ADHD Diagnosis
If you suspect that you may have ADHD, you should consult an expert. The specialist will ask about your symptoms and how they impact your life. They will also go over any medical history you may have.
They will check how your symptoms impact you in different settings, such as school, at home and social settings. They will also look at how long you've been experiencing these symptoms.
Symptoms
If you think your child may be suffering from ADHD Talk to your doctor. You and your child's teachers can complete an assessment questionnaire to look for symptoms. They can also ask them to take some tests. They can also perform a physical examination, including eye and ear tests. They can also make use of the FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG-Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) system which is a noninvasive scan that measures theta and beta brain waves which are typically higher in kids with ADHD.
A diagnosis of ADHD requires that the symptoms have been present for a long time before the age of 12 for the child. It has to 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 used by doctors when diagnosing adults provide a thorough 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, which is why parents may overlook some of the most typical symptoms of ADHD. Stress or other mental health issues or physical ailments may trigger similar symptoms as ADHD.
People with ADHD may also have issues with self-esteem and relationships which can lead to depression. They often struggle to get good quality sleep, and a lack of sleep can cause the symptoms of ADHD worse. They are more likely than others to drink alcohol or use drugs, which are harmful to their health. The disorder can cause financial issues or even bankruptcies due to the impulsiveness. It's crucial that kids get an accurate ADHD diagnosis. This will help them manage their symptoms and live an enjoyable, productive life.
Diagnosis
It is crucial to talk with a doctor if you or someone in your family has social problems, has trouble organizing, has trouble paying attention at school, has trouble following instructions at work or other symptoms that could be related to ADHD. adult adhd diagnosis as psychologist or psychiatrist can help identify ADHD. Some primary care professionals are also trained to recognize ADHD.
The process of evaluation involves a long 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 determine other conditions that could be causing the symptoms. For example, certain medical conditions, such as thyroid diseases or head injuries, as well as certain drugs can trigger similar symptoms to those of ADHD. Other mental health issues like mood disorders and anxiety, can also occur with 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 exam, the clinician will inquire 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 might also discuss other people in the person's life, such as teachers and coaches, and may request that the patient bring journals.
The person being evaluated should be willing to discuss their feelings openly with the examiner, and not hold the information from fear of being accused of being criticized or judged. This will enhance the quality of the evaluation and increase the chances that the diagnosis is correct.
Treatment
A diagnosis of ADHD can be a huge relief for you or your child. It will help you understand that it's not just laziness or insanity hindering your success, and also provides ways to deal with your symptoms. But the diagnosis needs to be followed by treatment. Adults who suffer from ADHD are often also suffering from other mental health issues, like depression or anxiety. Other diseases, such as chronic headaches or sleep disorders can cause symptoms that look similar to ADHD.
To determine if someone has ADHD, the health care provider or mental health professional will conduct a thorough assessment of the person and their family. They will inquire about the person’s childhood, their schooling and how the family interacts. They will also utilize the standard rating scales as well as ADHD symptoms checklists. They will also conduct psychological tests to evaluate executive function, visual and spatial skills (related to space) and reasoning abilities.
Many people with ADHD discover that exercising and diet aid in reducing their symptoms. They should avoid alcohol, nicotine, and caffeine. They should also eat healthy food and make sure to schedule meal times and keep healthful snacks in their fridge so that they don't miss meals.
You can find an ADHD specialist by seeking recommendations from your doctor or therapist or other professionals you trust like an educator. You can also contact a local university-based hospital or medical school to get an inventory of specialists who are qualified or call your insurance company to obtain the list of specialists who are certified to evaluate adults. It is essential to find a doctor who has experience in diagnosing ADHD and who is board certified in psychology or psychiatry.
Medication
The use of ADHD medication can help those with the disorder manage their symptoms and improve their performance at work, school at home, and in social situations. However, stimulant medications used to treat ADHD can also trigger various side effects, such as trouble sleeping, changes in appetite, and weight loss. They should not be taken alongside other medications such as those for depression and high blood pressure and heart conditions. Before beginning treatment health professionals suggest that adolescents and children undergo a full physical examination that includes hearing and eye tests. Health professionals should speak with patients about the advantages and dangers of taking ADHD medication. They should also inquire about the history of their family, lifestyle habits, and previous medical problems.
The clinician must examine the patient closely to determine if the symptoms are persistent and if they hinder the person's ability in multiple environments. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, the diagnostic manual published by the American Psychiatric Association, contains the criteria for making a diagnosis of ADD/ADHD.
The clinician will examine the symptoms in order to determine their severity, and also to rule out other conditions that might be responsible for them. For instance, those who have a learning disability often exhibit ADHD-like symptoms, and a person with an anxiety disorder might be mistakenly diagnosed with ADHD. The doctor will also determine if the patient suffers from any medical conditions like thyroid disorders, that could mimic the symptoms of ADHD.
The physician may suggest a series of tests, including brain imaging or cognitive testing to determine how the symptoms are impacting the patient. He could also suggest a full medical evaluation, as well as laboratory tests such a complete blood test and cholesterol test.
Counseling
If you suspect you have ADHD If you suspect that you have ADHD, consult your family doctor. They can refer you to experts who are certified in ADHD screening. They can also talk about how the symptoms impact your or your child's daily life and help you decide if medication is necessary. They can also explain other options for treatment for example, behavioral therapy.
If your family physician cannot conduct an in-depth evaluation of your symptoms, you can find online counselors who specialize in the field of telemedicine. Amwell for instance connects patients to licensed professionals who can treat a variety of mental health issues like ADHD. Sessions are conducted via audio and video chat, and are confidential and secure.
It is essential that you feel comfortable and confident in your online counselor. Ask them about their experience and education with adults suffering from ADHD. Make sure they can answer your questions with precision. If they refuse to do so, this could be a sign they're not able or willing to be a professional in dealing with adults suffering from ADHD.
The process of getting an ADHD diagnosis can be a challenge however it's an essential step toward managing your symptoms and gaining control over your life. It can help you realize that your issues in focusing and organization are not a result of lazyness. It's also a relief to know that you're not alone. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD struggle to keep their jobs, relationships, and a healthy lifestyle.
It is common for people with ADHD to suffer from other mental disorders, such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. A therapist can assist you to comprehend how your ADHD and other conditions interact, and help you learn how to deal with them.