will collect information from various sources about your child's or adult's symptoms. These include ADHD symptoms lists and standardized scales for assessing behavior and a thorough history of the person's previous and current functioning.
A thorough examination could also include a psycho-psychological exam, such a personality inventory or a neuropsychological test. In addition the health care professional will examine the patient's medical history, including present or past injuries, illnesses, and usage of medication, including the mood-stabilizing drugs like steroids.
Other conditions and disorders can cause ADHD symptoms. This includes anxiety disorders, learning disabilities and mood disorders as and other medical conditions like thyroid disorder or sleep apnea. A thorough psychiatric examination will help identify the root cause and determine effective treatments.
The symptoms of an individual must be causing significant impairment in two or more significant settings, such as at home and in school, to be considered for ADHD diagnosis. This is particularly true for young children and adolescents. They may have a difficult time to succeed at school, may have trouble keeping their jobs, and may have difficulty maintaining relationships and friendships without treatment.
It is crucial to seek an assessment from a medical specialist who is specialized in working with children and adolescents. A majority of primary care physicians and mental health professionals regularly diagnose ADHD however, you must seek out a specialist who will do a thorough evaluation. During the interview, your doctor will ask you about your child and your family history. They will also go over the criteria outlined by the American Psychiatric Association for diagnosing ADHD in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition.
Treatment
Many psychiatric disorders can mimic ADHD in adults and children and a thorough mental health evaluation is needed to rule out other conditions. These include anxiety disorders, mood disorders and learning disabilities, head injuries thyroid issues, and use of drugs. These alternative explanations can have a major impact on your quality of life.
A comprehensive mental health assessment includes an interview with the person being evaluated, as well as checklists and questionnaires that are completed by others in their life. This can include parents and spouses for children, as well as siblings, co-workers and friends for adults. Personal experience can reveal information that is not gained from checklists or questions. It also helps the clinician to comprehend how ADHD symptoms affect the relationships of a person with other people.
The psychiatrist or psychologist will review the patient's medical records as well as their symptoms. A physical exam is usually conducted as well, which may include hearing and vision tests. An electroencephalograph or EEG scan, which measures brain waves and can help identify the presence of ADHD, is available in some offices.
Some patients opt to take part in a clinical trial to see if the new medication can help improve their symptoms. Participants must be aware that the primary purpose of a clinical trial is to gain new knowledge, not treat a particular disease.
Based on the findings of the evaluation, the doctor may suggest treatment options that could include medications, psychotherapy or other treatments. In some cases an integrated treatment may be the most efficient. Medication can alleviate some of the symptoms and is generally safe for children and adults. Other interventions that can be successful include the use of behavior therapy, lifestyle modifications and parenting strategies.
Medication
For certain people medication can ease symptoms of ADHD and increase their capacity to perform. It can be difficult to determine the appropriate dose and kind of medication that works best, and it may take a while to adjust to any side effects. Certain medications can cause a person to feel tired or sleepy, so it is important to talk to a doctor about this.
Psychiatrists may prescribe stimulants to lessen the symptoms of ADHD. These medications increase the levels in the brain of certain neurotransmitters. They may also prescribe nonstimulant drugs that can boost concentration, impulsivity, and attention but aren't as efficient as stimulants. They can also prescribe antidepressants or mood stabilisers for people with depression and other disorders that might be present with ADHD.
Other treatments that can aid those suffering from ADHD include psychotherapy, family therapy, and educational or training programs for adults and children. These programs can help individuals learn strategies and techniques to cope with their symptoms and improve functioning at home and at school.
In some cases a mental or medical health professional can detect ADHD in children by reviewing their school records and discussing the child's behavior with teachers and caretakers. They will probably interview the child, conduct psychological testing, and screen for learning disabilities as well as other conditions that have similar symptoms.
In order for a child to be diagnosed with ADHD it is necessary to show at least six of the nine symptoms listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV TR) and these symptoms must significantly hinder adaptive functioning at home and in the classroom. They also cannot be caused by any other condition.
Counseling
If you require therapy or medication treatment for ADHD it is essential to find a certified professional who is experienced in treating the disorder. Your primary care physician will offer a recommendation or guide you to specialists in your region. Some specialists who specialize in ADHD offer telemedicine online to make appointments simpler and more convenient. Many insurance companies allow you to make these appointments using their system.
For children doctors and specialists who specialize in ADHD can identify the disorder by discussing symptoms with teachers and parents, observing the child or adolescent in several environments including interviewing family members, and conducting an evaluation for learning disabilities. They also review the school records and fill out questionnaires by caregivers and teachers. To be eligible for a diagnosis an adult or adolescent must present at least five signs:
A complete medical history is crucial in determining ADHD. Clinicians might inquire about childhood memories from other sources, like spouses or family members, as adults have a tendency to have blurred or unclear memories of their childhood. They should also evaluate for other possible causes of ADHD-like symptoms, such as brain injuries, developmental disorders or other health issues.
In the initial consultation, the professional should assess how the person copes with the symptoms of ADHD and consider the impact of these symptoms on their daily life. They must also discuss the history of any prior ADHD evaluations and treatment. It is also beneficial to determine other conditions that have similar symptoms to ADHD like anxiety disorders and mood disorders. When the evaluation of an person, a mental health professional must also be able to listen to the person in a respectful manner and without judgement. This is particularly important if the person has an extensive history of depression or abuse.